How Can I Remove Biofilm from My Hot Tub?

Biofilm is a layer of bacteria that can accumulate in the plumbing. Use a spa pipe cleaner to flush the system, then shock the water to sanitize it.

What is Biofilm and Why is it a Problem?

Biofilm forms when bacteria and other microorganisms adhere to a surface, creating a protective layer. This slimy substance is difficult to remove and often goes unnoticed until it causes issues. In a hot tub, biofilm can form inside the jets, pipes, and on the surfaces that are submerged in water. Here’s why biofilm can be a problem for your hot tub:

• Health Risks: Biofilm is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can cause skin infections, respiratory issues, and other health problems.
  

• Water Quality: Biofilm can affect the clarity of the water, causing it to look cloudy. The bacteria and organic matter trapped in the biofilm make the water appear murky.
  

• Unpleasant Odor: As the bacteria in the biofilm break down, they can produce foul odors that make your hot tub less inviting.
  

• Clogged Jets and Filters: Biofilm can accumulate in your hot tub’s jets and filters, reducing water circulation and filtration efficiency, which further exacerbates the problem.
  

Biofilm can make your hot tub water unhealthy and unpleasant to use, so removing it should be a priority.

How to Identify Biofilm in Your Hot Tub

Detecting biofilm early can help you prevent it from becoming a more serious issue. While it’s not always visible, there are a few common signs that biofilm is present in your hot tub:

• Slimy or Slippery Surfaces: Biofilm can create a slick, slimy coating on the walls, seats, and jets. If your hot tub feels slimy to the touch, it’s likely biofilm buildup.
  

• Cloudy Water: Water that looks cloudy or hazy is often a sign of biofilm or other contaminants. While there can be other causes for cloudy water, biofilm is a common one.
  

• Unpleasant Smell: A musty, moldy, or chemical-like odor can indicate that biofilm is present in your hot tub. This smell is caused by the bacteria breaking down organic matter in the water.
  

• Dirty Filters: If you notice that your filters are getting dirty more quickly than usual, it could be because biofilm is clogging the pipes and filters.
  

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action to remove the biofilm and restore your hot tub’s cleanliness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Biofilm from Your Hot Tub

Removing biofilm requires more than just cleaning the surfaces of your hot tub. It involves deep cleaning and using special products designed to break down the biofilm and remove it from the plumbing, jets, and filter system. Follow these steps to effectively remove biofilm and maintain a clean, safe hot tub.

Drain Your Hot Tub

The first step in removing biofilm is draining the hot tub completely. This ensures that you can clean all the surfaces, jets, and pipes thoroughly.

• Turn off the power: Always turn off the hot tub’s power before draining it to prevent electrical accidents.
  

• Disconnect electrical connections: If necessary, unplug or switch off any electrical connections to ensure everything is turned off before draining the tub.
  

• Drain the water: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to drain the hot tub. Use a pump if necessary, or allow the water to drain via the drainage valve.
  

Clean the Shell and Surfaces

Once the hot tub is drained, it’s time to clean the shell. Biofilm often forms on the walls, seats, and floor of the hot tub, and these areas should be scrubbed thoroughly.

• Use a non-abrasive cleaner: Use a non-abrasive cleaner that is designed for hot tubs to avoid damaging the surfaces. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that could scratch the surfaces.
  

• Scrub the surfaces: Use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub all areas of the tub, paying extra attention to the jets and any areas where biofilm may have accumulated.
  

• Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the hot tub thoroughly to remove any leftover cleaning product and debris.
  

Clean the Jets and Plumbing

Biofilm can build up in the jets and plumbing lines, where it’s harder to reach. To properly clean these areas:

• Use a jet cleaner: There are special jet cleaners available that are designed to break down biofilm and other debris in the plumbing system. Follow the instructions on the cleaner to get the best results.
  

• Run the jets: Once the jet cleaner has been applied, turn on the jets and let the cleaner circulate through the system for the recommended amount of time. This will help break down the biofilm that has built up in the plumbing lines.
  

• Flush the lines: After the cleaner has had time to work, drain the hot tub again and rinse the plumbing lines thoroughly to remove any leftover cleaner or biofilm.
  

Clean the Filters

Your hot tub filters are essential for maintaining clean water, but they can also trap biofilm and other contaminants. Cleaning the filters is crucial to ensure they’re working efficiently.

• Remove the filters: Take the filters out of the hot tub and rinse them with a hose to remove any loose dirt and debris.
  

• Soak the filters: Soak the filters in a filter cleaner solution or a mixture of water and vinegar for 30 minutes to an hour. This will help break down any biofilm that has built up in the filters.
  

• Rinse and dry: After soaking, rinse the filters thoroughly and let them dry completely before reinserting them into the hot tub.
  

Refill the Hot Tub and Balance the Water Chemistry

After cleaning the hot tub, refill it with fresh water. It’s important to test and balance the water chemistry to ensure the water is safe and comfortable.

• Test the water: Use a water test kit to check the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels in the water.
  

• Adjust the chemicals: Add pH balancers, alkalinity adjusters, and sanitizers as necessary to bring the water into the proper balance.
  

• Shock the water: Consider shocking the hot tub with chlorine or bromine to ensure any remaining bacteria are killed.
  

Preventing Future Biofilm Buildup

To prevent biofilm from coming back, take the following steps to maintain your hot tub:

• Regular cleaning: Clean your hot tub every 3-4 months, or more often if needed, to prevent biofilm from building up.
  

• Use a biofilm cleaner: Use a biofilm cleaner every month to help prevent bacteria from forming in the jets and plumbing system.
  

• Maintain proper water chemistry: Regularly test the water and adjust the chemicals to keep the water balanced.
  

• Cover your hot tub: When not in use, cover your hot tub to prevent debris from entering and contributing to biofilm growth.
  

With these preventative steps, you can help keep your hot tub free from biofilm and maintain a clean, healthy environment for relaxation.