Looking After Your Hot Tub in the Summer

Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to make the most of your hot tub. Whether you’re using it to cool down, entertain guests, or unwind after a long day, your hot tub can provide endless enjoyment. However, just like any other season, your hot tub requires proper care and maintenance to ensure it remains in top condition. Here are some essential tips on looking after your hot tub in the summer.

Keep It Clean

Maintaining a clean hot tub is crucial and will make your life so much easier. Having a clean hot tub could save you from days of trouble down the line or even as good hygiene practice. Some small things that you can do habitually are:

• Make it a habit to clean your hot tub regularly by removing any debris, such as leaves and dirt, from the water using a skimmer net.
• Wipe down the surfaces with a soft cloth and a gentle cleaner to prevent the buildup of grime and algae.
• Clean your hot tub’s filter as it works hard to keep the water clean by trapping dirt and impurities.

During the summer, it’s essential to clean the filter more frequently. Remove the filter and rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose every couple of weeks. For a deeper clean, soak the filter in a filter-cleaning solution once a month.

Balancing the water chemistry is also important for a clean and safe hot tub. Test the water regularly using test strips or a digital tester to check the pH, alkalinity, and sanitiser levels. Adjust the chemicals as needed to maintain the correct balance. This will help prevent issues like cloudy water, skin irritation, and damage to the hot tub components.

Manage the Temperature

While your hot tub is typically associated with warm, relaxing soaks, summer temperatures can make it less appealing to sit in hot water. Consider lowering the temperature to a more refreshing level, around 29-32°C. This will make it more comfortable to use during the hot summer days and provide a cool escape from the heat. Many hot tubs come with an economy mode setting, which helps reduce energy consumption by maintaining a lower temperature when not in use. Utilise this feature to save on energy costs and keep the water at a comfortable temperature for summer use. Some modern hot tubs come with a cooling feature, allowing you to lower the water temperature even further. If your hot tub has this option, take advantage of it during the summer months for an even cooler soak.

Use a Hot Tub Cover

Using a hot tub cover is essential year-round but especially important in the summer as:

• A high-quality cover helps retain heat, which can be beneficial for maintaining a consistent water temperature.
• It helps keep the water cool by blocking out the sun’s rays.
• A cover prevents leaves, dirt, and other debris from falling into your hot tub, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
• It helps keep insects and small animals out of the water.
• It is a safety measure, particularly if you have children or pets. It prevents accidental falls and ensures that no one can access the hot tub unsupervised.

Maintain Water Levels

Hot tub water levels can fluctuate due to evaporation, especially in the summer heat. It’s important to regularly check and maintain the water level to ensure proper functioning. Check the water level regularly and add water as needed to keep it at the recommended level. Low water levels can cause damage to the pump and heater while overfilling can lead to overflow and water wastage. Inspect your hot tub for any signs of leaks, such as wet spots around the base or a sudden drop in water levels. Addressing leaks promptly can prevent more significant issues and costly repairs.

Plan for Heavy Use

Summer often means more social gatherings and increased use of your hot tub. Ensure you have enough cleaning supplies, chemicals, and test strips on hand to maintain your hot tub’s water quality. Running out of essentials can disrupt your hot tub routine and lead to maintenance issues. Encourage guests to shower before using the hot tub to reduce the introduction of oils, lotions, and dirt into the water. Provide a rinse-off station near the hot tub for convenience. Establish guidelines for hot tub use, such as limiting the number of people in the tub at one time and setting time limits for each session. This helps maintain water quality and ensures everyone has a chance to enjoy the hot tub.

Perform Regular Maintenance Checks

Performing regular maintenance checks can help you catch and address potential issues before they become major problems. Regularly inspect your hot tub’s pump, heater, and other equipment for any signs of wear or damage. Listen for unusual noises and check for leaks or loose connections. Clean the hot tub jets periodically to ensure they function properly. Use a jet cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to remove any buildup or blockages. Consider scheduling a professional service appointment at least once a year to ensure your hot tub is in optimal condition. A professional can perform a thorough inspection, clean the components, and address any issues you might not notice.

Self-Cleaning Hot Tubs

The Self Clean range of hot tubs makes maintaining your hot tub incredibly easy, especially during the busy summer months. With features like automatic chemical dosage and a patented pressurised filtration system, these hot tubs handle the hard work for you. This means you can spend less time balancing chemicals and more time enjoying your hot tub. The energy-efficient design also keeps running costs low, while the carbon-neutral operation is a bonus for environmentally conscious users. The Self Clean range ensures your hot tub is always ready for quality time with family and friends, making it the perfect addition to your summer relaxation routine.

Contact us today to speak to someone on our team about our hot tubs.