How To Maintain A Hot Tub: A Complete Guide

Hot tubs are a great way to relax and unwind, but they do require regular maintenance to keep them in top condition. Proper maintenance not only helps to extend the life of your hot tub, but also ensures that it remains safe and hygienic to use. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential steps of hot tub maintenance.

1. Keep the Water Clean

Here are some tips for keeping your hot tub water clean:

Test the Water Regularly – Regular water testing is crucial for maintaining a clean and balanced hot tub environment. Use a test strip or kit at least once a week to measure the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. By monitoring these parameters, you can make necessary adjustments to keep the water safe and comfortable for use.
Adjust pH and Sanitizer Levels – Maintaining the proper pH and sanitizer levels is essential for preventing the growth of bacteria and other contaminants in your hot tub. Follow the instructions provided with your test kit to adjust the pH level within the recommended range, typically between 7.2 and 7.8. Additionally, use an appropriate sanitizer, such as chlorine or bromine, and ensure its concentration remains within the recommended levels.
Use a Sanitizer Dispenser – A sanitizer dispenser is a convenient tool for distributing the sanitizer evenly throughout the hot tub water. It helps to maintain a consistent sanitizer level and ensures thorough water circulation. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to determine the appropriate amount of sanitizer to use and adjust the dispenser accordingly.
Clean the Filter Regularly – The filter in your hot tub plays a crucial role in removing debris, dirt, and other impurities from the water. Cleaning the filter weekly is important to maintain its efficiency. Use a filter cleaner specifically designed for hot tub filters and rinse it thoroughly with water to remove any trapped particles. Depending on usage, it’s recommended to replace the filter every 6 to 12 months to ensure optimal filtration.
Shock the Water Periodically – In addition to regular sanitizer use, periodically shocking the water helps to eliminate organic contaminants and restore water clarity. Follow the instructions on the shock treatment product to determine the appropriate dosage and frequency for your specific hot tub model.
Keep the Hot Tub Covered – Using a cover when the hot tub is not in use is an effective way to prevent debris, leaves, and other foreign substances from entering the water. A securely fitted cover also helps to retain heat, reducing energy consumption and maintaining water temperature.

2. Drain and Refill the Water

Draining and refilling your hot tub is integral to hot tub maintenance. Over time, contaminants such as bacteria, dirt, and body oils can build up in the water, leading to unpleasant odors, cloudy water, and skin irritation. Draining and refilling the water will remove these contaminants, leaving you with fresh, clean water that’s safe to use.

Turn off the Power – Before draining the hot tub, turn off the power to the unit at the circuit breaker. This will prevent any electrical issues from occurring.
Drain the Water – Use the drain valve on the hot tub to remove the water. Depending on the size of your hot tub, this process may take several hours. Once the water has been drained, use a wet-dry vacuum or a towel to remove any remaining water from the bottom of the hot tub.
Clean the Surfaces – While the hot tub is empty, take the opportunity to clean the surfaces thoroughly. Use a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth to clean the sides and bottom of the hot tub. Pay special attention to any areas with visible buildup or stains.
Refill the Hot Tub – Once the hot tub is clean, it’s time to refill it with fresh water. Use a garden hose to fill the hot tub, being careful not to overfill it. Leave the hot tub cover off while filling to allow the water to aerate and prevent airlocks.
Balance the Water Chemistry – Once the hot tub is filled with fresh water, test the water chemistry using a test strip or kit. Adjust the pH and alkalinity levels as needed, and add sanitizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

By draining and refilling your hot tub a minimum every 3 to 4 months, or more frequently (monthly) if it’s heavily used, you can help to prevent the buildup of contaminants and ensure that the water remains clean and safe to use. Additionally, draining and refilling the water can help prevent the formation of scale and stains on the hot tub surfaces, extending the life of your hot tub and keeping it looking new.

3. Clean the Hot Tub Surfaces

Daily cleaning the hot tub surfaces is essential to keep it looking good and extend its lifespan. Dirt, debris, and other contaminants can accumulate on the hot tub’s surfaces over time, making it less pleasant to use and may even cause damage to the hot tub. Here are some tips for cleaning the hot tub surfaces:

Use the Right Cleaner – It’s essential to use a non-abrasive cleaner that’s specifically designed for hot tubs. Avoid using household cleaners or abrasive materials, as these can scratch the hot tub’s surfaces and cause damage. Many hot tub surface cleaners available on the market are safe and effective for use.
Start with the Waterline – The waterline is where most of the dirt and debris will accumulate, so it’s an excellent place to start when cleaning the hot tub. Use a sponge or cloth and a hot tub surface cleaner to clean the waterline, then work your way down to the bottom of the hot tub.
Rinse Thoroughly – After cleaning the hot tub’s surfaces, rinse everything thoroughly with water to remove any leftover cleaning solution or debris.

By following these tips and cleaning the hot tub surfaces regularly, you can help to keep your hot tub looking great and functioning properly for years to come. Regular cleaning will also make it easier to maintain the water chemistry and keep it clean and safe.

4.Check the Equipment

Checking your hot tub’s equipment is an essential part of hot tub maintenance. Monthly inspection of the pump, heater, and jets can prevent potential problems and ensure that your hot tub works at its best. A malfunctioning piece of equipment can cause serious issues, including damage to the hot tub, so it’s crucial to take the time to check everything out. Here are some tips for checking your hot tub equipment:

Inspect the Pump – The pump is responsible for circulating water through the hot tub, so it’s essential to ensure it’s functioning properly. Check for any unusual noises or vibrations from the pump, and ensure that water flows smoothly through the jets.
Check the Heater – The heater is responsible for heating the water in your hot tub, so you want to ensure it works correctly. Check the temperature of the water to ensure it’s heating up to the desired level, and ensure there are no leaks around the heater.
Inspect the Jets – The jets are vital to the hot tub experience. Hence, ensuring they’re working correctly is essential. Check that each jet is functioning correctly and that there are no clogs or leaks.
Call a Professional – If you notice any issues with your hot tub equipment, it’s best to call a professional to take a look. A certified hot tub technician can diagnose any problems and perform the necessary repairs to ensure your hot tub runs smoothly.

Regularly checking your hot tub equipment can prevent any potential issues and ensure that your hot tub is always functioning correctly. However, suppose you notice any issues or suspect something may not work correctly. In that case, it’s always best to call a professional to take a closer look. Maintaining your hot tub can ensure it remains in excellent condition and provides many years of relaxation and enjoyment.

5. Cover the Hot Tub

Covering your hot tub when it’s not in use is a crucial part of hot tub maintenance. A high-quality cover can help protect your hot tub from the elements, prevent debris from falling into the water, and even reduce energy costs.

Here are some reasons why covering your hot tub is so important:

Protection from the Elements – If your hot tub is located outside, it’s exposed to the elements, such as wind, rain, snow, and UV rays. A high-quality cover can help protect the hot tub’s surface and components from damage caused by these elements.
Prevent Debris from Entering the Water – When your hot tub is uncovered, it’s susceptible to debris such as leaves, bugs, and dirt. These contaminants can dirty your hot tub water and cause a strain on your filtration system. A cover can prevent debris from entering the water, making it easier to maintain and keep clean.
Retain Heat and Reduce Energy Costs – One of the most significant benefits of covering your hot tub is that it can help retain heat and reduce energy costs. Covering your hot tub traps the heat inside, meaning your hot tub will use less energy to maintain a consistent temperature. This can reduce energy costs and make your hot tub more cost-effective.
Increased Safety – A hot tub cover can also improve safety around the hot tub, especially if you have children or pets. When the hot tub is not in use, the cover can prevent anyone from accidentally falling into the water and reduce the risk of accidents.

When choosing a cover for your hot tub, select a high-quality cover that fits your hot tub’s dimensions correctly. A good cover will be durable, provide adequate protection from the elements, and be easy to remove and replace.

Covering your hot tub when it’s not in use is essential for maintaining its condition and ensuring it remains enjoyable for years. In addition, a good cover can help protect your hot tub from the elements, prevent debris from entering the water, and reduce energy costs, making it a wise investment for any hot tub owner.

In Conculsion

Following these tips, you can keep your hot tub in top condition and enjoy it for years. However, if you’re unsure about any aspect of hot tub maintenance, it’s always best to consult a professional. Love’s Hot Tubs are always a phone call away to answer any questions. We also have a free PDF, “Hot Tub Maintenance Guide,” to download.

Follow the link for more information:

Hot Tub Maintenance 101: Everything You Need to Know.” Swim University.