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What Causes Foamy Hot Tub Water — and How to Fix It Foamy water in your hot tub might look like fun at first, but it’s actually a sign that something isn’t right. Foam forms when surfactants (like oils, lotions, sweat, or leftover soaps) build up in the water and get agitated by the jets. Luckily, it’s easy to fix — and even easier to prevent once you know the causes. Common Causes of Foam in Your Hot Tub Body lotions, oils, and cosmetics - Anything on your skin — from moisturizers to fake tan — can mix with your water and cause foam. Detergent residue on swimwear - Washing your swimwear in regular laundry detergent leaves residues that create suds when the jets are on. Low calcium hardness - Soft water can lead to foaming. Your hot tub needs the right calcium balance to stabilize the water. Contaminated or overloaded water - Over time, organic contaminants build up and increase surface tension, encouraging foam. Old or ineffective water - If your water hasn't been changed in a while, it could be “tired” and more prone to foaming. How to Get Rid of Foam ✅ 1. Test and rebalance your water - Use your LaMotte test strips and match the results with your Spa Fuel color-coded packaging. Ensure your: Sanitiser (chlorine or bromine) is at the correct level pH is between 7.2 and 7.6 Calcium hardness is in the right range (Spa Fuel Essentials range includes a calcium balancer if needed) ✅ 2. Add a Spa Fuel No foam, Our fast-acting formula breaks down surface tension and clears foam on contact — great for quick results. ✅ 3. Deep clean with Spa Flush and water change (if needed)If foaming persists, your water may be too saturated. Use Spa Fuel Flush, drain, clean the surfaces and filters, then refill and rebalance. ✅ 4. Rinse swimwear in plain water only. Avoid detergents — a simple rinse is enough. Dedicated spa users often have “hot tub only” swimsuits. ✅ 5. Shower before using the hot tub - it sounds simple, but this is one of the best ways to prevent foam-causing oils and products from entering the water. Final Tip: Prevention Is Easier Than Cure Foam usually means there’s too much going into your water and not enough being taken out. Stick to a regular maintenance routine with Spa Fuel products, and keep your spa water crystal clear, soft, and foam-free.

If you want to enjoy a relaxing and safe soak in your spa, water balance is key. Properly balanced water not only feels great but also ensures your spa’s equipment lasts longer and prevents skin irritation. Spa Fuel’s premium water care products make maintaining a perfectly balanced spa a breeze. Here’s a simple 5-point guide to get your spa water just right. 1. Test Your Water Regularly Before you start adjusting anything, you need to know where your water stands. Test your spa water at least once a week (or more often if you use the spa frequently) using a reliable test kit or strips. Pay close attention to three key factors: pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels (chlorine or bromine). pH:  Should be between 7.2 and 7.8. Total Alkalinity:  Should be between 80 and 120 ppm. Sanitizer Levels:  Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for your specific sanitizer. Testing regularly helps you understand how your water is behaving and gives you a starting point for adjusting your chemicals. 2. Adjust the pH Levels pH is crucial because it directly impacts the effectiveness of your sanitizer and the comfort of your skin. If your pH is too high (above 7.8), your spa water can become cloudy, and your sanitizer will be less effective. If it’s too low (below 7.2), it can cause skin irritation and even damage spa surfaces. To adjust the pH: Increase pH : Use a pH increaser or soda ash. Decrease pH : Use a pH decreaser, such as muriatic acid or dry acid. Aim for a pH level of 7.4 to 7.6 for optimal balance. 3. Balance Total Alkalinity Total Alkalinity (TA) is like the water’s buffering system. It helps stabilize the pH level and keeps it from fluctuating too much. If your TA is too low, your pH will be unstable. If it’s too high, you might face issues with cloudy water or difficulty adjusting the pH. Increase TA : Add an alkalinity increaser, usually baking soda. Decrease TA : Use muriatic acid or dry acid to lower it. A total alkalinity level of 80–120 ppm is ideal for most spas. 4. Sanitize and Shock Your Spa Water Regular sanitization is key to preventing bacteria, algae, and harmful microorganisms from ruining your spa experience. Use a chlorine or bromine sanitizer to keep your water clean. Check the sanitizer level regularly to make sure it's within the recommended range. In addition to regular sanitizing, shock your spa water  at least once a week or after heavy use. Shocking the water breaks down organic matter like sweat, oils, and lotions, helping maintain clarity and sanitation. Spa Fuel’s shock treatments are quick and effective, making this step simple. 5. Add a Spa Scale and Stain Preventer Over time, calcium and minerals can build up in your spa, leading to scaling and staining. Prevent this by adding a scale and stain preventer. It helps protect your spa’s surfaces and plumbing from mineral deposits, ensuring smooth operation and a clean look. For the best results, use a high-quality product designed specifically for spas like Spa Fuel’s Scale and Stain Preventer. Regular use can save you time and money on repairs down the road. Balancing your spa water may sound like a lot of work, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. By testing regularly, adjusting pH and alkalinity, ensuring proper sanitization, and preventing scale and stains, you’ll keep your water sparkling and safe. Spa Fuel’s range of products makes the process even easier, so you can focus on relaxing and enjoying your spa experience. Happy soaking! By following these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to achieving the perfect spa water balance, ensuring a healthier, cleaner, and more enjoyable soak every time.

Maintaining proper water chemistry in your hot tub is essential for a safe and enjoyable soak. Regular chemical treatments help prevent bacteria, algae, and other harmful microorganisms from thriving in the warm, moist environment of your spa. But how often should you chemicalize your hot tub to keep it in optimal condition? The answer depends on several factors, including water usage, the chemicals you use, and your specific spa setup. Here’s a guide to help you determine the right schedule for keeping your hot tub water clean and balanced. 1. Test Your Water Regularly The first step in knowing how often to treat your hot tub is testing the water. You should test the water at least two to three times a week , especially if the spa is in frequent use. Regular testing helps ensure the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels are balanced, so your water stays clear and safe. Test the following key levels: pH:  Ideal levels should be between 7.2 and 7.8. If your pH is too low, the water becomes acidic and can damage the hot tub and irritate your skin. If it’s too high, it can cause scale buildup and reduce the effectiveness of your sanitizer. Alkalinity:  The ideal range is between 80 and 120 ppm (parts per million). Low alkalinity can lead to fluctuating pH levels, while high alkalinity can cause cloudy water and scaling. Sanitizer (Chlorine/Bromine):  Your sanitizer should typically be between 3-5 ppm  for chlorine or 4-6 ppm  for bromine. This ensures the water stays free of harmful bacteria. 2. Shock Your Hot Tub Regularly Shocking your hot tub is a vital part of maintaining clean water. Shocking breaks down organic contaminants like oils, sweat, and lotions that can accumulate in the water. Shock treatments  should be done about once a week  or after heavy usage. You’ll want to use either a chlorine or non-chlorine shock, depending on your preference and the chemicals you use for sanitizing. In addition, if you've had guests or used the hot tub for extended periods, you may want to shock it immediately afterward to ensure the water remains fresh and clean. 3. Adjust Chemical Levels as Needed Occasionally, you may need to add other chemicals to maintain balanced water. For instance: pH Minus or pH Plus : If the pH is off, adjust it with these chemicals to keep the water balanced. Alkalinity Plus : If your alkalinity is low, adding alkalinity increaser will help buffer the pH. Calcium Hardness : If your water is too soft, you may need to add calcium hardness increaser  to prevent corrosion, while too much calcium can lead to scale buildup. 4. Clean Your Hot Tub Filter Regularly Although not a chemical treatment, cleaning your filter is just as important for maintaining clean hot tub water. Clean the filter every 4-6 weeks , or more often if you notice the water becoming cloudy. You can use a filter cleaner to remove oils and debris, and make sure to rinse the filter thoroughly before reattaching it. 5. Drain and Refill Every 3 to 4 Months Even with regular chemical treatments, you should completely drain and refill your hot tub every 3 to 4 months  to ensure the water stays fresh. Over time, dissolved minerals and other substances can build up in the water, which can be difficult to manage with chemicals alone. Draining the tub and refilling it with fresh water helps reset the chemical balance. 6. Consider the Hot Tub Usage If your hot tub is used frequently, you may need to add chemicals more often. Conversely, if the hot tub is rarely used, you can maintain the chemical balance with less frequent treatment. Higher bather loads  or hot tub parties  can lead to a faster buildup of contaminants, requiring more regular shock treatments and chemical adjustments. Conclusion To keep your hot tub in top condition, regular chemical maintenance is crucial. Testing your water frequently, adding shock treatments weekly, and adjusting pH and alkalinity as needed will help keep the water clean, clear, and safe. Don't forget to clean the filter regularly, and drain and refill the hot tub every 3 to 4 months for the best results. By following these steps, you can enjoy a fresh and relaxing soak every time. Pro Tip : Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific chemicals and hot tub model to ensure the best results. Happy soaking!

If you've just set up your Lay‑Z‑Spa, congratulations! You're one step closer to enjoying relaxing, warm soaks in your own backyard. But before you dive in, there’s one essential thing to master: balancing your spa water . Getting the water chemistry right from the start helps you: Keep the water clean and safe Prevent damage to your spa Reduce chemical use and water waste Enjoy a stress-free spa experience At Spa Fuel , we’re here to make water care simple—even if you’ve never done it before. Here's your no-nonsense guide to getting started. 1. Fill Your Spa with Fresh Water Start with a clean slate. Use cold tap water to fill your Lay‑Z‑Spa to the recommended waterline. Don’t add any chemicals just yet—give the spa time to heat up fully first. 👉 Spa Fuel Tip:  Always balance your water when it’s warm—ideally between 30–40°C —as temperature can affect test results. 2. Run the Pump and Circulate the Water Turn on your pump and let it circulate the water for at least 15–30 minutes . This helps distribute natural minerals in the water evenly and prepares it for testing. 3. Use Test Strips to Check Your Levels This is where the magic begins. Use your LaMotte test strips  (or the ones supplied with your Lay‑Z‑Spa) to check: Chlorine  (or Bromine if you’re using that) pH Total Alkalinity (TA) Calcium Hardness 👉 Spa Fuel makes this easy:  Our chemical range is colour-matched  to your test strips, so you know exactly which product to use based on the test result. 4. Adjust the Essentials in the Right Order Balancing your spa means getting four key levels in the right zone. Do it in this order for best results: Sanitiser – Chlorine (Pink): Kills bacteria and keeps the water safe. If low, add Spa Fuel Chlorine Granules  using our easy dosing guide. pH (Peach): Measures how acidic or alkaline the water is. Aim for a pH between 7.2–7.6 . Use Spa Fuel pH Plus  if it's too low. Alkalinity (Turquoise): Acts as a pH buffer. Ideal range: 80–120 ppm . Use Spa Fuel Alkalinity Increaser  to bring it up if needed. Calcium Hardness (Blue): Protects your spa equipment and helps sanitiser work better. Use Spa Fuel Hardness Increaser  if it’s too soft. 5. Let the Water Circulate and Retest After each adjustment, give your Lay‑Z‑Spa 20–30 minutes to circulate before retesting. Small changes are better than big corrections—be patient, and you’ll get there. 6. Keep It Balanced Weekly Once the water is balanced, test it 2–3 times per week , especially after heavy use or topping up with fresh water. Top up chemicals as needed, and enjoy peace of mind. Final Thought: Simplify with Spa Fuel We know water care can seem overwhelming—but that’s why we created Spa Fuel . Our range is designed to take the confusion out of spa maintenance, using simple instructions, smart packaging, and color-coded guidance  that works with your test strips. With Spa Fuel, you're not just balancing water—you’re protecting your spa, your skin, and the environment. Need help choosing your first products? Check out our SPA FUEL ESSENTIALS  or grab individual chemicals from our online shop. Related Posts: How to Use Chlorine Granules Safely in Your Spa Why Your Hot Tub Water Is Cloudy—And How to Fix It How Often Should You Change Your Hot Tub Water?

Chlorine granules are one of the most effective ways to keep your spa water clean, clear, and safe. But if you’re new to spa ownership—or just want to be sure you’re using them the right way—this guide is for you. At Spa Fuel , we believe spa care should be simple, not stressful. So here’s everything you need to know to safely use chlorine granules and enjoy a worry-free soak. Why Chlorine Is Essential for Your Spa. Chlorine is a powerful sanitiser that eliminates bacteria, viruses, algae, and other unwanted nasties in your hot tub water. Without it, spa water quickly becomes unsafe to use. Our Spa Fuel Chlorine Granules  are fast-dissolving and easy to dose—specially designed for hot tubs, including Lay‑Z‑Spa models and inflatable spas. 🔒 Safety First – Before You Add Anything Wear gloves  when handling chlorine Keep granules dry and sealed  in the original container Never mix with other chemicals Always add chlorine to water —never the other way around 👉 Pro Tip:  Keep the spa cover open and the jets running when adding chemicals for better circulation and to let gases escape safely. Step-by-Step: How to Use Chlorine Granules Safely 1. Test the Water First Use your LaMotte or Spa Fuel–compatible test strips. Check the free chlorine  level—it should be between 3–5 ppm  for regular use. 2. Calculate the Correct Dose Use our Spa Fuel dosing chart or quick formula. For example: Dose Guide : Add 3g of chlorine granules per 1,000 litres  of water to increase chlorine by 1 ppm. So if your spa is 1,500L and your chlorine reads low (1 ppm), you’ll need around 12g  to bring it to 5 ppm. 3. Dissolve or Sprinkle You can dissolve granules  in a clean jug of warm spa water, then pour around the edges of the spa Or sprinkle directly  into the water with the jets running (only if your product label allows) Our Spa Fuel granules are designed to dissolve quickly—ideal for direct application. 4. Wait Before Using Let the water circulate for at least 20 minutes , then re-test. If levels are correct (3–5 ppm), it’s safe to enjoy your spa. How Often Should You Add Chlorine? After each use  – top up to maintain safe levels Every 2–3 days  – if not in use, test and adjust Weekly  – perform a deep clean and water balance check Common Mistakes to Avoid Overdosing chlorine  – can cause skin and eye irritation Not testing first  – you may add chlorine unnecessarily Adding to cold water  – always dose when the spa is warm (30–40°C) Using pool chlorine  – always choose chlorine designed for spas like Spa Fuel granules Why Use Spa Fuel Chlorine Granules? Fast-dissolving  – works quickly, no residue Easy dosing guide  – with color-coded packaging (Pink = Chlorine) Works with your test strips  – for clear, confident adjustments Designed for hot tubs  – not harsh like some pool chemicals Final Thoughts Chlorine granules are your spa’s best friend—but only when used correctly. With a little knowledge (and the right tools), balancing your spa water becomes simple and safe. With Spa Fuel , you get clear guidance, smart packaging, and a brand built to make water care easier—for you and the planet.

There’s nothing more off-putting than lifting the lid of your hot tub and finding cloudy, murky water . Not only does it ruin the relaxing vibe, but it can also be a sign that something's wrong with your spa’s water chemistry or hygiene. Don’t worry—cloudy water is one of the most common spa issues , and it’s usually easy to fix with the right know-how. Let’s walk through what causes it and how you can get your water sparkling clear again. What Causes Cloudy Spa Water? Here are the most common reasons your hot tub water looks cloudy: 1. Unbalanced Water Chemistry Low sanitiser  (chlorine/bromine) levels allow bacteria to grow High pH  or alkalinity  causes particles to clump together Incorrect calcium hardness  can lead to scale or dull water 2. Dirty or Clogged Filters Your filter traps oils, dirt, and other debris. If it’s not cleaned regularly, it can no longer do its job—leading to cloudy water. 3. Body Oils, Lotions & Cosmetics Oils from skin, fake tan, deodorants, and hair products build up in the water and create a haze, especially with frequent use. 4. Heavy Usage or Overcrowding More bathers = more contamination. Without adjusting sanitiser levels, your water can quickly become overloaded. 5. Old or Contaminated Water If your water hasn’t been changed in a while (6–12 weeks), it may be time for a deep clean and refill . How to Clear Cloudy Spa Water – Step-by-Step 1. Check and Clean Your Filters Remove your filter and rinse thoroughly with a hose Use a Spa Filter Cleaner  every 1–2 weeks Replace filters every 3–6 months , or sooner if needed 2. Test and Balance Your Water Use your LaMotte or Spa Fuel–compatible test strips and adjust: Chlorine (Pink) : Aim for 3–5 ppm pH (Peach) : Ideal range is 7.2–7.6 Alkalinity (Turquoise) : Aim for 80–120 ppm Calcium Hardness (Blue) : Around 150–250 ppm 👉 Spa Fuel makes this simple with our colour-matched range  designed to match your test strip results. 3. Shock the Water If your sanitiser levels are too low or the water is still dull after balancing, use a chlorine shock  or non-chlorine shock  to break down organic waste. 🟡 Spa Fuel Chlorine Shock is perfect for this and works fast to restore clarity. 4. Use a Water Clarifier A clarifier gathers tiny particles into clumps so they can be trapped by the filter. Add a dose of Spa Fuel Water Clarifier  and run your pump for 1–2 hours. 5. Let It Circulate, Then Re-Test Leave your jets on to circulate water and give your chemicals time to work. Re-test after 1–2 hours and adjust if needed. 🛑 Still Cloudy? Time to Spa Flush and Refill If all else fails, your spa may have biofilm buildup —a sticky layer of bacteria inside the pipes. In that case: Use Spa Flush  to deep-clean the system Drain the water fully Clean the shell and replace the filter Refill and rebalance with fresh Spa Fuel chemicals 🌿 How Spa Fuel Helps You Stay Clear We designed Spa Fuel  to make hot tub care easy, clear, and eco-smart: Color-coded packaging  to match test strips Clear dosing instructions  for every product Essential range  for easy water balancing Starter kits  to get new spa owners off to the right start Final Thought Cloudy spa water isn’t a disaster—it’s just your spa’s way of saying it needs a little attention. With regular checks, balanced chemistry, and the right Spa Fuel products on hand, you’ll be back to crystal-clear soaks in no time. Need help choosing the right product? Browse our Essential Spa Range .