A Jacuzzi® hot tub can add an oasis of luxury, beauty and relaxation to your backyard. But keeping your hot tub crystal clear and inviting requires a commitment to cleaning and maintenance. Fortunately, by following a few simple steps, you can keep your Jacuzzi® hot tub sparkling and ready to enjoy for years to come.
1. Test and Balance your Water
The single most important step you can take to keep your hot tub crystal clear is to pay close attention to the water chemistry and make regular adjustments. This means actively keeping track of pH and alkalinity, using a combination of test strips and a digital test meter. Adding the right amount of chemical sanitizer, such as bromine or chlorine, will ensure your hot tub is clean and inviting.
Balance Your pH Levels
Maintaining a balanced pH level is key in keeping your hot tub’s water crystal clear and inviting. The optimal pH range for a hot tub is 7.2 to 7.8. To increase pH levels, you can safely add sodium carbonate (soda ash). To reduce pH levels in your hot tub, you can use muriatic acid. It is important to adjust your hot tub’s pH levels no more than 0.2 points in a 24 hour period.
Check Chlorine and Bromine Levels
Chlorine or bromine must be added to a hot tub to safely and effectively disinfect the water and keep it clean for day-to-day use. The ideal range of chlorine is 1 to 3 parts per million, and 3 to 7 parts per million for bromine. Carefully follow the instructions of the sanitizer manufacturer to ensure you are adding the right amount to your hot tub’s water.
2. Regularly Clean and Sanitize Hot Tub
In addition to maintaining the chemical balance of a hot tub, it’s important to clean and sanitize the hot tub regularly to make sure it remains crystal clear and inviting. There are several steps that should be taken to keep your hot tub clean and sanitized at all times.
Clean Filter Cartridges
For maximum filtration and efficiency, filter cartridges should be cleaned every 4 to 6 weeks or as needed. Empty all debris from the filter, then spray the filter with a pressure washer or garden hose, making sure to use the lowest pressure setting. If your hot tub does not have a pressure washer, you can also use a filter cleaning solution and a soft bristle brush to scrub the filter cartridges. Rinse the filters with a garden hose after cleaning and allow them to dry before re-installing them.
Drain and Refill
As a general rule, hot tub water should be drained and replaced every three to four months. Draining and refilling the hot tub will ensure any dirt, debris, and chemical deposits are removed. It’s also recommended that you clean and scrub the interior of the hot tub before refilling.
3. Follow Good Skincare Practices
As a hot tub user, it’s important to follow good skincare practices while using the hot tub. To maintain the quality and clarity of your hot tub’s water, follow these steps.
Bathe Before Use
Showering before entering your hot tub is essential for maintaining hygiene and cleanliness. Removing sweat and oils from your body will limit the amount of organic matter in the hot tub water, making it less likely to become cloudy or discolored.
Limit Hot Tub Time
The recommended amount of time to stay in a hot tub is between 15 and 20 minutes. Prolonged exposure to hot tub water can make you feel uncomfortable, and can also lead to the build-up of organic matter, chemicals, and debris in the hot tub’s water.
People Also Ask
Q: What is the best way to clean a Jacuzzi® hot tub?
A: The best way to clean a Jacuzzi® hot tub is to test and balance the water chemistry regularly, clean the filter cartridges every 4-6 weeks, and drain and refill the hot tub every 3-4 months.
Q: Is it safe to use baking soda in a hot tub?
A: Baking soda can be used to raise the pH level in a hot tub, but it is not recommended to use it as a replacement for hot tub chemicals.
Q: What is the ideal temperature for a hot tub?
A: The ideal temperature for a hot tub is between 98°F and 104°F.
Q: How often should a hot tub be drained and cleaned?
A: A hot tub should be drained and cleaned every 3-4 months, or as needed for general maintenance.
Q: What is the best chemical to use in a hot tub?
A: The best chemical to use in a hot tub is either chlorine or bromine, depending on your preferences.
Final Words
Whether you’re new to hot tub ownership or a seasoned veteran, following these guidelines to keep your Jacuzzi® hot tub crystal clear and inviting is the key to a safe, hygienic, and properly maintained leisure experience. With regular maintenance, you’ll be able to enjoy your hot tub even longer.