Hot Tub Maintenance Made Easy: A Simple Guide for First-Time Owners

Owning a hot tub is a luxurious experience, but to keep it running smoothly and looking great, proper maintenance is key. At Rocky View Living, we understand that first-time owners may have questions, so we’ve broken down the essential maintenance tasks into simple, manageable steps.

Follow this guide to ensure your hot tub stays in top condition, providing you with years of relaxation and enjoyment.

1. Daily and Weekly Maintenance Checklist

Keeping up with daily and weekly maintenance will prevent larger issues and ensure your hot tub’s water remains clean and safe.

Daily Maintenance (Assuming you use your tub 3-5 times/Week)

• Check Water Temperature: Ensure the water is at the correct temperature and monitor for any fluctuations.
• Inspect for Debris: Remove any leaves, bugs, or floating debris with a skimmer net.
• Check the Cover: Ensure the hot tub cover is securely in place when not in use to prevent debris and heat loss.

Weekly Maintenance

• Test and Balance Water Chemistry: Use test strips to check pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. Adjust as needed.
• Clean the Waterline: Wipe down the waterline with a soft cloth to prevent buildup of oils and grime.
• Shock the Water: Add a non-chlorine or chlorine shock to oxidize contaminants and refresh the water.

Pro Tip: Create a weekly maintenance schedule to help you stay on top of these tasks.

2. Monthly Maintenance Tasks

Clean the Filter:

• Remove the filter and rinse it with a garden hose to clear debris and dirt.
• Soak the filter in a filter-cleaning solution for a deeper clean.

Inspect Jets and Valves:

• Check for any blockages or reduced water pressure from the jets.
• Make sure valves are functioning properly and are free of buildup.

Check the Cabinet and Exterior:

• Inspect the hot tub’s exterior for signs of wear or damage.
• Clean the cabinet with a mild soap solution to maintain its appearance.

Did You Know? Keeping filters clean improves circulation and extends the life of your hot tub components.

3. Every 6 Months: Draining and Refilling the Water (Spring and Fall)

Over time, hot tub water accumulates dissolved solids that can’t be filtered out. Draining and refilling twice a year—every spring and fall—ensures your water stays fresh and clean.

Steps for Draining and Refilling:

1. Turn off the Power: Ensure the hot tub is completely powered off.
2. Drain the Water: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to properly drain the water.
3. Clean the Shell: Wipe down the interior with a non-abrasive cleaner to remove any buildup.
4. Refill and Balance: Refill the hot tub, test the water chemistry, and adjust pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels as needed.

Tip: For heavy users, consider additional draining and refilling if you notice difficulty maintaining water quality.

4. Seasonal Maintenance: Winterizing Your Hot Tub

If you live in a cold climate and don’t plan to use your hot tub during winter, proper winterization is essential to prevent freezing damage.

Winterization Steps:

• Drain the Water: Completely drain the hot tub.
• Blow Out the Plumbing: Use an air blower to remove any water from the plumbing lines.
• Clean and Cover: Clean the shell and cover the hot tub with a high-quality cover to prevent moisture and debris.

Pro Tip: If you plan to use the hot tub year-round, invest in a well-insulated cover to prevent heat loss and reduce energy costs.

5. Common Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

Prevent costly repairs by avoiding these common mistakes:

• Ignoring Water Chemistry: Imbalanced water can cause skin irritation and damage hot tub components.
• Skipping Filter Cleaning: Clogged filters reduce water flow and put extra strain on the pumps.
• Using Abrasive Cleaners: Harsh chemicals can damage the acrylic surface.
• Neglecting to Replace Old Water: Over time, old water becomes harder to maintain and less hygienic.

Tip: Set reminders for essential maintenance tasks to stay on top of everything.

6. Ozone and UV Systems: An Extra Layer of Protection

Ozone and UV light systems are excellent additions to your hot tub’s maintenance routine, helping reduce chemical usage and keeping your water clean and clear.

Benefits of Ozone and UV Systems:

• Kills Bacteria and Viruses: Both systems sanitize water by neutralizing harmful pathogens.
• Reduces Chemical Usage: You’ll need fewer chlorine or bromine treatments, resulting in softer, less irritating water.
• Prevents Odors and Biofilm: Ozone and UV effectively break down organic contaminants that cause unpleasant odors.

Maintenance Tip: Regularly inspect and clean the ozone and UV systems as per manufacturer guidelines to ensure optimal performance.

7. When to Call a Professional

Some issues require professional attention. Contact a technician if you experience:

• Persistent water chemistry imbalances despite regular maintenance.
• Malfunctioning pumps, jets, or heaters.
• Leaks or cracks in the shell or plumbing.

At Rocky View Living, we offer expert support and maintenance advice to keep your hot tub in peak condition.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Hot Tub Without the Stress

Regular maintenance is the key to enjoying your hot tub for years to come. By following this simple guide, you’ll ensure your spa stays clean, efficient, and relaxing.

Ready to take the plunge? Contact us today for expert advice or to explore our selection of premium hot tubs designed with easy maintenance in mind.