Owning a hot tub or spa is a fantastic way to unwind, soothe sore muscles, and enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy, but just like a swimming pool, it requires consistent upkeep to ensure the water remains clean, safe, and inviting. Without proper maintenance, issues such as cloudy water, bacteria buildup, and equipment malfunctions can arise, leading to costly repairs and an unpleasant soaking experience.
For first-time owners, understanding the fundamentals of water chemistry, filtration, and cleaning routines is essential to maintaining a healthy and well-functioning hot tub. Keeping the water properly balanced prevents irritation, protects equipment from damage, and extends the lifespan of the tub. Regularly cleaning and replacing filters ensures optimal performance, while following a proper draining and refilling schedule helps keep contaminants at bay.
This comprehensive beginner’s guide will walk you through the key aspects of hot tub maintenance, including how to balance chemicals, care for filters, establish a routine draining schedule, and troubleshoot common problems. With the right knowledge and a consistent maintenance plan, you can keep your hot tub water crystal clear and ready for relaxation year-round.
1. Test and Balance Your Water Regularly
Keeping your spa’s water properly balanced is key to preventing bacteria growth, skin irritation, and cloudy water. Since hot tubs have higher water temperatures than pools, they can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria if not properly sanitized.
Essential Water Chemistry Levels:
- pH: 7.4 – 7.6 (Prevents irritation and equipment damage)
- Total Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm (Helps stabilize pH)
- Chlorine/Bromine: 3 – 5 ppm (Sanitizes and prevents bacteria growth)
- Calcium Hardness: 150 – 250 ppm (Prevents scaling and corrosion)
Tip: Test your hot tub water 2-3 times per week and adjust chemicals as needed.
2. Choose the Right Sanitizer: Bromine
Sanitizers kill bacteria, prevent algae, and keep water clean. The two most common options are chlorine and bromine.
- Bromine (More stable in hot water, gentler on skin, lasts longer)
Leisure Time Bromine Tablets | 2.2lb | 45401
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Leisure Time Bromine Tablets 45401 are designed for sanitizing spa water while offering the effectiveness of chlorine without the strong odor typically associated with it. These 2.2 lb low-odor, low-dust tablets dissolve slowly and evenly, making them ideal for continuous… read more
3. Shock Your Spa Weekly
Even with daily sanitizers, oils, lotions, and organic contaminants build up in hot tub water. Shocking your spa once a week helps break down these contaminants.
- Use a non-chlorine shock if you have a bromine spa.
- Run the jets for 15-20 minutes after shocking.
4. Clean or Replace Your Hot Tub Filter
Your filter traps dirt, oils, and debris, keeping the water clean and clear. A clogged filter reduces circulation and can cause cloudy water or poor jet performance.
How to Maintain Your Filter:
- Rinse the filter weekly with a hose to remove debris.
- Soak in a filter cleaner every 1-2 months for a deep clean.
- Replace the filter every 6-12 months (depending on usage).
5. Drain and Refill Your Hot Tub Regularly
Unlike pools, hot tubs don’t have large amounts of water to dilute contaminants, so the water needs to be drained and replaced periodically.
- Drain and refill every 3-4 months for regular use.
- If the water becomes foamy or hard to balance, change it sooner.
- Before draining, use a plumbing cleaner to remove built-up bacteria inside the jets and pipes.
6. Prevent and Treat Common Hot Tub Problems
Hot tubs can develop issues like cloudy water, foam, or skin irritation if not properly maintained. Here’s how to fix them:
- Cloudy Water? Check filter, sanitizer levels, and pH balance. Shock if needed.
- Foamy Water? Caused by oils, lotions, or soap residue—use a foam reducer.
- Strong Chemical Smell? High combined chlorine levels—shock the spa to oxidize contaminants.
- Skin Irritation? pH is likely too low or too high—test and balance the water.
Recommended Products:
Oreq Clear Spa No Foam | 16oz | CSLNFPT12
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Clear Spa No Foam is a 16-ounce solution formulated to eliminate and prevent foam in spas, hot tubs, and whirlpools. This exclusive formula addresses foam caused by water imbalances or the introduction of soaps and detergents by bathers. For optimal… read more
Leisure Time Foam Down | Spa Foam Remover | 32 oz. | HQ-LT
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$29.99
Leisure Time Foam Down stands out as a concentrated foam suppressant that is non-oily. What sets this product apart from other foam suppressants is its tailored design for use in hot water settings. Featuring a convenient flip-top lid for precise… read more
7. Protect Your Hot Tub with a Cover
A hot tub cover keeps out debris, reduces evaporation, and conserves heat.
- Keep it closed when not in use to maintain water temperature.
- Clean the cover weekly to prevent mildew buildup.
- Use a UV protectant to extend the life of your cover.
Custom Spa and Hot Tub Cover | Made to Order
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Our custom spa and hot tub covers are made to order with 28oz marine-grade vinyl, designed with mildew inhibitors and UV-stabilized coloring to resist fading. The double-sided solid cover liner is chemically treated on both sides to prevent damage from… read more
8. Keep an Eye on Water Level and Jet Performance
- Water should always cover the jets—low water levels can damage the pump.
- If jets lose pressure, check for airlocks or clogged filters.
- Turn on all jets after adding chemicals for better circulation.
Tip: If the jets are weak, air bubbles may be trapped—turn the jets off and on a few times to clear them.
9. Keep the Spa Area Clean
- Rinse off before entering to reduce oils and dirt.
- Keep food and drinks away to avoid spills.
- Store chemicals properly to prevent spills or damage.
10. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance
Even with regular upkeep, it’s a good idea to have a professional check your hot tub at least once a year. They can:
- Inspect pumps, heaters, and plumbing for leaks or wear.
- Deep clean and service hard-to-reach components.
- Help diagnose persistent water issues or equipment failures.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy a Clean and Relaxing Spa Experience
Owning a hot tub doesn’t have to be complicated—just follow a simple routine for water chemistry, filtration, and cleaning to keep it in perfect condition.
- Test and balance water 2-3 times a week.
- Shock weekly to remove contaminants.
- Clean the filter regularly and drain the spa every 3-4 months.
- Cover your spa to protect it from debris.
By consistently following these simple maintenance steps, you can ensure that your hot tub remains clean, clear, and in optimal condition for relaxation whenever you need it. Regular upkeep not only keeps the water sparkling and inviting but also helps extend the lifespan of your equipment, prevent costly repairs, and create a healthier soaking environment.
From balancing water chemistry and cleaning the filters to maintaining proper circulation and draining the tub at recommended intervals, each step plays a crucial role in keeping your hot tub free from bacteria, algae, and chemical imbalances. Staying proactive with your maintenance routine means fewer unexpected issues, reduced downtime, and a consistently enjoyable experience.
With just a little effort and a well-maintained schedule, your hot tub will always be ready to provide comfort, stress relief, and hydrotherapy benefits whenever you want to unwind. Taking the time to care for your hot tub properly ensures years of relaxation, enjoyment, and peace of mind, allowing you to make the most of your investment without unnecessary headaches or maintenance hassles.
Would you like personalized product recommendations for your hot tub? Let us know, and we’ll help you find the best solutions!
