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Do you find that your hot tub water has a yellow color? Ever wondered why your hot tub water is yellow? You’re not alone.
There are several potential causes, which we’ll explore in this blog, as well as some tips on how to get your hot tub water back to being crystal clear.
Iron In The Water
The most common cause of yellow hot tub water is the presence of iron in the water.
While iron is an essential nutrient for humans, it can cause problems in hot tubs and pools, namely, yellow water.
This is because when iron mixes with chlorine, it can cause the water to turn greenish-yellow.
This can also lead to rust-coloured stains in your hot tub.
How To Remove Iron From Your Hot Tub Water
There are a few ways to remove iron from your hot tub water.
- Filter
The most effective way is to use an iron removal filter, which will remove the iron before it has a chance to oxidize.
- Chemicals
If you don’t have an iron removal filter, you can still remove the iron from your hot tub water by adding a chemical like chlorine or bromine. Vitamin C can also help to absorb iron.
These chemicals will react with the iron and turn it into a harmless form that can be easily filtered out. This will also help prevent the iron staining your hot tub.
- Ph Level
You can also prevent iron from oxidizing in your hot tub water by keeping the pH level in your hot tub water low. Iron oxidizes more quickly at higher pH levels, so keeping the pH level in your hot tub water on the low side will help to prevent the water from turning yellow.
If you’re still having problems with yellow hot tub water, there are a few other potential causes to consider.
Calcium & Magnesium
Another potential cause of yellow water is that your hot tub contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium.
Calcium and magnesium can cause the water to become cloudy and can also contribute to the formation of scale on the surfaces of your hot tub.
If you suspect that your hot tub water contains high levels of minerals, you can have it tested by a water treatment professional.
Algae
Algae can grow in hot tubs that aren’t properly maintained and can cause the water to turn greenish-yellow.
Algae is a single-celled organism which can quickly multiply in a warm environment like a hot tub. Algae is much more likely to grow and spread if your hot tub is not properly cleaned on a regular basis, and the presence of algae is often a sign that you need to replace or repair your hot tub’s filter.
To remedy this;
- Clean or replace your hot tub filter.
- Test your hot tub pH levels and adjust them if necessary.
- Use a hot tub shock treatment with a high dose of sanitizer.
- Use an algaecide specifically formulated for hot tubs.
- Continue to regularly clean and test your hot tun water to avoid algae reoccurring.
Water Temperature Too Low
Another possibility is that your hot tub is using water that is too cold.
Cold water can cause the formation of scale on the surfaces of your hot tub and can also make the water appear yellow.
If you think that your hot tub water is too cold, you can try raising the temperature of the water.
You can also add a chemical clarifier to the water to help remove the scale that has formed.
Not Regularly Cleaning Your Hot Tub
Finally, if you’re still having problems with yellow hot tub water, it’s possible that there is something wrong with the way that your hot tub is being used.
If you’re using your hot tub for prolonged periods, it’s possible that the water is becoming stagnant and is not being properly circulated.
If you think that your hot tub water is becoming stagnant, you can try adding a chemical water clarifier. Clarifiers work by breaking down the buildup of oils, sweat, and minerals so that they can be easily removed from the water.
Oil & Sweat
There are a few reasons why this may happen, and luckily, there are also a few ways to fix it.
One reason hot tub water may go yellow is because of a buildup of oils and sweat.
When people get in a hot tub, they naturally release oils and sweat into the water.
Over time, these oils and sweat can build up and cause the water to turn yellow.
One way to remedy this is to simply empty the hot tub and refill it with fresh water.
This will remove any buildup of oils, sweat, or minerals that may be causing the water to turn yellow.
Do I Make My Yellow Hot Tub Water Crystal Clear?
If you want to go really in-depth, we have a full article covering how to get clear hot tub water, but here are a few tips that can help you achieve this goal.
First, it’s important to understand that hot tubs are notorious for being difficult to keep clean. This is due to the fact that they are constantly being used and the water is not changed as often as it is in a pool. As a result, it’s important to be diligent about cleaning your hot tub on a regular basis.
- One of the best ways to keep your hot tub water clean is to use a clarifying agent. This will help to remove any buildup that has occurred over time. You can find these agents at most pool supply stores.
- Another tip is to make sure that you are using the proper chemicals in your hot tub. Many people make the mistake of using too many chemicals, which can actually cause the water to become cloudier. Focus on using the right amount of chlorine for your hot tub size.
- Finally, it’s also important to keep your hot tub covered when it’s not in use. This will help to protect the water from debris and other contaminants.
By following these simple tips, you should be able to keep your yellow hot tub water crystal clear.
If you have hot tub water that has gone yellow and you’re not sure how to fix it you can always contact a professional hot tub maintenance company.
They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action to take.