Do you need chemicals in a hot tub
Rachel Ross
Published Apr 23, 2026
YES. Chemicals are always necessary for your hot tub. There is no way around it to keep the water safe and comfortable. So if you don’t fancy using chemicals then a hot tub may not be the right choice for you.
Can you use a hot tub with no chemicals?
Using your hot tub without chemicals could turn the water green within a matter of hours, posing a huge safety risk to users. … Bromine is a similar chemical to chlorine; however, it can be kinder to the skin. It is also more efficient at higher temperatures, a benefit that is often the most appealing to hot tub users.
How long will hot tub last without chemicals?
What if I do not put chemicals in to my hot tub? If you do not want to put any chemicals in to your hot tub, no problem. But you must drain down and refill after each use and ensure that the water is never in the spa for more than 12 hours!
What chemicals do you really need for a hot tub?
The basic chemicals for hot tub maintenance include a pH increaser, pH decreased, and sodium dichlor chlorine granules.Can you use hot tub without chlorine?
But seriously, the real answer is YES! You can run your spa without chlorine OR bromine, and still have a safe and sanitary spa. It requires using some modified methods to make sure that pathogens don’t thrive, but it can be successfully done.
How soon can you go in a hot tub after adding chlorine?
How soon can I use a hot tub after adding chemicals? When adding chlorine, wait 30 minutes before testing the water again. For non-chlorine shock, wait 10 minutes. For chlorine shock, wait 20 minutes.
Who should avoid hot tubs?
People who have weakened immune systems, former smokers, and those 50 and older should consider not using a hot tub or even sitting near one, says the CDC.
How often should I change my hot tub water?
We recommend customers to change their hot tub water every 3 to 4 months. The reason we recommend this is that as your continue to add more chlorine, it will start to dissolve slower and slower until the chlorine doesn’t dissolve in your hot tub anymore.How do I keep my hot tub water clean?
- Rinse your hot tub filters as often as possible with warm water or your garden hose, especially if you’ve been using your spa more than usual.
- Spray your filters every week or so with a hot tub filter cleaner to provide a deeper clean.
How Much Chlorine Should I Add to my hot tub? A chlorine level of between 3-5mg/l must be maintained in your hot tub at all times. The addition of chlorine will depend upon usage and bathing habits. It could be daily or every 2-3 days (for 1mg/l add 2g per 1000 litres).
Article first time published onIs chlorine in hot tubs bad for you?
Chlorine hot tubs require less upkeep and last longer than salt water hot tubs. Chlorine achieves the cleanliness and oxidation levels that other chemicals and methods do not. Chlorine does not cause any damage to the features of hot tubs and pools.
Do you need chemicals in a lazy spa?
There are many optional chemicals available to keep your spa experience as luxurious. However, some are essential and ensure that your spa is kept healthy and clean. These will also help to maintain a much more efficient running cost and extend the lifespan of your Lay-Z-Spa; these include: – Regular chlorine.
How often do you need to put chemicals in a hot tub?
That’s basically it for maintaining quality hot tub water on a daily and weekly basis. To limit your use of chemicals, you should be cleaning your filters at least once per month and then every six months completely drain your spa and refill it with fresh clean water and replace the Ecopur filter element.
Why is hot tub water cloudy?
Causes of Cloudy Hot Tub Water. When it comes to cloudy water, it’s likely one of a few culprits — high pH, high alkalinity, and low sanitizer. Dirty filters, body care products, and old water can also be responsible for cloudy water.
How do I keep my hot tub clean naturally?
- Purchase a bottle of Hot Tub Silver (see resources). …
- Drain your hot tub water.
- Clean your hot tub as your normally would. …
- Fill your hot tub back up with fresh water.
- Add one 16.9 ounce bottle of Hot Tub Silver to your hot tub water. …
- Change your hot tub water every 90 days.
Is it OK to hot tub everyday?
When shopping for hot tubs, many people will ask their dealers ‘Can I use a hot tub every day? ‘ The short answer is that yes, it is safe to use your hot tub every day.
What should you not do in a hot tub?
- Don’t drink alcohol, and don’t use drugs. …
- Have a boo boo? …
- Don’t use bubble bath. …
- Don’t leave your kids alone. …
- Don’t goof around. …
- One of the fun things about a hot tub is that you can use it all year long, even in winter or in the rain.
Is it OK to go in a hot tub every day?
However, it’s completely OK to use a hot tub every day. In fact, many of the benefits of a hot tub only become apparent when it’s used on a regular basis. To make sure you get the most use out of your hot tub we’ve come up with a post on what you can do to ensure your hot tub use remains consistent.
Can I use my hot tub if chlorine is too high?
You only need a small amount of chlorine to successfully sanitize your spa, so it’s possible to overdo it if you’re not careful. Too much chlorine can damage your hot tub and irritate your skin, eyes and lungs.
What happens if you get in a hot tub with too much chlorine?
If theres too much chlorine it will vaporise and form gas that floats just above the surface of the water. If this vapor is inhaled it can inflame airways and exacerbate certain breathing conditions. Read more What Temperature Should My Spa Pool be at and Why?
What does shocking a hot tub mean?
Shocking a spa means applying an ample dose of chlorine (sodium dichlor) or non-chlorine shock (potassium monopersulfate or MPS). One purpose of this treatment is to break-down organic waste contaminants which cause odor and cloudy water. After treatment, water quality and clarity is often completely restored.
What chemicals should I put in my hot tub for the first time?
- AquaChek 6in1 Test Strips (50 Strips)
- Granular pH Minus (2 lbs.)
- Granular pH Plus (1.5 lbs.)
- Granular Non-Chlorine Shock (2 lbs.)
- Liquid Prevent II (16 oz.)
- Granular Chlor-Aid (2 lbs.)
Are hot tubs a good investment?
When you use your hot tub regularly and thoroughly enjoy its intended benefits, it’s worth the investment. … When you choose the right hot tub, you won’t regret the investment. In fact, you’ll most likely discover the benefits you never even expected.
How do I keep my hot tub water crystal clear?
- Get A Good Cover. Covering your hot tub when it isn’t in use is one of the best ways to keep dirt and other detritus out of the water. …
- Shower Before Entering. …
- Use A Skimmer. …
- Keep Up with Your Water Testing. …
- Add the Proper Chemicals. …
- Empty, Clean and Refill. …
- Clean and Change Filters.
Should I leave my hot tub on all the time?
One question we sometimes get asked is should I leave my hot tub on all the time? The answer is yes! Hot tubs are designed to be left on permanently and this is how they work best. Of course, they’ll need to be drained regularly but for the most part, they are left on 24/7.
How often should a hot tub be drained and refilled?
Draining and refilling your spa will be an important aspect of spa ownership. Many spas need to be drained and refilled every three to four months due to chemical build-up.
How often should you shock a hot tub?
It is essential to shock the hot tub frequently – at least once every week. It is important to use Chlorine shocks as well as non-Chlorine shocks. The use of either bromine or Chlorine depends on your personal choice. Shocking the hot tub for cleanliness is not the only reason why you need frequent shocks.
Are hot tubs hard to maintain?
Maintaining a hot tub isn’t difficult and it doesn’t require too much of your valuable time.
What chemicals do I add to my hot tub after filling?
When a hot tub has been refilled, it is important to give the water a high dose of sanitiser. This can be done by adding 60g of chlorine granules per 1,500 litres of water to start the sanitation process and allow the level to drop to 3-5mg/l before using the hot tub.
Why are hot tubs bad?
Unless properly disinfected, hot tubs can harbor bacteria that can cause skin and other infections. High levels of chlorine or bromine used in hot tubs can irritate the skin, nose and respiratory system.
Do you lose weight in a hot tub?
A daily soak in your hot tub can help you lose weight, even if it’s in an indirect way. If you weigh around 150 pounds, you can normally burn up to 17 calories or . 005 pounds of fat by simply submerging yourself in your hot tub for 15 to 20 minutes.