Keeping your swim spa in top condition requires more than just letting the cleaning† components do their job. One of the most important maintenance tasks is to clean† or change the filter regularly. Changing the filter of your swim spa can positively affect both its longevity and the health and safety of those who will use it. Below, we’ll be discussing the importance of changing your swim spa’s filter and how often you should do it.
What Does the Swim Spa Filter Do?
The swim spa filter is responsible for filtering out any debris, dirt, leaves, and bugs that may have made their way into the water. In doing so, it helps to keep the water clean† and clear. It also helps prevent the build-up of grime and gunk on the walls and floor of your swim spa. As you can imagine, a dirty filter can lead to a dirty swim spa, which is certainly not ideal if you’re trying to relax or do a workout! Your swim spa’s filter also helps to circulate the water, which is important for maintaining water quality and preventing stagnation. In addition, when the filter is working well, the pump will also be able to do its job efficiently since unnecessary strain will be avoided.
What Happens When You Don’t Maintain Your Swim Spa’s Filter?
If you don’t clean† or change the filter in your swim spa regularly, it will eventually become clogged. This will cause problems such as;
- A decrease in water circulation
- Dirty and cloudy water due to bacteria and algae
- The build-up of grime and gunk on the walls and floor
- Accelerated wear and tear of the pump
- Higher energy bills and running costs as the other components use more power to overcome the resistance of the clogged filter
As you can see, not only will the quality of the water suffer, but your swim spa may also not last as long as it could. However, it’s also not necessary to constantly worry about it, but instead simply know what the signs are that it could need a change.
How Do You Know When It’s Time For A Replacement?
As a general rule of thumb, most swim spas will need the filter changed between six months and one year. However, this can vary depending on several different factors, including:
- How often the swim spa is used
- The number of people using it
- The type and size of the swim spa
- The chemical balance of the water
In most cases, you’ll be able to tell when it’s time to change the filter by looking at it. If you notice that the filter looks dirty or clogged, it’s probably time to replace it. You may also notice that the water in your swim spa isn’t as clear as it used to be, or that the pump seems to be working harder than usual. These are both signs that the filter needs changing. Another indication would be the chemical balance of the water in your swim spa. The pH level should be between 7.4 and 7.6. If it’s not, you should consider changing the filter.
What Are Other Maintenance Steps to Take?
In addition to changing the filter, there are a few other maintenance tasks you should do to keep your swim spa in tip-top condition. These include:
- Cleaning† the shell with a non-abrasive cleaner and soft cloth
- Vacuuming the floor and walls regularly
- Checking and adjusting the pH levels of the water on a regular basis
It’s also a good idea to talk to a spa retailer near you for more advice on how to maintain your swim spa. Now that you have a clear idea of why you need to know the best times to change your swim spa’s filter, we hope you feel more at ease moving forward with its maintenance. For more information on the basics of swim spa ownership, download our free buyer’s guide.