How to Lower pH in Hot Tubs

Hot tubs provide a variety of benefits, such as, improved sleep, muscle relaxation, and pain relief. The first factor you need to consider to keep your hot tub in proper functioning order is its pH level. Here's what you need to know about lowering your pH level in your hot tub.

What is a pH Level?

A pH level (potential hydrogen or power of hydrogen) is the measurement of acidity in your hot tub water. On a pH scale, there are 12 levels, starting at zero, with zero being the most acidic. Something with a pH level of zero would be battery acid or something equivalent. Something with a pH of 12 would be soapy water. The ideal pH level for your hot tub is between 7.4 and 7.6, which is similar to the pH of a swimming pool.

Why Would Your Hot Tub Have a High pH Level?

It's important to note that you can't use your hot tub if it has a high pH, which is a pH level above 7.8. When your hot tub's pH is too high, the water could:

• Have an unusual odor
• Appear cloudy
• Cause scale build-up
• Cause skin and eye irritations

The most common cause of high pH in a hot tub is the alkalinity in the water being too high. The alkalinity in the water helps keep your water balanced and healthy. When the water's total alkalinity (TA) is not within a healthy range between 80 and 120 parts per million (ppm).

How to Lower pH in Hot Tub

The good news is, a high pH in your hot tub is not permanent. In order to lower pH in hot tub, you can use different products to help you achieve the ideal pH level.

Muriatic Acid

Muriatic acid is the most commonly used chemical product to lower the water's  pH level, and is available in dry and liquid forms. This chemical is extremely corrosive, so make sure you're comfortable handling this product.

Sodium Bisulfate

Sodium bisulfate is a dry acid that is safer to use than muriatic acid, but it is more expensive. Although this option is safer, it is still acid, so use this product with caution. It's best not to use any acid when it is windy, if your hot tub is outside.

Increasing Your Hot Tub's Total Alkaline Level

Once you lower your hot tub's pH level, you may notice that the total alkaline level in your water has also decreased. You can raise the alkalinity in your water back to a healthy balance by adding soda ash or baking soda to the water.

How to lower pH in hot tub? The only way to lower pH in hot tub is by using an acidic product. Choose a product you are comfortable using long-term to keep your hot tub at a healthy level and enjoyable.

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