Hot tub water is not only used for relaxing but it has other benefits as well like sleep improvement, stress relief, reducing aches and other pains, also it reduces inflammation, and much more. to ensure the best out of the hot water, people apply chlorine to water for better cleansing. Generally, to prevent contamination with germs, water companies add a disinfectant to kill germs.
Hot Tub Water Turns Yellow After Adding Chlorine is a nightmare to all users around the world. It awakens a sense of fear and creates tension about whether there is something wrong with the tub or whether it is harmful to the human body or not. Before all of these queries, it is important to know what causes it and how to get rid of it, and in this article, we’ve discussed it all in sequence. You can quickly scan through the article for the essential information we’ve shared and discussed regarding this issue.
Key Takeaways
- There are some skin issues that might happen if you get into the yellow water of a hot tub.
- Note down the solutions for reaping the water to get it back to normal so you can go back to enjoying your hot tub.
- You can lower the level of chlorine in your hot tub water with simple techniques so the water stops being yellow.
Is it Safe to Get into the Hot Tub After Water Turning Yellow?
If you get into a hot tub with yellow water that has been treated with chlorine, it may not necessarily be harmful to your health, but it’s not recommended. The yellow color may indicate that the water is not properly sanitized, and there could be harmful bacteria or germs present. The recommended amount of chlorine granules for a hot tub is usually 1–3 tablespoons per 500 gallons of water per week.
The yellow color could be due to high levels of minerals or organic matter, which could cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people, along with watery eyes and bokeh vision. It’s always best to avoid using a hot tub that is discolored or has an unusual odor and to test the water regularly to ensure that it is safe and properly balanced. If you have any concerns or experience any symptoms after using a hot tub, seek medical advice.
8 Solutions to Fix Hot Tub Yellow Water
Here are some of the most effective solutions to get out of the yellow water problem along with inspection and fixation tips.
1. Test the water
Testing the water is an essential first step in identifying the problem. Using a water testing kit, you can check the pH level and the chlorine levels in the hot tub. Ideally, the pH level should be in the range of 7.2-7.8, and the chlorine level should be between 3-5 ppm. If the pH level is low, chlorine may not be effective in killing bacteria, leading to discolored water.
2. Adjust the pH
If the pH level is low, you can use a pH increaser to raise the pH level. This will help to make the chlorine more effective in killing bacteria and restoring the water’s clarity.
3. Shock the water
Shocking the water with a high dose of chlorine can help to kill any bacteria or algae that may be causing the water to turn yellow. You can use a non-chlorine shock or a chlorine shock, depending on your preference.
4. Use a clarifier
Adding a clarifier to the water can help to remove any particles or debris that may be causing the discoloration. Clarifiers work by binding the particles together, making them easier to filter out.
5. Check the filter
A dirty or clogged filter can prevent the water from circulating properly, leading to discolored water. It’s important to clean or replace the filter regularly to keep the water clear.
6. Drain and refill
If the water has become too contaminated or discolored, draining and refilling the hot tub may be necessary. This will help to remove any built-up contaminants that may be causing the water to turn yellow.
7. Clean the hot tub
Regular cleaning of the hot tub can prevent the buildup of bacteria and other contaminants that can cause the water to turn yellow. Use a hot tub cleaner to remove any buildup on the surface or in the plumbing.
8. Balance the calcium hardness
High levels of calcium hardness can cause discoloration of the water. Adding a calcium reducer can help to balance the levels and restore the water’s clarity.
✨ You May like: Hot Tub Circulation Pump Clicks But Won’t Start?
Other Causes of Yellow Hot Tub Water
One of the main causes of yellow hot tub water is the presence of iron or copper in the water. These metals can enter the water supply from various sources, such as rusty pipes or from water that has been sitting in the pipes for an extended period of time. When chlorine is added to the water, it reacts with the metals, causing them to oxidize and turn yellow. The presence of organic matter in the water can also cause it to turn yellow. This can include things like dead skin cells, body oils, and other debris that can accumulate in the water over time. When chlorine is added to the water, it reacts with the organic matter, causing it to break down and turn yellow.
3 Tricks to Reduce Chlorine in Hot Tub Water
Chlorine in hot tubs is necessary but too much of it can pose a risk for your health and safety. Here are 3 tricks that you can use to reduce the amount of chlorine in your hot tub.
1. Wait for a While
Remove your hot tub cover and allow it to breathe for a few hours. If possible, let it get some sunlight. The sanitizer won’t stay in your hot tub forever. It will eventually break down. Give your hot tub a day or two to use up some of the excess chlorine or bromine in the water before you use it. Those excess levels will vanish in a day or two.
2. Dilute the Water
You can lower your sanitizer levels fast if you do not want to wait. To do so, just, grab a bucket and get to work. The quickest way is to dilute the water in your tub. If you are only lowering it, take out one or two buckets full of water. You may need to remove half the water to make a difference. After you have removed the water, refill the tub with fresh water. Give your jets a chance to circulate and then test. This will give you a fresh start and allow you to get control of your sanitizer levels right away. In extreme cases, you might need a complete water change to reset your levels back to zero ppm.
3. Apply Neutralizer
It is a good idea to use a neutralizer if your hot tub sanitizer levels are too high. In order for the sanitizer levels to break down naturally, we recommend that you let them. But if you must use your hot tub, then you can add sodium thiosulfate to the water. Sodium thiosulfate breaks down chlorine and bromine in your water, lowering the bromine or chlorine levels quickly, allowing you to soak sooner.
3 Prevention Tips for Yellow Hot Tub Water
There are some common ways to observe for stopping the yellow hot tub water:
- Regular maintenance of the hot tub can go a long way in preventing the problem of yellow water. This includes checking the pH levels, adding chlorine as needed, and cleaning the hot tub regularly.
- Using a pre-filter can help to remove impurities from the water before it enters the hot tub. This can help to prevent the buildup of organic matter and other debris in the water, which can cause it to turn yellow.
- A stain and scale preventer can be used to prevent the buildup of minerals and other impurities in the hot tub. This can help to prevent the water from turning yellow due to the presence of iron or copper.
FAQs
Chlorine mixed with metals and minerals can cause the process of oxidation that will stain the surface of a hot tub.
Chlorine water or chlorinated water is light yellow in color because it reacts with water to form hypochlorous acid (HClO) and hypochlorous acid breaks down into hydrochloric acid and oxygen gas.
Yes, because a high amount of chlorine creates corrosion of hot tub components.
Final Thoughts
Yellow hot tub water is a frustrating problem for hot tub owners, but it is important to understand the causes and solutions to this issue. When it comes to this problem of water. Regular maintenance, the use of a pre-filter, and other things we just discussed above can all help to prevent such matters of color changing while applying chlorine. Make sure you address the issue promptly by identifying the cause and taking appropriate action. With the right care and attention.
✨ Next Attraction: When Do Costco Hot Tubs Go on Sale?
I am Donald M. Beyer and I am backyard enthusiasts. I am a homeowner who has been doing DIY projects in and out of my house for many years. From simple backyard lunches to making an old-school pizza oven in my own backyard, I have a lot of experience in turning my backyard into my and my family’s personal playground.