Owning a hot tub is a great way to relax and unwind, and by properly maintaining your spa, you can ensure this enjoyment for many years to come. It’s important to perform some routine maintenance tasks, and below, we’ll be sharing some tips for keeping your hot tub in good condition all year round.
Why Your Hot Tub Needs Proper Maintenance
If you want a great experience every time you soak in your hot tub, it’s important to maintain it properly. The main reason to perform regular maintenance on your hot tub is to keep the water clean† and free of contaminants. When you don’t clean† it regularly, dirt, grime, and other pollutants can build up in the water. Another important reason to keep up with hot tub maintenance is to prevent damage to the equipment. Performing regular maintenance tasks such as checking and replacing filters can extend the life of your hot tub and help prevent costly repairs down the line. When maintained correctly, a hot tub can last for many years.
Hot Tub Maintenance Tips for Every Season
One of the best things about hot tubs is that you can enjoy them all year long. But that also means that they need to be properly maintained in every season. Here are a few tips for keeping your hot tub running smoothly no matter what time of year it is:
1. Protect Your Hot Tub with a Quality Cover
A hot tub cover is essential for keeping your hot tub clean† and preventing debris from getting into the water. It’s best to invest in a cover that’s specifically made for your hot tub model. Look for covers made of durable materials that can withstand the elements and provide a tight seal.
2. Check If the Water is In a Healthy State
One of the most important steps in hot tub maintenance is ensuring the water is always clean†. The best way to do this is to test it regularly with a testing kit or with testing strips every few days or as soon as you see signs of an imbalance. This will help you identify any problems early on so you can address them right away. Keep in mind that the ideal pH range is between 7.2 and 7.6, while the alkalinity should be between 80 and 150 ppm (parts per million).
3. Shock the Water Weekly
Shocking the water is another key part of maintaining it. This involves adding chemicals to the water to raise the chlorine levels for a short period. Doing this removes contaminants and disinfects the water. For more information about which hot tub chemicals you need on hand, contact a hot tub dealer in your area.
4. Keep the Filter Clean†
Your hot tub’s filter is what helps to keep the water clean†. Over time, it can become clogged with dirt and other debris. That’s why it’s important to check it regularly and give it a good cleaning† once or twice a month.
5. Drain and Refill Your Hot Tub with Fresh Water
It’s a good idea to completely drain and refill your hot tub with fresh water every 3 or 4 months. This helps to remove any built-up contaminants. When doing this, be sure to clean† the inside of your tub with a mild cleaner to remove any dirt or grime.
6. Replace the Filter Every Year
Even if you clean† your hot tub filter regularly, it will eventually need to be replaced. Depending on the type of filter you have, this should be done once or twice a year. This will ensure that your hot tub’s filtration system is always working properly.
7. Prepare Your Hot Tub for Winter
When the colder weather hits, there are a few things you’ll need to do to prepare your hot tub for winter. This includes draining and refilling the water ahead of schedule, keeping the water at the ideal temperature, using antifreeze in the equipment, and covering the hot tub. By taking these steps, you can help prevent any damage to your hot tub during the winter months.
Hot tub maintenance is essential for keeping your hot tub clean† and in good working condition. By following these tips, you can enjoy your hot tub to the fullest all year long, without any problems.
Download our free buyer’s guide for helpful advice on choosing a hot tub that’s right for you.