Owning a hot tub provides relaxation, hydrotherapy benefits, and a social space for family and friends. However, maintaining proper water chemistry is crucial to keeping your hot tub safe and enjoyable. If water balance is neglected, it can lead to skin irritation, equipment damage, and reduced water clarity.
One of the most important aspects of water chemistry is monitoring hot tub pH levels. This blog will help you understand signs of low pH in a hot tub, how to balance your water chemistry, and how to raise the pH in hot tubs when needed.
No matter what model of hot tub you own, these tips will help keep your water crystal clear and safe.
Why pH Levels Matter in Your Hot Tub
Hot tub pH levels measure how acidic or basic the water is on a scale of 0 to 14. The ideal range for a hot tub is between 7.2 and 7.8, with 7.4 to 7.6 being optimal. Keeping the proper pH balance is crucial for:
- Comfort – Prevents skin and eye irritation.
- Water Clarity – Reduces cloudiness and keeps water looking clean.
- Chemical Effectiveness – Ensures that sanitizers like chlorine or bromine work efficiently.
- Equipment Protection – Prevents corrosion or scale buildup on pipes, jets, and heaters.
Signs of Low pH in a Hot Tub
A pH below 7.2 means the water is too acidic, which can cause several problems. Here are some signs that indicate your water chemistry needs adjustment:
1. Skin and Eye Irritation
If you experience itchy skin, red eyes, or dryness after using the hot tub, the water may be too acidic. Low pH can strip natural oils from your skin, leading to discomfort.
2. Corrosion of Hot Tub Components
Acidic water can damage metal components like pumps, heaters, and jets. If you notice deterioration or discoloration on metal surfaces, check the pH levels immediately.
3. Reduced Effectiveness of Sanitizers
Chlorine is most effective between 7.2 and 7.4, while bromine remains stable between 7.2 and 8.0. If pH is too low, chlorine may become overly reactive, leading to rapid depletion, while bromine’s effectiveness remains relatively stable.
4. Cloudy or Foamy Water
Low pH can contribute to cloudy or foamy water. If the water looks murky even after filtration, a pH imbalance could be the cause.
How to Raise pH in a Hot Tub
If your hot tub water is too acidic, follow these steps to restore balance safely and effectively:
1. Test the Water Regularly
Use a hot tub test strip or liquid testing kit to check pH levels at least 2-3 times a week. Catching imbalances early prevents bigger issues.
2. Add a pH Increaser (Sodium Carbonate)
The best way to raise pH is to use a pH increaser (soda ash, sodium carbonate). Follow these steps:
- Turn on your hot tub’s jets to help circulate the water.
- Add the recommended amount of pH increaser based on your test results.
- Wait 30-60 minutes, then retest the water.
3. Adjust Alkalinity if Necessary
Total alkalinity stabilizes pH. If it’s too low (below 80 ppm), the pH will fluctuate easily. Use an alkalinity increaser (baking soda, sodium bicarbonate) to keep alkalinity within 80-120 ppm.
4. Retest and Repeat if Needed
If the pH is still too low, add another small dose of pH increaser and retest the water. Avoid large adjustments, as this can cause pH to swing too high.
The Impact of High pH in Hot Tubs
Just as low pH can cause issues, high pH (above 7.8) can also be problematic:
- Scale buildup on hot tub components
- Cloudy water due to mineral deposits
- Reduced sanitizer effectiveness, making it harder to keep the water clean
To lower pH, use a pH decreaser (sodium bisulfate or muriatic acid), following the same gradual adjustment method as raising pH.
Maintaining Balanced Hot Tub Water
To keep your hot tub’s pH levels stable, follow these best practices:
1. Test Your Water Frequently
Check pH and alkalinity at least 2-3 times per week to prevent imbalances.
2. Maintain Proper Sanitizer Levels
- Chlorine levels: 1-3 ppm
- Bromine levels: 3-5 ppm
Keeping sanitizers at the correct level ensures effective bacteria control.
3. Keep the Cover Clean
A dirty hot tub cover can introduce bacteria, oils, and debris into the water. Wipe it down regularly and let it dry completely to prevent mildew.
4. Drain and Refill Every Few Months
Over time, hot tub water accumulates dissolved solids that make balancing pH harder. Drain and refill every 3-4 months for fresh, clean water.
5. Maintain Alkalinity for pH Stability
Alkalinity acts as a buffer to prevent drastic pH changes. Keeping it in the 80-120 ppm range will help stabilize your pH levels.
Choosing the Right Hot Tub for Easy Maintenance
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance hot tub, Dream Maker Spas models are an excellent choice. These spas feature:
- User-friendly filtration systems for effortless water care
- Durable, high-quality materials that resist wear and tear
- Energy-efficient designs that keep running costs low
Keep Your Hot Tub Water Safe and Balanced
Maintaining proper pH levels in your hot tub is essential for a safe and enjoyable spa experience. By recognizing signs of low or high pH and understanding how to adjust your water chemistry, you can:
- Protect your skin and eyes
- Prevent damage to your hot tub
- Keep water crystal clear and sanitized
Whether you own a Dream Maker Spas hot tub or another brand, regular maintenance and proper water chemistry will keep your spa in top condition. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll enjoy crystal-clear, perfectly balanced water all year long!
