Maintaining a hot tub is no easy feat and requires professional know-how and experience, otherwise it can become a time-consuming and expensive endeavor. In this article, you will learn how to easily and efficiently maintain your hot tub like a pro. We will cover important topics such as how to balance the water chemistry, how to keep it clean and sanitized, how to drain, clean and refill the tub, and more. With this knowledge, you will be able to keep your hot tub running like a well-oiled machine!
Maintaining the Water Balance
Testing the Water Balance
The first step in keeping your hot tub healthy is to test the water balance to ensure that the pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness and total hardness levels are correct. Aim for pH levels of 7.2-7.6, and alkalinity of 80-150ppm. High calcium levels can cause scale and cloudy water while low levels can lead to staining. Total hardness should be between 150-220ppm.
Adjusting the Water Balance
Once you have tested the water balance, you can start adjusting it as needed. Adding pH increaser or decreaser will help raise or lower the pH level to the desired range. Alkalinity can be increased using an alkalinity increaser or decreased using a pH decreaser. To raise calcium levels you should use a calcium hardness increaser, and to lower them you should use a clarifier.
Preventing Cloudy Water
Testing and adjusting the water balance will help you avoid having cloudy water. Other factors that can cause cloudy water are high water temperatures, high levels of calcium, low sanitizer levels and excessive use of chemical cleaners. Using a water balance stabilizer and regularly cleaning the filters can also help.
Keeping it Clean and Sanitized
Cleaning the Tub
In addition to testing and adjusting the water balance, it is important to clean the tub itself on a regular basis. This can be done by scrubbing it with a mild detergent and a nonabrasive sponge. You should also clean the filters and the inside of the pipes on a regular basis to ensure that everything is running smoothly.
Sanitizing the Water
After cleaning the tub, it is important to sanitize the water to kill any remaining germs and bacteria. This can be done using chlorine or bromine, depending on what your hot tub is compatible with. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper sanitizing levels.
Maintaining Low Chlorine Levels
While it is important to use a sanitizer to keep your hot tub clean and germ-free, it is also important to maintain low chlorine levels. Too much chlorine can irritate your eyes, skin, and respiratory system, so it is important to keep the levels low. Typically, the optimal chlorine level is between 1-3ppm.
Draining, Cleaning and Refilling the Tub
Draining the Tub
Draining your hot tub should be done on a regular basis, typically every three months or so. Before draining your tub, make sure to test the water balance levels and adjust as needed. You should also check the filters and clean them if necessary.
Cleaning the Tub and Filters
Once the tub is drained, you can start cleaning the tub itself and the filters. Use a nonabrasive cleaner and a soft-bristled brush to clean the tub and then rinse it off with clean water. Clean the filters with a filter cleaner, or soak them in a solution of water and vinegar.
Refilling the Tub
Once the tub is clean, you can start refilling it with clean water. Make sure to adjust the water temperature, check the water’s pH levels and add any necessary sanitizers. Finally, check the filters again to make sure they are in good condition.
Answering People Also Ask
How often should a hot tub be drained?
Hot tubs should typically be drained every 3 months, or when the water starts to become cloudy or murky.
How do you clean a hot tub without draining it?
A hot tub can be cleaned without draining by using a mild detergent and nonabrasive sponge. Make sure to also clean the filters and pipes on a regular basis.
Can you use bleach in a hot tub?
Bleach should not be used in a hot tub as it can irritate the lungs and skin, and damage the hot tub’s interior. Sanitizers such as chlorine or bromine should be used instead.
What is the correct pH level for a hot tub?
The optimal pH level for a hot tub is 7.2-7.6.
How often should a hot tub filter be cleaned?
Hot tub filters should be cleaned at least once a month, or more often if needed.
Final Words
Maintaining a hot tub is an important part of keeping it clean and healthy. With proper care and maintenance, you will be able to keep your hot tub running like a well-oiled machine. So, next time you are about to jump into your hot tub for a relaxing evening, make sure to use the above tips to keep your hot tub sparkling and safe!