Clean Your Hot Tub Regularly!
PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT
Here’s How:
To keep your hot tub sparkling and inviting, there's a simple, short, routine you can follow every week or two (I do It every week and my hot tub works perfectly after many years of use). This involves:
BASIC CLEAN (EVERY WEEK OR TWO)
Skimming the surface: Use a net to scoop away any leaves, bugs, or debris floating on the water.
Wiping down the shell: Grab a sponge and some mild cleanser to remove dirt and grime from the hot tub's interior.
Giving the cover some love: Don't forget to clean the spa cover! Wipe it down to prevent mildew and debris buildup.
Filter Cleaning: Spray the filter with a garden hose to remove any debris. In the alternative soak your filter in a bucket filled with warm water and a mild filter cleaner (NEVER use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners). In order for your hot tub to work efficiently we can’t stress enough the importance of cleaning your filters every week, no exceptions!
Testing the water: Maintaining the right water chemistry is crucial. Use a test kit to check the pH and sanitizer levels and adjust them if necessary
To keep your hot tub sparkling clean and functioning optimally, perform a deep clean every three months. This thorough process involves:
THOROUGH CLEANING-(EVERY 3 MONTHS)
Draining and refilling: Completely empty the hot tub, adhering to local water disposal guidelines. Then, refill with fresh water.
Cleaning the shell: Scrub the hot tub’s surface with a dedicated cleaner, diluted white vinegar, or diluted bleach. Focus on areas prone to grime, such as the waterline. Rinse thoroughly.
*Freshening the filter: Remove and clean the filters using a hose and hot tub cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools. Consider replacing filters over a year old. Please see below for more detailed information regarding filter cleaning and/or replacement.
Purging the plumbing: Eliminate biofilm buildup in jets and pipes using a spa purge solution or hot tub cleaner designed for this purpose. Biofilm buildup is a slimy layer of bacteria and other microorganisms that can form on surfaces in moist environments, especially in hot tub plumbing. Biofilm buildup in your hot tub will harbor harmful bacteria, cause unpleasant odors, reduce water clarity, and decrease the efficiency of your hot tub's equipment so it must be eliminated.
Balancing the water: Adjust water chemistry to ensure a safe and enjoyable soak. Below are some chemical guideline levels to help you achieve your perfectly balanced water withing your hot tub:
-pH: This measures acidity or alkalinity. The ideal range is 7.2 to 7.8. Use pH increaser or decrease to adjust.
-Total Alkalinity (TA): This helps stabilize pH levels. The ideal range is 80-120 ppm. Use TA increaser or decrease to adjust.
-Calcium Hardness: Prevents scale buildup. The ideal range is 150-250 ppm. Use calcium hardness increaser if needed.
-Sanitizer: Kills bacteria and algae. Chlorine or bromine are common options.
-Balancing Process
Test the water: Use a test strip or liquid test kit to measure pH, TA, and calcium hardness.
Adjust as needed: Add the necessary chemicals to bring levels within the ideal range.
Retest: Wait a few hours, then retest to ensure levels are stable.
Maintain: Regularly test and adjust chemicals as needed to keep water balanced.
Important: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for chemical dosages. Adding too much of any chemical can be harmful.
Tip: It's easier to maintain balanced water than to correct it after it's off balance. Regular testing and small adjustments are key.
Please Note-All hot tub cleaners/chemicals and filters are available at most retailers like Amazon, Lowes, Home Depot and so on.
How to Add Chemicals to Your Hot Tub
-Maintaining clean and balanced hot tub water is essential for a relaxing soak. Follow these simple steps to add chemicals effectively:
-Test Your Water: Use pH test strips or a digital meter to accurately measure your water's pH level, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and sanitizer (chlorine or bromine) levels.
-Prepare the Hot Tub: Turn on the jets and close the air valves to enhance chemical dispersion.
-Measure Chemicals: Carefully measure the required amount of chemicals based on your water test results and product instructions. For precision, double-check your measurements based on manufacturers specifications.
-Add Chemicals: Gradually introduce the chemicals into the hot tub water, allowing them to disperse evenly. Important: Always add chemicals to the water, not water to the chemicals.
-Circulate and Aerate: Keep the hot tub cover off and let the jets run for approximately 30 minutes to facilitate chemical distribution and off-gassing.
-Retest Water: Check the water's balance again to ensure proper levels.
-Repeat as Needed: Continue adjusting chemical levels based on test results until your water is crystal clear and balanced.
Understanding Hot Tub Water Chemistry
pH: Measures acidity or alkalinity. The ideal range is 7.2 to 7.8.
Alkalinity: Buffers pH changes. The ideal range is 80-120 ppm.
Calcium Hardness: Prevents scale buildup. The ideal range varies but is typically 150-250 ppm.
Sanitizer: Kills bacteria and algae. Chlorine or bromine levels should be maintained according to product instructions.
Common Hot Tub Chemicals
Chlorine or Bromine: Sanitizers to kill bacteria and algae.
pH Increaser/Decreaser: Adjusts pH levels.
Alkalinity Increaser/Decreaser: Adjusts alkalinity levels.
Calcium Hardness Increaser: Increases calcium hardness.
Clarifier: Helps remove cloudy particles.
Shock: Oxidizes contaminants and boosts sanitizer levels.
Safety Precautions
Always read and follow chemical product labels carefully.
Wear gloves and protective eyewear when handling chemicals.
Store chemicals in a cool, dry, and secure location, away from children and pets.
Never mix different chemicals together.
Avoid inhaling chemical fumes.
Regular water testing and chemical adjustments are crucial for maintaining a clean and enjoyable hot tub experience.
*Deep Filter Cleaner
Deep Clean Your Hot Tub Filter
A clean filter is essential for clear, healthy hot tub water. Here’s a simple method to restore your filter’s efficiency:
Supplies:
Large bucket or tub
Warm water
Hot tub filter cleaner (e.g., HTH, Spa Marvel, Power Soak, Haviland Spa Pure)
Steps:
Prepare the Cleaning Solution: Fill your bucket or tub with warm water. Add the filter cleaner according to the product instructions.
Soak the Filter: Completely immerse the dirty filter in the cleaning solution.
Allow Time to Work: Let the filter soak for several hours. For heavily soiled filters, consider an overnight soak.
Rinse Thoroughly: After soaking, rinse the filter with clean water to remove all cleaning solution residue.
Reinstall: Place the clean filter back in your hot tub.
Tip: For stubborn grime, consider using a gentle brush to loosen debris before soaking.
By regularly cleaning your hot tub filter, you'll improve water clarity, extend filter life, and enhance your overall hot tub experience.
Extend Your Hot Tub Water's Life
Want to simplify hot tub maintenance and cut back on chemicals? Try these easy tips:
Shower Beforehand: Rinsing off removes body oils and lotions that can contaminate the water.
Keep Hair Dry: Hair products can also contribute to water imbalances.
Embrace Hot Tub Accessories: Sponges or tennis balls can absorb excess oils.
Establish a Routine: Regular cleaning, filter maintenance, and water testing are key.
By following these steps, you can reduce the amount of shock and sanitizer needed to keep your hot tub water clean and inviting.
