Hot Tub Maintenance and Cleaning Guide
Most of hot tub upkeep is two jobs: keeping the filter clean and changing the water before it wears out. Do those on a schedule and the chemistry gets a lot easier. For a day-by-day checklist, see the hot tub maintenance schedule.
Filters and cleaning gear
A spare filter cartridge lets one soak while the other runs; a hose filter wand makes the weekly rinse quick.
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The filter: three levels of cleaning
Quick rinse (weekly, or after heavy use)
- Turn the tub off and lift out the cartridge.
- Rinse with a garden hose at normal pressure, angled into the pleats, top to bottom, turning as you go.
- Stop when the water runs clear and put it back.
Never use a pressure washer — it tears the pleats.
Soak (monthly)
A rinse moves loose dirt; a soak in a spa filter cleaner dissolves the oils and lotions clogging the media itself. Follow the cleaner's label, rinse thoroughly and let the filter dry fully before it goes back in. Two cartridges you rotate make this painless.
Deep clean and inspection (when you change the water)
Give it a longer soak, then look closely: torn or fraying pleats, cracked end caps, pleats that feel mushy instead of firm, or staining that won't come out all mean it is time to replace it.
| Use | Never use |
|---|---|
| Garden hose, filter wand, spa filter cleaner | Dish soap or laundry detergent (foam), dishwasher, pressure washer |
Finding the right replacement
The part number is usually printed on the end cap or a side label. If it is worn off, measure outside diameter, inside diameter (top and bottom) and length, or look up the part number in your hot tub manual — the major filter brands cross-reference them. Most cartridges last roughly 12–18 months with regular use.
How often to change the water
Many makers suggest every 3–4 months with normal use. A common rule of thumb for a closer estimate:
Signs it's time, whatever the calendar says
- Numbers won't stay in range no matter what you add.
- Cloudiness that doesn't clear after cleaning the filter and shocking.
- Foam that keeps coming back.
- A harsh smell that returns soon after a shock.
- Water that just feels sticky or "off".
Draining and refilling
- Optional line flush before draining to clear buildup inside the plumbing (follow the product label).
- Power off at the breaker so the heater and pumps never run dry.
- Drain with the drain plug (slow), a submersible pump (fast) or a siphon. Check local rules on where treated water can go.
- Clean the shell with a non-foaming spa surface cleaner and rinse well.
- Clean or replace the filter.
- Refill through the filter housing to avoid air locks; a hose pre-filter helps with hard or well water.
- Power on, heat, then balance — alkalinity, pH, hardness, sanitizer, in that order (see water balance).
In freezing weather, make sure all lines are full and running before the cold hits.
Make the water last longer
- Shower before soaking — body oils and lotions are the main thing wearing out water and filters.
- Keep the cover on between soaks.
- Keep the filter clean and run the normal filtration cycles.
- Shock after heavy use rather than days later.
Reminders so nothing slips
HTReminder reminds you when to rinse or soak the filter and when the water is due for a change, and keeps your test history alongside.
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