Owning a hot tub is a wonderful luxury, but keeping it clean is essential to ensuring it remains a safe and inviting place to relax. With the right approach, you can keep your hot tub water crystal clear and free from contaminants, while prolonging the life of your equipment. Here are some practical tips for maintaining a clean hot tub:
1. Shower Before Using the Hot Tub
One of the easiest ways to keep your hot tub water clean is to rinse off before getting in. Body oils, lotions, cosmetics, and sweat can all contaminate the water, leading to cloudy conditions or bacterial growth. A quick shower will remove most of these substances and reduce the amount of work your filters and hot tub chemicals have to do.
Tip: Keep a sign or reminder near your hot tub area to encourage guests to rinse off as well.
2. Use a Floating Dispenser for Sanitisers
Chlorine and bromine are the most commonly used sanitisers in hot tubs. To maintain consistent sanitiser levels, consider using a floating dispenser that automatically releases the right amount of chemicals. This ensures the water stays clean even when you’re not actively maintaining the tub.
Tip: Check the dispenser weekly to make sure it’s working properly and that there’s enough sanitiser inside.
3. Keep the Hot Tub Covered
When your hot tub isn’t in use, always keep it covered. A good-quality cover prevents leaves, dirt, insects, and other debris from falling into the water. It also reduces water evaporation, conserves heat, and limits the amount of chemicals that need to be added. Regularly clean your cover to prevent it from becoming a source of dirt itself.
Tip: A cover lift can make it easier to remove and replace the cover, ensuring that it’s always put back on after use.
4. Skim and Clean the Water Surface
Even with the cover on, some debris might still find its way into the water, especially if you’re using your hot tub frequently. Use a skimmer net to remove floating leaves, insects, and other small particles. Doing this regularly prevents them from getting into the filters or breaking down in the water, which can lead to contamination.
Tip: Skim the water daily or after each use, especially if your hot tub is located outdoors.
5. Shock the Water Weekly
Shocking your hot tub water is an important part of keeping it clean and fresh. A shock treatment involves adding an extra dose of oxidiser to break down organic matter like oils, lotions, and skin cells. This process helps to remove contaminants that regular sanitising can’t fully eliminate, leaving your water clear and odour-free.
Tip: Shock your hot tub once a week, or more often if you use it frequently, and allow time for the chemicals to dissipate before using the tub again.
6. Clean the Filters Regularly
Filters are your hot tub’s first line of defence against dirt and debris. If they become clogged, they can’t effectively clean the water. To keep your hot tub running smoothly, remove the filters every 2-4 weeks and rinse them with a garden hose. Every few months, soak them in a specialised filter cleaner to remove any oils or residue that have built up over time.
Tip: If you notice a drop in water circulation or pressure, it’s a sign that your filters need cleaning.
7. Maintain Proper Water Balance
The chemical balance of your hot tub water directly affects cleanliness. pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels should all be within the recommended ranges to prevent bacteria growth, scale formation, or cloudy water. Use a water testing kit to monitor these levels regularly, and adjust as needed with the appropriate chemicals.
Tip: Ideally, check your water chemistry 2-3 times a week, especially during periods of heavy use.
8. Drain and Refill Periodically
No matter how diligent you are with cleaning and chemical balancing, the water in your hot tub will eventually need to be replaced. Over time, contaminants can build up and make it difficult to maintain clear water. Draining and refilling your hot tub every 3-4 months keeps it fresh and reduces the likelihood of problems like scaling or foamy water.
Tip: When draining, take the opportunity to clean the interior surfaces of the hot tub with a non-abrasive cleaner.
Conclusion
Keeping your hot tub clean doesn’t have to be a chore. With a regular cleaning routine, proper chemical maintenance, and a few simple preventative measures, you’ll enjoy clear, inviting water every time you take a dip. By following these tips, you’ll not only keep your hot tub in excellent condition but also create a more enjoyable and safe experience for yourself and your guests.
