Entering a hot tub should be a relaxing experience. Unfortunately, that is often countered by an unexpected presence of an unwelcome guest — iron. Discolored water and rust stains on the hot tub’s internal components and sides can be constituted by iron, making it necessary to know how to get iron out of hot tub water. The good news is there are a few different methods to remove iron from hot tub water, from simple household ingredients to specialty products available from certified hot tub dealers. In this article, we’ll discuss the various ways to diagnose, prevent, or treat iron in your hot tub water for a more enjoyable soaking experience.
Understanding How Iron Gets in Hot Tub Water
Iron is one of the most common metals to end up in hot tub water, and while it doesn’t typically pose any health hazards, it can cause an unpleasant taste, discoloration, and staining. Iron contamination in hot tubs can be caused by a variety of sources. One source of iron is when water that contains iron comes in contact with metals such as copper, or corrosion of a metal in the hot tub itself. Iron levels can also increase due to air exposure, leading to oxidation of dissolved metals. Lastly, certain bacteria that reside in hot tub oil can produce iron as a byproduct.
Iron can easily enter a hot tub from groundwater, but even city water can contain high levels of iron. This is because iron in a dissolved form is often used to treat municipal water supplies. In some cases, groundwater, which is known for containing high levels of iron, is used to fill hot tubs. This can contribute to the already elevated iron levels in the water. Iron can even enter a hot tub if it is filled with salt water, as saltwater can contain iron sulfides.
Additionally, iron can be present in the water because of deposits or rust on the interior of the hot tub. These deposits can come from metals, such as copper or iron, that corrode in the water. This is especially problematic if the hot tub has a painted or other type of lining that can initiate or aggravate corrosion of the hot tub’s metals. Over time, these metals can break down, releasing iron into the water.
Knowing the source of the iron in hot tub water is essential to treating the problem. Iron levels and treatments vary from hot tub to hot tub, and having a better understanding of the source of iron will help to ensure that the treatment chosen is most effective for the hot tub.
Removing Iron from Hot Tub Water
Nobody likes it when rusty brown-colored water starts staining their hot tub. Unfortunately, iron is one of the most common minerals found in well water, making it hard to completely keep it out of your hot tub. The good news is that there are a few easy methods for removing the iron, allowing you to keep your hot tub clean and enjoyable. In this section, we’ll break down exactly how to test and remove iron from your hot tub’s water.
Using a Test Kit to Check Iron Levels
Checking iron levels in hot tub water is important for maintaining a safe and enjoyable bathing experience. By using a test kit, you can easily monitor the iron levels in your hot tub water and make sure that the level is within a safe range. With a test kit, you will also be able to spot a sudden increase in iron levels and take action accordingly.
Using a test kit is simple and straightforward. All you need is a test strip and some basic tools to take a reading. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Check the iron level in your hot tub with a test strip.
- Compare the color on the test strip with the reference chart.
- Check the iron level and decide whether it is within a safe range (generally, iron levels should not exceed 6-7 parts per million).
- If the iron level is high, take immediate action to reduce it.
If you find that the iron level is too high, then you should take action to reduce it. Depending on the type of water source and the type of iron in the water, there are several treatments that you can use to reduce iron levels. Choose the right treatment based on your specific circumstances and follow the instructions carefully for the best results.
Treating Iron with Chemicals
Using specific types of chemicals can help reduce iron in hot tubs. It’s important to note that it’s always better to determine the type of iron present so that the right treatment solution can be used. Here are a few common treatments used to remove iron from hot tub water:
1. Iron Oxide Remover: Iron oxide remover is specifically designed for high levels of iron (greater than 5 ppm) and is used to bind with the iron in the water, causing it to precipitate out.
2. Sodium Thiosulfate: Sodium thiosulfate helps dissolve some of the iron in water, making it easier to filter or remove from the pool.
3. Sequestering Agents: These agents help keep iron particles in suspension so that it does not settle on the surfaces or in the filter.
4. Oxidizers: These are powerful chemicals that can break down iron in water, allowing it to be filtered out.
It’s important to note that different types of iron require different treatments. In addition to chemical treatments, it is also important to keep your filter clean and regularly check your hot tub’s iron levels. It’s also important to shock your spa regularly to reduce bacteria buildup, which can further contribute to iron present in the water.
Using a Filter to Remove Iron
A filter is a great way to reduce the amount of iron in a hot tub. Filtering out iron can help prevent staining, water discoloration, and algae bloom. A good filter for this type of job is one that has an activated carbon core to attract and absorb iron particles.
Before installing a filter, it’s important to do a water test to determine the type and amount of iron in the hot tub. If untreated water has more than 6-7 parts per million (ppm) of iron, installing a filter may be the best option to remove it.
It’s important to regularly clean and care for the filter in order to remain effective at removing the iron from the water. A filter should be backwashed and sanitized at a minimum of once a year, and more often if the hot tub is utilized frequently. Doing this will make sure the filter is able to remove the particles effectively. Additionally, it’s important to make sure the pH and alkalinity levels of the water remain consistent in order for the filter to work correctly.
It’s important to remember that a filter won’t remove all of the iron particles, and chemical treatments can still be needed. To get the best possible results in removing iron from hot tub water, combining both a filter and chemical treatments is the recommended option. Doing this should provide the best possible solution for keeping the iron levels in the hot tub water low.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you remove iron from spa?
To remove iron from spa water, try adding an iron-removing chemical such as Iron Out or similar products. This can be done by measuring and pouring the product directly into the spa. Once the product is added, leave it in the spa for 20-30 minutes and then thoroughly circulate the water using the spa pump. Once the product has been in the water for the recommended amount of time, turn the pump off and carefully backwash or vacuum spa water to remove the chemical residue.
How do I get rid of metal in my hot tub?
To get rid of metal in your hot tub, you can use a filter to help remove the metals in the water. Additionally, you can use a chelating agent or sequestering agent to remove metals from the hot tub water. These products are available at most pool supply stores and can be added directly to the tub. Additionally, you can install an ozone system that helps reduce metals in the water. Lastly, you can use an electronic water system that is designed to remove minerals from the water.
How do I get rid of brown water in my hot tub?
1. Check the source: The first step in getting rid of brown water in your hot tub is to check the source of the water. If the water is being replenished by a well or a nearby body of water that may be contributing to the color.
2. Test the water: The next step is to test the water using a hot tub water-testing kit or a water quality assessment from a local pool supply store. This will help identify the cause of the brown water and the best course of action for getting rid of it.
3. Drain the water: Depending on the results of the water test, the next step may be to drain the water from the hot tub and refill it with fresh water.
4. Clean the hot tub: If the water test determined that the source of the brown water was coming from a build-up of dirt and residue, the hot tub should be thoroughly cleaned with a calcium and mineral remover. This will help remove any built-up dirt and debris.
5. Add chemicals: As the hot tub is being refilled, make sure to add the proper chemical additives (such as pH balancers and sanitizing agents). These will help keep the water clean and clear.
6. Monitor the water: After filling the hot tub, monitor the water daily to make sure that the water is staying clean and clear. If not, the process may need to be repeated with further testing and cleaning.
How do you get minerals out of hot tub water?
To get minerals out of hot tub water, you can use a water softening system. This will replace the minerals in the water with sodium. Additionally, using a filter can help to remove calcium, magnesium, and other minerals from the water, providing better quality and safer water. You should also test your water regularly and regularly change the filter to make sure the water stays healthy and clean.
Last Words
In conclusion, understanding the source of iron in your hot tub water is key to getting and keeping your water safe, clean and enjoyable. Various methods, including using a test kit to check iron levels, treating it with chemicals and using a filter are effective tools to help reduce the amount of iron in hot tub water. Combining the right chemical treatments with a filter, regular maintenance, and routine shocks and testing, can help ensure your hot tub water is free of iron and safe to use. With some simple steps, you can have peace of mind knowing that your hot tub’s water is free of iron and ready for you and your guests to enjoy.
