There’s nothing quite like slipping into a warm, bubbling hot tub after a long day. But to keep your hot tub in tip-top shape—and your water sparkling clean—a little regular maintenance goes a long way. At Love’s Hot Tubs, we know many owners in the Treasure Valley (Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, Eagle, Emmett, and beyond) want their spas to last for years of relaxation and fun. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the top five hot tub maintenance items every owner should know.
Don’t worry—these tips are easy to follow, and a few minutes each week can make all the difference. If you ever want more detailed instructions, download our free maintenance guides for step-by-step care tips!
1. Water Balance: The Foundation of Hot Tub Care
Proper water chemistry isn’t just about clear water—it’s about protecting your investment. Unbalanced water can lead to scale buildup, corrosion, and even damage to your hot tub’s components. Here’s what you need to monitor:
- pH Level: Aim for 7.2–7.8. Low pH can corrode equipment; high pH can cause scaling.
- Alkalinity: Keep total alkalinity between 80–120 ppm to prevent pH swings.
- Sanitizer:Â Whether you use chlorine or bromine, keep levels within recommended ranges to kill bacteria and keep the water safe.
Pro Tip: Use test strips or a liquid test kit 2-3 times per week, especially after heavy use or adding water. Adjust as needed using spa chemicals. If you’re unsure about balancing your water, our team is happy to help!
2. Filter Cleaning: The Unsung Hero
Your hot tub’s filter works tirelessly behind the scenes, capturing debris, oils, and contaminants. A dirty or clogged filter puts extra strain on your pump and heater—and can turn your water cloudy fast!
- Weekly:Â Remove and rinse your filter with a garden hose to dislodge dirt and debris.
- Monthly:Â Soak your filter overnight in a filter-cleaning solution to break down oils and buildup.
- Annually: Replace your filter every 12 months (or as recommended in your owner’s manual) for optimal performance.
Pro Tip:Â Keep a spare filter on hand so you can swap a clean one in while the other is soaking. This way, your hot tub never has to be out of service!
3. Draining and Refilling: Fresh Water, Fresh Start
No matter how diligent you are with chemicals, your hot tub water will eventually become saturated with dissolved solids, making it harder to keep clean and balanced. Draining and refilling your hot tub regularly is essential for water quality and your system’s longevity.
- Frequency: For most spas, plan to drain and refill every 3–4 months, or more often if usage is heavy.
- Process:Â Turn off power, drain the tub completely, clean the shell with a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner, rinse, and refill with fresh water.
- Before Refilling:Â Take this opportunity to clean and inspect jets, pillows, and the cover.
Pro Tip: Mark your calendar with your next scheduled drain date. Fresh water feels amazing—and so does knowing your spa is in top shape!
4. Cover Care: Protect Your Investment
Your hot tub cover does more than keep out leaves and debris—it helps maintain water temperature, saves on energy costs, and keeps your spa clean. But covers need attention too:
- Clean Regularly:Â Wipe down the cover with mild soap and water to remove dirt, pollen, and bird droppings.
- Condition:Â Apply a vinyl conditioner every few months to prevent cracking and UV damage.
- Check for Damage:Â Inspect for rips, waterlogging, or sagging. Replace if the cover becomes too heavy or loses its insulating ability.
Pro Tip: Always use the cover lifter (included with all hot tubs from Love’s Hot Tubs!) to prevent unnecessary strain and extend your cover’s life.
5. Routine Visual Inspections: Catch Issues Early
Taking a few minutes each week to look over your hot tub can help you spot small problems before they become big repairs. Here’s what to watch for:
- Leaks or puddles under the cabinet
- Unusual noises from the pump or heater
- Loose jets, headrests, or control knobs
- Discoloration, scaling, or build-up on the shell and fittings
- GFCI breaker tripping or error codes on your control panel
Pro Tip: If you notice anything out of the ordinary, consult your owner’s manual or download a troubleshooting guide from our website—or give us a call at (208) 353-2170. Our team is always happy to help!
Bonus: Don’t Forget the Accessories!
Steps, cover lifters, and even your chemical kit need occasional upkeep. Make sure everything is clean, in good working order, and ready for your next soak. Need a replacement or upgrade? Browse our accessories or stop by our Emmett shop!
Conclusion: A Little Care Goes a Long Way
Maintaining your hot tub doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With these five essential maintenance steps, you’ll enjoy crystal-clear water, a longer-lasting hot tub, and worry-free relaxation all year round. Remember, the team at Love’s Hot Tubs is here for you—whether you need expert advice, accessories, or a brand-new spa.
For more tips, step-by-step guides, or to schedule maintenance, visit our Free Downloadable Guides page or contact us today. Happy soaking!