Owning a hot tub or spa is a luxury, but if you don’t keep it clean, that relaxing soak can quickly turn into a bacterial swamp. A well-maintained hot tub not only lasts longer but also ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a new spa owner or a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about keeping your hot tub crystal clear, hygienic, and in top working condition.
Why Cleaning Your Hot Tub Matters
Hot tubs are warm, humid environments, making them the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, algae, and mold. Without regular cleaning, you could be exposing yourself to skin infections, eye irritation, and even respiratory issues. Here’s why routine maintenance is crucial:
- Prevents Bacterial Growth: Stagnant, warm water can harbor harmful bacteria like Pseudomonas and Legionella, which can lead to infections and hot tub folliculitis.
- Extends Equipment Life: Pumps, filters, and jets last longer when they aren’t clogged with gunk.
- Maintains Water Clarity and Quality: Nobody wants to soak in cloudy, smelly water.
- Saves Money in the Long Run: Regular upkeep prevents expensive repairs and prolongs the life of your tub.
Now, let’s dive into how to keep your hot tub in tip-top shape.
The Basic Cleaning Routine
1. Skim the Surface Daily
Every day (or before each use), use a skimmer net to remove leaves, insects, and debris. This takes only a minute but prevents the buildup of organic matter that can throw off your water balance.
2. Check and Clean the Filters
Your hot tub’s filters are its first line of defense against contaminants. Keeping them clean is essential for proper water flow and sanitation.
- Weekly: Remove the filters and rinse them with a garden hose to wash away dirt and debris.
- Monthly: Soak the filters in a filter-cleaning solution to dissolve oils and mineral deposits.
- Every 3-4 Months: Replace the filters if they show signs of wear, tearing, or reduced efficiency.
3. Test and Balance Water Chemistry
Hot tub water chemistry isn’t just about avoiding a funky smell—it’s crucial for safety and equipment longevity.
- pH Level: Ideal range is 7.4-7.6. Too low, and the water becomes corrosive; too high, and it can cause scale buildup.
- Alkalinity: Should be between 100-150 ppm. This acts as a buffer to keep pH stable.
- Sanitizer Levels:
- Chlorine: Keep at 3-5 ppm for proper disinfection.
- Bromine: Maintain 3-6 ppm if using bromine instead of chlorine.
Test strips or a digital tester will help you monitor these levels. If they’re off, adjust using pH increaser/decreaser or alkalinity adjusters. The Taylor Test Kit is community’s generally most recommended testing solution.
4. Shock the Water
Shocking removes organic contaminants that regular sanitizer may not break down. This keeps the water clear and odor-free.
- Bi-weekly: Use a non-chlorine shock (oxidizer) to break down organic waste.
- After Heavy Use: If you’ve had guests over, shock the water afterward to eliminate body oils, lotions, and bacteria.
5. Drain and Refill Every 3-4 Months
Even with regular maintenance, hot tub water accumulates dissolved solids over time, making it harder to balance. Draining and refilling is essential to keep things fresh.
- Step 1: Flush the System: Add a plumbing line flush product and run the jets for 15-20 minutes to break down biofilm and built-up grime inside the pipes.
- Step 2: Drain the Tub: Use a submersible pump or gravity drain to empty the water.
- Step 3: Scrub the Shell: Use a non-abrasive cleaner to wipe down the interior. Avoid household cleaners, as they may cause foaming or chemical reactions.
- Step 4: Rinse and Refill: Rinse thoroughly before refilling with fresh water. Use a pre-filter on your hose to reduce impurities.
- Step 5: Balance Water Chemistry Again: Once refilled, test and adjust pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels before using.
Deep Cleaning and Extra Maintenance
1. Clean the Cover
Your hot tub cover protects your spa from debris and heat loss, but it also collects dirt, mildew, and odors. Keep it clean with these steps:
- Monthly: Wipe down the cover with a mild soap solution.
- Condition the Vinyl: Use a UV protectant to prevent cracking and fading.
- Air It Out: Leave the cover off for a few hours occasionally to prevent moisture buildup.
2. Inspect and Clean the Jets
Mineral deposits can clog the jets, reducing their efficiency.
- Every Few Months: Remove the jets (if possible) and soak them in a vinegar solution to dissolve calcium buildup.
- Run Vinegar Through the System: If jets feel weak, add a cup of vinegar to the water and run the jets to help dissolve scale inside the plumbing.
3. Preventing Foam and Scum
Foamy water or a greasy scum line around the tub is usually caused by leftover lotions, soaps, or improper chemical balance.
- Shower Before Using: Rinsing off lotions and sweat reduces contamination.
- Use a Hot Tub Enzyme Cleaner: These help break down oils naturally.
- Tennis Ball Trick: Toss a few clean tennis balls into the water—they absorb body oils and lotions!
Troubleshooting Common Hot Tub Issues
1. Cloudy Water
- Possible Causes: Improper pH balance, dirty filters, or too many dissolved solids.
- Solution: Shock the water, clean the filters, and test the chemical balance.
2. Green or Smelly Water
- Possible Causes: Algae growth or bacterial contamination.
- Solution: Increase sanitizer levels, shock the water, and clean filters.
3. Foamy Water
- Possible Causes: Residual soap, lotions, or excess organic waste.
- Solution: Use an anti-foam product and clean the filters. Remind users to shower before soaking.
4. White Scale Buildup
- Possible Causes: Hard water with high calcium levels.
- Solution: Use a calcium reducer or run a vinegar solution through the system.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might need an expert.
- Annual Inspection: Get a professional to check the pump, heater, and plumbing.
- Persistent Chemical Issues: If you can’t balance your water no matter what you do, a pro can analyze it.
- Mechanical Failures: Leaks, overheating, or non-working jets should be handled by an expert.
Final Thoughts
A clean hot tub isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety, longevity, and the best soaking experience possible. With a little routine care and the right maintenance plan, your spa will stay fresh, inviting, and problem-free. Take a few minutes each week to keep things in check, and your hot tub will reward you with years of worry-free relaxation. Now go enjoy that soak—you’ve earned it!