Keep Testing – Keep Control – Keep Safe
Keep Testing – Keep Control – Keep Safe
Foamy Water
Foamy Water
Foamy water can happen from time to time in a hot tub. Generally, the foam is not harmful but does not look pleasant and prevents you from having crystal clear water. But what causes the foam and how can it be prevented?
There are a number of reasons why water may foam – some are listed below:
- Old Water: If the water is not changed regularly, there can be a build-up of products and TDS (Total Dissolved Solids). When the jets are turned on this can cause the water to foam. Solution is to make sure that water is drained and changed on a regular basis to make sure it doesn’t become ‘stale’.
- Addition of Unwanted Products: These can be things like soaps, laundry detergent, make-up, shampoo, conditioners etc. The bathers or their costumes can introduce these and it only takes a small amount to cause foam production. To minimise this ask people to shower before entering the hot tub to remove cosmetics, shampoos etc. Also make sure that bathing suits have not come straight from the laundry room and that they have been sufficiently rinsed.
- Low Calcium levels: Soft water tends to foam more readily than harder water due to lower surface tension. Certainly, it is not advisable to fill a hot tub with softened water. Low calcium levels can also be harmful to hot tub fixtures and fitting. If you do live in a soft water area and have issues with foaming then it would be advisable to measure the calcium hardness levels once a week. Should levels continue to be below those recommended then the hardness (calcium) increases available
- Poor Water Quality: If your water is generally in a poor condition, i.e. low level of disinfectant, incorrect pH and out of balance this deterioration, will lead to unpleasant, possibly smelly and encourage foaming. Test water regularly to make sure all parameters are within requirements. Use a good quality test kit where you know the readings are correct. Cheap testing can lead to incorrect readings and therefore incorrect treatment. If problems with water persist Non Chlorine Shock can be used which will not only help bring your water quality back but also aids the prevention of foam. None chlorine shock will help breakdown body oils, lotions, hair products and generally any organic products that have be introduced to the water. Defoamers are also available but these should be purchased from a good quality supplier.
Take the hassle out of getting your test kit or refill packs. Order online and get them delivered directly to your home.
Would you prefer to head down to your local pool or hot tub shop? If so we've listed some of our preferred suppliers for you. Take a look and see if there is a shop local to you.
The Lovibond® Compact Pool Test Kit enables you to measure accurately the key parameters of chlorine, pH and bromine easily and accurately ensuring your water is safe for all users. Suitable for all pool and hot tubs.
The Scuba II takes testing to the next level as the meter gives a digital readout taking away the need to compare colours. This handheld unit is easy to use and will measure chlorine (free and total), bromine, pH plus total alkalinity and cyanuric acid making it a must for all pool and hot tub users.
A firm favourite with pool users for many years the Lovibond® Pooltester gives accurate readings for chlorine and pH. The large blocks means colour matching is easier for enhanced user confidence.
If you are running low on tablets then our re-fill packs will be just what you need. Available for all of our test kits these handy packs will ensure you can keep on top of your water testing.
