A hot tub is a popular relaxation method you can enjoy in the comfort of your home with your loved ones. However, you need to regularly clean and maintain it to get the best out of it.
Below are a few methods you can use to do this.
Read on to learn more.
Maintain the water chemistry
Your hot tub requires clean water with well-balanced chemistry.
To achieve this, take regular tests of your hot tub water – at least twice weekly – and adjust the chemistry level as required.
Examine the water for pH levels, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and sanitizer levels.
The suitable chemistry of your hot tub water involves the following:
- Bromine: 2.0 to 4.0 ppm
- Chlorine: 1.0 to 3.0 ppm
- pH: 7.4 to 7.6
- Calcium hardness: 150 to 250 ppm
- Total alkalinity: 80 to 120 ppm
Clean your spa filter
Hot tubs contain filters that remove contaminants, like body oils, dirt, lotions, and chemical products.
These filters are often located under the skimmer basket, making it easy to access them from the side of your tub. Also, they are often present in the form of a small tank assembly you can access from beneath your spa.
Clean your spa filter every one or two weeks or according to your manufacturer’s recommendations. And if you have a pressure gauge, clean your filter when the pressure rises as high as eight or 10 PSI.
Further, regularly cleaning your spa filter damages its fibers, which makes it less efficient. Consequently, you need to replace your spa filter as well. Do this every 12 months or every 10 to 15 cleanings.
Clean your hot tub
Drain your hot tub every three to four months. Also, conduct a thorough cleanup of its surfaces using quality cleaning products that can remove phosphates, nitrates, and other contaminants.
Further, remove dirt and debris by vacuuming your tub seats and floors with a small vacuum specially designed for hot tubs. You can also use floating debris with a simple skimmer set or a skimmer net.
Air out your hot tub cover
Your hot tub cover is a vital part of your hot tub as it helps to limit running costs. It functions by keeping your spa water at optimal temperature and ready to use whenever you are. Hence, always cover your tub when you aren’t using the tub.
Further, increase the lifespan of your hot tub cover by removing it at least twice a week. Then, spread it out in the open for a few hours to give it enough breathing time.
You can remove it with a spa lifter or gently with your hands.
Safety tips for using your hot tub
Keep the following in mind whenever you want to use your hot tub:
- Wear gloves when cleaning or changing your hot tub filter
- Do not use glass in or around the tub
- Do not use electrical appliances in or around the tub
- Do not leave your children unattended in the spa
- Avoid alcoholic beverages before or while using your tub
- Do not use a hot tub if you are pregnant or have any cardiovascular condition
Conclusion
Maintaining your hot tub involves the following:
- Testing your water chemistry, and adjusting it two to four times weekly
- Cleaning your spa filter weekly or bi-weekly, and replacing it every 12 months
- Cleaning your spa regularly, and changing the water every three or four months
- Airing out your hot tub cover at least two times weekly
By adhering to these tips, you will find it much easier to maintain your hot tub. However, we advise that you hire professional hot tub cleaners to ensure you get a high-quality cleaning service.