Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your hot tub remains a source of relaxation and enjoyment. In this article, we'll provide pro tips to help you maintain water quality, clean your hot tub filter, and keep your spa in top condition.
1. Maintaining Water Quality
Hot tubs require the right chemicals to ensure safe and enjoyable water. Understanding which chemicals to use and how to balance them is essential for a clean and relaxing soak.
Essential Chemicals
pH Balancers: Maintain water acidity levels to avoid system issues and skin irritation. Use pH increasers or decreasers to keep things in check.
Sanitizers: Chlorine and bromine effectively clean the water, but excessive levels can cause problems.
Spa Shock: Eliminates organic waste and odors, leaving the water clear and fresh. You can get shock treatments with or without chlorine.
Ideal Water Chemistry Levels
Maintain the following levels for optimal hot tub performance:
pH: 7.4 – 7.6
Chlorine: 1.5 – 3.0 ppm
Bromine: 3 – 5 ppm
Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm
Calcium: 100 – 250 ppm for acrylic finishes, 250 – 450 ppm for plaster finishes.
Testing Your Water
Test your hot tub water 2 or 3 times a week to ensure it meets the desired levels. Keep a record of your results to track trends over time. Use a test kit and adjust chemicals as needed for balance.
2. Hot Tub Filter Cleaning
Filters remove contaminants like hair, oils, and dirt from the water, preventing damage to pumps and cloudy water. Regularly cleaning your hot tub filter is crucial for optimal performance. Here’s how to do it.
Why Clean Your Filter?
Filters trap debris, but without cleaning, they become ineffective, leading to cloudy water. Replace your filter every 1-2 years, or every 10–15 cleanings. Monitor your spa filter’s age, cleaning cycles, and the quality of the filter material.
Locating Your Filter
Filters are typically found under the skimmer basket or in a small tank assembly. If located under the spa, ensure proper valve use to prevent water spillage.
When to Clean
Clean the filter when flow decreases noticeably or pressure rises 8-10 PSI higher than usual, as indicated by a pressure gauge. If no gauge is present, clean weekly or biweekly based on manufacturer recommendations.
Cleaning Process
Weekly Rinse: Use a garden hose to rinse off debris, avoiding high-pressure systems.
Monthly Chemical Clean: Apply a chemical cleaner, let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Quarterly Chemical Soak: Submerge the filter in a chemical cleaner for 24 hours, then rinse.
Avoid Harmful Cleaning Methods
Never use household cleaners, bleach, or dishwashers, as they damage the filter media. Use cleaners designed for hot tub filters for longevity and cleanliness.
3. General Cleaning
Weekly Shell Scrub
Regularly scrub the shell with a soft sponge to remove buildup and maintain cleanliness, focusing on the waterline and jets.
Periodic Full Cleaning
Drain your hot tub every 3–4 months for thorough cleaning of surfaces, waterline, and plumbing. Use quality cleaning products to prevent water quality issues. Vacuum seats and floors with a spa-specific vacuum to remove accumulated dirt and debris.
Removing Floating Debris
Use a skimmer net to remove floating debris and leaves, especially after windstorms to effectively clean the surface and underwater areas.
Air Out the Cover
Remove the cover at least twice a week to increase its longevity. Allow it to breathe for a few hours to avoid constant exposure to heat and moisture. Clean and condition the cover periodically to maintain its quality.
Adding Fill Water
Monitor the water level to prevent pump damage. Keep the water level in the middle of the skimmer intake or slightly higher to avoid overflow while filling.
