How to Maintain Your Hot Tub for Year-Round Enjoyment

Proper hot tub maintenance involves daily water testing, weekly chemical balancing, monthly filter cleaning, and quarterly deep cleaning to keep your spa clean, safe, and running efficiently.

1. Test Water Chemistry First. Use test strips or a digital tester to check chlorine or bromine levels (1-3 ppm), pH (7.2-7.6), and alkalinity (80-120 ppm). Adjust chemicals as needed using your spa's specific products. Test before each use and after heavy bather loads to prevent bacteria growth and equipment damage.
2. Scrub Away Buildup. Wipe down the waterline with a spa-specific cleaner and microfiber cloth to remove oils, lotions, and soap residue. This buildup creates a breeding ground for bacteria and makes your water look dirty. Pay special attention to areas around jets where debris tends to accumulate.
3. Oxidize Hidden Contaminants. Add non-chlorine shock or chlorine shock to oxidize organic contaminants that regular sanitizers can't eliminate. Run pumps on high speed for 20 minutes after adding shock, then wait at least 20 minutes before using the spa. This keeps water crystal clear and eliminates combined chlorine odors.
4. Keep Filters Pristine. Remove cartridge filters and rinse with a hose to remove debris. For deep cleaning, soak filters in filter cleaner solution for 8 hours, then rinse thoroughly. Rotate between two sets of filters so you always have clean ones ready. Replace filters every 12-15 months depending on usage.
5. Reset Water Completely. Calculate your drain interval using the formula: gallons divided by (daily users times 5). Turn off power, attach a hose to the drain valve, and empty completely. Clean the shell with spa cleaner, rinse thoroughly, then refill with fresh water. This prevents total dissolved solids from building up beyond manageable levels.
6. Spot Equipment Issues Early. Check pump seals for leaks, clean debris from skimmer baskets, and inspect the cover for tears or waterlogging. Clear leaves and debris from around the spa cabinet to ensure proper ventilation. Listen for unusual pump noises that might indicate mechanical problems requiring professional service.
7. Protect Your Cover. Clean the cover monthly with mild soap and water, treating the vinyl with UV protectant to prevent cracking. Check cover locks and hinges for proper operation. A waterlogged cover loses insulation value and becomes too heavy, so replace it if it feels unusually heavy or shows significant wear.