Your Guide from A1 Hot Tubs & Spa Repair – Las Vegas’ Trusted Spa Experts
Foam buildup is one of the most common issues hot tub owners experience, especially in high-use spas or hot tubs exposed to lotions, oils, and hard water. While a little foam might seem harmless, it can actually be a sign of imbalanced water, residue buildup, or contaminants that affect your spa’s performance and water quality.
At A1 Hot Tubs & Spa Repair, we specialize in hot tub repair, maintenance, drain & clean services, and water chemistry balancing throughout Las Vegas, and we’re here to help you keep your spa clear, clean, and foam-free.
Why Does Hot Tub Foam Happen?
Foam forms when surfactants—the things that lower the surface tension of water—build up in your spa. These usually come from:
- Body lotions and oils
- Hair products
- Laundry detergent left in swimsuits
- Low calcium hardness
- Old or unchanged water
- Incorrect chemical balance
- Dirty or clogged filters
- Using low-quality or old spa products
When these contaminants mix with hot, circulating water, they create thick, persistent foam on the surface.
How to Get Rid of Foam in Your Hot Tub
1. Add a Spa Defoamer (Quick Fix)
If you need an immediate solution, use a spa defoamer to break down bubbles.
Pro tip: This is only temporary—foam will return unless the root issue is fixed.
2. Clean or Replace Your Hot Tub Filters
Dirty filters are one of the biggest causes of foam and cloudy water. Make sure to: • Rinse filters every 1–2 weeks.
- Deep-clean filters monthly
- Replace filters every 6–12 months
3. Balance Your Water Chemistry
Use test strips to check:
- pH levels
- Alkalinity
- Calcium hardness
- Sanitizer levels (chlorine or bromine)
Unbalanced chemistry is a major contributor to foam and can affect your hot tub repair needs if ignored.
4. Shock the Hot Tub
A non-chlorine shock or chlorine shock helps oxidize waste, remove contaminants, and break down residue causing the foam.
5. Drain & Clean the Spa (Most Effective Fix)
If the water is older than 3–4 months, or the foam keeps returning, a full drain & clean is the best solution.
This includes:
- Draining all water
- Scrubbing the shell
- Cleaning filters
- Refilling and re-balancing the water
This is the service A1 Hot Tubs is best known for in Las Vegas.
How to Prevent Foam Buildup in the Future
Following these steps reduces the need for hot tub repair and keeps your spa running efficiently.
1. Shower Before Using the Hot Tub
Removing lotions, oils, and hair products prevents surfactant buildup.
2. Rinse Bathing Suits Thoroughly
Swimwear holds detergents—even after washing. Rinse in plain water only.
3. Keep Water Chemistry Balanced
Regular testing prevents residue and foam from forming.
4. Use Quality Hot Tub Chemicals
Cheap products often contain fillers that contribute to foam.
5. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Monthly or quarterly maintenance keeps your spa clean, sanitized, and functioning properly.
6. Replace Filters When Needed
Old filters stop trapping contaminants, leading to foam and cloudy water.
Need Professional Help? A1 Hot Tubs Has You Covered
If your hot tub has ongoing foam issues, cloudy water, or needs a thorough drain & clean, our technicians can restore your spa quickly and professionally. We provide:
- Hot tub drain & clean services
- Water chemistry balancing
- Filter cleaning
- Annual and monthly maintenance plans
- Hot tub repair services such as leak detection and equipment repair
- Brand-wide service across Las Vegas and Henderson
Keeping your spa clean shouldn’t be stressful — that’s what we’re here for.
Call A1 Hot Tubs & Spa Repair: 702-884-5424
Serving Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin, Boulder City & surrounding areas Hot Tub Repair • Spa Cleaning • Maintenance Plans
