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How To Maintain a Hydropool Hot Tub: Key Tips for Longevity

Owning a Hydropool hot tub is a great way to relax, but it also requires routine care if you plan on maximizing its lifespan. Proper maintenance ensures that your hot tub stays in pristine condition with welcoming water free from extensive troubleshooting.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to keep your Hydropool hot tub running smoothly, helping you avoid costly repairs down the road.

1. Establish a Regular Cleaning Routine

A clean hot tub is a long-lasting hot tub. By sticking to a regular cleaning routine, you’ll prevent grime and debris from building up and damaging your hot tub’s components over time.

Clean the Shell Regularly

The shell of your hot tub can collect dirt and oils, making it look dull while also promoting bacteria growth. Regular cleaning keeps it looking fresh and protects the surface from damage.

  • Wipe down the lip of the shell after every use with a soft cloth to remove oils and residue.
  • During water changes, use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner made for hot tubs, such as Clean & Perfect (Natural Chemistry), to avoid damaging the shell.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or household cleaners as they can cause cracks or discoloration.

Clean the Filters

The filters are the heart of your hot tub’s cleaning system. Over time, they collect dirt, oils, and particles that can block water flow and reduce efficiency.

  • Rinse the filters with a garden hose every 2 weeks to clear away dirt and debris.
  • Use a spray-on, rinse-off filter cleaner each month to break down stubborn grime
  • Soak the filters in a filter cleaner solution every few months to remove oils and buildup.
  • Replace the filters every 12 months, or sooner if they appear damaged or worn.
hydropool hot tub filter care

2. Monitor and Balance Water Chemistry

Balanced water is key to both your hot tub’s longevity and the health of those using it. If the water chemistry is off, it can lead to corrosion, scale buildup, or even skin irritation.

Test the Water Often

Water chemistry can change quickly, especially with regular use. Testing the water ensures everything stays in balance.

  • Test the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels at least once a week using test strips or a water testing kit.
  • Aim for a pH level of 7.2 to 7.5, alkalinity between 80-120 ppm, and consistent sanitizer levels (chlorine: 1-3 ppm or bromine: 3 – 5 ppm).

Add Chemicals as Needed

When the water is out of balance, it can cause problems for your hot tub and the people using it. Luckily, it’s easy to fix.

  • Use pH increaser or pH decreaser to adjust the pH to the correct levels.
  • Add chlorine or bromine as needed to maintain the proper sanitizer levels.
  • Keep alkalinity in check with alkalinity increaser or your pH decreaser as required.

3. Drain and Refill the Hot Tub

Even with balanced water, you’ll need to drain and refill your hot tub periodically. Over time, water gets saturated with chemicals and minerals, which can cause damage or scaling.

How often this needs to be done really comes down to your usage. If your family uses your spa every day, you’ll need to clean your spa more than someone who enjoys a solo session once or twice a week.

To determine the best frequency for your spa based on your usage, check out our in-depth guide here.

How to Drain and Refill Your Hot Tub

Draining your hot tub removes any old water that has become too hard to balance. Refilling with fresh water gives you a clean slate.

  • Turn off the power to the hot tub before draining to avoid damaging the components.
  • Attach a garden hose to the drainage valve and direct the water to an appropriate location.
  • Once drained, clean the inside of the hot tub with a non-abrasive cleaner, as mentioned above.
  • Refill the hot tub with fresh water and balance the water chemistry before use.

4. Check Your Hot Tub Components Regularly

A hot tub has several important components that require regular maintenance to ensure they work properly. Ignoring these can lead to costly repairs or even the need for replacements.

Inspect the Pumps and Jets

The pumps and jets are responsible for the powerful hydrotherapy experience that Hydropool hot tubs are known for. Keeping them in top shape ensures consistent performance.

  • Check the pumps for any strange noises or decreased performance, which may indicate blockages.
  • Inspect the jets for signs of scale or buildup, and clean them with a descaling solution if needed.

Maintain the Ozonator and UV System

If your Hydropool hot tub is equipped with an ozonator or UV system, this help sanitize the water and reduce the need for chemicals. However, they need maintenance to stay effective.

  • Check your manual for maintenance instructions specific to the ozonator and UV system.
  • Replace UV bulbs and ozonator parts as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure proper performance.

Check the Hot Tub Cover

A well-maintained cover helps retain heat, keep debris out, and reduce energy costs. Over time, covers can become worn or damaged, reducing their effectiveness.

  • Inspect your cover for tears, cracks, or waterlogging.
  • Clean the cover regularly with a mild soap and water solution to prevent mold and mildew buildup.
  • Replace the cover if it’s showing signs of wear that impact its ability to insulate.

Seasonal Maintenance Tips

Your Hydropool hot tub needs extra care depending on the season. Ontario’s cold winters and warm summers can affect how your hot tub operates, so adapting your maintenance routine can prevent seasonal damage.

Winter Maintenance

Winter can be tough on your hot tub, especially if temperatures drop below freezing. Protect your hot tub’s plumbing and equipment with these tips.

  • Keep your hot tub running at a consistent temperature to prevent freezing.
  • If you’re not using your hot tub in winter, winterize it by draining it completely to avoid frozen pipes.

Summer Maintenance

Hotter weather means your hot tub might not need to work as hard to maintain temperature. Adjusting your hot tub’s settings in the summer helps prevent overheating and reduces energy use.

  • Lower the water temperature slightly to match the warm weather and save on energy costs.
  • Ensure proper ventilation around your hot tub to prevent the water from overheating.
hot tub technician working on a hydropool hot tub

Professional Servicing and Repairs

Sometimes, DIY maintenance isn’t enough. Calling in a professional for more complex repairs or inspections can save you time and prevent further damage.

When to Call in the Pros

Not all problems are easy to fix at home. If you notice any unusual behaviour, like poor water flow or malfunctioning pumps, it’s best to have a professional take a look.

  • Look out for signs like strange noises, water not heating, or jets losing pressure.
  • Call a professional if you’re unsure how to fix an issue or if it seems beyond basic cleaning or maintenance.

Hydropool Warranty and Support

Hydropool hot tubs come with a warranty that covers many repairs and parts. Scheduling regular maintenance with a certified technician helps keep your warranty valid and your hot tub working well.

Hydropool Hot Tub Maintenance & Service in The GTA

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Hydropool hot tub in great shape for years to come. By cleaning the shell, balancing the water chemistry, checking components, and performing seasonal upkeep, you can prevent most problems before they start.

Need help with your Hydropool hot tub? Fix My Hot Tub has you covered!

We’re experts in hot tub repair and servicing across central and southern Ontario, with expert hot tub technicians in Whitby, Vaughan, Hamilton, Kitchener, and even as far as Barrie and London!

Contact us today or book a service appointment online and keep your hot tub running like new!