Typically, a swim spa’s filter should be changed every 6 to 12 months; however, this will depend on various factors. Aspects like the number of people who use it, how often it’s being run, etc., will all factor into this timeframe. Other things like the
type of cover you have and any rainwater, dirt or debris that enters your spa will also play a role in the state of your filter. Here’s what you need to know about changing your filter, why it’s important, and what you can do to increase the longevity of your filtration system.
Why is Changing your Swim Spa Filter so Important?
By changing your swim spa’s filter regularly, you are actively ensuring that every part of your swim spa is functioning as it needs to. If you notice that your water has become murky or has a smell, then it’s likely a good time to change your filter. Changing your swim spa filter sooner than 6 to 12 months might be necessary if you notice these signs or if you are constantly running your spa. Even if you aren’t always in it when it’s running, the water is still constantly filtering through. This means that if there is any dirt, debris, or even creams or deodorants from people using it, all of this is continuously cycling through and will eventually break down the filter over time. However, this isn’t something that should alarm you. By regularly checking the state of your filter and changing it when your instinct tells you it is the right time to do so, it’s an easy fix. This is also a proactive way of ensuring that other parts of your swim spa, like the pump, are not being damaged. Because when it comes down to it, it is much less expensive to change your filter than it is to deal with possible repairs down the line. And by keeping an eye on your filer, you can prevent that from needing to be the case. This isn’t to say you should be changing the filter every few months, but we do recommend changing it sooner than the suggested time frame if you feel it needs it.
Besides the state of the actual swim spa itself, it’s also essential to keep your filter clean
† for the health of the people using it. The pH level of a swim spa should be 7.4 -7.6. Therefore, if it’s outside that level, you will likely need to add chemicals or even drain and refill your water if it’s at a point where you’re unable to bring it back to where it needs to be.
Keeping Your Swim Spa Clean†
Although it’s important to keep an eye on your swim spa’s filter, you can also help with the longevity of your water by doing other things. The very best preventative thing you can do for your swim spa’s water is to have a high-quality cover that fits well. Whenever your swim spa is not in use, you should have your cover on. This will help keep bugs, leaves, dirt, rainwater and more out of the water, which will always help maintain the right pH levels, as any outside influence can affect this.
As previously mentioned, a pH reading of 7.4 – 7.6 is what you’re aiming for. In order to maintain this, you will need to be testing your water regularly to see what the chemical levels are and add more when need be. If the levels are commonly beyond that reading, or you find it to be murky, or you constantly need to add chemicals, you should change your water. At this time, you can also clean
† your pump, jets, filtration system and every other part of your spa before refilling it with water. All of these steps will help the longevity of your filter and, ultimately, your swim spa as a whole.
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