Daily, Weekly, Monthly, and Annual Care Guide
Owning a spa is a fantastic way to unwind, soothe sore muscles, and enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy, but just like a swimming pool, it requires consistent upkeep to ensure the water remains clean, safe, and inviting. Without proper maintenance, issues such as cloudy water, bacteria buildup, and equipment malfunctions can arise, leading to costly repairs and an unpleasant soaking experience.
For first-time owners, understanding the fundamentals of water chemistry, filtration, and cleaning routines is essential to maintaining a healthy and well-functioning hot tub. Keeping the water properly balanced prevents irritation, protects equipment from damage, and extends the lifespan of the tub. Regularly cleaning and replacing filters ensures optimal performance, while following a proper draining and refilling schedule helps keep contaminants at bay.
This comprehensive beginner’s guide will walk you through the key aspects of hot tub maintenance, including how to balance chemicals, care for filters, establish a routine draining schedule, and troubleshoot common problems. With the right knowledge and a consistent maintenance plan, you can keep your hot tub water crystal clear and ready for relaxation year-round.
Daily Spa Maintenance Tasks (5 Minutes)
These quick tasks ensure your hot tub stays clean, balanced, and ready to use every day.
- Check water clarity – If it looks cloudy or foamy, it may need a chemical adjustment.
- Run the jets for a few minutes to circulate the water.
- Ensure the water level is high enough to cover the jets.
- Keep the cover closed when not in use to maintain heat and prevent debris.
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Tip: If the water looks cloudy or has a strong chemical smell, test and adjust your chemicals immediately.
Weekly Spa Maintenance Tasks (15-20 Minutes)
Once a week, dedicate a few extra minutes to testing, adjusting chemicals, and cleaning filters to maintain healthy water balance.
- Test water chemistry for pH, alkalinity, sanitizer (chlorine or bromine), and calcium hardness.
- Adjust chemicals as needed:
- pH (Ideal: 7.4 – 7.6) – Adjust with pH increaser or pH decreaser.
- Alkalinity (Ideal: 80 – 120 ppm) – Helps stabilize pH.
- Chlorine/Bromine (Ideal: 3-5 ppm)– Keeps water sanitized.
- Shock the water to break down contaminants like body oils, lotions, and sweat.
- Wipe down the hot tub shell and waterline to prevent scum buildup.
- Clean and rinse the filter with a hose to remove trapped debris.
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Tip: If you have frequent users, shock your hot tub twice a week to prevent cloudy water.
Monthly Spa Maintenance Tasks (30-45 Minutes)
Once a month, perform deeper cleaning and preventative maintenance to keep everything running smoothly.
- Deep clean the filter – Soak it in a cartridge filter cleaner overnight to remove built-up contaminants.
- Check and tighten all fittings to prevent leaks.
- Inspect jets and pump for proper function.
- Check the hot tub cover for mold, mildew, or cracks—clean and apply a UV protectant.
- Wipe down the inside of the hot tub shell with a non-abrasive cleaner.
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Tip: If your filter is more than a year old and isn’t coming clean, replace it.
Quarterly Spa Maintenance Tasks (Every 3-4 Months)
Every 3-4 months, your hot tub needs a complete refresh to remove old water, eliminate chemical buildup, and keep your system working efficiently.
- Drain and refill the hot tub with fresh water.
- Use a hot tub plumbing cleaner before draining to remove hidden bacteria and biofilm.
- Inspect and lubricate o-rings and seals to prevent leaks.
- Rebalance water chemistry after refilling – test and adjust pH, alkalinity, and sanitizers.
Tip: If your hot tub is heavily used, consider draining and refilling every 2 months.
Annual Spa Maintenance Tasks (Once a Year Check-Up)
At least once a year, perform a full system check-up to keep your hot tub in optimal condition.
- Inspect all plumbing, jets, and seals for wear or leaks.
- Flush the system with a cleaner to remove built-up contaminants.
- Have a professional inspect the heater, pump, and electrical components.
- Check and replace worn-out filters, covers, and cushions.
Tip: If your jets seem weak or the heater struggles, schedule a professional service.
Troubleshooting Common Spa Problems
Even with regular maintenance, hot tubs can develop issues. Here’s how to fix the most common problems:
- Cloudy Water? Shock the water, clean the filter, and check pH balance.
- Foamy Water? Use a foam remover and ensure people shower before entering.
- Algae or Slime? Shock the water and scrub the hot tub shell.
- Low Jet Pressure? Clean the filter and check for airlocks.
- Strong Chemical Smell? Chlorine levels are too high—allow water to air out.
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Final Thoughts: A Clean Spa is a Healthy Spa!
Following this simple maintenance schedule will keep your hot tub water crystal clear, safe, and ready for relaxation all year long.
- Daily: Check water clarity and cover.
- Weekly: Test water, shock, and clean filters.
- Monthly: Deep clean filters, inspect jets, and wipe surfaces.
- Quarterly: Drain and refill with fresh water.
- Annually: Perform a full system inspection.
By staying on top of these easy maintenance tasks, you’ll extend the life of your hot tub and enjoy a clean, soothing spa experience every time you step in!
Would you like product recommendations for your hot tub maintenance routine? Let us know, and we’ll help you find the best solutions!
