Why is there snot in my outdoor whirlpool hot tub?

It can be uncomfortable and even alarming to suddenly find some snot-like, slimy stuff floating in the water while enjoying an outdoor whirlpool hot tub. This sticky stuff not only affects the water quality of the whirlpool hot tub, but also makes people question whether it is safe.

What exactly is this troubling mucus, how is it formed, and how can it be treated and prevented? This article will take you to a deeper level to understand this phenomenon, analyze the scientific reasons behind it, and provide you with the correct methods for cleaning and maintaining an outdoor whirlpool hot tub.

What is "snot-like stuff" in an outdoor whirlpool hot tub?

First of all, these "snot-like stuff" in the whirlpool hot tub are not formed by secretions from organisms, but the result of several different reasons. These substances may be biofilm in the water, chemical sediments, or residues of cleaning products.

1. Biofilm

Biofilm is a common phenomenon in aquatic environments. It is a sticky structure composed of organic substances such as polysaccharides and proteins secreted by microorganisms (such as bacteria, algae or fungi). These microorganisms can attach to the pipes, nozzles, filters and other parts of the whirlpool hot tub to form a layer of mucus. Over time, these mucus will peel off from the attachments and float in the water to form a substance similar to snot.

The formation of biofilm is closely related to the nutrients in the water, the appropriate temperature and the reproduction of microorganisms. The warm environment of the outdoor whirlpool hot tub provides ideal conditions for the growth of these microorganisms. Due to the complex water circulation system in the whirlpool hot tub, once the biofilm begins to form, they can spread rapidly and affect the entire water body.

2. Chemical precipitates

The chemicals used in the outdoor whirlpool hot tub, such as disinfectants (chlorine or bromine), pH balancers, etc., may react under certain conditions to produce some insoluble chemical precipitates. These precipitates may form suspended matter in the water of the whirlpool hot tub, showing a sticky appearance, similar to snot-like substances.

This phenomenon is more common when the concentration of chemicals in the water is too high or unbalanced. For example, if the pH value in the water is too high or the disinfectant is used too much, minerals and organic matter may precipitate, causing the water to become turbid and sticky.

3. Residual cleaning products

Another common cause is that the cleaning products on the user's body (such as shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and body lotion) remain in the water after entering the whirlpool hot tub. These products interact with the chemicals in the water and may form insoluble fatty acids and chemical precipitation, causing the water quality to deteriorate and produce snot-like substances.

Especially when multiple people use the outdoor whirlpool hot tub, impurities such as oil, sweat, dead skin cells and cosmetics in the water accumulate and react with disinfectants to form organic compounds. These substances eventually appear as slimy films or floating objects, affecting water quality and user experience.

Why do these sticky substances appear in outdoor whirlpool hot tubs?

Now that we know where this “snot” comes from, why does it form in large quantities in outdoor whirlpool hot tubs? Here are some common reasons:

1. Improper water management

Water management in outdoor whirlpool hot tubs is critical, especially during use. The chemical balance in the water plays an important role in preventing microbial growth and the formation of chemical deposits. The following points may cause water quality problems:

● Imbalanced pH: If the pH value in the water is too high or too low, it may undermine the stability of water quality, resulting in the ineffectiveness of disinfectants, allowing microbial growth and biofilm formation.

● Insufficient disinfectant: Insufficient concentrations of disinfectants such as chlorine or bromine can cause bacteria and microorganisms to multiply rapidly in the whirlpool hot tub, eventually forming a slimy biofilm.

● Water hardness: Excessive levels of minerals in the water (such as calcium and magnesium) may react with chemicals to form insoluble precipitates and increase suspended solids in the water.

2. Improper maintenance of the filtration system

The filtration system is an important part of keeping the water in the outdoor whirlpool hot tub clean. If the filter is clogged or not cleaned in time, it will not be able to effectively remove impurities and microorganisms in the water, resulting in deterioration of water quality. Organic matter and minerals remaining in the filter may also become a breeding ground for biofilm formation.

3. The frequency of whirlpool hot tub use is too high

When the outdoor whirlpool hot tub is used by multiple people or frequently, the impurities in the water will increase rapidly. These impurities include human oil, sweat, cosmetic residues, etc. If the water quality of the whirlpool hot tub is not adjusted and maintained in time, these impurities will interact with the chemicals in the water to form sticky substances.

4. Lack of regular cleaning

Outdoor whirlpool hot tubs need to be deep cleaned regularly, especially the pipes and nozzle systems. These parts are the main areas for the accumulation of scale, impurities and microorganisms. If they are not cleaned for a long time, these pollutants will gradually accumulate and eventually be released into the water.

How to deal with these "snot-like substances" in the whirlpool hot tub?

Once you find sticky substances in the outdoor whirlpool hot tub, it is very necessary to take timely measures to clean and restore the water quality. Here are the best ways to deal with these substances:

1. Clean the filter immediately

First, check and clean the filter. Remove the filter and rinse the dirt on the surface thoroughly with water. If the filter is severely clogged, it is recommended to use a special filter cleaner to soak and clean it, or even replace it with a new filter directly. The effective operation of the filtration system is essential to maintaining water quality.

2. Empty and thoroughly clean the whirlpool hot tub

If there is a lot of sticky substances in the water, it is recommended to completely empty the outdoor whirlpool hot tub and deep clean the inner wall of the tub, the spray head, the nozzle and the pipe system. Use a special outdoor whirlpool hot tub cleaner or descaling agent to ensure that every corner is cleaned.

● Clean the pipes: The pipe system is the main place where sticky substances accumulate. Using a pipe cleaner can effectively remove the biofilm and impurities inside.

● Spray heads and nozzles: Disassemble and clean the spray heads and nozzles to ensure that there is no residual mucus and blockages.

3. Readjust the water quality

After cleaning, refill with clean water and use a water quality test tool to test the pH value, disinfectant concentration and water hardness. Ensure that the pH value in the water is maintained between 7.2-7.6 and the concentration of chlorine or bromine is within the recommended range.

● Add disinfectant: Depending on the water quality, add an appropriate amount of chlorine or bromine to ensure that the disinfectant concentration is sufficient to inhibit the growth of microorganisms.

● Use water balance: If the outdoor whirlpool hot tub water quality is too hard, you can use a water balance to reduce the mineral content in the water and prevent the formation of scale and chemical deposits.

4. Measures to prevent recurrence

To avoid the recurrence of "snot-like substances" in the outdoor whirlpool hot tub, you need to perform the following maintenance regularly:

● Clean the filter regularly: It is recommended to check and clean the filter every week or after each use to ensure that it remains efficient.

● Change the water regularly: The water in the outdoor whirlpool hot tub should be completely replaced every 3 months or so to prevent the accumulation of impurities and microorganisms.

● Use chemicals to maintain water quality balance: Regularly use water quality testing tools to monitor indicators such as pH value and disinfectant concentration in the outdoor whirlpool hot tub water, and adjust the amount of chemicals as needed.

At Lovia Spa, we’ve been a leader in the outdoor spa industry since 1989. With our expansive 45,000-square-meter factory and over 200 skilled workers, we produce hot tubs, swim spas, and other outdoor wellness products to meet the diverse needs of our customers. As a trusted supplier of high-quality spas, we cater to both international and domestic markets with wholesale options, customized designs, and attractive promotions. Buy spas directly from the manufacturer at competitive prices.