Hot Tub Maintenance: A Beginner’s Guide to Crystal Clear Water

Monthly Hot Tub Maintenance

Once a month, it’s important to conduct a more thorough cleaning of your hot tub. This process will help ensure your water stays fresh and your equipment functions properly.

• Drain and Refill the Water: Over time, the water in your hot tub becomes saturated with chemicals, oils, and other contaminants, making it harder to maintain proper water chemistry. Draining and refilling your hot tub every 4-6 weeks ensures the water remains fresh and clean.
  • Tip: Before draining the water, add a pipe cleaner or line flush product to remove any buildup in the plumbing lines.
• Deep Clean the Shell and Cover: While the tub is empty, give the entire shell a deep clean using a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth. Make sure to wipe down the cover as well, as it can accumulate dust, dirt, and mildew.
• Inspect and Replace Filters: Check your filters for any signs of wear or damage. Filters typically last about a year, but they may need to be replaced sooner if they become damaged or clogged beyond cleaning.

Balancing Chemicals After Refilling

Once you’ve refilled your hot tub with fresh water, it’s important to re-balance the chemicals:

• Test the Water: Use a test strip to check the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels.
• Add Sanitizer: Depending on your system, add the appropriate amount of chlorine or bromine to the water.
• Adjust pH and Alkalinity: If the pH or alkalinity levels are off, add the necessary chemicals to bring them back into the correct range.

Preventing Biofilm and Scale Build-Up

Biofilm and scale can form in your hot tub over time, especially if water chemistry isn’t properly maintained. Here’s how to prevent these issues:

• Use a Scale Inhibitor: If you have hard water, scale buildup can occur on the surface of your hot tub and in the plumbing lines. Add a scale inhibitor to the water once a month to prevent this.
  • Dosage: Add 50ml per 1,000 liters of water.
• Clean the Plumbing Lines: Use a pipe cleaner product or line flush every time you drain your hot tub. This helps to remove biofilm, which can harbor bacteria and clog the plumbing.

Energy-Efficient Hot Tub Tips

Keeping your hot tub running efficiently can save you money on energy costs and prolong the life of your equipment. Here are a few energy-saving tips:

• Use a Thermal Cover: A well-insulated cover helps retain heat and prevents water evaporation. Make sure the cover fits tightly over the tub to keep the heat in.
• Lower the Temperature When Not in Use: If you’re not using the hot tub for a few days, lower the temperature by a few degrees. This reduces the amount of energy required to maintain the water temperature.
• Use a Timed Circulation Pump: Many hot tubs have a timer function that allows you to run the circulation pump for a set number of hours each day. Running the pump for 4-6 hours daily is usually sufficient to keep the water clean while reducing energy consumption.

When to Call a Professional

While most hot tub maintenance tasks can be done by the homeowner, there are a few situations where you should call a professional:

• Persistent Cloudy Water: If your water remains cloudy despite balancing the chemicals and cleaning the filters, there may be an issue with your hot tub’s plumbing or filtration system.
• Equipment Malfunction: If your hot tub’s heater, pump, or jets stop working, or if you hear unusual noises, it’s best to have a professional inspect the equipment to prevent further damage.
• Leaks: If you notice water levels dropping rapidly, there may be a leak in the plumbing lines or the hot tub shell. A professional will be able to locate and repair the leak.

Hot Tub Safety Tips

Maintaining a clean hot tub isn’t just about comfort — it’s also about safety. Follow these safety tips to ensure your hot tub remains a safe place for you and your family to relax:

• Monitor Water Temperature: Keep the water temperature below 40°C (104°F) to prevent overheating. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to dizziness, dehydration, or more serious health issues.
• Limit Soak Time: Limit soak time to 15-20 minutes at a time to avoid overheating or dehydration.
• Keep the Hot Tub Covered: When the hot tub is not in use, always keep it covered. This prevents children or pets from accidentally falling in and helps maintain water cleanliness.

Conclusion

With regular maintenance and proper chemical balancing, your hot tub will remain a relaxing and safe haven for you to enjoy year-round. By following these daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance steps, you can ensure your hot tub stays clean, comfortable, and ready for use whenever you need it. If you need any of the products or chemicals mentioned please check our website or contact our friendly support team for advice.  Don’t forget to monitor the water chemistry and address any equipment issues promptly to keep everything running smoothly.