To keep your hot tub water in tip-top condition it is necessary to empty your tub occasionally, flush out the lines and give it a good clean before refilling it. It doesn’t matter if you are using Bromine or Chlorine in your tub, after a while the number of TDS (total dissolved solids) in your water increases which can have an impact on the quality of your water. Total dissolved solids are the chemicals in your tub as well as organic matter from bathers. When the TDS of your water gets too high you may encounter one of the following problems:
- You are unable to balance the pH of your water
- You are using more chemicals than usual
- Your water may smell a bit funky or be a little colour
- You may notice a build-up of scale around your tub
Therefore, at least every 3-4 months, we recommend you drain your tub and give it a clean. Flush out the pipes so they are free of any contaminants and refill your tub with clean and sparkly water so your tub is healthy, inviting, and totally safe for you and your family to use.
Draining
Submersible pump.
1. Make sure to pour the correct measurements of Hot Tub Flush into your spa
2. Once you have done this switch your jets on with your cover off for at least 60 minutes. Don’t worry if brownish, foamy goo comes to the surface - this means the cleaner is working.
3. Next switch your jets off and close your valves using your diverters.
4. Turn your Spa off at the mains 5. Now drop your submersible pump in the water with your hose close to a drain.
6. Switch the Submersible Pump on at the main switch
7. Once you have drained your spa you may have water still inside the foot well. If so switch your submersible pump off and take it out of your spa.
8. To get rid of the remaining water you will need to buy a wet vacuum
Drain Valve
To drain the spa:
1. Twist the cap clockwise and pull it out at the same time (A)
2. Once the plug is out fully you can then spin off the cap anti-clockwise (B)
3. Screw on the hose pipe attachment. Connect the hose, then push halfway to release the valve (C). At this point, the spa will start draining.
Final Tip
If you’re going to be leaving the spa empty for a while, don’t forget to remove water from the lines, too. A new layer of biofilm can build up quickly if the water is allowed to stay in the pipes, and you’ll be right back at square one when you refill! This can be done with a wet/dry vacuum to blow and/or suck the water out. Or, if your spa has one, briefly turn on the air blower, making sure all jets are open first. Remember to turn the power back off once you’re done with the air blower.
Thoroughly dry the tub with a soft towel. Next, use a spa cleaning chemical to remove tough scum and protect the tub surface. Finish cleaning (or replace) the filter cartridge, clean and condition the cover, and hose off the spa cabinet if it’s looking dirty. If you’re not refilling the hot tub right away, allow the filter to dry completely, and store it indoors.