Email Address

team@poolsplusri.com

Phone Number:

(401) 373-4125

Hot Tub Maintenance 101: How to Keep Your Spa Clean, Safe, and Running Smoothly

There’s nothing better than sinking into your hot tub after a long day—but if you’re not keeping up with regular maintenance, that moment of Zen can quickly turn into a headache.

At Pools Plus Inc., we help homeowners across Rhode Island enjoy their hot tubs and spas without the guesswork. Whether you just installed your first hot tub or you’ve had one for years, these simple tips will help you keep it in great shape, season after season.

1. Stick to a Simple Cleaning Schedule

Hot tubs are compact, but they still collect oils, dirt, and bacteria over time. Keep your spa clean with this basic routine:

  • Every 1–2 weeks: Clean the waterline and check chemical levels
  • Every month: Remove and rinse the filter
  • Every 3–4 months: Drain and deep clean the interior shell

Need supplies or advice? Stop by for in-store services like water testing, maintenance products, and personalized support from our team.

2. Test and Balance Your Water Regularly

Water chemistry matters—unbalanced water can damage your hot tub, irritate your skin, and reduce sanitizer effectiveness.

Here’s what to check:

  • Sanitizer levels (chlorine or bromine)
  • pH (ideal range: 7.2 to 7.8)
  • Alkalinity (80–120 ppm)
  • Calcium hardness (especially in hard water areas)

Our hot tub services include water balancing, filter replacement, and seasonal spa opening and closing so your system stays safe and efficient year-round.

3. Clean or Replace Your Filter

Your filter is your hot tub’s first line of defense against cloudy water and debris buildup. Rinse it with a hose every few weeks, and use a dedicated filter cleaner monthly.

Depending on usage, replace your filter every 12–18 months. If you’re not sure what kind of filter your system uses, we can help identify and order the right one for you.

4. Don’t Ignore Your Cover

A worn-out or waterlogged cover can lead to heat loss, mildew, and higher energy bills. Clean your cover monthly with a mild solution, and inspect it for tears or sagging.

A well-fitting, insulated cover will keep your spa cleaner and reduce heating costs—especially important if you’re using your hot tub through the winter months.

5. Drain, Refill, and Deep Clean on Schedule

Even the best-maintained hot tub needs a full refresh every 3–4 months. Draining the tub removes built-up contaminants and allows you to scrub the shell, jets, and any hard-to-reach areas.

If you’d rather leave the deep clean to professionals, our pool and hot tub service team offers seasonal refreshes, winterization, and inspections to extend the life of your system.

Bonus Tip: Use It Often

Believe it or not, regular use actually helps your hot tub stay in better shape. It keeps water circulating, encourages proper chemical distribution, and lets you spot small issues before they become big ones.

So go ahead—use your spa. That’s what it’s there for.

Everything You Need, All in One Place

Whether you’re a weekend soaker or a daily spa devotee, Pools Plus is your one-stop destination for hot tub care. In addition to professional services, we offer:

Not sure where to start? Visit our FAQ page or contact us to talk with a team member.

Let’s Keep Your Hot Tub Running Like New

A little hot tub maintenance goes a long way toward preserving your investment—and your relaxation. If you have questions, need a professional tune-up, or are looking to upgrade your backyard space, we’re here to help.

Visit the Pools Plus blog for more seasonal tips, product features, and backyard inspiration. Or reach out to schedule a service today.