Welcome to the next lesson in our Hot Tub Water Care Academy from The Hot Tub Store! Now that we have “Mastered the Basics” in lesson 1, we will cover the importance of regular maintenance and provide a step-by-step guide on how to properly maintain your hot tub on a weekly basis. 

Regular maintenance is crucial in keeping your hot tub clean, safe, and enjoyable for all users. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to bacteria growth, cloudy water, and skin irritation.

To ensure the longevity of your hot tub and the health of its users, it is recommended to perform weekly maintenance tasks. These tasks should be completed in addition to any daily or monthly maintenance routines.

Step 1: Balance the Water

The first step in weekly maintenance is to balance the water. This means testing and adjusting the levels of pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer. These levels should be kept within a specific range to ensure the water is safe for use.

To test the water, you can either use test strips or a liquid testing kit. Follow the instructions provided with your chosen method to accurately test the water’s chemical levels.

Once you have determined the current levels, you can adjust them accordingly. If the pH is too high, add a pH decreaser. If it’s too low, add a pH increaser. Alkalinity can be adjusted with an alkalinity increaser or decreaser, depending on the current levels.

For sanitizer levels, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how much to add based on your hot tub’s size and usage frequency.

Step 2: Clean the Filter

Next, you’ll want to clean your hot tub’s filter. This is an essential step in maintaining clean water as the filter traps debris and contaminants.

To clean the filter, remove it from the hot tub and rinse it off with a garden hose. If there is any buildup or residue, use a filter cleaner or a mix of water and vinegar to scrub it off. Rinse thoroughly before placing the filter back into the hot tub.

Step 3: Shock the Water

Shocking the water is an important step in killing bacteria and other contaminants that may be present in your hot tub. It also helps to remove any built-up residue or oils from regular use.

To shock the water, follow the instructions on the shock product you are using. Generally, it involves adding a certain amount of shock to the water and allowing it to circulate for a set period before using the hot tub again.

Step 4: Clean the Hot Tub

Now that the chemical levels have been balanced and the filter has been cleaned, it’s time to clean the hot tub itself. Use a non-abrasive cleaner and a sponge or soft cloth to wipe down all surfaces, including the cover. Don’t forget to clean the waterline to prevent any unsightly buildup.

Step 5: Refill and Circulate

Finally, refill the hot tub with fresh water and turn on the jets to circulate it. This helps distribute chemicals evenly throughout the water and ensures the shock is thoroughly mixed in.

After completing these steps, your hot tub should be ready for use. Be sure to check out our informative blog or stop by our hot tub showroom with any questions!