Adding an Inground Swimming Pool to Your Home

Posted on: 29 June 2016

Getting the most enjoyment from your hot tub means you need to know how to keep it safe from harmful bacteria. By taking the time to learn more about how you can prevent bacteria from living in the soothing water of your hot tub, you can always look forward to soaking in it without worry. Check out these tips for helping you keep your hot tub a clean and healthy environment.

Slime Is A Sign Of Bacterial Growth

If you get into your hot tub and the sides of it have a slick, slimy feel, it is time to get out and clean it. Slime is an indicator that bacteria is present in your hot tub. If anyone in your family that has been in your hot tub has developed a rash, it could be from a slimy bacteria called ipseudomonas aeruginosa. Take out the filter in your hot tub and inspect it. If it is old or used up, replacing it is the best way to go. You can also soak your tub's filter in a specially formulated filter cleanser for removing bacterial buildup. Draining the water out of your hot tub is best for cleaning its inside walls with bleach.

Is Algae The Same As Bacterial Slime?

The same kind of algae that grows in a swimming pool is the kind of algae that grows in a hot tub. If you have ever shocked your swimming pool or seen someone do it, you should know you can do the same thing to your hot tub. You can find shock chlorine and chlorine shock test strips at most home improvement stores or retailers that sell hot tub supplies. Bear in mind that maintaining a proper chlorine level (pH) in your hot tub can help prevent the growth of unhealthy slime and algae. Your hot tub's pH levels should remain around 7 ppm at all times. If pH levels drop below 7 ppm, it is a good indicator the chemicals being used, like chlorine, are not working anymore to prevent algae and slime growth.

An Important Time For Cleaning Your Hot Tub

When you have more than a couple of people in your hot tub at one time, the risk of organisms getting in the water is higher. The more organisms in your hot tub, the faster unhealthy bacteria can start growing. Any time you have a group of people in your hot tub, taking the time to thoroughly clean it afterwards is extremely important.

Soaking in your hot tub can provide several soothing benefits for your good health. Taking care to prevent the water from making you sick is important to get the most out of your hot tub.