Being a hot tub owner also means being responsible for regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure your hot tub is clean and keeps working efficiently. Taking the time to inspect your hot tub regularly will also help prevent any potential long term damage.
Does a hot tub require a lot of maintenance?
Not necessarily. By understanding the basics of hot tub cleaning and by adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, your hot tub will most likely keep running smoothly. Hot tub maintenance is not difficult but it is important to stay on top of it, as it will save you money in the long term.
The Basics: What you need to know
- Maintain good water flow
- Adhere to a cleaning schedule
- Keep the chemicals in the water balanced
CHEMICAL BASICS
- Water tests & temperature checks
- Alkalinity levels
- pH levels
- Sanitizers
- Maintenance Checklist
Weekly Maintenance
Your hot tub’s weekly maintenance doesn’t have to take up a lot of time. It can, in fact, be done rather quickly. It is worth scheduling your maintenance tasks at a specific time and day. This will help ensure you are sticking to a regular schedule. You can even add the maintenance tasks to your weekly chore list and divide it up with other family members.
Think about using an app, a calendar or a chore board to stay on top of what is done and what still needs to get done.
Remove and clean the filter
- PRO TIP: The first thing to do is to remove your filter and rinse it with a garden hose. In case of debris or dirt, use a soft brush or special nozzle to clean between each of the filter’s pleats.
- GOOD TO KNOW: The filter is one of the most important parts of your hot tub: if it’s blocked, the whole filtration system as well as the motor may get damaged.
Add an antifoaming dissolver to remove excess foam
- GOOD TO KNOW: If your hot tub starts foaming or creating a lot of bubbles, you may want to add some defoamer. Although the foam is not harmful, it can cause damage to your cover. Too much foam can damage the underside of your spa cover if left untreated.
- Use a flashlight to inspect under the hot tub and remove the exterior panels to inspect the undercarriage and electrical components (heater, engine, etc.) as well.
Inspect your hot tub for any signs of damage
- PRO TIP: Make sure you inspect the inside and outside of your hot tub. Any cracks or holes should be fixed immediately.
- Use a flashlight to inspect under the hot tub and remove the exterior panels to inspect the undercarriage and electrical components (heater, engine, etc.) as well.
Inspect your hot tub cover
- PRO TIP: Take your cover off completely. Check the underside of the cover thoroughly. If you have a lifter, make sure the hinges are well lubricated and that they open and close without issues.
Test the pH and adjust the chemical levels as needed
- PRO TIP: Use water strip tests and then add the necessary chemicals to bring the water back to the correct ratio.
What to check multiple times per week
- Is water clear or cloudy?
- Does the water have a foul odor?
- Is the pH level high or low?
- Is the alkalinity level high or low?
- If Chlorine is used, are the levels in check?
- If Bromine is used, are the levels in check?
What to check weekly
- Is there debris in the hot tub?
- Remove the cover
What to check bi-weekly
- Condition and clean
- Rips and tears
- Underside of cover
Hot tub maintenance is simple, but it also needs to be consistent. Follow your maintenance schedule and you will avoid some potentially nasty problems!
