How to Drain and Clean a Hot Tub

Before you start, make sure to turn off the jets and circuit breakers. Whether you’re using a garden hose or a submersible pump, maintaining a vigilant watch on the process is key to preventing any unforeseen issues.

Step-By-Step Guide on How to Drain Your Hot Tub

1. Turn off the jets and circuit breaker.
2. If using a garden hose, connect it to the hot tub’s drain valve and direct the other end to a suitable drainage area. If using a submersible pump, secure a rope to it and position it to hang over the spa’s side for easy retrieval afterward.
3. Open the drain valve and let the water flow out. Keep an eye on the process to ensure everything is going smoothly.
4. The pump will typically stop operation when the water level gets too low. The entire process usually takes between 1 and 2 hours.

Post-Drain Cleaning Steps

Once you’ve drained the hot tub, you can begin the deep cleaning process.

This is comprised of three essential steps: removing debris and sediment, deep cleaning the hot tub shell, and addressing the hot tub lines.

Removing Debris and Sediment

Keeping your hot tub debris-free goes a long way in maintaining its cleanliness and performance. Regular removal of visible debris after each use and a thorough cleaning every quarter, or monthly if used daily, is recommended.

For the best results, we recommend using tools such as a spa vacuum, skimmer net, or a specialized wand designed for cleaning tasks. These tools will allow you to remove debris without causing water loss.

The last thing that you want to do is ignore the presence of debris and sediment as they can obstruct the filter and deteriorate water quality, which would impact the overall performance of the hot tub.

Deep Cleaning the Hot Tub Shell

Choosing the right cleaning agents is crucial. While it’s best to use a surface cleaner that’s specifically formulated for hot tubs, a diluted white vinegar solution can also do the trick in a pinch.

For stubborn stains, a non-abrasive cleaner with a soft gel or cream formula works wonders.

Just remember not to use regular household cleaners as they could potentially damage the hot tub’s surface.

Addressing the Hot Tub Lines

Cleaning the hot tub lines is crucial when it comes to maintaining the overall cleanliness of your hot tub.

For example, you can purge the lines with a commercial flush cleaner.

For those who prefer household items, vinegar can be an effective option for the inner lines of a hot tub.

Maintaining the Hot Tub Filter

Detaching and Inspecting the Hot Tub Filter

Before you clean the hot tub filter, you want to detach it from the tub itself. To do this:

1. Ensure that the hot tub’s power is turned off
2. Access the filter compartment and remove the filter

Once you’ve removed the filter, look for any signs of damage or excessive wear. Keep an eye out for symptoms such as:

• Cloudy or foamy water
• Dirty or discolored water
• Unpleasant odors
• Physical damage like cracked end caps or damaged pleats.

As a general rule, you want to inspect your hot tub filter once a week, clean it monthly, and replace it annually, based on its condition and the usage frequency of the hot tub.

The Soak and Rinse Technique

The soak and rinse technique is one of the best ways to clean hot tub filters. Here’s how to do it:

1. Rinse the filter with a garden hose to remove loose debris
2. Fill a bucket with water and add ACTIVE Hot Tub Filter Cleaner.
3. Place the filter in the bucket and let it soak for 12 to 24 hours
4. After soaking, rinse the filter again with a garden hose to remove any remaining cleaning solution
5. Allow the filter to dry completely before reattaching it to the hot tub

Following these steps will help ensure that your hot tub filter is clean and functions properly.

When to Replace Your Filter

As a general rule of thumb, hot tub filters should be replaced every 1-2 years, depending on usage.

Neglecting to replace a worn-out hot tub filter can lead to various issues such as filter damage, tears, or rips. To make matters worse, it can also affect other components of the hot tub system.

Caring for Your Hot Tub Cover

The cover is responsible for protecting your hot tub from external elements. Not only that but it also helps it maintain the water temperature.

Given that, you must clean it regularly. That will prevent mold and mildew from growing on the fabric, which can affect its durability and functionality.

For the underside of the cover, you can use:

• A non-sudsing hot tub cleaner which can be removed with a paper towel or cloth
• A diluted solution of vinegar
• A 10% bleach solution

Refilling Your Hot Tub After Cleaning

Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned the hot tub, you can refill it with water.

Properly Refilling the Tub

Refilling the tub involves using a hose filter, filling to the correct level, and following the manufacturer’s instructions.

By using a hose filter, you won’t have to worry about solids and chemical by-products getting into the tub.

Simply place the hose inside the filter and ensure that the water level is at least halfway up to the skimmer opening. That will ensure that the pump doesn’t run dry, which could cause overheating or damage.

Balancing the Water Chemistry

To balance the water chemistry, you’ll need a few tools including a liquid drop-style titration test kit and spa test strips.

Total alkalinity can be adjusted using sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to raise it or an alkalinity-decreasing product to lower it.

Optimal pH levels for a hot tub range from 7.2 to 7.8. Regular testing is crucial to ensure that the pH levels are within range. If necessary, you can adjust the level with pH increasers or decreasers.

As for sanitizer levels, they can be adjusted by adding a chlorine or bromine source to raise levels or utilizing a chlorine neutralizer to lower them. Diluting the mixture with fresh water can also help control the sanitizer concentration.

Keeping Your Hot Tub Pristine Between Deep Cleans

Keeping your hot tub clean in between deep cleaning sessions hinges on regular maintenance, which includes tasks such as surface wiping and filter rinsing.

To prevent buildup, we recommend wiping down the surfaces above the water line every week.

Rinsing the filters weekly is also a good idea as that will remove debris and performing a chemical rinse or replacing the filter at least once annually is advised.

Regular testing of the water is also crucial. More specifically, you want to check the total alkalinity, calcium harness, and sanitizer levels.

How to Drain and Clean a Hot Tub – FAQs

Is it OK to drain a hot tub and leave it empty?

Yes, it’s fine to drain a hot tub and leave it empty, but take precautions to avoid any damage.

How do I completely empty my hot tub?

To completely empty your hot tub, turn off the power at the circuit breaker, attach a garden hose to the drainage spigot, and open the ball valve to allow the water to drain.

Be careful not to cross-thread the hose.

What is the best thing to clean a hot tub with?

You can wipe away sediments, dirt, and debris with a specialized hot tub cleaner and a soft cloth. Avoid using regular household cleaning products.

How often should I clean my hot tub filter?

You should clean your hot tub filter monthly and consider replacing it annually, depending on its condition and how often you use the hot tub.

How do I refill my hot tub correctly?

Make sure to put the hose inside the filter and maintain the water level at least halfway up the skimmer opening. That will ensure proper filtration and water circulation for a clean and enjoyable hot tub experience.

How do you clean hot tub plumbing?

The best way to clean the pipework is by using a commercial pipe cleaner. Simply pour the recommended amount into the filter hosing and run the jets for a cycle before draining the tub.