Hot Tub Maintenance

The better you maintain your hot tub, the more you will get out of using it, and the longer it will last. That said, hot tub maintenance can be surprisingly complicated, especially for a first-timer. That’s why J&B Cycle & Marine has created this basic hot tub maintenance guide.

Maintain Circulation

Maintaining proper water circulation in your hot tub is important because it helps ensure that the water passes through the filters and remains contaminant-free. While some models have an automatic circulation cycle, others may require that you run the tub for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day to keep the water refreshed. Check your owner’s manual for more details. 

Cleaning

While both indoor and outdoor hot tubs can develop scum, outdoor tubs can also fill up with debris like leaves and trash. We recommend cleaning your hot tub at least once a week with a sponge and white vinegar. Don’t forget to clean the cover as well! In addition to your weekly cleanings, you’ll need to completely drain your hot tub every three to four months (or more if you’re using it frequently) for a more thorough scrubbing. 

Filters

Your hot tub’s filters require frequent rinsing, plus a more thorough cleaning once a week using hot tub filter cleaner as well. Whenever you drain and refill your hot tub, be sure to soak the filters in a chemical cleaner before rinsing them out. This will help extend the filter’s lifespan and eliminate any particulates that prove especially stubborn. If you’re at the point where even a soak in chemical cleaner won’t get your filter clean, it’s time to replace the filter. 

Balancing Hot Tub Water Chemistry

The water chemistry in your hot tub needs to be carefully balanced, much like a pool. What complicates matters is that you are dealing with such a small body of water. Start by using test strips or a liquid test kit to figure out your hot tub’s pH balance and alkalinity. Aim for a pH balance between 7.4 and 7.6. A pH below 7.4 is too acidic and can hurt both your skin and the hot tub itself. A pH above 7.6 will be too basic, which will make your water cloudy and reduce the effectiveness of your sanitizer. As for alkalinity, it can lead to cloudy water and scaling if it gets too high. Aim for an alkalinity measurement between 100 parts per million (ppm) to 150 ppm. 

To shop hot tub models, visit J&B Cycle & Marine in Timmins, Ontario. We also offer financing, parts ordering, and servicing. We hope you’ll come to visit us soon!