Having a hot tub is a great way to relax and de-stress, but it needs regular care to keep running smoothly. Many hot tub owners unknowingly make hot tub maintenance errors that lead to bigger problems down the line. If you want to extend the life of your spa, avoid costly repairs, and prevent hot tub water problems, you need to steer clear of the most common maintenance mistakes.
Skipping Regular Water Testing
One of the most frequent hot tub maintenance mistakes is not testing the water regularly. When water is not tested at least twice a week, the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels can become imbalanced, which may lead to cloudy water, scale buildup, and even skin rash or eye irritation. Over time, improperly balanced water may corrode internal parts, which drives up the hot tub maintenance cost significantly.
Not Changing The Water Often Enough
Hot tub water doesn’t stay clean forever, even with filters and chemicals. Over time, body oils, lotions, and other residues dissolve in water. If you don’t change it every three to four months, you risk accumulating too many dissolved solids, which can cause hot tub water problems like foaming and scaling. To avoid that, drain and refill the water regularly, and clean the inside shell each time for a fresh start.
Ignoring Filter Maintenance
The responsibility of your hot tub’s filter is to trap dirt, debris, and bacteria. When it’s clogged or dirty, the water circulation becomes poor, and the heater and pump have to work harder. Ignoring the filter will not only affect water clarity but can shorten the life of your hot tub’s essential components. Clean the filter of your hot tub every two weeks, and make sure to replace it annually. Failing to do so is one of the easiest hot tub maintenance mistakes to prevent.
Using Too Many Chemicals
It’s tempting to add a little extra chlorine or shock “just to be safe,” but more is not always better. Overdosing chemicals can damage the hot tub’s components, throw off your water’s chemical balance, and also have a negative impact on your body. In fact, overusing chemicals often leads to more hot tub water problems rather than fixing them. Stick to the recommended doses. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid unnecessary chemical buildup.
Not Inspecting The Hot Tub Regularly
Regular inspections help catch problems early, like minor leaks, weak jets, or heater malfunctions. If you only look at your hot tub when something goes wrong, you may end up facing costly repairs that could’ve been avoided. Spend a few minutes every week checking for any changes in water level, odd noises, or error codes on the control panel. Preventative attention is a big part of smart hot tub maintenance.
Forgetting To Use A Hot Tub Cover
Leaving your hot tub uncovered exposes it to leaves, bugs, rainwater, debris, and dirt. It also causes the water to cool faster, leading to higher energy bills. Plus, UV rays can also break down the chemicals and fade the acrylic color over time. A good cover will keep out debris, conserve heat, and improve safety. Make sure your cover fits snugly and is in good condition, with no tears or heavy waterlogging.
Improper Electrical Setup
Some hot tub owners overlook the significance of safe electrical connections. If the wiring is not installed correctly, it becomes a safety hazard. Electrical issues can also cause your hot tub to malfunction or shut down entirely. Hire a licensed electrician to handle installations or electrical repairs. Cutting corners here can increase your hot tub maintenance cost or even lead to injury.
Draining Without Powering Off
One easily forgotten step during water changes is shutting off the power. Running the hot tub with no water in it can cause the heater to burn out quickly. This is a simple mistake that can lead to expensive repairs. Before draining your spa, always turn off the circuit breaker and make sure all jets and pumps are off.
Ignoring Manufacturer Instructions
Every hot tub model has its own requirements when it comes to care and cleaning. Using universal maintenance routines can lead to problems like incorrect chemical usage, premature part wear, or even voided warranties. If you’ve never read your manual, now’s a good time.
Letting Water Sit Stagnant
If you’re going away or won’t be using the tub for a while, don’t just leave it idle without treatment. If left long enough, it can develop foul smells or cause staining inside the tub. If your hot tub will sit unused, either keep it running and chemically balanced or drain it and dry it completely.
Neglecting Jet And Pipe Cleaning
Even when the water looks clean, buildup can occur inside the jets and pipes. Over time, biofilm (a slimy layer of bacteria) can form, reducing water pressure and contributing to hot tub water problems. Use a line flush product every few months to keep the inner plumbing clean. This step is often skipped but is essential for long-term performance.
Wrapping It Up
Taking care of a hot tub isn’t just about adding chemicals and turning it on. It’s about consistent, informed attention to its components, water, and environment. Small habits like weekly inspections, routine water changes, and regular filter cleaning can save you hundreds in repairs and extend your hot tub’s life.
Avoiding these common hot tub maintenance mistakes will help you steer clear of unnecessary breakdowns, minimize hot tub maintenance costs, and make your spa experience more enjoyable. Stay proactive, stick to the basics, and refer to your hot tub’s manual when in doubt. With the right maintenance habits, it will be just that.
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