A Beginner’s Guide to Hot Tub Care

It goes without saying that owning a hot tub brings many benefits, including stress relief, muscle relaxation, socializing with friends, and much more. If you’re a first-time hot tub owner, it’s essential that you understand the basics of hot tub care to ensure the longevity, safety, and cleanliness of your new outdoor addition. 

In this beginner’s guide to hot tub care, we’ll cover everything from hygiene and maintenance to safety tips. We’ll also provide some valuable winter care advice to help you prepare for the colder months towards the end of the year. It’s important to note here that you must remember to always consult your hot tub manufacturer’s specific care instructions for the best results.

Hygiene

• Sanitizer levels: Regularly test the sanitizer levels in your hot tub to keep the water clean and free from harmful bacteria. Chlorine and bromine are commonly used sanitizers. 
• pH levels: Maintaining the proper pH balance is crucial for hot tub care. Test the pH levels weekly and adjust as necessary — the ideal range is between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH is too high, use pH reducer; if it’s too low, use pH increaser.
• Filtration: Clean the filters regularly to ensure proper water circulation and filtration. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning or replacing the filters. Consider using filter cleaner solutions for a thorough clean.

Maintenance

• Change the water regularly: Depending on usage, it’s recommended that you change the hot tub water every one to three months. Draining and refilling the tub will help maintain water quality and reduce the buildup of chemicals and impurities.
• Surface cleaning: Wipe down the hot tub surface regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt, oils, and debris. Use a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching the surface.
• Cover care: Clean the hot tub cover monthly using mild soap and water. Ensure the cover is securely fastened to prevent heat loss and to protect the water from debris and contamination.

Safety

• Regular temperature checks: Always monitor the hot tub temperature, especially when children or elderly individuals are using it. Keep the water temperature between 97-102 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent overheating and ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
• Supervision: Never leave children unattended in a hot tub, even for a moment. Accidents can happen quickly, so it’s important to supervise them at all times.
• Chemical storage: Store hot tub chemicals safely and out of reach of children and pets. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding proper storage and handling.

Winter Care Tips

• Preventing discoloration and stains: Before winter arrives, clean and treat the hot tub surface to minimize the risk of discoloration and stains caused by leaves, debris, and chemicals. Use a cover cleaner and protector to shield the cover from damage.
• Preventing frozen water: In minus temperatures, the water in your hot tub can freeze and cause damage to the plumbing. Keep the hot tub running during cold spells to maintain water circulation. Alternatively, you can drain and winterize the hot tub following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Closing the hot tub: If you choose to close your hot tub for the winter, drain the water completely, remove and clean the filters, and ensure all plumbing lines are free of water. Cover the hot tub tightly and regularly check for any signs of damage or wear during the winter months.

When it comes to hot tub maintenance, the work must be carried out correctly to ensure it lasts for many years to come, and to prevent any damage or the need for costly repairs. By contacting a hot tub expert, you can relax in the knowledge that you’ll be able to enjoy a clean, well-maintained, and safe hot tub experience. 

Here at Outdoor Living, we provide fast, high-quality hot tub maintenance for customers throughout Collierville, Memphis and the rest of West Tennessee. 

Why wait? Give us a call or visit us in store today to keep your hot tub in top working order for reliable use all year round.