How Often Do You Need to Change the Water in a Hot Tub?

How Often Do You Need to Change the Water in a Hot Tub?

Even when you take great care of your spa, hot tub water eventually stops feeling fresh. Oils, lotions, sweat, and dissolved solids slowly build up, and after a while, the water just cannot stay clean no matter how much you balance it. That is why regular water changes are one of the simplest ways to keep your hot tub healthy and enjoyable.

How Often Should You Change Hot Tub Water?

For most hot tub owners, draining and refilling every 3–4 months is the sweet spot. This keeps the water clear, sanitized, and easier to manage.

However, usage plays a big role:

  • Heavy use (4–7 times per week): change every 2 months

  • Moderate use (1–3 soaks per week): every 3–4 months

  • Light use: sometimes you can stretch it a bit longer, depending on water quality

If you ever notice the water smelling “off,” looking cloudy, or feeling a little slippery even after treatment, that is usually a sign it is time for a full drain and refill.

Signs It Is Time to Refresh Your Spa Water

Even if you are not tracking the calendar, your hot tub will give you hints. Watch for:

  • Cloudiness that keeps returning

  • A sour or musty smell

  • Difficulty keeping chemicals balanced

  • Foamy water that comes back quickly

  • Increased skin irritation after soaking

These symptoms usually mean total dissolved solids (TDS) have built up to the point where chemicals cannot work properly anymore.

What to Do Before You Drain the Water

A water change is the perfect time for a deeper clean. Before you pull the plug, run a spa purge through the system. This breaks down hidden biofilm inside your plumbing, something a normal drain will not remove.

After purging:

  1. Drain the entire spa

  2. Rinse the surfaces

  3. Wipe down the shell with a non-abrasive cleaner

  4. Clean or replace the filter

  5. Refill with fresh water

Taking these steps helps your new water stay cleaner for a much longer time.

Tips to Make Your Water Last Longer

If you want to stretch the time between water changes, a few simple habits go a long way:

  • Shower before soaking (or use a quick rinse)

  • Keep a strict filter-cleaning routine

  • Use a water clarifier or enzyme product as needed

  • Maintain proper sanitation and pH

  • Keep the cover on when not in use

These small changes reduce how much debris and oils enter the water, which helps keep everything balanced.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.