Hot tubs are a wonderful luxury, offering relaxation, therapy, and a place to unwind after a long day. However, like any piece of equipment that deals with water, they require regular maintenance to stay clean and safe. One of the most common and troublesome issues that can arise in hot tubs is the formation of biofilm. In this blog post, we’ll explain what biofilm is, how it forms in your hot tub, how to prevent it, and what to do if you find it.

What is Biofilm in Hot Tubs?

Biofilm is a slimy, sticky layer of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that can accumulate in various parts of your hot tub, such as the plumbing, jets, and filters. It forms when bacteria adhere to surfaces in the warm, moist environment of the hot tub. These microorganisms start to thrive and multiply, creating a protective layer that makes them more resistant to sanitizers and cleaning treatments.

Biofilm often develops in places that are harder to clean, such as the internal plumbing, the pipes, and the jets. Even though the water may look clean on the surface, biofilm can lurk out of sight, leading to various health and maintenance issues.

How Does Biofilm Form in Hot Tubs?

Biofilm can form in your hot tub for several reasons, including:

• Warm Water: Hot tubs maintain warm water temperatures, which provide the ideal environment for bacteria and other microorganisms to grow.
• Stagnant Water: Areas of your hot tub, such as pipes or jets, may not receive adequate water flow, allowing bacteria to settle and form biofilm.
• Contaminants: Oils, lotions, dirt, and sweat from bathers contribute to organic matter that feeds bacteria, promoting biofilm development.
• Poor Water Chemistry: If the sanitizer levels (chlorine or bromine) aren’t balanced properly or the pH is too high or low, the water may not be effective at killing bacteria, allowing biofilm to thrive.

Biofilm can be a significant problem for hot tub owners because it’s tough to remove once it’s established. It can clog filters, cause unpleasant odors, and even lead to skin infections or irritations.

How to Prevent

Prevention is always better than treatment. By taking a few proactive steps, you can minimize the chances of biofilm forming in your hot tub:

1. Maintain Proper Water Chemistry

Ensure that the water chemistry is properly balanced. Regularly test the water’s pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels (chlorine or bromine). The ideal pH for hot tubs is between 7.4 and 7.6, and sanitizer levels should be between 3-5 ppm for chlorine or 4-6 ppm for bromine. Keeping these levels in check helps prevent bacteria from thriving in the water.

2. Shock the Hot Tub Regularly

Shocking your hot tub is a critical step in maintaining water quality. Shocking the water involves adding a high dose of sanitizer (either chlorine or non-chlorine shock) to oxidize and break down organic materials, such as oils, sweat, and dirt, that can feed bacteria. Regular shocking will help prevent biofilm from developing and ensure the water stays clean.

3. Clean the Filters Frequently

Hot tub filters trap dirt and debris, but over time, they can become clogged, leading to reduced water flow and areas where bacteria can grow. Clean your filters regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For best results, you should rinse your filters once a week, deep clean them every 3-4 weeks, and replace them every year or as needed.

4. Drain and Refill the Water Regularly

To prevent the buildup of contaminants and organic materials, make it a habit to drain and refill your hot tub every 3 to 4 months. This will help ensure that the water remains fresh and prevent the long-term accumulation of bacteria that can lead to biofilm formation.

5. Use a Pipe Cleaner

Using a hot tub pipe cleaner every few months can help break down the biofilm that might be forming in your plumbing. These cleaners are designed to flush out debris and build-up from the pipes, which helps prevent biofilm from taking hold.

6. Keep the Hot Tub Cover Clean

Your hot tub cover can trap moisture and dirt, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive. Clean the cover regularly, and ensure it’s properly sealed to prevent dirt from entering the tub when not in use.

How to Treat

If biofilm has already developed in your hot tub, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further issues. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to treat it.

1. Use a Flush Kit

Specially formulated biofilm removers are available that are designed to break down and dissolve the slimy layer of bacteria and other microorganisms. These products can be added to your hot tub water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. After adding the biofilm remover, you may need to run the jets for a while to ensure that the product circulates and reaches all the affected areas.

2. Deep Clean the Filters

Once you’ve used a biofilm remover, it’s essential to clean your filters thoroughly. Biofilm can build up on the filters and reduce their effectiveness. Remove the filters from the hot tub and clean them with a filter cleaner or soak them in a mixture of water and vinegar for 12-24 hours to remove any build-up. You may also need to replace the filters if they are too clogged or damaged.

3. Flush the Pipes

In addition to cleaning the filters, you should flush the pipes using a specialized hot tub plumbing cleaner. This will help clear out any biofilm that might have accumulated in the internal plumbing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific cleaner you’re using, and make sure to run the jets to circulate the cleaner throughout the system.

4. Drain and Refill the Hot Tub

Once you’ve cleaned the pipes and filters, drain and refill the hot tub with fresh water. This ensures that any remaining biofilm and contaminants are removed from the system. Don’t forget to balance the water chemistry after refilling, including adjusting the pH and sanitizer levels.

5. Use Regular Sanitizing Treatments

After treating biofilm, it’s crucial to continue regular sanitizing treatments to keep the water free of bacteria. Make sure to shock the hot tub and maintain proper water chemistry to prevent biofilm from returning.

Final Thoughts

Biofilm in hot tubs is a common but serious problem that can affect the cleanliness, safety, and enjoyment of your hot tub. By understanding what biofilm is, how it forms, and how to prevent and treat it, you can keep your hot tub water clean, clear, and safe. Regular maintenance, including proper water chemistry, cleaning, and using a biofilm remover when necessary, will ensure that your hot tub remains a relaxing and hygienic place to soak for years to come.

Have more questions about biofilm? Contact our team for more information!