Owning a hot tub offers relaxation, rejuvenation, and a perfect way to unwind, but regular maintenance is key to ensuring it stays clean, efficient, and ready for use. While hot tubs don’t require daily upkeep, performing weekly maintenance is essential to keep the water balanced, the equipment running smoothly, and the tub in optimal condition. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a simple and effective weekly maintenance routine for your hot tub.

Why Weekly Hot Tub Maintenance Matters

Regular maintenance helps prevent major issues that could disrupt your spa experience. Whether it’s avoiding water quality problems, preventing the buildup of debris, or ensuring the longevity of your equipment, a weekly maintenance routine can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Plus, it ensures your hot tub is always ready for a relaxing soak.

A Simple Weekly Hot Tub Maintenance Checklist

Here’s a straightforward weekly checklist to keep your hot tub in top shape:

1. Test and Balance the Water Chemistry

Testing your hot tub water is one of the most important aspects of weekly maintenance. Proper water chemistry ensures your tub is clean, safe, and comfortable. It also helps protect your hot tub equipment and surfaces from damage caused by unbalanced water.

• • Test the pH, Alkalinity, and Calcium Hardness:
    
    • • pH: The pH should be between 7.4 and 7.6. If it’s too low, the water is acidic and can cause corrosion. If it’s too high, the water becomes alkaline and can cause scaling and irritation.
    • • Alkalinity: Keep alkalinity levels between 80 and 120 ppm to help stabilize pH levels.
    • • Calcium Hardness: Ideal levels are between 100 and 200 ppm to prevent corrosion or scaling.

• • Adjust as Needed: If any levels are off, use the appropriate chemicals to bring them into balance. Add pH increasers or decreasers, alkalinity boosters, or calcium hardness increasers as necessary.

2. Check and Clean the Hot Tub Filter

The filter plays a crucial role in keeping your hot tub water clean by trapping debris and contaminants. Over time, your filter will accumulate dirt and oils, reducing its effectiveness. To prevent this:

• • Inspect the Filter: Remove the filter(s) and visually inspect them for dirt, debris, or any signs of wear.

• • Clean the Filter: Use a hose to spray off any loose dirt and particles. For a deeper clean, soak the filter in a filter-cleaning solution for 6–12 hours (check the manufacturer’s instructions) and rinse thoroughly.

• • Replace the Filter: Depending on usage, you should replace the filter every 12–18 months, or sooner if it’s showing signs of damage.

3. Clean the Hot Tub Surface

Keeping the interior of your hot tub free from grime and debris is essential for maintaining water quality and appearance. Use a gentle non-abrasive cleaner designed specifically for hot tubs to wipe down the interior surfaces. Here’s how:

• • Wipe Down the Shell: Use a microfiber cloth or soft sponge to clean the hot tub’s surface. Pay special attention to areas around the jets and the waterline where oils, body lotions, and grime tend to build up.

• • Check for Scum: Scum lines can form around the waterline. If you notice any, use a dedicated surface cleaner or waterline cleaner to remove it.

4. Empty and Clean the Skimmer Baskets

If your hot tub has skimmer baskets, be sure to empty them weekly. These baskets catch debris, such as leaves, hair, and dirt, that might enter the tub. Emptying them regularly prevents clogging and ensures your filter works effectively.

5. Examine the Hot Tub Equipment

While performing your weekly maintenance, take a moment to check the equipment that keeps your hot tub running. Look for any signs of malfunction, leaks, or unusual sounds. Here’s what to check:

• • Jets: Make sure all the jets are functioning properly and that water is flowing freely. If any jets are clogged, use a vinegar soak or a specific cleaner to clear them.

• • Heater: Ensure the water temperature is stable. If there are fluctuations or the heater isn’t working correctly, it may need professional servicing.

• • Pumps: Listen for any strange noises, such as whining or grinding. If you hear anything unusual, it could be a sign of a pump issue that requires attention.

6. Inspect the Water for Cloudiness or Odors

If your hot tub water looks cloudy or has an unpleasant odor, it may indicate that the water chemistry is out of balance or that the water needs to be changed. Perform a water test to check for imbalances and address the issue immediately to avoid potential skin irritation or damage to the equipment.

7. Top Off the Water Level

Evaporation, bather activity, and filter cycles can cause the water level to drop over time. If the water level falls below the skimmer or jets, the pump could be damaged. Be sure to top off the water to the recommended level each week to ensure proper function.

Additional Tips for Hot Tub Care

• • Shock the Water: Every week, you should shock the water with an oxidizing agent. This helps break down contaminants and keep the water clean, clear, and free of bacteria.

• • Check for Leaks: While inspecting your hot tub, keep an eye out for any leaks around the plumbing, jets, or valves. Small leaks can become big problems over time if not addressed early.

• • Cover Your Hot Tub: When not in use, always keep your hot tub covered to protect it from dirt, debris, and contaminants. A good cover also helps maintain water temperature and conserve energy.

Conclusion

Weekly hot tub maintenance is essential to ensuring your spa remains clean, safe, and functional for years to come. By following this simple checklist and staying on top of regular care, you can avoid costly repairs, prevent water quality issues, and enjoy a consistently relaxing experience. A little attention each week goes a long way toward maintaining your hot tub in top condition and extending its lifespan.

Now that you have the tools for proper maintenance, you can sit back, relax, and fully enjoy your hot tub experience!

Have questions about your weekly maintenance routine? Visit us in store for even more expert advice!