Best pool and spa technicians near Stratton, CO

Biofilm growth can cause a hot tub to feel slimy. Hot tub biofilm is a slimy substance that’s typically due to natural contaminants like makeup, soaps, skin oils, deodorants, or lotions. A hot tub can also have a slimy interior or slimy water if the tub’s filters are old or damaged, or if the hot tub isn’t properly cleaned. You should drain your hot tub, wipe away any slimy residue, then refill the water and use a spa purge product that prevents the buildup of biofilm.

To refill a hot tub after winter, start by opening up the tub and giving it a quick cleaning. If you use antifreeze, drain out the water then grab a hose and thoroughly clean the tub shell out, spraying water into each jet of the tub. 

Reconnect the hot tub and turn the power back on. When it’s time to fill the tub again, insert the hose into the filter well (if available). Avoid trapping too much air in the water lines, which can cause the pump to lock up when it starts again. Add the necessary chemicals and start the heating process. It will take some time—most of a full day—for the water to heat up again.

Yes. If you test the water and the alkalinity is too low, you can raise it by adding an alkalinity increaser, which likely came with your hot tub’s chemical kit. In a pinch, you can use baking soda to raise the hot tub’s alkalinity. Raising the alkalinity will prevent the hot tub water from becoming too acidic.

You’ll know you need to replace the pump in your hot tub if you hear loud or unusual noises when the machine is running or notice a significant decrease in water pressure. A leak or altogether failure of the hot tub may also indicate a problem with the pump, but you’ll need a professional to investigate the source of the issue.