Some people may be put off by the thought of owning a hot tub because of the perceived amount of maintenance they require. Are hot tubs high maintenance? Although they don’t completely run themselves, labeling them high maintenance is probably exaggerating the situation. Because of technological progress over the years, hot tub manufacturers have come up with better designs, more effective water purification systems and improved water filter materials that require less maintenance than hot tubs of the past. Modern hot tubs are designed to be user friendly and to allow for more soaking time while reducing the amount necessary maintenance. To learn more about the maintenance procedures of today’s hot tubs, check out this article.
Hot Tub Maintenance Scheduling
The easiest way to stay on top of your hot tub maintenance duties is to follow a regular schedule. This allows the various tasks to become routine and part of a habitual cycle. Not only will this ensure your hot tub remains worry free, it’ll make sure you don’t inadvertently skip necessary maintenance procedures. A hot tub maintenance schedule can be easily broken down into weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual tasks. Following the schedule regularly ensures that no job becomes too onerous while maximizing your recreational opportunities.
Water Purification
The most common hot tub maintenance task is to ensure your water remains clean† and fresh. Failure to do so can lead to cloudy, smelly water that can range from simply unpleasant to potentially dangerous. Fortunately, this is easily accomplished with the use of a water testing kit. You’ll perform a water test at least once a week. You might need to do this more often if your hot tub is getting a lot of use or is accumulating significant amounts of organic matter – such as when the leaves fall. The results of your tests will let you know the type and amount of chemicals that need to be added to the water to get the chemistry back in balance. Simple tests that calculate the water pH, total alkalinity and sanitizer levels will help ensure you’re able to keep the water clean† and safe.
Water Filters
Water filters are the main defence against large particulates which can affect water chemistry and cleanliness. Inspecting and cleaning† the filters is a monthly job but doesn’t take very long at all. They’re simply taken out of their housing and sprayed down with a garden hose to get rid of trapped dirt and debris. Every three or four months, coinciding with a full hot tub cleaning†, the filters will need to be soaked in a cleaning† solution to get rid of accumulated grease and other sticky substances. Ceramic filters can be cleaned by soaking or running them through a cycle in your dishwasher.
Deep Cleaning†
Depending on the amount of activity your hot tub sees and the type of water purification system it uses, you should give your hot tub a deep cleaning† every quarter. Those who have invested in a saltwater purification system may be able to reduce this job to once a year. This process involves emptying the hot tub, scrubbing down the inner shell and refilling it with fresh water. This is the most involved maintenance procedure but can be easily accomplished in a day.
Hot Tub Covers
One of the best ways to reduce the time spent on hot tub maintenance is to use a hot tub cover whenever the tub isn’t being used. Not only does this keep dirt and debris from falling into the water, it prevents water evaporation which affects the water chemistry. Using a hot tub cover also retains water heat and will reduce your reliance on your water heater and electricity supply.
To learn more about hot tub maintenance, download a free buyer’s guide below today, or visit us at our London hot tub store.