Hot tub ownership has countless benefits, but there are a few important things to remember so you can enjoy those benefits for years to come. Below, we’ll go over the basics of hot tub maintenance to keep your hot tub running smoothly and looking great! Here’s what you should know.
Keep the Water Level Where It Needs to Be
One of the most important aspects of hot tub care is ensuring the water level stays where it’s supposed to be. If the water level gets too low, it can cause several problems, including damage to the pump and heater. On the other hand, if the water level is too high, it can lead to overflow and spillage. To avoid these issues, check the water level frequently and top it off as needed. When water levels are too low or too high, it’s also a good idea to check how the chemical balance has been affected. This will let you know if you need to replace the water or put in any hot tub chemicals.
Maintain a Healthy Chemical Balance
Speaking of chemicals, the next item on our hot tub care checklist is maintaining a healthy chemical balance in the water. This is important for two reasons: first, it keeps the water clean and free of bacteria, and second, it helps to prevent damage to the hot tub itself. You’ll need to use a few different chemicals to maintain a healthy balance, including sanitizers, pH increasers, and calcium adjusters. Testing the water regularly with strips or a testing kit will help you determine which chemicals need to be added and in what quantities. Here’s a breakdown of the major chemical levels you should keep an eye on:
- pH – 7.2 to 7.8
- Chlorine – 1.0 to 3.0 ppm
- Total Alkalinity – 125 to 150 pp
- Calcium Hardness – 100 to 200 ppm
If you’re still unsure how much of a chemical you need to add to your hot tub, you can also ask for help from your local hot tub dealer.
Have a Consistent Cleaning Routine
In addition to maintaining the proper chemical balance, it’s also important to keep your hot tub clean. This means giving it a good scrub on the inside and outside from time to time. How often you need to clean it will depend on how often you use it; if you have a lot of people using it frequently, you may need to clean it more often than someone who only uses it occasionally.
When cleaning the inside of the tub, use a non-abrasive cleaner and brush, so you don’t damage the finish. You should also vacuum the inside of the tub regularly to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated. As for cleaning the exterior, this can be done with mild soap and water.
Drain and Refill Water Regularly and as Needed
Another important part of hot tub care is draining and refilling the water regularly. How often you need to do this will depend on how often you use the tub, but as a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to drain and refill the water every three to four months. This will help keep the water clean and clear. If you notice the water starting to get cloudy or dirty before it’s time to drain it, you may need to do it more often.
Keep the Hot Tub Cover in Good Shape
Last but not least, don’t forget to take care of the hot tub cover! This is important for a few reasons:
- It helps to keep the hot tub clean by working as a protective barrier from outside elements.
- It maintains the hot tub’s heat, resulting in less money spent long-term on electricity.
- It acts as a safety measure to keep children and animals safe when the hot tub is not in use.
To clean the cover, simply remove it and wipe it with a vinyl cleaner. Be sure to let it dry completely before putting it back on. You should also check the hot tub cover for signs of wear and tear from time to time and replace it if necessary.
Following these top tips ensures that your hot tub will be in great shape for a long time while enjoying every soak to the fullest. In addition, you can download our free buyer’s guide for more information on choosing the best hot tub for your home.