Drain, Refill and Get Ready To Relax
At Parnell Pool & Spa, we understand that a hot tub offers a soothing escape from reality. A relaxing experience that can (and will) improve the quality of life each time you step foot into the warm, circulating water. We also understand that for your hot tub to take care of you, you must take care of it!
How Often Should You Drain Your Hot Tub?
Maintaining your spa is not just about adding chemicals each week and hoping for the best when it comes to water chemistry. To eliminate buildup and keep your hot tub running smoothly, the unit needs to be periodically drained and cleaned. In fact, it is best practice to drain your hot tub every 3-4 months to remove bacteria and contaminants. Contaminants such as
- Body oils
- Lotions
- Hair products
- Sweat
- Cosmetics
- And…while rather gross…potential urine and feces residue
While your filters will do their job to “grab” most of the contaminants, hot tub filters can only do so much. This is why it is crucial to drain, clean, and refill your hot tub every few months.
When To Drain Your Hot Tub?
At Parnell Pool & Spa, we understand that draining your hot tub may not always follow the intended schedule of every 3-4 months. Keep an eye out for
- A foul odor
- Hazy or cloudy water
- Foamy water or excessive bubbles
- Water that will not clear (no matter what chemicals are added)
- Higher bather load
- A hot tub that has been left unattended for a prolonged period of time
If any of these warning signs appear, it is best to drain, clean, and refill your hot tub immediately.
Before You Drain Your Hot Tub
Many people assume that draining your hot tub is one simple act — you pull the plug and let the water come out. However, there is one thing that every hot tub owner should do before getting rid of the water in your spa. Flush the lines!
No matter the amount of chemicals or sanitizer placed in your hot tub, bacteria will form inside the lines that can not be removed with simple circulation, filtration, or shock. To remove this “goo,” add a plumbing cleaner to flush the lines. This special cleaner will break down the biofilm (bacteria and fungi that attach to the spa’s interior) and make sure that all the surfaces are clean (even the ones you can’t see).
How To Drain Your Hot Tub
Once you have allowed your plumbing cleaner to circulate for a minimum of 20 minutes, the next step is to turn your hot tub off! Once you have eliminated the risk of a potential eclectic shock, it is safe to drain your hot tub by either the force of gravity or a handy-dandy sump pump. Be aware that some cities have regulations on where you can direct your hot tub water. If there are no regulations, attach a garden hose to the drain valve and run the water to a safe location.
How To Clean and Refill Your Hot Tub
Now that you have no water in your hot tub, you are almost done! Next, you have to clean all the working parts and pieces of your hot tub before filling it back up with fresh, clean water.
- Clean or replace the hot tub filters: Take a look at the following article to better understand this process: Proper Hot Tub Filter Cleaning.
- Clean the Hot tub shell: spray your hot tub shell with hot tub cleaner or diluted white vinegar and use some good ol’ fashion elbow grease to clean the surface. Make sure to rinse all surfaces completely before refilling the spa.
- Fill your hot tub: before you start filling your hot tub, make sure to place all caps on the plugs so water will not continue to escape. It is best practice to use a hose filter to reduce impurities and mineral deposits.
- Balance the chemicals: once the hot tube is full, make sure to balance the chemicals by testing the water. For more information, take a look at
Want a more in-depth look at how to drain and refill your hot tub? Take a look at the following article that outlines the 5 Steps To Drain and Refill Your Hot Tub.
Need Help?
Parnell Pool & Spa has been in the business of providing swimming pool and spa service for over 50 years. If you have a question about the proper running of your spa, stop by our Fayetteville or Lumberton location anytime to check out our products, purchase chemicals for your hot tub, or get a specific question answered by one of our experts. Visit us online at www.parnellpoolandspa.com or take a look at our Facebook page.
