How Do I Know When to Drain My Hot Tub?

You should drain your hot tub every 3-4 months or if the water becomes difficult to balance, appears cloudy, or develops a strong odor.

Signs It Is Time to Drain Your Hot Tub

If you are not sure when to drain your hot tub, watch for these common signs:

1. Water Looks Cloudy or Dirty

Even with proper filtration and chemical balancing, water can become cloudy. This happens when oils, dirt, and organic matter build up faster than your filter can handle. If the water looks murky and does not clear up after treatment, it is time to drain and refill.

2. Strong or Unpleasant Odors

A healthy hot tub should not have a strong smell. If you notice a musty, sour, or chemical-like odor, bacteria and contaminants may be present. Draining and refilling with fresh water can eliminate the bad smell and keep your spa sanitary.

3. Foam or Excessive Bubbles

A few bubbles from the jets are normal, but if you see thick foam forming on the surface, it could be due to soap, body oils, or an imbalance in the water chemistry. Draining the tub helps remove these contaminants.

4. Difficulty Balancing Chemicals

If you find yourself constantly adjusting pH, alkalinity, or sanitizer levels without success, the water may be oversaturated with dissolved solids. Fresh water is easier to maintain and helps restore balance.

5. High Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

Total dissolved solids refer to minerals, chemicals, and other particles that accumulate in the water over time. When TDS levels are too high, the water becomes harder to sanitize, leading to poor water quality.

6. Filter Is Struggling to Keep Up

Your hot tub filter plays a crucial role in keeping the water clean. If you clean the filter regularly but still notice debris floating in the water, it may be time for a complete water change.

How Often Should You Drain Your Hot Tub?

How often you need to drain your hot tub depends on usage, maintenance, and water quality. A good rule of thumb is:

• Every 3 to 4 months, for average use (2-3 times per week)
  

• Every 2 months, for heavy use (daily or multiple users)
  

• Every 6 months, if lightly used or maintained with advanced filtration systems
  

To calculate a more precise draining schedule, use this formula:

(Hot Tub Gallons ÷ Number of Daily Users) ÷ 3 = Drain Frequency in Days

For example, a 300-gallon hot tub used by 3 people daily would need draining about every 33 days.

Step-by-Step Guide to Draining Your Hot Tub

1. Turn Off the Power

Before draining, always turn off the power to avoid damage to the pump and heater.

2. Attach a Garden Hose to the Drain Valve

Most hot tubs have a drain valve where you can connect a hose. Open the valve to allow water to flow out.

3. Use a Submersible Pump (Optional)

If you want to speed up the process, a submersible pump can remove the water faster than the standard drain valve.

4. Remove Leftover Water

Once most of the water is gone, use a wet/dry vacuum or towels to soak up any remaining water in the footwell and seats.

5. Clean the Interior

Wipe down the shell with a hot tub cleaner or a diluted vinegar solution. Avoid household cleaners that can leave residues and affect water chemistry.

6. Rinse and Refill

Once cleaned, rinse the tub with fresh water and refill it using a garden hose. If possible, use a hose filter to reduce impurities.

7. Balance Chemicals and Restart

After refilling, test the water and adjust pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels as needed. Turn the power back on and allow the hot tub to heat before use.

Extra Tips for Keeping Water Clean Longer

Draining your hot tub is necessary, but there are ways to extend the time between water changes:

• Shower before using: Reduces body oils, lotions, and sweat entering the water.
  

• Use a quality hot tub cover: Prevents debris, dirt, and contaminants from getting in.
  

• Maintain proper chemical balance: Regularly test and adjust pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels.
  

• Clean the filter weekly: Rinse with water and use a filter cleaner every month.
  

• Use an enzyme treatment: Helps break down organic contaminants to reduce buildup.
  

Keeping up with regular maintenance and knowing when to drain your hot tub ensures clean, clear, and safe water for an enjoyable spa experience.