A freestanding spa is a luxury that brings relaxation, therapy, and fun right into your backyard. But like any high-end investment, it needs regular care to stay in perfect condition. Neglecting maintenance can lead to murky water, costly repairs, and even a shorter lifespan for your hot tub.
Here’s a detailed guide to keeping your spa in top shape year-round!
1. Keep the Water Clean
One of the biggest concerns for any hot tub owner is water cleanliness. Dirty or unbalanced water can cause skin irritation, unpleasant odors, and damage to the spa itself.
Test the water regularly – At least twice a week, use a testing kit to check pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels.
Maintain the right chemical balance – The ideal pH should be between 7.4 and 7.6, while alkalinity should be between 80 and 120 ppm.
Use the right sanitizer – Chlorine and bromine are the most common, but mineral-based sanitizers are a great alternative for sensitive skin.
Pro Tip: After heavy use (like a party or a long soak), shock the water with a spa shock treatment to remove contaminants.
2. Change the Water Regularly
Even with the best water treatment, spa water doesn’t last forever. Over time, it collects oils, lotions, and minerals that make it harder to keep clean.
Drain and refill your hot tub every 3-4 months.
Before refilling, wipe down the shell with a non-abrasive cleaner to prevent residue buildup.
If your water starts feeling slimy, cloudy, or has a strong odor—even after treatment—it’s time for a water change!
3. Clean and Replace Filters
Your spa’s filter is what keeps debris, hair, and other particles from clogging up the system. A dirty filter can overwork your spa and lead to poor water circulation.
Rinse the filter every 1-2 weeks with a garden hose.
Deep clean it monthly using a filter cleaner solution.
Replace the filter every 12-18 months, depending on usage.
Pro Tip: Have two filters on hand so you can swap them out while cleaning one!
4. Protect the Spa Cover
Your spa cover does more than keep leaves and dirt out—it also helps maintain water temperature and prevents evaporation.
Wipe down the cover weekly with a mild soap solution to prevent mildew.
Apply UV protectant spray to prevent sun damage.
Check for damage – If your cover is waterlogged or cracked, replace it to maintain insulation.
5. Monitor the Jets and Plumbing
Jets are what give your spa that relaxing, bubbling sensation, but they can easily get clogged with dirt, oils, and calcium deposits.
Run a jet cleaner through the system every 3-4 months.
Remove and inspect the jets for blockages and clean them with a soft brush if needed.
Check for leaks or weak jet pressure, as this could indicate a plumbing issue.
6. Keep an Eye on Energy Efficiency
Running a hot tub can increase your energy bill, but there are ways to minimize costs:
Use a high-quality insulated cover to retain heat.
Keep the water at a consistent temperature rather than turning it on and off frequently.
Invest in a thermal blanket for extra insulation.
Schedule regular maintenance to ensure all parts are running efficiently.
Pro Tip: Lower your spa temperature by a few degrees when not in use to save on energy costs.
7. Seasonal Hot Tub Maintenance
Each season brings different challenges for spa care.
Winter: If you’re using the spa, make sure to check water levels often to prevent freezing. If you’re winterizing it, drain all water from the pipes to avoid damage.
Summer: Increased heat can lead to faster algae growth—stay on top of sanitization.
Fall & Spring: Keep an eye out for falling leaves and pollen that can clog the filter.
8. Schedule Professional Inspections
Even with regular maintenance, some issues require expert attention. Consider a yearly professional spa inspection to check for:
Pump and heater efficiency
Plumbing leaks
Electrical connections
A professional can also help with deep cleaning and recalibrating your spa’s systems.
Enjoy a Perfectly Maintained Spa!
With these simple but essential maintenance steps, your freestanding spa will stay in peak condition for years. A well-maintained hot tub means cleaner water, fewer repairs, and more time spent enjoying those soothing jets.
Got any questions or looking for premium spa products? Visit Dream Pools & Spas for expert advice and top-quality hot tubs!
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