How to Lower pH in a Hot Tub With Vinegar

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Keeping the pH of your hot tub at the appropriate level is a necessary part of spa maintenance. A pH that is too high will result in the formation of white scaling along the walls of the tub. You can purchase products from a pool supply store to regulate the pH, but if you do not have these chemicals on hand or if you prefer a more natural approach, adding vinegar to your spa can safely lower the pH.

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Step 1

Test the pH of the hot tub after the water has been circulating for a few hours. The pH should read between 7.2 and 7.6.

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Step 2

Lower the pH of the water by measuring out four cups of vinegar and pouring it directly into the water. You can use either white household vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

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Step 3

Check to ensure the pump is running after the addition of the vinegar to ensure the acid is properly circulated throughout the waters.

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Step 4

Allow the waters to recalibrate for a few hours with the pool pump running. Retest using the test strips.

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Step 5

Repeat the process by adding more vinegar to the water in four-cup increments until the pH has reached the appropriate level.

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