During a recent home inspection in Cumming, GA, we encountered a jarring surprise hidden in a place many homeowners overlook: the spa bathtub. As we always do during a thorough inspection, we turned on the jets to ensure everything was functioning as it should. But instead of a soothing stream of water, out came a murky mix of grime, dirt, and bacteria-filled sludge. Not quite the relaxing spa experience most homeowners envision, right?

It’s a moment that reminds us: even the most luxurious home features can become hygiene hazards when not maintained properly. Especially in humid regions like North Georgia, issues with jetted tubs, plumbing systems, and moisture buildup are more common than most realize. And if you're not hiring a professional home inspector, you may never know what's swirling beneath the surface.

The Hidden Health Risk in Spa Tubs

What many homeowners don't realize is that jetted tubs require more maintenance than your average bathtub. Inside those jets, stagnant water can accumulate over time, breeding bacteria, mold, mildew, and biofilm. When left unchecked, that bio-gunk is reintroduced into your water every time the jets are turned on.

According to the National Biocenter of Biotechnology and Information, water left in pipes and spa jets for as little as one week without use can harbor colonies of bacteria and fungi. That includes Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and Legionella, which can cause infections or skin irritation. Your spa tub may look clean on the surface, but beneath the jets? That’s where the truth lies.

A Georgia-Specific Problem: Why Local Climate Matters

In regions like Cumming, Alpharetta, Roswell, and throughout Forsyth and Fulton Counties, the high humidity combined with seasonal moisture levels creates an ideal environment for biofilm and mold growth. This makes regular inspections and maintenance not just a suggestion, but a must.

Here in North Georgia, spa tubs are often located in finished basements or bathrooms with limited ventilation. This trapped humidity exacerbates the potential for buildup in jetted tubs, leading to water quality issues, mold spores, and even mechanical failure if left unresolved.

How a Home Inspector Caught the Problem

When David Lelak of IHI Home Inspection activated the jets as part of his standard protocol, dark water immediately churned into the tub. The homeowner had no idea this was an issue and was days away from moving in. Imagine starting your new life in a home that harbors someone else’s soap scum, skin cells, and grime. Not the welcome gift anyone wants.

Thanks to a thorough inspection, the problem was caught before the new homeowners took their first bath.

What a Great Home Inspector Actually Does

Home inspectors don’t just walk through the house with a checklist. A seasoned home inspector investigates areas you’d never think to check: behind panels, under flooring, within spa jets, and inside drainage systems. Especially in new construction homes or flipped properties, it's crucial not to assume everything is pristine.

Here’s what a professional home inspector like David Lelak will check when evaluating bathroom and water systems:

• Operation of spa and jetted tubs

• Drainage flow and water backflow issues

• Signs of sediment, mineral buildup, or stagnation

• Mold and mildew presence in high-moisture zones

• Proper GFCI outlet installation near water sources

Why Jetted Tub Issues Are Often Overlooked

Most homeowners never think to turn on the jets during a showing or walkthrough. Even real estate agents may skip this test. But the reality is, spa tubs are complex systems that mix plumbing, air compression, and electric power, all of which need to be in perfect harmony to ensure safe usage.

When left unused for even short periods, water in the lines can grow stagnant and reintroduce bacteria with each use. In some cases, we've found tubs with jet lines so clogged, they pose a risk to the motor, the water heater, or even the home's electrical system.

Long-Term Impacts of Dirty Tubs

A contaminated jetted tub doesn't just affect your bath time. It can:

• Damage internal plumbing

• Shorten the lifespan of the motor

• Cause electrical malfunctions

• Lead to visible mold in nearby walls or flooring

• Devalue your property during resale

In counties like Forsyth, where many buyers are looking for upscale homes with spa-like amenities, these systems are considered luxury features. A non-functional or dirty jetted tub can quickly become a liability.

The Solution: Regular Cleaning & Professional Inspections

To keep your jetted tub safe and in top condition, follow this simple routine:

• Monthly Jet Flush: Use white vinegar and hot water or a specialized jetted tub cleaner

• Quarterly Deep Clean: Remove and soak jet covers; scrub interiors

• Annual Home Inspection: Include plumbing system evaluation, even if you’re not selling

And of course, if you're buying a home anywhere around Cumming, Alpharetta, Gainesville, Roswell, or Atlanta, a licensed home inspector should be your first call.

Don’t Bathe in Someone Else’s Bacteria

Spa tubs should be a place of luxury, not lurking danger. While they may look clean, without proper maintenance and inspection, they can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mechanical failure.

If you're in the market for a home — or haven’t had your jetted tub checked in years — don't wait.

CLICK HERE to Schedule or Contact 404-788-2581.