5 Expert Maintenance Tips for Your Hot Tub

Owning a hot tub is a luxurious and rewarding experience, but regular maintenance is essential to keep it in top condition. Proper care ensures your hot tub remains clean, safe, and efficient for years to come. Protect your investment and enjoy a consistently enjoyable spa experience. With the right approach, you can extend the life of your hot tub, minimise costly repairs, and create the perfect environment for relaxation, hydrotherapy, and social gatherings.

Keep the Water Chemistry Balanced

One of the most important aspects of hot tub maintenance is ensuring the water chemistry is correctly balanced. Water that is too acidic or too alkaline can lead to skin irritation, cloudy water, and even damage to the hot tub components. The pH level should be maintained between 7.2 and 7.8, while alkalinity should stay within 80 to 120 ppm to ensure stability. Sanitiser levels must also be checked regularly, whether using chlorine, bromine, or another treatment, to eliminate bacteria and keep the water fresh. Checking these levels at least twice a week with test strips or a testing kit is essential to keeping your hot tub safe and enjoyable. Neglecting water balance can result in mineral buildup, foaming, or even damage to the hot tub’s plumbing over time. Additionally, failing to maintain the right chemical balance can lead to the growth of algae and bacteria, making the water unhygienic and unpleasant to use. Investing in an automatic dosing system can help regulate these levels, ensuring your hot tub water stays in perfect condition with minimal effort.

Regularly Clean the Filters

Filters play a vital role in keeping the hot tub water clean and free from dirt, oils, and debris. They should be rinsed weekly with a hose to remove surface contaminants and deep-cleaned monthly with a dedicated filter cleaner to dissolve built-up grime. Even with proper care, filters should be replaced annually to ensure they function at full capacity. A clogged or dirty filter forces the hot tub’s pump to work harder, leading to higher energy costs and potential mechanical issues. Ensuring proper filtration not only helps water clarity but also extends the life of your hot tub’s components. For those who use their hot tub frequently, additional filter maintenance may be required, such as rotating between two filters to allow one to dry completely between uses. This reduces bacterial buildup and improves overall filtration efficiency, helping you maintain consistently clear water.

Drain and Refill Every Few Months

Every three to four months, draining and refilling your hot tub is necessary to remove accumulated contaminants and refresh the water. Over time, body oils, lotions, and other organic matter build up, making the water harder to balance and less enjoyable to use. Before draining, using a plumbing line cleaner helps flush out any biofilm or bacteria lurking in the pipes. Once emptied, wiping down the shell and jets prevents residue from building up and ensures that the new water remains clean for longer. After refilling, it's crucial to rebalance the water chemistry and shock the system to eliminate any residual bacteria. Failing to change the water regularly can result in unpleasant odours, skin irritation, and an increased need for chemical adjustments to maintain water clarity. Additionally, ensuring proper jet maintenance during this process can prevent blockages and keep your hot tub performing at its best.

Maintain the Hot Tub Cover

The hot tub cover is often overlooked but plays an essential role in maintaining water cleanliness and efficiency. Keeping it clean by wiping it down weekly with mild soap and water prevents mould and mildew from forming. Applying a UV protectant extends its lifespan by preventing cracking and fading from sun exposure. A tight-fitting cover minimises heat loss, reducing energy consumption while keeping out dirt, leaves, and other debris that could affect water quality. Investing in a high-quality, well-maintained cover ultimately reduces maintenance needs and keeps your hot tub in optimal condition. A poorly maintained or ill-fitting cover can allow heat to escape, leading to increased energy costs, while also allowing moisture buildup that can lead to an unpleasant musty smell. Ensuring the cover remains dry when not in use and periodically checking for damage will help extend its lifespan and maintain its efficiency.

Schedule Professional Servicing

Even with diligent maintenance, professional servicing is recommended at least once a year to ensure everything is running smoothly. A hot tub technician can inspect the pumps, heaters, and electrical components for signs of wear and tear, perform deep cleans to remove any hidden contaminants, and detect potential leaks or blockages before they become costly problems. Regular servicing extends the lifespan of the hot tub and provides peace of mind that every component is working efficiently. Additionally, professionals can offer personalised advice on water treatment, energy efficiency, and troubleshooting minor issues before they escalate into expensive repairs. If you frequently use your hot tub, consider a maintenance plan that includes periodic servicing to keep it running at peak performance year-round.

Enjoy a Well-Maintained Hot Tub Year-Round

By following these expert maintenance tips, you can keep your hot tub in pristine condition and enjoy stress-free relaxation whenever you like. Routine care not only enhances your soaking experience but also protects your investment for years to come. Whether you're using your hot tub for hydrotherapy, socialising, or unwinding after a long day, regular maintenance ensures that it remains a hassle-free retreat. If you need high-quality hot tub maintenance products or professional servicing, our team is here to help.

Browse our range of hot tubs or get in touch today to explore our services and speak to a professional. A well-maintained hot tub is more than just a luxury—it’s a long-term investment in your relaxation and well-being.

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About Us

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company specialise in providing hot tubs, swim spas, pools and gazebos and have experience of over 50 years in this industry. We also offer servicing and post-sales care for all of our customers to make sure that our customers get the best out of their hot tub.