How much Baking Soda to add to Hot Tub

Discover why baking soda is essential for maintaining healthy and hygienic hot tub water. Get expert tips and advice.

How much Baking Soda to add to Hot Tub:

The amount of baking soda to add to a hot tub depends on the size of the hot tub and the desired increase in pH level. As a general guideline, for every 250 gallons of water, adding 1-2 pounds of baking soda will raise the pH by approximately 0.2-0.4 units.

It is important to note that baking soda is a base, and adding too much can raise the pH level too high. Therefore, it is important to test the pH level of the water regularly and add baking soda gradually until the desired pH level is reached.

Here is a table showing how much baking soda to add to a hot tub to raise the pH by 0.2-0.4 units:

Hot Tub Size (Gallons)Baking Soda (Pounds)
2501-2
5002-4
7503-6
10004-8

To calculate how much baking soda to add to your hot tub, you need to know two things: the current pH level of your hot tub water and the desired pH level. The ideal pH level for a hot tub is between 7.2 and 7.8.

Once you know these two things, you can use the following formula to calculate the amount of baking soda to add:

Amount of baking soda (in ounces) = (Desired pH level – Current pH level) * Volume of hot tub (in gallons) * 0.003125

For example, if you have a 500-gallon hot tub with a current pH level of 7.2 and you want to raise the pH level to 7.8, you would need to add 1.875 ounces of baking soda.

Important: Never add more than 2 ounces of baking soda to your hot tub at a time. If you need to add more baking soda, do so in increments of 1 ounce and test the pH level after each addition.

Instructions:

  1. Test the pH level of your hot tub water. You can purchase a pH test kit from most pool and spa stores.
  2. Calculate the amount of baking soda you need to add using the formula above.
  3. Dissolve the baking soda in a bucket of hot tub water.
  4. Pour the baking soda solution into the hot tub and run the jets for at least 15 minutes to circulate the water.
  5. Test the pH level of the water again and add more baking soda if necessary.

Tips:

  • Wait at least 2 hours after adding baking soda to your hot tub before using it. This will give the baking soda time to dissolve and circulate throughout the water.
  • You may need to add baking soda to your hot tub on a regular basis to maintain the desired pH level. How often you need to add baking soda will depend on a number of factors, such as the size of your hot tub, how often you use it, and the quality of your water.
  • If you have any questions or concerns about using baking soda in your hot tub, be sure to consult with a pool or spa professional.

Hot Tub Baking Soda Calculator

Enter the current pH level, desired pH level, and the volume of your hot tub to calculate the amount of baking soda to add.





Amount of baking soda to add: ounces

Why adding baking soda to a hot tub is necessary

Adding baking soda to a hot tub helps increase the water’s pH level. Hot tub water should have a pH between 7.2 and 7.8 to be safe for soaking, and baking soda can raise the pH if it falls below the ideal range. A higher pH also helps to reduce the formation of harmful bacteria and reduces eye and skin irritation.

Baking Soda Helps to Reduce Chlorine Levels

Using it can help to remove chlorine levels in the water. This is especially useful if you notice that the water is a bit too ‘salty.’ Add 1-2 teaspoons per 10,000 gallons of water and then circulate for about 20 minutes to allow the baking soda to neutralize the chlorine in the water.

how much baking soda to add to hot tub
Image credit: Hottubpatio

Let the baking soda work:

Let the baking soda sit in the hot tub for 15-20 minutes. If your hot tub looks worse, don’t worry – a small soda can go a long way.

You’ll be able to enjoy it for even longer. Not to mention, it’s a lot cheaper than buying new chemicals or hiring a professional to do it for you. So next time your hot tub looks a little lackluster, reach for the baking soda!

Rinse the hot tub:

Use a hose to rinse the baking soda out of the hot tub.

If you’ve just added it to your hot tub to increase the alkalinity, you’ll need to take a few extra steps to ensure it’s completely removed before using it again. Soda is a great way to raise the pH levels of your hot tub, but if it’s not rinsed out properly, it can leave behind a residue that can harm your skin.

  1. Use a hose to rinse the soda out of the hot tub. Be sure to get into the nooks and crannies, as even small amounts of soda can cause skin irritation.
  2. Run the hot tub’s jets for at least 15 minutes, which will help to remove any remaining soda.
  3. Add a few capfuls of pool shock to the water, as it helps to neutralize any residue left behind by the baking soda.
  4. Run the hot tub’s jets for 15 minutes to help the water circulate, then drain the tub.

Note: Ensure no pool shock in your eyes or skin.

Baking soda can raise the pH of your hot tub water.

If the pH in your hot tub is too low, you can raise it by adding baking soda. Baking soda is an alkaline substance that will increase the pH of your hot tub water. Add 1/2 pound of baking soda for every 100 gallons of water to raise the pH of your hot tub water.

You should also regularly test your hot tub water to ensure the pH is in the proper range. For more reading about Using Vinegar And Baking Soda In Hot Tub.

How to test the pH level:

You can use a pH test kit to test the pH level of your water.

  1. You can use a pH test kit to test the pH level of your water.
  2. You will need to follow the instructions that come with the kit.
  3. Generally, you must add a small amount of water to the testing solution.
  4. Then, you will need to compare the color of the solution to a chart that comes with the kit.
  5. The chart will tell you the pH level based on the solution’s color.
  6. It is essential to ensure your hot tub’s pH level is balanced.
  7. If it is too high or too low, it can harm your hot tub and your health.
Can you put too much baking soda in the hot tub?

How often to add baking soda:

The frequency of adding baking soda to a hot tub depends on various factors, such as the number of people using the hot tub, the frequency of use, and other chemicals in the water.

It’s recommended to test the pH level of the hot tub water at least once a week and add baking soda as needed to maintain a pH level between 7.2 and 7.8. In general, if the pH level falls below 7.2, adding baking soda will help to raise it to the safe and comfortable range.

Pros:

  1. Increases pH level:
    • Baking soda helps to raise the pH level of the hot tub water, ensuring that it is in the safe and comfortable range for soaking.
  2. Reduces eye and skin irritation:
    • Higher pH levels can help to reduce eye and skin irritation caused by low-pH water.
  3. Improves water quality:
    • Baking soda can help to improve the overall quality of the hot tub water by reducing the formation of harmful bacteria.
  4. Easy to obtain and use:
    • Baking soda is a readily available and inexpensive household item, making it a convenient option for raising the pH level of hot tub water.

Cons:

  1. Alkalinity reduction:
    • Baking soda can lower the total alkalinity of the hot tub water, leading to instability in pH levels and potentially causing skin irritation.
  2. Overdose:
    • Overdosing on baking soda can cause the pH level to become too high, leading to skin irritation and decreased effectiveness of other chemicals in the hot tub.
  3. Requires frequent testing:
    • Adding baking soda to a hot tub requires regular monitoring of pH levels to ensure that the water remains in the safe and comfortable range.
  4. Possible sediment formation:
    • If not appropriately dissolved, baking soda can settle on the bottom of the hot tub, forming sediment and making it difficult to maintain a consistent pH level.
How much Baking Soda to add to Hot Tub
Image source: Canva

Tips for using baking soda in a hot tub

  • If you want to use baking soda to clean your hot tub, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, only use it if it is made of acrylic or fiberglass.
  • Second, always dilute the baking soda with water before adding it.
  • Third, add the soda slowly and evenly around the tub’s perimeter.
  • Finally, let the soda sit for at least 30 minutes before draining the tub and rinsing it.

Comparison table between baking soda and other familiar hot tub pH adjusters:

pH AdjusterBaking SodaSodium CarbonateSodium BisulfateMuriatic Acid
ChemicalSodium BicarbonateSodium CarbonateSodium BisulfateHydrochloric Acid
PurposeTo raise pH levelsTo raise pH levels and total alkalinityTo lower pH levelsTo lower pH levels
ProsInexpensive, readily available, and easy to useEffective at raising both pH and total alkalinityFast-acting and effective at lowering pH levelsFast-acting and effective at lowering pH levels
ConsCan lower total alkalinity and requires frequent monitoringMore expensive than baking soda and sodium bisulfateIt can lower total alkalinity and requires frequent monitoringIt can lower total alkalinity if overused
It’s essential to use the appropriate pH adjuster for your hot tub based on its specific needs and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines.

Consider water quality monitoring methods.

Water quality is critical to monitor in any body of water, especially in hot tubs where people are soaking. There are a few different ways to test and monitor the water quality in a hot tub. 

One way to test the water is to use a pool test kit that can be purchased at a local hardware store. This kit will test for chlorine levels, pH levels, and alkalinity. Maintaining the proper levels of each of these chemicals is vital to keep the water clean and safe for people to use. 

Check Related Products

Another way to monitor the water quality is to have a professional company come and test it regularly. This is often done for public pools and hot tubs open to the general public.

Bicarbonate of Soda Hot Tub

Bicarbonate of soda, also known as baking soda, can be used in a hot tub to raise the pH level and total alkalinity. It is a safe and natural alternative to other chemicals, such as soda ash.

Fina Thoughts:

Baking soda is an easy and effective way to raise the pH level of your hot tub water. It is an effective and easy way to raise the pH level. The benefits of raising the pH level include improved water quality, increased clarity, and better disinfection. It is also relatively inexpensive, making it an excellent option for those on a budget.

For additional information, visit Hot Tub & Patio, or if you’re interested in reading reviews and guides for hot tubs, visit Hot Tub Guides and Reviews.

Common Queries:

Q. Can you use baking soda to raise the pH in the hot tub?

A. You can use it to raise the pH in hot tub water.

Q. Do I need to add other things when using baking soda to raise the pH?

A. No, you do not need to add anything else to it.

Q. Is alkalinity increaser the same as baking soda?

A. Yes, it can be used as an alkalinity increaser to raise the pH in the hot tub.

Q. How much baking soda should I use?

A. It is best used in hot tub water at a rate of 1/2 cup per 10,000 gallons. For example, to raise the pH by 1 point in a 40,000 gallon would require about 2 cups.

Q. I have been in the hot tub business for a long time and have never heard of this before. Is it true?

A. There is no doubt that this is true.

Q. What is a baking soda hot tub calculator?

A. This is a simple calculator to help you determine the amount needed to raise the pH in water.

Q. How much baking soda must I add to my hot tub?

The amount you need to add will depend on the size. For a standard-size tub, you will need about 1/2 cup.

Q. Can I use other products instead of baking soda?

You can use other products, such as bleach or pool shock. However, using it is a more realistic option and less expensive.

Q. Do I have to add anything else besides baking soda?

No, add enough to keep your hot tub clean.

Adding it can help to minimize odors and make it more enjoyable to swim in. To add 1 cup of soda, mix it with 8 cups of water. Soak it for 30 minutes before adding it to the tub.

Q. Can I use a different type of it?

Yes, you can use the same type of it that you would use for your kitchen. However, it may take longer to dissolve in water. It may also have a more pungent smell or taste.

Q. How long do I need to soak the baking soda?

It will start to dissolve in the water within 30 minutes. If you add it to a hot tub full of water, it will take longer to dissolve.

Q. Does the baking soda smell?

It has a strong odor but disappears within 30 minutes of soaking in the water.

Q. Can I use different sizes of baking soda?

No, you can only use 1 cup of soda.

Q. Can I use it for other uses?

You can use it for other uses, like cleaning your bathroom tiles.

Q. Can you use it to raise the pH in the hot tub?

You can use a full cup of baking soda to raise the pH in your hot tub.

Q. Can you use it instead of chlorine tablets?

You can use 1 cup of baking soda per 10 gallons of water to replace the chlorine tablets.

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