How Do I Clean a Hot Tub That Hasn’t Been Used in a While?

Drain the water, scrub the shell with a spa cleaner, and clean the filters. Run a pipe cleaner through the plumbing to remove biofilm. Refill and balance the water chemistry before use.

Why Cleaning an Unused Hot Tub is Important

Before we dive into the cleaning process, it’s crucial to understand why it's important to clean a hot tub that hasn’t been used in a while. Here are some reasons why regular maintenance is necessary:

• Prevents Bacteria Growth: Stagnant water, even in a covered hot tub, can become a breeding ground for bacteria, algae, and other harmful microorganisms.

• Ensures Proper Functioning: Dirt and debris can clog the filters, jets, and plumbing, affecting the performance of your hot tub. Cleaning ensures everything runs smoothly.

• Extends the Life of Your Hot Tub: Regular cleaning prevents damage caused by buildup, ensuring your hot tub lasts for many years.

• Saves Time in the Long Run: While it may take some time to clean an unused hot tub, neglecting it can lead to more significant issues that are more difficult and expensive to fix later.

By cleaning your hot tub regularly, you’re protecting your investment and ensuring a safe and comfortable experience every time you use it.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean a Hot Tub That Hasn’t Been Used in a While

Now that you understand why cleaning your hot tub is essential, let’s go over the detailed steps on how to do it.

1. Drain the Water

The first step in cleaning a hot tub that has been unused for a while is draining the water. This is necessary because stagnant water can breed bacteria, algae, and mineral buildup, all of which need to be removed.

How to Drain Your Hot Tub:

• Locate the Drainage Valve: Most hot tubs have a drainage valve located at the bottom of the tub. Some models might also have a built-in drain pump that can help speed up the process.

• Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum: After the water has drained, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any remaining water from the jets, corners, and plumbing lines. This will make the cleaning process much easier and prevent mold or mildew growth.

2. Clean the Hot Tub Shell

With the water drained, the next step is to clean the hot tub shell. Over time, the surface can accumulate dirt, body oils, and mineral deposits.

How to Clean the Shell:

• Use a Non-Abrasive Cleaner: Look for a cleaner specifically designed for hot tubs. These cleaners will remove oils and grime without damaging the surface of the tub. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers as these can scratch the shell.

• Scrub the Walls and Bottom: Using a sponge or soft cloth, scrub the walls and bottom of the hot tub. Pay close attention to areas around the jets and under the cover where dirt tends to build up.

• Tackle Tough Stains: For stubborn stains, make a paste out of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stains and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it away. This will help break down the dirt without causing damage.

3. Check and Clean the Filters

Filters are an essential part of your hot tub’s filtration system, and they can collect a significant amount of dirt and debris over time. Dirty filters can affect the performance of the hot tub and lead to inefficient water circulation.

How to Clean the Filters:

• Remove the Filters: Most hot tubs have filters that can be easily removed by twisting or pulling them out. Refer to your user manual for specific instructions.

• Rinse the Filters: Use a garden hose to thoroughly rinse the filters, removing dirt, oils, and other debris.

• Deep Clean the Filters: If a simple rinse doesn’t do the job, soak the filters in a filter cleaner solution overnight. This will help break down oils and other stubborn residues.

• Replace Filters if Necessary: If the filters appear damaged or excessively dirty, it may be time to replace them. Keeping your filters in top condition will improve the efficiency of your hot tub and keep the water cleaner for longer.

4. Clean the Jets and Plumbing System

While cleaning the shell and filters is important, you also need to address the jets and plumbing, where water can stagnate and buildup can occur.

How to Clean the Jets:

• Flush the Plumbing: Fill the hot tub with fresh water, add a plumbing line cleaner (specifically made for hot tubs), and run the jets for about 30 minutes. This will help break down any buildup inside the pipes and jets.

• Clean the Jets: Once the water is drained again, manually clean the jets with a small brush. A toothbrush can help you get into small crevices where dirt may accumulate.

5. Refill the Hot Tub

Now that the hot tub is clean and free of debris, it’s time to refill it with fresh water. Make sure to fill the tub until it reaches the appropriate water level, which is typically just above the highest jet.

Refilling Tips:

• Use Clean Water: Always use fresh water from a reliable source to fill your hot tub.

• Check for Leaks: While refilling, take a moment to check the tub for any leaks around the plumbing or jets. If you spot any, it’s important to fix them before continuing.

6. Balance the Water Chemistry

Once your hot tub is filled with water, it’s time to balance the chemicals. Proper water chemistry is essential to keeping the water clean and safe for use.

How to Balance the Water:

• Test the Water: Use a hot tub test strip or digital tester to measure the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. These tests will give you a clear idea of what adjustments are necessary.

• Adjust the pH and Alkalinity: The ideal pH level for hot tub water is between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH is too high or low, use a pH increaser or decreaser to adjust it. Similarly, adjust the alkalinity level to fall within the 80-120 ppm range.

• Sanitize the Water: Add the appropriate sanitizer (chlorine or bromine) to keep the water free of bacteria. Shock the water with an oxidizer to eliminate any remaining contaminants.

7. Run the Filtration System

After adding the necessary chemicals, it’s important to run the filtration system for at least one hour. This will help distribute the chemicals evenly throughout the water and allow any remaining debris to be filtered out.

Filtration Tips:

• Keep the Cover Off: Keep the hot tub cover off during this process to allow the air to circulate and the water to mix.

• Check the System: While the system is running, check to ensure that the filtration system is working properly. If the water isn’t circulating as expected, there may be a clog or issue with the pump or plumbing.

8. Test the Heater and Jets

Before you jump into your freshly cleaned hot tub, it’s important to test the heater and jets to ensure they’re working correctly.

• Test the Heater: Set the temperature to your desired level and ensure that the heater is functioning properly.

• Test the Jets: Turn on the jets and make sure that they’re functioning smoothly and that there’s no unusual noise or weak water flow.

9. Enjoy Your Clean Hot Tub!

Now that everything is clean and functioning properly, you’re ready to relax! Whether you’re preparing for a social gathering or enjoying a quiet evening alone, your hot tub is now safe and ready for use.

How to Maintain a Clean Hot Tub

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your hot tub in great condition. Here are a few tips to help you maintain it:

• Clean the Filters Regularly: Clean the filters every 3 to 4 weeks, depending on usage, to ensure they remain effective.

• Check Water Chemistry: Test the water regularly, at least once a week, to make sure the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels are balanced.

• Cover the Hot Tub: When not in use, always cover the hot tub to keep debris out and to maintain the water temperature.

• Drain and Refill Periodically: Aim to drain and refill your hot tub every 3 to 4 months to keep the water fresh.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your hot tub remains a clean and enjoyable place for relaxation.