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Keeping your hot tub in tip-top shape during the summer isn’t just about water temperature, it’s also about water quality, equipment condition, and user safety. Whether you own a luxury hot tub spa or a compact hot spring spa, regular maintenance is essential to enjoying clean, soothing spa water all season long.
In this guide, we’ll give you top tips on maintaining your hot tub filter, checking water quality, and determining exactly how often to change a hot tub filter. Let’s go!
Why Summer Maintenance Matters for Your Hot Tub
Summer is peak hot tub season, but it’s also prone to problems like algae growth, cloudy water, or decreased filtration performance. Heat, body oils, sunscreen, and frequent use can quickly stress your hot tub water filter and disrupt its chemical balance.
Without proper maintenance, your water can become cloudy, your filter can become clogged, and your system can become overloaded — leading to costly repairs or downtime.
Keep Your Hot Tub Water Balanced
Proper water chemistry is essential for a safe and enjoyable bathing experience, especially during the summer months when your pool is frequently used. Test your hot tub water at least two to three times a week. Important parameters you should monitor are:
- pH: The ideal range is between 7.2 and 7.8. Low pH can cause corrosion on hot tub components, while high pH can lead to scale formation and cloudy water.
- Disinfectants: Use chlorine or bromine to kill bacteria and keep the water clean.
- Total alkalinity: Aim for 80–120 ppm. Alkalinity acts as a buffer, stabilizing pH.
Unbalanced water can cause skin irritation, damage your spa filter, or shorten the life of your hot tub system. Always use chemicals that are appropriate for your hot tub and follow the manufacturer’s dosing instructions.
Clean or Replace the Hot Tub Filter Regularly
Your spa filter protects against dirt, hair, body oils, and other contaminants. In the summer, when your hot tub is getting heavy use, you should follow these intervals:
- Rinse the filter with a hose every 1-2 weeks.
- Clean it thoroughly monthly with a filter cleaning solution.
- Replace the filter every 3-6 months, depending on usage and water quality.
Wondering how often to change your hot tub filter? If the filter is discolored, damaged, or no longer cleans, it’s time for a hot tub filter change.
Choose a high-quality filter for hot tub models compatible with your spa brand. Whether it’s a hot spring spa, inflatable whirlpool, or large built-in unit, always make sure you choose the right size and type.
Clean the Hot Tub Shell and Cover
Every 1-2 weeks, wipe down the outer shell and underside of your hot tub cover with a non-abrasive hot tub cleaner. Pay special attention to water lines, corners, and nozzle areas, as these are areas where dirt and bacteria can easily accumulate.
Use a UV protection spray on the cover to prevent sun damage and extend its life.
Keep the Spa Water Circulating
Good circulation is essential for filtration and even distribution of chemicals. Set your hot tub to circulate twice a day for at least 15-20 minutes each time (or longer, depending on the model).
Check that the pump and nozzles are working properly. Poor circulation can cause the water in your hot tub to become stagnant, a breeding ground for bacteria.
Drain and Refill Periodically
Even with the best chemistry, dissolved solids can build up in your whirlpool water over time. Here’s the plan:
Empty and refill every 3-4 months
Clean the pipes with a whirlpool cleaner before refilling
You should change the water more often if you use it frequently. Always clean the interior and replace or inspect the spa filter during this process.
Inspect Your Spa Filter System
In addition to cleaning you hot tub water filter, check the filter housing, seals, and O-rings for wear. Worn seals or cracked housings can cause leaks or pressure loss.
If your spa uses a cartridge-style filter for hot tub maintenance, you should consider purchasing replacements for quick changes. Look for models with pleated polyester media and a reinforced core for longer life.
Bonus Tip: Use a Spa Shock After Heavy Use
After parties, family gatherings, or extended use, oil, sweat, sunscreen, and other organic matter can accumulate in your hot tub’s water. These contaminants can defeat the disinfectant, causing cloudy water, unpleasant odors, and even bacterial growth. To restore water clarity, use a spa shock treatment—a fast-acting oxidant that breaks down waste products and increases the effectiveness of disinfectants. Depending on your hot tub’s disinfecting system, you can choose between a chlorine or non-chlorine shock treatment. Perform the shock treatment at night, with the cover removed to allow gases to escape. Always follow label instructions for safety and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Maintaining your hot tub in the summer doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right schedule—flushing and replacing your hot tub filter, monitoring your spa water, and regular cleanings—you can enjoy clear, healthy water all season long.
If you’re not sure when your last hot tub filter change was, now’s the time to check it out. Your hot tub (and your skin) will thank you.