Foam keeps showing up in my hot tub even after using AquaDoc defoamer

Manikshaw

Member
Every time I run the jets I get a layer of foam on top. I tried the AquaDoc defoamer and it works at first but then the foam comes back the next day. Is it just soap or am I doing something wrong with chemicals.
 
Usually it’s leftover residue from lotions or detergents on swimsuits. The defoamer is just a quick fix but you might need to drain and refill if it keeps coming back. I had to do that once and it solved it.
 
It’s usually leftover soap or lotion from swimsuits. I’ve had the same issue, try draining and refilling the water if the foam keeps coming back.
 
I’ve battled that too and learned the hard way that defoamers only mask the issue for a short while. The real fix is usually tied to water quality, high TDS (total dissolved solids) from body oils, shampoo, detergents, even just heavy use. Once it builds up, foam comes back no matter how much defoamer you pour in.

What worked for me was giving the filters a really good clean and then doing a partial drain and refill instead of waiting for a full water change. It cut the problem way down. You might also want to remind folks to give swimsuits a good rinse (without detergent) before hopping in.
 
I’ve had the same issue, and what I found is that defoamers only treat the symptom. Foam usually comes from body oils, lotions, shampoo, or detergent residues in swimsuits. Even small amounts can build up and keep causing foam.

A good approach is:
  • Give your filters a thorough clean.
  • Do a partial or full water change if the foam keeps coming back.
  • Remind anyone using the tub to rinse off and rinse swimsuits well before hopping in.
Once the water is fresher and the filters are clean, the foam usually disappears for good.
 
I use the “Hot Tub Scum Absorber 3D Shark,Hot Tub Cleaner,Grime Absorbers Sponge Hot Tub for Spa Hot Tub&Pool 2 PCS” oil absorber. I leave it in for a week and then switch it out to a fresh one.

I wash them with detergent the first time. Than immediately wash an entire cycle again with water only. It’s probably wise to do the same with your suits and towels.

I rarely have foam.
 
I use the “Hot Tub Scum Absorber 3D Shark,Hot Tub Cleaner,Grime Absorbers Sponge Hot Tub for Spa Hot Tub&Pool 2 PCS” oil absorber. I leave it in for a week and then switch it out to a fresh one.

I wash them with detergent the first time. Than immediately wash an entire cycle again with water only. It’s probably wise to do the same with your suits and towels.

I rarely have foam.
**DO NOT use foam scum absorbers in a hot tub.
 
I’ve dealt with stubborn foam too, and like others said, defoamer is only a temporary fix. The main culprit is usually body oils, lotions, or detergent residue from swimsuits and towels. Even tiny amounts can keep causing foam no matter how much defoamer you add.

What’s worked for me:
  1. Give your filters a thorough clean.
  2. Do a partial or full water change if the foam keeps coming back.
  3. Make sure everyone rinses off before getting in, and rinse swimsuits well (no detergent) before use.
Once the water is fresher and the filters are clean, the foam usually disappears. Keeping on top of routine maintenance makes a big difference.
 
I’ve run into the same issue, defoamer is definitely a quick fix, but it doesn’t solve the root cause. In my experience, foam comes from body oils, lotions, or even detergent left on swimsuits and towels.

What usually works for me:
  • Give the filters a really thorough clean.
  • Do a partial or full water change if foam keeps returning.
  • Make sure anyone using the tub rinses off first, and rinse swimsuits thoroughly with plain water (no detergent) before they go in.
Once the water is fresher and filters are clean, the foam tends to disappear for good. It’s more about prevention than pouring more defoamer.
 
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