
Foamy water in your hot tub can be both confusing and frustrating. We are sure many hot tub users and owners have faced this problem. Are you wondering why water in your hot tub is foaming and how to get rid of it?
Below, we’ll explore the causes of hot tub foaming and share the three best solutions to resolve it, helping you enjoy your hot tub to the fullest.
What Causes Hot Tub Foam?
Excessive foaming is typically caused by three main factors: pH imbalance, low calcium hardness, and the presence of skincare products or soaps in the water.
- Typically the most common cause of foam is contaminants in the water, most usually detergent rinsing out of bathing suits. Also, soap residue, shampoo, and any kinds of lotion on your skin contribute to contamination that can lead to foaming.
- The pH balance is an important factor. If the water’s pH in your hot tub is too high or too low, it can lead to foaming. This imbalance is often due to an excess or shortage of chemicals in the water. You can identify this issue by testing the pH levels.
- Another common cause of foaming is low calcium hardness. Calcium helps maintain water’s surface tension, and when its levels are too low, foaming can increase—especially in hot temperatures.
How to Get Rid of Foam in a Hot Tub
To eliminate hot tub foam, try implementing these three effective methods.
Method 1: Use a Hot Tub Defoamer
A hot tub defoamer offers a quick way to remove bubbles—within seconds. When added to a hot tub, defoamers quickly disperse across the water surface, reducing the surface tension of the water, and, thus, disrupting foam formation. The foam will begin to disappear within seconds upon contact with the defoamer, and the entire process can be completed within minutes, depending on the defoamer’s formula and the amount and stability of the foam in the water.
Generally speaking, defoamers can include silicone oil ingredients, surfactants (sodium dodecyl sulfate (MSD), sodium octyl sulfate (SLS), organic solvents, and other antifoaming chemicals. When using defoamers, be sure to follow the instructions on the product label and avoid overuse to prevent unnecessary side effects.
Method 2: Adjust the pH of the water
The appropriate pH range for hot tub water is usually between 7.2 and 7.8, providing a comfortable and safe balance while minimizing foam. If the pH deviates from this range, foaming may increase.
- Before adjusting the pH balance, make sure to test water for pH level. The pH level of water is usually tested with pH test strips or a pH meter (this testing method is more convenient and suitable for most people).
- According to the test results, use appropriate pH adjusters to balance the pH of the water. Generally, pH raising agents and pH lowering agents are commonly used as adjusters. A pH raising agent can be an alkaline substance like sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) or sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), while a pH lowering agent can be an acidic-based solution. Add these products gradually as needed and test again until you reach the desired pH level.
Please note that it is not recommended to use bleaches or acid chemicals to adjust the pH of the hot tub’s water as they are too harsh.
Bleach is a highly alkaline chemical, and while it can change the pH of your water, it can also cause severe irritation and damage to human skin. While acidic chemicals such as sulfuric or hydrochloric acid can lower the pH of your water, they can also cause severe damage to your skin and respiratory system. Learn more about permitted adjustment agents in Canada here.
Method 3: Adjust Calcium Hardness
Calcium hardness levels for hot tub water typically range from 150 to 250 ppm (parts per million). This range helps minimize scale buildup and foaming while ensuring a comfortable soak.
If calcium hardness levels are too low, the water can become excessively soft, leading to increased foaming and potential damage to the hot tub equipment. On the other hand, if the calcium hardness levels are too high, scale buildup can occur, also leading to more foaming and negatively impacting the hot tub equipment.
How to Prevent Foaming in a Hot Tub
Clean and Replace Filters
Hot tub filters play a key role in removing impurities and contaminants from the water. However, if a filter is not cleaned and replaced in a timely manner, it can accumulate dirt, grease, and soap residue, which can significantly contribute to foaming. Therefore, regularly cleaning and replacing filters is imperative for preventing foaming problems.
Regularly Clean the Walls of Your Hot Tub
Dirt and grease residue on the surface of the walls of the hot tub can also contribute to foaming. Regularly cleaning the walls of the hot tub can prevent foaming issues. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to thoroughly remove dirt and residue and keep your hot tub clean and hygienic.
Finally, no matter what method you use to remove the foam in your hot tub, you should strictly follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and safety guidelines when it comes to chemicals.
The material of your hot tub can influence how chemicals interact with it. For best results, consult a professional or contact the manufacturer if you have any questions or concerns.
Hot Tubs at Toronto Pool Supplies
Toronto Pool Supplies has everything you need, from high-quality defoaming agents to water testing kits so that you can enjoy your hot tub again, free of foam.
Also, we are excited to announce that we are now an official dealer of SkyBlue Hot Tubs, the top hot tub brand in Canada! Explore the full range of hot tub models on our website, make your purchase online, and enjoy delivery anywhere in Canada—all from the comfort of your home.