How to Get Your Hot Tub Ready This Spring

As the days get longer and temperatures rise, spring is the perfect time to open up your hot tub and prepare it for another season of relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you’ve had your hot tub closed for the winter or just need to give it a little TLC, preparing your spa for spring is essential for ensuring it runs efficiently and stays clean. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to help you get your hot tub ready for the warmer months.

1. Check the Weather and Temperature

Before you dive into the maintenance tasks, check the current weather and the expected temperatures. If it’s still cold, you may want to wait until the temperature consistently stays above freezing before opening up your hot tub. Freezing temperatures can damage the pipes or components, so make sure you're not jumping the gun.

2. Inspect and Clean the Exterior

The first thing you’ll want to do is clean the hot tub's exterior. Dirt, debris, and dust can accumulate over the winter, and you want to start fresh. Use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner to wipe down the shell, cover, and surrounding areas.

• Hot tub cover: Check for any signs of wear and tear on your cover. If the cover is damaged, it may need replacing to ensure energy efficiency and to keep debris out of your tub.
• Surrounding area: Clean up the area around the hot tub. This includes sweeping away any leaves, branches, or other debris that have collected during the colder months.

3. Inspect the Cover and Replace if Needed

If your hot tub has been sitting idle over the winter months, the cover may have developed wear or even mold. Look for cracks, tears, or any signs of water damage. If your cover is no longer in top condition, replacing it will help keep your water clean, maintain the temperature more efficiently, and prolong the life of your hot tub.

4. Check the Water Level

Before you begin any water treatments, check the water level in your hot tub. If it's too low, add fresh water until it reaches the appropriate level (usually in the middle of the skimmer opening). Water levels can fluctuate due to evaporation or leaks, so ensure it's right before starting the chemical process.

5. Clean or Replace the Filters

Your filters play a critical role in maintaining water quality. Over time, they can get clogged with debris, oils, and other particles, which can strain the hot tub’s system. If your filters are reusable, take them out and rinse them thoroughly with a hose to remove debris. Use a filter cleaner to remove oils and other substances that regular rinsing won’t take care of for a deeper clean. If your filters are damaged or too old, now is the time to replace them.

6. Drain and Refill the Hot Tub

If it’s been a while since you last drained the hot tub, now is the perfect time to do so. Draining and refilling your hot tub ensures that you start the season with fresh, clean water. This is especially important after a long winter where the water may have become stagnant. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for draining and refilling to avoid damaging your system.

7. Balance the Water Chemistry

One of the most crucial steps in preparing your hot tub for spring is ensuring the water chemistry is just right. Hot tub water can quickly become imbalanced after sitting unused for a while, which can lead to skin irritation, cloudy water, and damage to the tub’s components.

• Test the water: Use a water testing kit or test strips to check the levels of pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and sanitizer.
• Adjust the pH and alkalinity: If your pH is too high or too low, use pH increaser or decreaser to adjust. Similarly, adjust the alkalinity if necessary using an alkalinity increaser or decreaser.
• Sanitize the water: Add the appropriate amount of chlorine or bromine to sanitize the water. If you use a saltwater system, check the salt levels and ensure the generator functions correctly.

8. Run the Jets and Heat the Water

Once your hot tub is filled and the chemicals are balanced, turn on the power, set the heater to your desired temperature, and run the jets for a few minutes. This helps circulate the water and ensures the system is running smoothly. Check for any unusual noises or issues, and address them before you fully enjoy your hot tub.

9. Test the Jets and Other Features

Turn on all the jets and ensure they are working properly. Check the air controls, lighting, and any other special features your hot tub might have. Make sure everything is functioning as it should before you dive in.

10. Prepare for Regular Maintenance

Spring is a great time to create a regular maintenance routine. Set a schedule to clean your filters, test your water, and check the overall condition of your hot tub. Regular care will help your hot tub run smoothly throughout the season, keeping your water sparkling clean and your system in top shape.

Final Thoughts

Getting your hot tub ready for spring doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these steps, you can ensure your hot tub is safe, clean, and ready for relaxation. After all, there’s nothing better than enjoying a warm soak while the spring air refreshes your senses. So, take the time now to prep your tub, and you'll enjoy all the benefits of a freshly cleaned hot tub all season long.