Q: Do I need to clean my whirlpool bathtub?
A: Yes. All whirlpool bathtubs have a small amount of residual water left in the pipeline. Minerals in water begin a process of calcifying around the insides of your pipes. This hard scale build up not only restricts water flow, but becomes a perfect breading ground for infectious bacteria. As the algae breaks off, you will see it in your bath water as ugly black flecks. And an even greater health risk comes from the germs and bacteria that are left from previous bathers. Fecal matter, cold and flue germs are basic household germs that can be eliminated if properly cleaned.

Q: My whirlpool tub salesman insists that tubs made with hard smooth pipes do not promote algae growth as the ridged flex pipes do. Is this true?
A: No. There is residual water left in the pipes of all whirlpool bathtubs. It does not matter if the pipes are flex or hard pipes.

Q: I was told I could just circulate chlorine bleach or detergents through my system to eliminate the algae (black flecks). Do these methods work?
A: While chlorine bleach is somewhat effective in killing some germs and algae, it also breaks down the rubber seal on you pump motor which can create a leaky tub and possible water damage. Detergents designed to clean dishes are not formulated to clean jetted whirlpool bathtubs.