What Causes Biofilm Slime in Hot Tubs?

Hot tubs and spas are made to provide relaxation and peace. But, once the slime that forms in your hot tub starts to form the spa could quickly become a constant maintenance issue.

The slime that forms in hot tubs is a mixture of microorganisms, bacteria , and other organisms that attach themselves to the hot tub’s surface. This results in a slime-like material that floats on top of water.

Perfect Location for Biofilm to Grow: Hot Tubs

The hot tubs are the perfect location for biofilm to grow since the plumbing creates a dark (>90degF) and humid atmosphere. When biofilm is dry on hot tub surfaces it goes into the state of dormancy, which is brought back to life when it is in contact with water again.

This slime-like biofilm could cause water to become cloudy or, perhaps more harmfully floating debris that is that are floating around in water. If they are not properly maintained and disinfected, spas tend to be prone to the formation of biofilm.

The Biofilm Found in Hot Tubs: 

If not properly managed, biofilm can have severe negative impacts on your hot tub. In addition to clogging the plumbing of your hot spa, biofilm may also be a breeding ground for bacteria colonies. Additionally, once biofilm has taken in the hot tub, it can be very difficult to get rid of, so it’s crucial to prevent it from occurring from the very beginning.

1. Spa purge products

To stop the growth of biofilm, it’s possible to utilize specific spa products to minimize the risk of slime. Purge solutions are applied by running jets through a series of cycles, which ensures sufficient circulation across the entire plumbing.

There are many procedures that can be needed in the most severe instances. Always follow the guidelines from the manufacturer, and follow the steps step-by-step.

2. All-surface cleaner

For an all-surface cleaner , you’ll have to drain your spa. After that, clean the spa’s surfaces using an all-surface cleanser. Make sure to clean all the surfaces of the tub including the floor, as and the shower jets.

It is crucial to keep the tub as clean as possible to make sure that the biofilm is not getting any bigger.

3. Cleaning the filter

It typically takes only two hours, or for best results, it can be done over the night.

How To Prevent Hot Tub Biofilm?

The most efficient method to stop biofilm from forming on hot tubs is by taking an active approach, not reacting. You can reduce the build-up of slime in your hot tub through regular maintenance and the cleaning and sanitation.

Utilizing products for spas and hot tubs such as Aqua enhance and the Natural Chemistry Spa Perfect weekly will help break down the protective layer that shields the bacteria. This will aid in slowing the development of biofilm.

Follow these other strategies to stop the development of biofilm and ensure your spa’s health and cleanliness.

1. Verify your water balance.

Test and balance every one time each week to assess the pH and levels of alkalinity. For more information about how to regulate pH levels, check out our blog post about pH.

The typical alkalinity of spas is between 60 and 120 ppm.

Cleanse the tub with a sanitizer. after that, check the recommended amount in part per million of your hot tub.

2. Shock weekly

A weekly bath with an antibacterial soap of your choice can stop microorganisms and bacteria from building up in the spa’s plumbing.

3. Cleanse the filter

Clean filters are vital to the transparency of the water. Clean your filter at least once every two weeks with water. It is also possible to use an acid rinse once a month to get an even more thorough clean.

4. Make sure your spa is secured during the time when not in use.

Covering your spa at periods when you don’t use it, the spa can prevent dirt or rainwater, as well as animals, from getting into your spa or hot tub and makes the water clearer and more clean.

5. Then, rinse and drain often

If you take care to clean and drain your hot tub at least every 3-4 months, you’ll be able to avoid the build-up of chemical along with other issues caused by being prolonged between clean-ups.

6. Enhance the quality of your water by providing protection

Additional options for sanitation, such as Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) systems can be an excellent method to ensure that the spa’s water is clean, clear and fresh. AOP spa systems produce radicals known as hydroxyl,

which could cause oxidation of the water within your spa, eliminating any contaminants that come into contact with. They can help reduce the need for chlorine in your spa, as well as safeguard against parasites resistant chlorine, such as Cryptosporidium.

If you’d like to improve your spa experience, consider using Clear Comfort, click here to find out more information today. Read More…