What to Do When Your Hot Tub is Not In Use
Test Your Water
Test like you normally would, and adjust your hot tub’s chemicals accordingly. Even when not in use, chemical balance is key to water quality – and avoiding buildup.
Turn Down The Heat
If it’s only going to be a short while, you can leave your hot tub running (and the water moving through the filter), just turn the temperature down to its lowest setting!
Keep It Covered
Whenever you’re not using your hot tub – whether its days or weeks – keep the cover securely on at all times.
Change The Water
Even if you’re not planning on using the spa, change the water on a regular schedule. If you want to leave the water in, but are heading out of town, it’s a good idea to change it before you go!
Change The Filter
Just like changing your water, clean or replace your filter regularly. Some filters can last years, while others are designed to be used for 6 to 9 months. You can ask someone on the ELS team about specific models, but as a general rule, take care of your filter even when you’re not using the hot tub.
Ask a Friend
If you’re leaving home, you can ask a friend or neighbor to check in your hot tub periodically to make sure the cover is in place, and that everything’s running smoothly. They may even test the water for you!
Seasonal or Long-Term Closing
If you’re closing your hot tub for the season – especially the winter – you can drain and dry your hot tub. The most important part here is getting all the water out, but first turn the power off!
After your drain the tub completely, soak up excess water with towels and wipe down surfaces. You can use a shop vac to remove water from footwells if necessary. Take the time to unhook fittings, remove and drain your filter, and truly ensure that everything is dry. Blow water out of the jets and pipes, and double check everything!
Getting all the water out will ensure you avoid mold, buildup in the lines, bad smells, and so on. In the winter, the majority of damage to hot tubs comes from ice – so if you’re shutting down your hot tub for the cold months, you want to make sure nothing can freeze inside.
After your tub is completely dry, make sure the power is disconnected and the cover is securely in place. For in ground or deck hot tubs, you may also want to cover with a tarp or special winter hot tub cover.
Whether it’s maintaining your hot tub for short periods of nonuse, or closing it down for extended periods of time, taking these steps will allow you to use your spa season after season, year after year. If you have any questions about maintenance, cleaners, or any other products you need, stop in or contact Emerald Spa and Billiards to speak with our expert staff!
