Why Hot Tub Cleaning Matters
Cleaning your hot tub is crucial for your health and also for preserving the tub’s lifespan. Although hot tubs are associated with relaxation and comfort, not cleaning the tub regularly can turn your hot tub into the ideal environment for bacteria, algae, and other harmful contaminants to grow.
One of the main reasons cleaning your hot tub matters is your health and hygiene. Warm water is often the ideal environment for bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa to grow, which can cause skin rashes and ear infections. Without proper sanitisation, hot tub users are at risk of developing various illnesses, including respiratory issues and urinary tract infections. Routine cleaning, including changing the water, scrubbing surfaces, and monitoring the tub's chemical levels, can all reduce these health risks.
Another reason why cleaning your hot tub matters is the performance and lifespan of the hot tub. Dirt, oils, and other debris can clog the filters, jets, and pumps, forcing the system to work harder over time, which can potentially lead to expensive repairs. Regular maintenance helps these components function efficiently and extends the lifespan of the unit.
How Often Should You Clean Your Hot Tub?
It's a good idea to check and balance the water’s chemical levels after each use or at least once a day when the hot tub is used frequently. This includes testing for pH, sanitiser (chlorine or bromine), and alkalinity levels. Also, make sure to remove any debris like leaves or insects if the tub is outdoors.
The waterline should be washed at least once a week with a sponge or cloth to prevent the build-up of oils and grime. You should also shock the water with a sanitiser to kill any bacteria and contaminants that normal sanitising levels might miss.
It's important to clean your hot tub filters once a month. These filters can trap dirt, oils, and other debris that can make the water cloudy and strain the system. You should also rinse the filters thoroughly with a hose and soak them in a filter-cleaning solution to remove any built-up residue.
On average, you should drain and refill your hot tub every 3 to 4 months. Over time, dissolved solids from sweat, lotions, and chemicals can accumulate and lower your water quality. Draining the tub, cleaning the shell, and refilling the tub with fresh water helps maintain your hygiene levels and extends the lifespan of the hot tub.
It’s also wise to do a deep clean of the entire system, including inspecting and servicing the pumps, jets, and the cover at least once a year. By following this regular cleaning schedule, your hot tub will stay clean, safe, and enjoyable all year round.
How to Drain the Hot Tub
Regularly draining your hot tub is essential for keeping the system operating smoothly and safely. Over time, substances like body oils, lotions, sweat, and dissolved minerals accumulate in the water. By draining and refilling your hot tub every three to four months, you can preserve your water quality, remove contaminants and extend the lifespan of your hot tub.
Before starting the draining process, make sure to shut off the power at the circuit breaker to avoid damaging the pump or heating system. Most hot tubs come with a drain outlet attached, so you can connect a garden hose to it and pour the water into an appropriate disposal spot. After securing the hose, you should open the drain and allow the water to flow out. The draining time generally takes between one and two hours, depending on the hot tub’s capacity.
Once the water has been drained, you should then use a wet/dry vacuum or an absorbent sponge to clean out any remaining water from the seats, footwell, and plumbing lines. Once the tub is completely empty, clean the interior surfaces with a hot tub cleaner to remove any lingering build-ups or residue. After cleaning the tub, close the drain valve, refill the tub with clean water, turn the system back on, and adjust the chemical levels to ensure the water is properly balanced.
How to Clean the Filters
Dirty filters can lead to cloudy water, unpleasant odours, and harmful bacteria growth. Clogged filters also put stress on the pump and heater, which can shorten their lifespan or cause them to malfunction. Keeping the filters clean ensures the water is safe and that the entire system runs efficiently.
When you're cleaning a hot tub, you should always turn off the power before removing the filters to avoid damaging the system. The filters are typically found inside the filter well. After turning off the power, carefully remove them, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Ideally, you should use a garden hose to spray the filters, and you should always rinse between the pleats to remove any loose debris and build-up. You should avoid using high-pressure settings at all costs since they can damage the filter material.
For a deeper clean, you should soak the filters in a hot tub filter-cleaning solution for at least 8 hours or overnight. This helps break down oils, lotions, and grime that rinsing alone can’t remove.
After soaking the filters, rinse them thoroughly to remove any leftover cleaner, then let the filters dry completely before you reinstall them. Once the filters are completely dry, place them back in the hot tub, turn the power back on, and ensure the system is running smoothly.
Get in touch if you're looking for professional hot tub cleaning services that can keep your spa clean, safe, and running smoothly. From thorough deep cleans and filter servicing to water treatment and balancing, we can handle it all.
