How to Prevent Bacteria Growth in 100% Wooden Outdoor Hot Tubs

How to Prevent Bacteria Growth in 100% Wooden Outdoor Hot Tubs

Let’s begin with the bottom line: preventing bacteria growth in a 100% wooden outdoor hot tub requires regular maintenance and proper hygiene practices. Can a wooden hot tub be used without any harsh sanitizing chemicals such as chlorine and bromine? Yes and no. The problem with any type of hot tub, wooden or plastic, is that the high temperature conditions and frequent use are a perfect mix for breeding bacteria and algae. Also, the ratio of persons per unit volume of water does matter: 3 persons in a small hot tub is equivalent to 300 people in a large backyard pool (we are exaggerating, but just a little bit).

Effective Strategies to Keep Your Hot Tub Bacteria-Free

Here are some effective strategies to keep your hot tub clean and bacteria-free:

Use Sanitizers

Use appropriate sanitizers like bromine or mineral-based systems, which are gentler on wood compared to chlorine. These sanitizers help kill bacteria and other microorganisms. Which chemical to use – bromine or chlorine? The debate is ongoing, however on a wooden hot tub the choice is one sided. Bromine is the sanitizer of choice simply because chlorine under specific circumstances can break down the wood fiber causing irreversible damage to the tub.

Maintain Proper pH Levels

Keep the water pH between 7.2 and 7.8. Proper pH levels ensure that the sanitizers work effectively and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Having ideal “pH Neutral” water is very important as it affects how the water reacts with your skin, the wood, and how effective the sanitizers are.

Cover Your Tub

Use a high-quality hot tub cover to keep debris out and reduce the risk of bacteria entering the water. A cover also helps maintain water temperature, reducing the need for chemical adjustments.

Clean the Surface

Clean the wooden surfaces and waterline regularly. Use a mild soap solution to scrub the interior and prevent biofilm buildup, which can protect bacteria from sanitizers.

Monitor Water Quality

Regularly test the water for sanitizer levels, pH, and alkalinity. Keep a log of the results and adjustments made to ensure consistent water quality.

Ensure Water Circulation

Ensure that the water circulates properly through the filtration system. This helps distribute sanitizers evenly and prevents stagnation, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria.

Clean Filters Regularly

Clean or replace the hot tub filters regularly. Dirty filters can harbor bacteria and reduce the efficiency of your water treatment system.

Regularly “Shock” the Water

Regularly “shock” the water with a non-chlorine shock treatment. This helps oxidize organic contaminants that sanitizers might miss, such as sweat and oils. “Shocking” the water in a hot tub refers to the process of adding an oxidizing agent to the water to break down organic contaminants, kill bacteria, and remove chloramines (if using chlorine) or other by-products that can cause cloudy water and unpleasant odours. In the context of a 100% wooden hot tub, using a non-chlorine shock treatment has some specific considerations and benefits.

Non-Chlorine Shock Treatment

Regularly shocking the water with a non-chlorine shock treatment in a 100% wooden hot tub helps maintain water clarity, hygiene, and the longevity of the tub itself. It’s an important part of routine maintenance to ensure a pleasant and safe soaking experience. Non-chlorine shock treatments typically use potassium monopersulfate (MPS) as the active ingredient. This type of shock oxidizes contaminants in the water without raising the chlorine level. It’s a popular choice for wooden hot tubs because:

  • Compatibility with Wooden Hot Tubs: Non-chlorine shock treatments are often preferred in wooden hot tubs to avoid potential damage that chlorine might cause to the wood over time. Chlorine can be harsh and may cause discoloration or deterioration of the wood.
  • Oxidation: The primary function of non-chlorine shock is to oxidize organic matter, such as sweat, body oils, lotions, and other debris that enter the water. This helps to keep the water clear and reduces the demand on the sanitizer.
  • Odour Control: It helps eliminate unpleasant odours caused by organic contaminants, improving the overall hot tub experience.
  • Enhanced Sanitizer Efficiency: By removing organic contaminants, non-chlorine shock treatments help maintain the effectiveness of other sanitizers in the water.
How to Use Non-Chlorine Shock Treatment
  • Frequency: It’s typically recommended to shock the hot tub water at least once a week or more frequently if the tub is used heavily. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific product being used.
  • Application: The shock treatment is usually added directly to the hot tub water. The water should be circulated thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the treatment.
  • Wait Time: After adding the shock, it’s generally advised to wait for a period (usually 15-30 minutes) before using the hot tub to ensure the treatment has properly oxidized contaminants and dissipated.
Benefits of Non-Chlorine Shock in Wooden Hot Tubs
  • Preservation of Wood: Being less harsh than chlorine, non-chlorine shock treatments help preserve the integrity and appearance of the wood.
  • Safe for Bathers: Non-chlorine shock does not produce chloramines, which can be irritating to the skin and eyes. It’s generally considered a gentler option for users.
How Often to Refill an Outdoor Wooden Hot Tub?

In domestic situations, if you prefer all-natural soak then you have to refill your tub with fresh water every 3-4 days or every 2-3 uses. If you want to leave the water in for longer time then you have to use sanitizers. Test the water quality with a test kit to be sure to change the water when the time is right.

By following these steps, you can effectively prevent bacterial growth in your wooden outdoor hot tub, ensuring a safe and enjoyable soaking experience. Remember, regular maintenance is key to maintaining water quality and the longevity of your hot tub. Enjoy your time in your wooden hot tub, and happy soaking!