Whether you’re looking to purchase a hot tub or currently own one, there is built in maintenance that goes along with it. You should know that cleaning your hot tub is all part of the spa ownership experience. If you are new to hot tub ownership or don’t know how to clean your hot tub, it is time.

Why Clean Your Hot Tub?

Hot tubs need to be cleaned and drained on a regular basis. Yes, there are chemicals and filtration and additional provisions built in, but there is also “gunk”. Gunk is everything from body oils, lotions, cosmetics, sweat, hair products, the list goes on and can get worse. All of this “gunk” creates bacteria and biofilm. It can get really gross. So, when is it a good time to act?

How Often?

It is a good idea to drain and clean your hot tub quarterly. This is putting aside any emergency cleaning (or if you can’t keep your water clear). Remember, preventing bad spa water is always better than needing to correct it.

Before You Drain…

Your spa lines need to be flushed. Biofilm can happen even if your chemicals are on point. Bacteria love biofilm, it’s their food. You will need to add a cleaner to your hot tub to flush the water lines. This is a special type of cleaner formulated to break down biofilm. Make sure you follow the directions on the back of your spa cleaner (or spa purge). Your spa will need to circulate for a minimum of 20 minutes, but preferably overnight. Please note, spa cleaner may create gross foam. This is a good thing. It means your cleaner is working.

It Is Time.

Caution. Avoid electrical shock. Turn off your power breaker before you do anything else. It is a good idea to check your city’s ordinances to ensure you’re adhering to the law when emptying your hot tub. Now, hook up the hose and let your tub empty. During the emptying process, you can move your house around so water doesn’t build up in one place.

• Clean or replace your spa filters. This depends on how old they are and what type of condition they are in.
• Spray down your hot tub shell with diluted white vinegar, shell cleaner, or a bleach solution. Wipe it down thoroughly to remove any hidden algae or bacteria. Remember to rinse.
• Check all jets. These need to be open to reduce the risk of water pressure issues.

It is now time to refill. Remove the drains. Do not leave your hot tub unattended while filling. It is also a good idea to use a hose filter when refilling your hot tub. Use this time to clean your spa cover as well. Once your hot tub is at desired level you can turn your breaker back on.