Picture this: you’ve just had a long and tiring day, and all you want to do is soak in the warm and soothing waters of your hot tub.
But as you lift the cover, instead of crystal clear water, you’re greeted with a cloudy and uninviting sight.
Ugh, talk about a buzzkill!
Cloudy hot tub water is not only unappealing, but it can also be a sign of underlying issues and potentially unsafe water that needs to be addressed.
Fortunately, as experts in hot tub service and maintenance, we’ve encountered our fair share of cloudy water situations.
And today, we’re here to share with you our tried-and-true fixes that will have your hot tub water sparkling clean and ready for a relaxing dip in no time.
From simple adjustments to more involved troubleshooting, we’ll guide you through the process of identifying the cause of your cloudy water and provide step-by-step solutions that will restore your hot tub to its pristine condition.
Whether it’s a problem with filtration, pH levels, or a sanitizer imbalance, we’ve got you covered.
So, if you’re tired of staring at cloudy or foamy hot tub water and longing for the clarity and freshness you once enjoyed, keep reading.
Identifying the Cause of Cloudy Hot Tub Water
Cloudy hot tub water can be a frustrating sight for any hot tub owner.
To get to the bottom of the problem and restore your hot tub water to its pristine condition, it’s important to understand the common culprits behind cloudy water and know how to determine the root causes of cloudy hot tub water.
Some of the most common reasons for cloudy hot tub water include:
- Chlorine levels are below 1 ppm
- pH is too high
- Alkalinity is too high
- Stabilizer is too high
- Total dissolved solids (TDS) is too high
Additionally, a high water hardness may be a contributing factor to cloudy hot tub water but is rarely the only cause.
Here are a few steps you can take to determine the cause of cloudy hot tub water:
1. Test the water using a testing kit or test strips to check the levels of pH, alkalinity, chlorine or bromine, and other relevant parameters.
2. Inspect the filter for signs of damage or clogging. Clean or replace the filter if necessary.
3. Compare the test results against the recommended ranges for a well-balanced hot tub, such as:
- Free chlorine: 3 – 5 ppm (max 10 or below if using the tub)
- Combined chlorine (recommend measuring when facing cloudy water) 0ppm
- Bromine (if measuring): 4 – 6 ppm (max 10 or below if using the tub)
- pH: 7.2 – 7.5 (max 7.8)
- Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm
- Total Dissolved Solids: 1500 ppm over fresh water (typically fresh water is less than 1000 ppm of TDS)
- Stabilizer: 0 – 50 ppm is ideal. The hot tub will need to be drained before 100 ppm
Your test kit may include some or all of these, you should be testing regularly for free chlorine, alkalinity, pH and stabilizer levels.
You should also be testing your calcium levels with each drain and fill, or annually if the water source is unlikely to change.
4. If necessary, consult with a professional hot tub service technician for further analysis and guidance.
By establishing the cause of your cloudy spa water, you can take the appropriate measures to restore its clarity and ensure a pleasurable hot tub soaking experience.
Read on to discover how you can get your water back to its sparking state.

Balancing pH and Alkalinity Levels for Crystal Clear Water
Maintaining proper pH levels in your hot tub is crucial for achieving clean water, and when it’s improperly balanced, it can lead to a range of problems, including cloudiness and skin irritation.
pH refers to the acidity or alkalinity of the water. The ideal pH range for your hot tub is between 7.2 and 7.5, while the ideal alkalinity for your spa is between 80 and 120 ppm.
Anything outside of this range can cause issues.
Low pH levels (acidic) can corrode equipment and irritate the skin, while high pH levels (basic) can create scale, cause cloudy water and reduce chlorine effectiveness.
High alkalinity, can also contribute to scale buildup and cloudy water.
Here are some steps you can take to effectively balance the pH levels in your hot tub:
1. Test The Water
Regularly test the water using a reliable pH testing kit. This will give you an accurate reading of the current pH levels.
Testing should be done at least twice a week or after heavy usage.
2. Adjust the pH and Alkalinity
Before adjusting your pH, you’ll want to ensure your alkalinity is between 80 and 120 ppm.
Balanced alkalinity will reduce the amount of fluctuation you see in your pH levels.
When adding any chemical to your hot tub, carefully follow the directions on the back of the product to determine how much to add.
Always follow the directions on bottles, and review them when you reorder, as instructions can change.
After balancing your alkalinity levels, retest your water to determine if you still need to adjust the pH (balancing alkalinity can also result in balancing your pH).
If the pH is too high, use a pH decreaser to lower it to the recommended range. If the pH is too low, use a pH increaser to raise it.
These products are readily available through our online shop!
3. Circulate The Water
After adding your water treatment products, ensure proper water circulation for even distribution.
Turn on the jets and allow them to run for 20 minutes with the cover half open or off to allow for off-gassing. When the jets turn off, you can close the cover.
Remember, maintaining the pH level is an ongoing process. Factors like rainfall, heavy bather load, or the addition of new water can affect the pH balance.
Regular testing and treatment will help keep the water clean and clear, providing you with the perfect hot tub experience.
Cleaning (or Replacing) The Filter
Proper filtration is crucial for maintaining clean and clear hot tub water.
The hot tub filter plays a vital role in removing debris, dirt, and other impurities from the water, ensuring it stays safe and inviting for your relaxation sessions.
Here are a few key points to understand about the importance of good filtration and how you can improve its efficiency.
Cleaning Your Filter
Regularly cleaning your hot tub filter is a fundamental step in maintaining optimal filtration and clean water. Over time, the filter becomes clogged with debris, which reduces its effectiveness.
By cleaning it regularly, you ensure that water flows freely through the filter, allowing it to capture unwanted particles efficiently.
To clean your filter:
1. Turn off the power to the hot tub or place the tub in standby mode.
2. Remove the filter housing cover or the skimmer basket, depending on the type of filter system your hot tub has.
3. Remove and rinse the filter thoroughly with fresh water to remove loose debris.
4. Soak the filter in a cartridge cleaner according to directions (or use a spray on, rinse off cartridge cleaner)
5. Rinse the filter again with fresh water to remove all cleaning solution.
6. Put the filter back in the hot tub.
Replacing Your Filter
Cleaning your filter can only do so much, and eventually, it will reach a point where it needs to be replaced.
It’s recommended to replace your hot tub filter every 12-18 months, depending on the manufacturer’s guidelines and the frequency of hot tub usage.
Signs that indicate it’s time to replace your filter include:
- Visible physical damage, such as cracks or tears
- A filter that no longer looks clean and white, even after cleaning
- Hindered water flow even after cleaning and maintaining good water chemistry
- Your hot tub experiences flow errors
Ensuring that your hot tub has a clean and functioning filter is essential for optimal water clarity and overall performance.
Don’t underestimate the power of proper filtration in maintaining a clean and enjoyable hot tub experience.

Dealing with Sanitizer Imbalance
Maintaining the proper level of sanitizer in your hot tub is essential for not only keeping the water clean and clear but also ensuring the health and safety of those who use it.
When there is a sanitizer imbalance, it can lead to cloudy hot tub water and an increased risk for bacterial growth.
Here are the key steps to address sanitizer imbalance and regain crystal-clear water:
1. Test Sanitizer Levels
Begin by testing the sanitizer levels in your hot tub using a test strip kit or test kit. This will give you an accurate reading of the sanitizer concentration in the water.
It is important to keep in mind that different sanitizers, such as chlorine or bromine, have specific target levels for optimum efficiency.
When the water is clear, the chlorine should be 3 – 5 ppm, and bromine should be 4 – 6 ppm.
2. Adjusting Sanitizer Levels
If your test results indicate low sanitizer levels, it is necessary to add more sanitizer to the water.
The fastest and most reliable method to clear up cloudy spa water using sanitizer is as follows:
- Add 30g (2 tablespoons) of chlorine per 1000L and run the pumps with the cover open for at least 20 minutes to allow for off-gassing
- Retest the water in six hours and continue adjusting as needed following the below guide:
- If chlorine levels are 1 ppm or less, repeat the process.
- If chlorine levels are above 1 ppm but below 3 – 5 ppm, add 15g (1 tablespoon) of chlorine per 1000L. Retest in six hours.
- If chlorine levels are between 3 – 5 ppm, add 15g (1 tablespoon) of chlorine
- If chlorine is above 5ppm, do a final water test the following morning
Ultimately, the goal is to continue to add chlorine until it remains high for at least 24 hours.
Its ability to maintain a high level for an extended period of time indicates that all contaminants have been destroyed
Follow the instructions provided with your selected sanitizer product or consult with a professional for guidance on safely adjusting levels.
3. Maintaining Consistency
Once you have achieved the appropriate sanitizer levels, maintaining consistency is crucial.
When chlorine levels drop to 1 ppm, whatever bacteria, algae, or contamination that’s in the water will grow, quickly dropping your chlorine levels to zero, resulting in cloudy water.
Regularly test the water to ensure the sanitizer concentration remains within the recommended range. For chlorine, maintain a level between 3 – 5 ppm. If you’re using bromine, keep your levels between 4 – 6 ppm.
It’s also important to remember that factors like hot tub usage, weather conditions, and bather load can impact sanitizer levels, so testing your water twice a week is non-negotiable.
Remember, sanitizers play a critical role in keeping your hot tub water clean and germ-free.
By following these steps and proactively managing the sanitizer balance, you’ll be well on your way to achieving that sparkling water you’ve been dreaming of.
Shocking Your Hot Tub for Quick Clarity
You can shock your hot tub in one of two ways:
1. Adding a high dose of chlorine (following the steps listed in the “Adjusting Sanitizer Levels” above)
2. Adding non-chlorine, oxidizing spa shock
While your sanitizer is capable of removing all contaminants from your water, an oxidizing spa shock can help support your sanitizer and allow it to work more effectively.
While oxidizing spa shock is unable to kill most bacteria, it can combat organic matter, reducing the demand these contaminants have on your sanitizer.
Purpose of Using Spa Shock
Shocking your hot tub with a non-chlorine shock helps to reduce the amount of sanitizer you need in two primary ways.
First, as mentioned above, by breaking down organic contaminants, it can free chlorine to concentrate on bacteria, viruses and other living organisms.
Secondly, non-chlorine shock reduces the amount of combined chlorine in the hot tub (which slows down chemical reactions) and improves chlorine effectiveness.
If, however, you’re shocking your hot tub with a high dose of chlorine, you effectively sanitize and disinfect your hot tub, ensuring it’s free from harmful microorganisms.
Ultimately, following the steps above in the “Adjusting Sanitizer Levels” section, you’ll be taking the necessary steps to quickly and effectively clear up your water.
Spa shock is simply a helpful aid to use alongside the chlorine, effectively reducing the amount of chlorine needed to regain the clarity you seek.
Common Hot Tub Maintenance Questions
Why is my hot tub water cloudy?
Cloudy hot tub water can have various causes, including poor filtration, chemical imbalance, and bacterial growth.
Performing water tests can help determine the specific cause and necessary fixes.
What causes sanitizer imbalance in a hot tub?
Sanitizer imbalances in hot tubs can be caused by factors such as inadequate chlorine or bromine levels, contamination from heavy bather loads, or high pH or high stabilizer.
Regularly test and maintain appropriate sanitizer levels to prevent cloudy water and ensure proper sanitization.
How often should I shock my hot tub?
The frequency of shocking your hot tub depends on factors like frequency of use, bather load, and sanitizer levels.
As a general guideline, shocking the hot tub once a week or after heavy usage is recommended.
To reduce reliance on chlorine, you can use a non-chlorine shock treatment after every use. But be sure to raise chlorine levels if they drop below 3 ppm (or 4 ppm for bromine).
Non-chlorine shock cannot replace chlorine (or bromine), but it can help to reduce how much you use.
Ensure you follow the instructions regarding shock products and dosage to effectively eliminate contaminants.
Fix Cloudy Hot Tub Water Fast – Contact The Fix My Hot Tub Team
In conclusion, dealing with cloudy hot tub water can be a frustrating experience, but it doesn’t have to be a persistent problem.
By understanding the causes, taking preventative measures, and employing the right treatments, you can ensure your hot tub remains a source of relaxation and enjoyment.
Remember, consistent maintenance is key to keeping your water crystal clear.
If you’re struggling with persistent cloudiness or simply want expert advice, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact your local Fix My Hot Tub team today to book a service appointment, and we’ll get your water cleared up quickly.
Or take the work out of maintaining your spa altogether, with one of our four maintenance packages!
Your perfect, crystal-clear hot tub experience is just a phone call away!