Caring for Hot Tub – Tips, Maintenance, and Cleaning Chemicals

Hot tub is a luxurious addition to our home, providing a relaxing escape from the stresses of daily life. To ensure that your hot tub remains a source of enjoyment and relaxation, proper care and maintenance is essential. Through this blog, we are going to share some important tips and tricks for weekly and monthly maintenance, effective cleaning techniques, and the recommended cleaning products endorsed by manufacturers for your hot tub.

Maintaining your hot tub on weekly basis prevent the build-up of contaminants and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to your weekly hot tub maintenance routine:

• Check and Adjust Water Chemistry:
  1. Test the water using a reliable water testing kit.
  2. Adjust pH levels to fall within the recommended range (typically 7.2 to 7.8).
  3. Ensure that the sanitizer levels (chlorine or bromine) are within the recommended range.
• Clean the Filter:
  1. Turn off the hot tub and remove the filter.
  2. Rinse the filter with a hose to remove debris.
  3. Soak the filter in a filter-cleaning solution to remove any built-up oils or minerals.
  4. Allow the filter to dry thoroughly before reinserting it into the hot tub.
• Scrub the Interior:
  1. Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft brush to scrub the interior surfaces of the hot tub.
  2. Pay special attention to areas with visible scum or build-up.
• Inspect and Clean Skimmer Basket:
  1. Remove any debris from the skimmer basket to ensure proper water circulation.
  2. Clean the basket with a hose if needed.
• Check and Clean Waterline:

Wipe down the waterline with a spa surface cleaner to prevent the formation of waterline deposits.

• Shock the Water:

Add a shock treatment to the water to eliminate contaminants and maintain water clarity.

In addition to the weekly routine, monthly maintenance is essential to address more detailed aspects of hot tub care. Always remember cleaning your hot tub prevents germs and bacteria that may cause diseases or skin infections. Follow these steps to keep your hot tub in optimal condition:

• Drain and Refill:
  1. Drain the hot tub completely to remove any accumulated impurities.
  2. Clean the interior surfaces with a mild spa surface cleaner.
  3. Refill the hot tub with fresh water.
• Inspect and Lubricate Components:
  1. Check the hot tub components, such as jets, valves, and O-rings, for signs of wear or damage.
  2. Lubricate moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
• Deep Clean the Filter:
  1. Soak the hot tub filter in a filter-cleaning solution overnight for a more thorough cleaning.
  2. Rinse the filter thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it.
• Check Seals and Gaskets:
  1. Inspect the seals and gaskets for any signs of wear or deterioration.
  2. Replace any damaged seals to prevent leaks.
• Inspect and Clean the Cover:
  1. Check the hot tub cover for any damage or waterlogging.
  2. Clean the cover with a mild detergent and apply a vinyl protectant to extend its lifespan.

Cleaning a hot tub is essential to maintain water quality, prevent the growth of bacteria and algae, and prolong the life of the hot tub components. Here are some common hot tub cleaning chemicals and their purposes:

• Chlorine or Bromine Tablets:
  1. Purpose: These are sanitizing agents that kill bacteria and other microorganisms in the water.
  2. Usage: Place the tablets in a floating dispenser or a built-in feeder to maintain a consistent level of sanitizer in the water.
• Shock Treatment:
  1. Purpose: Shocking the hot tub eliminates contaminants, breaks down organic matter, and boosts sanitizer effectiveness.
  2. Usage: Typically used weekly or after heavy use. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage.
• pH Increaser and Decreaser:
  1. Purpose: Adjusts the pH level of the water. Proper pH balance ensures the effectiveness of sanitizers and prevents equipment corrosion.
  2. Usage: Follow the instructions to raise (pH increaser) or lower (pH decreaser) the pH to the recommended range (usually 7.2 to 7.8).
• Alkalinity Increaser:
  1. Purpose: Stabilizes the pH level by controlling alkalinity.
  2. Usage: Follow instructions to maintain the recommended alkalinity level (usually between 80-120 ppm).
• Calcium Hardness Increaser:
  1. Purpose: Adjusts calcium hardness to prevent corrosion or scaling in the hot tub.
  2. Usage: Follow instructions to maintain the recommended calcium hardness level (usually between 150-250 ppm).
• Clarifiers:
  1. Purpose: Clears cloudy water by causing small particles to clump together for easier filtration.
  2. Usage: Follow instructions for dosage; typically used as needed.
• Enzyme Cleaners:
  1. Purpose: Breaks down organic matter, such as oils and lotions, to prevent scum lines and reduce the load on sanitizers.
  2. Usage: Used regularly as part of routine maintenance.
• Filter Cleaner:
  1. Purpose: Removes debris and contaminants from the hot tub filter.
  2. Usage: Follow instructions for regular cleaning, usually done monthly.
• Scale Inhibitor:
  1. Purpose: Prevents the formation of scale caused by minerals in hard water.
  2. Usage: Follow instructions to add the appropriate amount based on the water hardness.
• Metal Sequestrate:
  1. Purpose: Binds to metals in the water to prevent staining and discoloration.
  2. Usage: Use as needed, especially in areas with high metal content in the water.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each chemical and test the water regularly to ensure it meets the recommended balance. Additionally, consider draining and refilling the hot tub periodically to maintain water quality.

Proper care and maintenance of your hot tub are essential to prolong its lifespan and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. By following regular weekly and monthly routine, employing effective cleaning techniques, and using manufacturer-recommended products, you can keep your hot tub in optimal condition for years to come. Remember, a well-maintained hot tub is not only a source of relaxation but also an investment in your health and well-being.