How to Clean a Hot Tub in 7 Easy Steps

Maintaining a clean hot tub is essential for ensuring a hygienic and enjoyable experience. Regular cleaning prevents issues such as foul odors, murky water, and the growth of mold and mildew. While weekly maintenance keeps your hot tub in good shape, deep cleaning every three to four months is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to effectively clean your hot tub, ensuring it remains fresh and ready for use.

1. Flush Hot Tub Lines

Why It’s Important: Flushing the hot tub lines removes any trapped dirt, debris, and buildup in the plumbing system, which helps prevent clogs and keeps the water clean.

Steps:

1. Add Line Flush Cleaner: Pour the recommended amount of line flush solution into your hot tub’s water. Consult the product instructions for the exact quantity.

2. Activate Jets: Turn the jets on high to circulate the cleaner through the plumbing system.

3. Wait: Allow the cleaner to circulate for at least 20 minutes. This ensures that all the internal lines are thoroughly cleaned.

2. Drain Your Hot Tub

Why It’s Important: Draining removes old water and any residual contaminants, setting the stage for a thorough clean.

Steps:

1. Turn Off Power: Ensure that the hot tub's power and breaker are turned off to avoid any electrical hazards.

2. Drain the Tub: Open the drain valve to start draining. You can attach a garden hose to divert the water away from the area. Alternatively, use a sump pump by placing it in the deepest part of the hot tub and turning it on. Stop the pump when it finishes draining to prevent damage.

3. Clean the Filter

Why It’s Important: A clean filter is essential for maintaining water clarity and proper filtration.

Steps:

1. Rinse the Filter: Use a garden hose to spray off large debris from the filter.

2. Soak the Filter: Fill a five-gallon bucket with filter cleaner and submerge the filter. Soak for at least two hours, or as directed by the cleaner’s instructions.

3. Clean the Filter Compartment: While the filter is soaking, wipe down the inside of the filter compartment with a damp cloth.

4. Rinse Thoroughly: After soaking, rinse the filter under running water to remove any remaining cleaner before reinstalling.

4. Clean the Hot Tub Shell

Why It’s Important: Cleaning the shell removes dirt, residue, and potential mold or mildew, ensuring a hygienic surface.

Steps:

1. Apply Cleaner: Spray the hot tub shell with a specialized hot tub cleaner.

2. Scrub the Surface: Using a sponge or non-scratch nylon scrubber, clean the shell, paying extra attention to areas around the jets and any ridges where buildup is common.

3. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the shell thoroughly using the hot tub drain or a hose. Wipe down with a towel to remove any leftover cleaning solution. Make sure the jets are open to avoid water pressure issues.

Note: While specialized cleaners are recommended, you can also use a mixture of one part white vinegar and four parts warm water or a solution of one part bleach to ten parts water. Do not mix vinegar and bleach.

5. Refill the Hot Tub

Why It’s Important: Refilling with fresh water ensures that you start with a clean slate and dilute any remaining chemicals.

Steps:

1. Close the Drain: Ensure the drain valve is securely closed.

2. Fill with Water: Insert a garden hose into the filter well. This helps remove minerals like calcium and copper as the water fills and pushes out trapped air.

3. Monitor the Level: Keep an eye on the water level to prevent overfilling.

6. Clean the Cover and Cabinet

Why It’s Important: Cleaning the cover and cabinet helps maintain overall hygiene and prevents damage from dirt and grime.

Steps:

1. Clean the Cover: Check if your hot tub cleaner can be used on the cover. If not, wipe it down with a solution of 10% bleach to water. For a cleaner specifically designed for hot tub covers, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Clean the Cabinet: Use a gentle wood cleaner or a damp cloth with warm water to clean the outer cabinet of the hot tub.

Tip: If your hot tub is exposed to direct sunlight, consider applying a protectant spray to the cover to prevent sun damage.

7. Turn On the Hot Tub

Why It’s Important: Turning on the hot tub and balancing the water ensures that the system is functioning correctly and that the water chemistry is properly adjusted.

Steps:

1. Restore Power: Turn the breaker and power back on for your hot tub.

2. Circulate Water: Let the water circulate for 10-20 minutes. Keep the air valves off during this period.

3. Add Chemicals: Add a shock treatment to eliminate any remaining bacteria. Adjust pH and chlorine/bromine levels according to the manufacturer’s guide.

4. Cover and Wait: Cover the hot tub and allow the chemicals to circulate for 24 hours. After the water has reheated, retest and adjust the water chemistry if needed.

Conclusion

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your hot tub are essential for ensuring a safe, hygienic, and enjoyable experience. By following these seven easy steps flushing the lines, draining the tub, cleaning the filter and shell, refilling with fresh water, cleaning the cover and cabinet, and finally turning on the hot tub—you can keep your hot tub in excellent condition and ready for relaxation.

Adhering to a regular cleaning schedule and addressing maintenance tasks promptly will help extend the lifespan of your hot tub and enhance your overall enjoyment. Enjoy your clean and refreshed hot tub, and remember to follow up with routine maintenance for the best results.

Related

• How to Clean a Hot Tub: A Comprehensive Guide for Pristine Relaxation
• How to Make Hot Tub Water Clear
• How to Clean Your Hot Tub Filter: Step-by-Step Guide for Optimal Performance

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