Introduction
Filling a hot tub is a job that may seem daunting at first, but is actually quite straightforward with a few tips! Learn the steps to filling your hot tub quickly and easily. In this article, we’ll cover the four must-know tips for how to fill your hot tub, plus five answered questions to further answer any of your own. Read on to ensure your hot tub filling duty is a breeze!
1. Prepare Your Hot Tub
The first thing to do when you are filling your hot tub is to prepare the hot tub and its surroundings. If possible, it can be helpful to place the hot tub in the most convenient place to easily fill – for example, near a hose spigot. Make sure the area around the hot tub is free of debris and your hose is able to reach it. If your hot tub and/or hose are subject to freezing temperatures in the winter, make sure to bring them inside and store them in a warm place overnight.
Empty and Clean the Hot Tub
Before filling the hot tub, it’s best to empty and clean it. Make sure to run the filter through a cycle to remove any debris and brush away any dirt particles or other dirt deposits. If your hot tub has not been empty for some time, it may have gathered bacteria and other organisms at the bottom. Be sure to clean the bottom properly and completely to reduce the chance of infection from anything that may already be present.
Check Hot Tub Filters
If you’re in the process of filling a hot tub for the first time, you’ll need to check and replace any filters that may have been previously installed in the hot tub. Check your instructions manual to determine the filters needed for your hot tub and any specific instructions for their replacement. Make sure to properly install the filters before continuing.
2. Connect Hose To Hot Tub
The next step to filling your hot tub is to attach the hose to the hot tub. Connect the garden hose to the inlet of the hot tub and place the other end into a nearby spigot. Make sure the connection is secure and there are no leaks – if there are, tighten the connection or use additional sealant to ensure everything is sealed tightly.
Attach Suction Hose
In addition to the garden hose, attaching a suction hose is also recommended. This will prevent any debris from entering the hot tub and prevents water from leaking out. Attach the suction hose to the drain inlet of the hot tub and connect it to the garden hose outlet. Make sure the connection is tight and there are no leakage issues.
Turn On the Water
Once the hoses are securely connected, you can turn on the water. Open the valve of the spigot to start the water flowing. If you want to fill the hot tub quickly, turn the valve to its maximum. However, if you prefer to fill the hot tub slowly and don’t mind a longer wait, you can reduce the flow of the water by adjusting the valve or using a water-meter to measure the water’s flow rate.
3. Monitor and Check During Filling Trip
Once the water is running, monitor the filling of your hot tub. If the water is running too quickly, you can adjust the valve to slow the flow rate. Too quickly a filling can cause strain on the plumbing of the hot tub and even the electrical components. If the water is running too slowly, you can increase the valve’s opening to speed up the filling.
Check for Debris in Water
Make sure to keep an eye on any debris that may enter the water. If you notice something, you may need to stop the water flow, empty the hot tub, and start again from the beginning.
Check Water Temperature
It’s also important to check the water temperature along the way. If the water becomes too cold while filling it, you may need to warm it up or turn off the water entirely. Make sure the water temperature is suitable for your needs before continuing.
4. Test and Adjust
When the hot tub has been filled to capacity (or to the desired level), it’s time to test and adjust it. Make sure to check the water’s pH balance – if it’s off, you can adjust it with pH adjusters or other chemicals as needed. Turn on the filtration system and let it run for at least 45 minutes to make sure it is properly filtering the water before use.
Check Pressure Switches
Check all the pressure switches in the hot tub to make sure they are working properly. Turn on all the jets and adjust any flows and controls as needed. Finally, make sure the cirucuit breaker is turned on, as well as any other safety settings.
People Also Ask
Q: What are the steps for filling a hot tub?
The steps for filling a hot tub include preparing the hot tub and its surroundings, connecting the hose to the hot tub, monitoring and checking the water during the filling process, and testing and adjusting the settings afterwards.
Q: How long will it take to fill a hot tub?
The time it takes to fill a hot tub will depend on the size of the hot tub and the rate the water is flowing. Generally, it takes about an hour for a standard 400-500 gallon hot tub to fill up.
Q: Is it OK to let a hot tub fill overnight?
If the temperature outside is above freezing, it is generally safe to let your hot tub fill overnight. However, if the temperature is at or below freezing overnight, it is best to empty the hot tub and bring the hose and tub inside to avoid any damage done by the cold temperatures.
Q: Can I use tap water to fill my hot tub?
Yes, you can use tap water to fill your hot tub. However, make sure to check the water for any debris and for a suitable pH balance before use.
Q: What is the pH balance of hot tub water?
The pH balance of hot tub water should be between 7.2-7.8 for optimal health and relaxation.
Final Words
Filling your hot tub does not have to be a complicated process! With the four tips outlined above and the extra knowledge from the answered questions, you should be able to expertly fill your hot tub with ease. Investing in a water meter is also a great way to ensure the water is metered correctly and filling at an even pace. Visit your local pool supply store to find the right water meter for your hot tub. Enjoy your well-filled hot tub!