Whether you already own a hot tub, or you’re debating getting one, there’s certainly a sense of freedom that comes from enjoying a soothing soak whenever the mood strikes you – be it a quiet evening spent unwinding alone as an act of self-care or a chilling with friends or loved ones on a sunny afternoon.

But having such a luxury close at hand also means that it comes with its own set of responsibilities, such as taking proper care of your hot tub so that its water stays clean, safe, and inviting, and maintaining proper chemical pH levels to maintain the effectiveness of your hot tub sanitiser.

Naturally, this means that one of the key parts of hot tub maintenance is managing the chlorine levels of your tub, as using too much can lead to irritation and discomfort, and could even cause damage to your hot tub.

So, what do you do if your chlorine levels are too high? How can you tell if that’s the case, and what’s the best way to bring them back to normal? Don’t worry, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about how to reduce chlorine in a hot tub in this handy guide.

What does chlorine do in a hot tub?

Like bromine, chlorine is a powerful and commonly used sanitiser for hot tubs. It kills bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms that could make the water unsafe, and without it, your hot tub will quickly become a breeding ground for contaminants.

Not only is this off-putting but it could also put your health at risk, for example, by causing infections from water-borne diseases, making getting the right chlorine balance in your pool essential.

How to tell if there’s too much chlorine in your hot tub

Sometimes, it’s obvious when there’s too much chlorine in your hot tub. One of the most common signs is a strong chemical smell, the kind you might associate with swimming pools. While a faint chlorine scent is normal, an overpowering odour likely indicates that your chlorine levels are too high.

Alternatively, you might be able to feel if there is too much chlorine in your hot tub water, as excessive chlorine can irritate the skin and eyes, causing redness, itchiness, or a burning sensation. In extreme cases, the fumes may lead even to breathing difficulties, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces.

If you suspect the chlorine levels in your hot tub are too high, it’s best to test the water with a chemical strip rather than guessing. This will give you an accurate reading and let you know if adjustments are necessary.

How much chlorine should you add to a hot tub?

Generally speaking, most hot tub experts recommend keeping chlorine levels between 3-5 parts per million (ppm) when adding chlorine to your hot tub. This will ensure that your hot tub water remains clean while still being gentle on your skin and your hot tub’s components – rather than causing physical irritation or corroding your hot tub’s innard.

How to reduce chlorine in a hot tub

If you’ve tested your hot tub water and found the chlorine levels are too high, don’t worry – there are a few simple ways to bring them back to where they need to be:

1. Let the chlorine evaporate

One of the easiest ways to lower chlorine levels is to simply let the chlorine dissipate naturally. By taking off the hot tub cover and running the jets, you allow the water to come into contact with air and sunlight, which gradually breaks down the chlorine while also pulling it into the air as it evaporates.

Please bear in mind, however, that this method works best when the chlorine levels are only slightly above the recommended range, and you don’t need to use your hot tub right away, as it might take a few hours – or even a full day – for chlorine levels to drop sufficiently to be safe.

2. Dilute the water

Alternatively, if you need a quicker fix for your high chlorine levels, diluting your hot tub water is a good alternative.

Start by draining about 10-20% of the water in your hot tub, then replace it with fresh water. Once you’ve refilled the tub, run the jets to ensure the new water mixes in evenly. After that, test the chlorine levels to confirm they’re back within the safe range.

This method is particularly effective when chlorine levels are quite a bit higher than recommended. Plus, it has the added benefit of refreshing your hot tub water for a cleaner bathing experience.

3. Use a chlorine neutraliser

Finally, if you need immediate chlorine-cleansing results, then a chlorine neutraliser is your best bet. Products like sodium thiosulfate are designed to lower chlorine levels quickly and effectively without damaging your hot tub.

Just make sure you follow the instructions on the packaging carefully, as using too much can make it harder to maintain the chemical balance of your hot tub in the long run as, while neutralisers are ideal for urgent situations, they should only be used sparingly to minimize the potential of damaging your hot tub’s components.

Why it’s important to keep chlorine levels balanced

Keeping chlorine levels balanced is essential for several reasons. For starters, it ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for anyone using your hot tub. High chlorine levels can cause skin irritation, dry out your hair, and leave you feeling less than relaxed after a soak.

Beyond personal comfort, however, over-chlorination can take a toll on your hot tub itself. Components like pumps, filters, and jets aren’t designed to handle prolonged exposure to high chlorine levels, which can lead to corrosion and costly repairs – both of which you want to avoid as a hot tub owner.

Find your preferred hot tub in our range

Hopefully, you now feel more confident about managing chlorine levels in your hot tub and keeping your water fresh. While maintaining a level hot tub chemical balance is just one aspect of hot tub maintenance, it’s an important one, ensuring that your spa stays safe to use, comfortable, and enjoyable for years to come.

And if you’re thinking about upgrading your current at-home spa system, or investing in a new one, then Platinum Spas has a wide range of options to suit your needs. From compact 3-person tubs and 4-person designs for small spaces to luxurious swim spas perfect for entertaining, there’s something for everyone in our collection.

Why not book a visit to your nearest hot tub showroom to see our products in person, and don’t forget to visit our blog hub for more helpful articles like this one.

Jamie Smith
Latest posts by Jamie Smith (see all)

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