As the weather warms up and the flowers start to bloom, it’s time to get your hot tub ready for the spring and summer months. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your hot tub running smoothly and prolong its lifespan, and seasonal cleanings are just as important. Here are some tips for seasonal hot tub maintenance that will make spring cleaning a breeze!

Getting Started: Draining and Filling the Hot Tub

The first step in spring cleaning your hot tub is to purge it. This involves using a specialty water care product such as SpaGuard System Flush to clean the pipes. Using System Flush will help remove any built-up debris and contaminants that have accumulated over the winter months. Before draining the hot tub, turn off the power to the unit or disconnect the power supply. Next, locate the drain valve and attach a hose to it to direct the water away from the hot tub. Once the tub is completely drained, use a soft cloth to clean the interior surfaces and rinse it thoroughly with clean water. It is best to keep the cover on the spa when draining and when the spa is without water to reduce the likelihood of possible damage to the acrylic shell that could be caused by the sun.

Tips for Seasonal Hot Tub Maintenance 

1. Inspect as You Clean

While the hot tub is empty, inspect your hot tub as you wipe it down for any damage to the shell or jets. This makes it much easier to identify any issues that are ongoing or potentially can save you time and money by having it serviced. It’s also a good idea to look over your cover and check for damage before the spring and summer months. Make sure that once you have cleaned the spa that you keep the spa covered when it does not have water in it.

2. Storage of Spa Accessories

When not in use, hot tub accessories such as steps, and water care products should be stored properly to prevent damage and prolong their lifespan. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. It’s also a good idea to clean them regularly with a mild soap solution and rinse them thoroughly with clean water.

You can also get creative and put together an all-inclusive spa storage space like a small shed or waterproof containers, storing dry towels, slippers, robes, and water games. 

3. Cleaning The Filters

Now is the perfect time to make sure your entire hot tub system is maintained to run smoothly. You should be rinsing your filters at least monthly with a high pressure nozzle and water from your garden hose.

It is recommended that you use a filter cleaner to degrease your filters at least every few months, so at the time of draining and cleaning your spa, it’s the perfect time to also thoroughly clean and rinse your filters.

4. Consider Hiring a Professional 

Seasonal hot tub maintenance usually isn’t complicated, but it can be a bit time-consuming. It’s more involved than the weekly water balancing. Spa Valet services make it easy and convenient, with a factory-certified technician who’ll not only handle your drain and refill but will also bring you any water care products you may be running low on. 

Seasonal Hot Tub Maintenance for Saltwater 

Saltwater hot tubs are a bit different when it comes to seasonal maintenance. If your hot tub uses a system like the FreshWaterⓇ Salt System, the hot tub can be maintained to stay clean and sanitized for up to a year. Depending on when you last did a drain and refill, you may not have to do any major spring cleaning. However, even if you don’t have to drain, clean, and refill just yet, you can always wipe down the outside cabinet, steps, and cover. It is also important to clean your filters regularly, rinsing them at least monthly and using a filter cleaner at least every few months.

At The Hot Tub Store, we want to continue offering support to our customers long after they take home their hot tub, including offering assistance with maintenance. Contact us today to learn more about our water care products and services, or to bring home the hot tub of your dreams.