How to Get Rid of Brown Scum in Hot Tub?

You’ve noticed a nasty brown scum in your hot tub. Don’t panic! It’s a common issue that you can tackle with the right knowledge and tools.

First drain and clean the tub thoroughly using a hot tub cleaner or a mild detergent. Then, rinse the tub thoroughly to ensure all cleaning agents are removed. Refill the tub with clean water and add a hot tub sanitizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions for usage.

This guide will walk you through identifying the causes, maintaining your tub regularly, employing effective cleaning techniques, and preventing future build-up.

Identifying Brown Scum Causes

First, let’s tackle the underlying issue by identifying what’s causing the brown scum in your hot tub. It’s likely due to a combination of factors such as poor water chemistry, insufficient filtration, and environmental debris.

To start, you should know that imbalanced water chemistry is one of the primary culprits. If your hot tub’s pH, alkalinity, or sanitizer levels are off, it can lead to various water issues, including the formation of brown scum.

Next, insufficient filtration can contribute to the problem. Your hot tub’s filter plays a crucial role in keeping the water clean. If it’s not functioning properly or if it’s dirty, it won’t be able to effectively filter out contaminants, leading to a buildup of brown scum.

Related Read: How Often Should I Change My Hot Tub Filter?

Lastly, environmental debris like leaves, twigs, or dirt that falls into your hot tub can decay and turn into brown scum. Even something as simple as a dirty hot tub cover can cause this issue.

Regular Hot Tub Maintenance

You’ve got to understand that regular maintenance is key to preventing brown scum from forming in your hot tub.

Without it, you’re inviting unwanted residue and microbial growth, which can lead to murky water and an unpleasant bathing experience.

Here’s a quick 4-step routine you can follow:

1. Clean the Filters Regularly: Dirty filters can breed bacteria, leading to the formation of brown scum. Make it a habit to clean your filters at least once a month.
2. Balance the Water Chemistry: Ensure your water’s pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels are balanced. This prevents the buildup of minerals that can cause brown scum.
3. Shock the Hot Tub: Shocking your hot tub on a weekly basis helps destroy any organic matter, preventing the formation of brown scum.
4. Drain and Refill: Every 3 to 4 months, drain your hot tub and refill it with fresh water. This removes any lingering scum or residue.

Effective Cleaning Techniques

If brown scum has already formed in your hot tub, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start the cleaning process.

First, you’ll need a soft scrub brush and a cleaning solution. You can make a simple yet effective cleaning solution by combining equal parts of vinegar and water. Apply this mixture to the scum and scrub gently but thoroughly. It’s important to avoid abrasive cleaners as they can scratch the surface of your hot tub.

After scrubbing, rinse the tub thoroughly with warm water to ensure all the cleaning solution and loosened scum is removed. Once it’s properly rinsed, fill your hot tub with clean water and add a hot tub sanitizer. This will kill any remaining bacteria and prevent future buildup.

In addition to these steps, regular maintenance is crucial. This includes changing the water and cleaning the filters regularly. Following these techniques should help you keep your hot tub scum-free and ready for use at all times.

Safe Chemical Treatment Options

After ensuring a thorough physical cleaning, your next step in maintaining a scum-free hot tub involves the use of safe chemical treatments.

These treatments not only help to eliminate brown scum but also ensure that your hot tub remains clean and hygienic for a longer duration.

Here are four safe chemical treatment options you can consider:

1. Chlorine: This is a widely used disinfectant in hot tubs. It’s effective in killing bacteria and algae, which are the main contributors to brown scum. However, use it in moderation to avoid skin and eye irritation.
2. Bromine: Bromine is a great alternative to chlorine, especially if you have sensitive skin. It’s just as effective but tends to be more stable at higher temperatures, making it ideal for hot tubs.
3. Ozonators: These devices generate ozone gas that kills bacteria and other microorganisms, keeping your hot tub clean without the need for much chemical input.
4. Enzyme-Based Cleaners: These are water treatment solutions that use natural enzymes to break down oils, lotions, and other organic materials that cause scum.

Preventing Future Scum Build-up

While it’s crucial to treat existing brown scum with safe chemicals, it’s equally important to take steps to prevent future build-up in your hot tub.

Regular maintenance is key here. It’s advisable to thoroughly clean your hot tub every three to four months. This process involves draining the tub, scrubbing it clean, and refilling it with fresh water.

Keep an eye on your hot tub’s pH levels as well. Aim for a pH level between 7.2 and 7.8, which is the optimal range for preventing scum. Test the water weekly and adjust as necessary using pH increasers or reducers.

Don’t forget about the hot tub cover. Clean and condition it monthly to prevent scum and bacteria build-up. Use a specialized hot tub cover cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Lastly, rinse off before entering the hot tub. This removes oils, lotions, and other substances that can contribute to scum formation. Encourage your guests to do the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

In conclusion, tackling brown scum in your hot tub demands consistent maintenance, effective cleaning, and safe chemical treatments.

By identifying the causes, you’ll be better equipped to prevent future build-ups. It may seem daunting, but with the right information and methods, it’s a breeze.