Maintaining optimal chemical balance such as pH, alkalinity, or sanitizer levels is crucial for a clean, safe, and enjoyable hot tub experience. High pH can lead to many problems, from skin irritation to equipment damage.
This guide provides essential information on understanding pH, its relationship with alkalinity, and effective methods to lower high pH levels in your hot tub.
It also explains how to naturally reduce a hot tub’s pH and maintain optimal pH and alkalinity levels.
What is a high pH level in a hot tub?
The high hot tub pH means a pH range above 7.6 on the pH scale. A higher pH can make the hot tub water alkaline, causing several issues.
What are the signs or effects of high pH in a hot tub?
Generally, the pH level is properly checked using test strips. However, for better knowledge of hot tub owners, here is why you should lower your high hot tub pH, as a high pH level can cause:
- Cloudy water
- Sediment buildup
- Ineffective sanitiser
- Hot tub scaling
- Algae buildup
- Corrosion issues
- Skin and eye irritation
- Hot tub structure damage
- Diminish sanitizer efficacy
- Decreased water filtration
How do I test for total alkalinity for pH balancing in a hot tub?
Determining total alkalinity levels in the hot tub is necessary for the pH. Testing for hot tub alkalinity is straightforward. You can check hot tub alkalinity for pH balancing can be carried out using the pH test strips.
These test strips’ readings can effectively determine the pH and sanitizer levels in the hot tub. You must check your hot tub’s pH and alkalinity at least once a week.
How to fix high pH in a hot tub?
Here are the steps to lower a hot tub’s pH.
1. Test the Water
Use a test kit to determine the pH level accurately. The optimal range falls between 7.2 and 7.8.
2. Choose a pH Decreaser
There are two primary pH reducers:
Sodium Bisulfate: A dry acid that lowers pH quickly.
Muriatic Acid: A liquid acid that is more potent but requires careful handling.
3. Calculate the Amount
Follow the instructions on the product label to determine the correct amount based on your hot tub’s water volume. Start with a smaller quantity and slowly increase as necessary.
4. Add the pH Decreaser
Turn on the hot tub jets and slowly add the pH-down chemicals. Ensure it disperses evenly throughout the hot tub or spa water.
5. Wait and Retest
Allow the water to circulate for at least 2-3 hours before retesting the pH level.
6. Repeat If Necessary
If the pH is still too high, repeat steps 3-5.
What are the reasons for high hot tub pH?
A high hot tub pH may occur due to the following reasons.
- Using tap or a hose of water
- Adding too much pH-up chemicals.
- High total alkalinity.
- Usage frequency
- Water evaporation
- Water contaminants
- Chemical imbalances
Relationship of Alkalinity/ Total Alkalinity and Hot Tub pH
Before explaining the nitty gritty of lowering hot tub pH, it’s necessary to understand the relationship between alkalinity and maintaining the pH.
Total alkalinity is a buffer for maintaining the pH balance inside a hot tub. It prevents the pH from frequent fluctuations.
Maintaining alkalinity levels in the 80 to 120 parts per million (ppm) range ensures a balanced and consistent hot tu pH.
Will chlorine work if the pH is too high?
As mentioned above, the high pH can lower the effectiveness of hot tub sanitizers. The chlorine, bromine, or other sanitizer will have lower efficiency when the hot tub pH is high.
Is it safe to soak in high-pH hot tub water?
Though it doesn’t pose serious or direct health threats, soaking in a hot tub with a high pH is not recommended.
However, a high-pH hot tub can lower the sanitizer’s effectiveness, leading to algae and bacteria buildup.
Also, high pH can irritate the skin and eyes and is not good for hot tub surfaces and structures. So, always maintain a balanced pH before soaking in a hot tub.
Will shocking the hot tub lower its pH?
Yes, hot tub shocking helps lower the pH level regardless of what chemical you use. The chlorine in the shock treatment creates an acidic environment in the hot tub by reacting with the water.
Can you lower the hot tub’s pH without chemicals?
Yes, adding vinegar and citric acid can decrease the hot tub’s pH levels. Here is how to lower your hot tub pH without adding chemicals.
- Add half a cup of vinegar per 100 gallons (379 liters) of water.
- Secondly, add 1/4 pound of citric acid for every 100 gallons (379 liters) of water.
- Another way to naturally decrease the pH of your hot tub is by lowering its temperature. Simply lower the thermostat or add cold water to the hot tub.
Can you maintain a low pH in a hot tub without lowering alkalinity?
No, you cannot decrease hot tub pH without lowering the alkalinity level. Lowering hot tub pH levels requires low alkalinity.
This is because to maintain an optimal pH level, you must balance the total alkalinity first.
Can I use baking soda to lower the pH in my hot tub?
Several sources may recommend using baking soda to lower your hot tub pH, but to the contrary, it’s not recommended for this case.
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a base, used as an alkalinity increaser normally. Adding baking soda to your hot tub will increase its pH, rather than lowering it.
How long should I wait after adding pH down in a hot tub?
After adding pH-down chemicals to your hot tub, it’s essential to wait at least 2-3 hours before using it.
This provides sufficient time for the chemicals to distribute evenly to lower the pH level. For optimal results, run the hot tub’s jets after adding chemicals for a short period.
How do I maintain proper hot tub pH and alkalinity?
Here are hot tub or spa maintenance tips for maintaining proper pH and alkalinity levels in your hot tub.
- Follow a consistent hot tub care routine.
- Drain and clean the hot tub every 3-4 months
- Regularly test your hot tub water
- Cleanse your hot tub before every soak
- Pre-filter your hot tub water for the best maintenance results
- Do not use too much of chemicals
- Avoid overheating the hot tub water
- Invest in a hot tub cover to prevent dust or other contaminants
- Add water softener of calcium hardness increase based on your water quality
Conclusion
Lowering the high pH in your hot tub is essential for hot tub maintenance including maintaining water balance and preventing potential issues.
Understanding the factors affecting pH, testing regularly, and using appropriate pH decreasers can restore your hot tub’s water chemistry to optimal levels.
Remember, prevention is key, so regular water care is vital for a long-lasting and enjoyable hot tub experience.
