As summer arrives, it’s the perfect time to enjoy your hot tub. However, the warmer weather also brings unique maintenance challenges that require special attention. Proper maintenance ensures your hot tub remains in peak condition, providing a safe and enjoyable experience all season long. Here are essential summer maintenance tips for your hot tub.
Monitor and Adjust Water Chemistry
Maintaining balanced water chemistry is crucial for a healthy hot tub environment. During summer, higher temperatures and increased usage can affect water quality, making it essential to monitor and adjust chemical levels regularly.
Test Water Frequently
Check your hot tub’s water chemistry at least twice a week during the summer. Use a reliable test kit to measure pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. The pH should be between 7.4 and 7.6, and the total alkalinity should be between 80 and 120 parts per million (ppm). Chlorine or bromine levels should be maintained within the recommended range for effective sanitation.
Adjust Chemical Levels
If the test results indicate imbalances, adjust the chemical levels accordingly. Use pH increasers or decreasers to maintain proper pH levels and add alkalinity increasers if needed. Regularly shock your hot tub with a non-chlorine shock treatment to eliminate contaminants and keep the water clear.
Maintain Clean Filters
Clean filters are vital for ensuring your hot tub’s water stays clean and free from debris. Summer often brings increased debris from outdoor activities, making it essential to maintain your filters.
Rinse Filters Weekly
Remove and rinse your filters with a garden hose weekly to remove dirt and debris. Be sure to spray between the pleats to ensure a thorough cleaning. Avoid using high-pressure settings as they can damage the filter material.
Deep Clean Monthly
Once a month, perform a deep cleaning of your filters by soaking them in a filter cleaning solution. This helps to remove oils, lotions, and other contaminants that a simple rinse cannot eliminate. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the soaking time and rinse thoroughly before reinstalling the filters.
Control Water Temperature
Hot summer days can cause the water temperature in your hot tub to rise above comfortable levels. Monitoring and controlling the water temperature helps maintain a pleasant and safe soaking experience.
Lower the Thermostat
During the summer, lower your hot tub’s thermostat to maintain a water temperature between 98°F and 100°F. This provides a refreshing soak without overheating your body.
Use a Thermal Blanket
A thermal blanket can help regulate water temperature by reflecting sunlight and reducing heat absorption. It also minimizes evaporation, keeping your water levels more stable.
Regularly Clean the Hot Tub Shell
Keeping the hot tub shell clean prevents the buildup of grime, oils, and other contaminants that can affect water quality and damage the surface.
Wipe Down the Shell
Wipe down the hot tub shell with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth every week. Pay attention to areas around the waterline where buildup tends to occur. Avoid using household cleaners that can leave residues and alter water chemistry.
Deep Clean Quarterly
Perform a thorough cleaning of your hot tub shell every three months. Drain the hot tub and use a specialized cleaner to scrub the entire surface. Rinse thoroughly and refill with fresh water, balancing the chemistry before use.
Monitor and Maintain Water Levels
Evaporation and splash-out are more common in hot weather, leading to fluctuating water levels. Maintaining the correct water level is crucial for proper hot tub function and user safety.
Check Water Levels Regularly
Check your hot tub’s water levels weekly and top off as necessary. The water level should be high enough to cover the jets but not so high that it overflows when multiple people are using the tub.
Keep the Cover in Good Condition
A well-maintained cover is essential for protecting your hot tub from debris, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations.
Clean and Condition the Cover
Clean your hot tub cover with a mild soap solution every month to remove dirt and debris. After cleaning, apply a UV protectant to prevent sun damage and cracking. Make sure to rinse off any soap residues thoroughly.
Inspect for Damage
Regularly inspect your hot tub cover for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, tears, or waterlogged foam. Replace the cover if it shows significant damage, as a compromised cover can lead to heat loss and contamination.
Prevent and Manage Algae Growth
Warmer temperatures can increase the risk of algae growth in your hot tub. Taking preventive measures and managing any signs of algae is essential for maintaining clean and safe water.
Use Algaecide
Add a recommended dose of algaecide to your hot tub water as a preventive measure. This helps inhibit the growth of algae and keeps your water clear.
Shock the Water
Regularly shock your hot tub water to eliminate any algae spores that may be present. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct dosage and frequency.
Encourage Proper User Hygiene
Ensuring that everyone who uses the hot tub follows proper hygiene practices helps maintain water quality and reduces the need for excessive chemical adjustments.
Shower Before Use
Encourage users to shower before entering the hot tub to remove oils, lotions, and other contaminants. This reduces the load on your filters and keeps the water cleaner for longer.
Limit the Use of Oils and Lotions
Discourage the use of oils, lotions, and other products that can contaminate the water and clog the filters. Provide a rinsing station or clean towels for users to wipe off before getting into the hot tub.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
While regular self-maintenance is crucial, scheduling a professional maintenance service once or twice during the summer can help address any potential issues and ensure your hot tub is in top condition.
Professional Inspection
A professional technician can thoroughly inspect your hot tub’s components, including the pump, heater, and plumbing, to ensure everything is functioning correctly. They can also identify and address any minor issues before they become major problems.
Deep Cleaning and Servicing
Professional maintenance services often include deep cleaning and servicing of your hot tub, ensuring that all parts are cleaned, checked, and operating efficiently.
Proper summer maintenance of your hot tub is essential to keep it in peak condition and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. By regularly monitoring water chemistry, cleaning filters, controlling water temperature, and maintaining the cover, you can enjoy your hot tub all summer long. Additionally, taking preventive measures against algae, encouraging proper user hygiene, and scheduling professional maintenance can extend the life of your hot tub and keep it functioning optimally.
