A Beginner’s Guide to Hot Tub Maintenance
If you are asking yourself, "How do I care for my hot tub?" you are in for a little surprise. Even though you may think it is a lot of work, once you get used to it and are familiar with what to do, you will be a pro in no time. Remember, you can always drain the spa and start over if things get out of control. You can follow several tips to help you care for your new spa.
Water Chemistry
You always need to make sure that you test the water in your hot tub. This is what it means to keep up with the water chemistry. These results can enable you to make minor adjustments to the pH, calcium hardness, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels frequently. This means that you should consider testing your hot tub water at least two to four times each week. To keep levels in their proper ranges, be sure to adjust the levels as needed and follow this guide:
- Chlorine- 1.0-3.0 ppm
- pH- 7.4-7.6
- Total alkalinity- 80-120 ppm
- Bromine- 2.0-4.0 ppm
- Calcium hardness- 150-250 ppm
It is also a good idea to keep a record of your results and if you happen to make any adjustments, take notes on those. You will begin to recognize patterns in the water chemistry, especially when it comes to the sanitizer and pH levels.
In most areas, tap water makes a good hot tub water source. However, depending on the area you live in, you may deal with water quality issues. Hard or soft water, pH imbalances, high levels of chloramines and alkalinity, minerals, or even metals can have a negative effect on the water balance in your spa tub.
Keep the Filter & Spa Cleaned
Be sure to make sure that you keep your spa filter and hot tub cleaned. Your spa filter will be a small tank that can be accessed underneath the spa or on the side. If your spa filter is attached to a pressure gauge, make sure to clean the cartridge when the pressure rises 8-10 PSI than the newly cleaned pressure reading or when your flow is reduced.
On the other hand, your spa filter should be replaced every 12 months, but it depends on how often you use it.
You should clean the entire hot tub every three to four months, but avoid using any household cleaning products. Be sure to only use natural products made for hot tubs and designed to keep nitrates, phosphates, and other containments away.
Additional Cleanings
Finally, don’t forget to add fill water and air out the spa cover. These two things should be added to your beginners hot tub guide.
If you want to increase the longevity of your spa cover, take it off at least two times a week. A spa cover lift can help you completely remove it.
Finally, one of the most forgotten tips is to add fill water. The water level should always be in the middle of the skimmer intake or just a little above. Consider keeping a garden hose close by for a quick fix.