A hot tub is more than just a backyard luxury—it’s an investment in your comfort and well-being. However, like any mechanical system, a hot tub requires regular maintenance to stay in top shape. Neglecting care can lead to expensive repair bills or premature breakdowns.
This comprehensive guide covers the best hot tub maintenance to prevent costly repairs. By adopting these simple habits, you’ll extend your tub’s lifespan, keep the water safe, and save money over the long haul.
1. Maintain Proper Water Chemistry
Balancing your water’s chemistry is the foundation of hot tub maintenance. Improper pH levels, high alkalinity, or excessive sanitizer can lead to corrosion, scale buildup, and damage to internal components.
🔹 Key steps:
Test water 2–3 times per week using test strips or digital meters.
Maintain a pH level between 7.2 and 7.8.
Alkalinity should remain between 80–120 ppm.
Sanitize with chlorine, bromine, or salt-based systems as recommended.
Tip: Shocking the tub weekly helps oxidize contaminants and keep water fresh.
2. Clean and Replace Filters Regularly
Your hot tub’s filter traps debris, dirt, oils, and contaminants. When clogged or worn out, it forces the system to work harder, which can strain the pump and heating components.
🔹 Best practices:
Rinse filters every 1–2 weeks with a hose.
Use filter cleaner every 4–6 weeks for a deep clean.
Replace filters every 12–18 months, or as needed.
Neglected filters are one of the top causes of hot tub pump failure.
3. Keep Water Circulating
Water circulation is essential to prevent algae growth, distribute sanitizers, and maintain an even water temperature.
Run the circulation pump for at least 8–12 hours a day.
Use the timer settings on your control panel to automate cycles.
If your tub has a dedicated 24-hour circulation pump, ensure it’s functioning properly.
Proper circulation protects the spa pump system and minimizes stagnant water issues.
4. Drain and Refill the Hot Tub Every 3–4 Months
Over time, spa water accumulates dissolved solids, minerals, and contaminants that chemicals can’t neutralize. Draining the water helps reset the chemistry and protect your equipment.
🔹 How to do it:
Turn off the power and remove the filter.
Use a sump pump or gravity drain.
Clean the shell with non-abrasive spa cleaner.
Refill with fresh water and rebalance the chemicals.
This routine protects the spa pump system, heater, and plumbing lines from buildup and corrosion.
5. Inspect Jets, Covers, and Seals
Jets and plumbing connections are common sources of leaks. Small issues can become expensive repairs if ignored.
Check jets for clogging, calcium buildup, or uneven flow.
Inspect your spa cover for cracks or water absorption.
Examine rubber gaskets, seals, and O-rings for wear or deterioration.
Bold reminder: Keep the hot tub cover in good condition to reduce evaporation, heat loss, and exposure to debris.
6. Monitor Water Level
A low water level can cause air to enter the system, damaging pumps and heaters. On the flip side, overfilling may flood components or overflow during use.
Keep the water level halfway up the skimmer or just above the highest jet.
7. Use the Right Chemicals
Avoid household cleaners or generic pool chemicals—they can damage hot tub surfaces and equipment. Always use spa-specific products for sanitizing, pH adjusting, and shock treatments.
🔹 Essential chemicals to keep on hand:
Sanitizer (chlorine or bromine)
pH increaser and decreaser
Alkalinity buffer
Calcium hardness adjuster
Shock oxidizer
Buying spa-grade products prevents chemical damage in hot tubs and extends component life.
8. Protect Your Spa from Weather Damage
Outdoor hot tubs are exposed to seasonal temperature swings, UV rays, and precipitation. Proper protection reduces wear and risk of malfunction.
🔹 Weather protection tips:
Keep the hot tub covered when not in use.
Use a thermal or insulated cover in winter.
In freezing climates, winterize your hot tub when not in use.
Proper winterization prevents pipe bursts and heater damage during cold spells.
9. Schedule Professional Maintenance Checks
Even if you’re diligent, having your hot tub professionally inspected once or twice a year helps detect early signs of trouble.
Technicians can:
Test electrical components
Check the spa pump system
Diagnose hidden leaks or faulty controls
Clean and tune heaters or ozone systems
This proactive step helps catch issues before they become expensive repairs.
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10. Use the Spa Responsibly
Finally, how you use your hot tub impacts its longevity. A few simple habits can prevent avoidable wear:
Shower before entering to reduce body oils and lotions.
Limit heavy use or overloading with too many users.
Avoid spilling food, drinks, or soap into the water.
Never run the pumps without water.
Responsible usage goes hand-in-hand with smart maintenance.
FAQs
1. How often should I clean my hot tub filter?
You should rinse it every 1–2 weeks and deep clean it every 4–6 weeks. Replace it annually or as needed.
2. Can I use pool chemicals in my hot tub?
No. Pool chemicals are often too strong and can cause chemical damage in hot tubs. Always use spa-specific products.
3. What’s the most common cause of expensive hot tub repairs?
Clogged or neglected filters leading to pump or heater failure are among the top causes.
4. How do I know if my hot tub cover needs replacing?
If the cover is waterlogged, cracked, or sagging, it’s time for a replacement. A hot tub cover in good condition is essential for energy efficiency.
5. Is it safe to winterize a hot tub myself?
It can be done with care, but improper winterization risks pipe bursts. Hiring a technician is recommended in very cold areas.
Conclusion
Proper maintenance is the single most effective way to avoid costly repairs and enjoy uninterrupted hot tub use. By caring for your water chemistry, filters, and spa pump system, and protecting your unit from the elements, you’ll significantly extend its life.
Add professional inspections to your yearly schedule and keep your hot tub cover in good condition—your future self (and wallet) will thank you. A little effort now prevents big headaches later.
