Many spas and hot tubs get heavy use all year round, so yours is probably due for some attention as you perform the rest of your spring cleaning tasks. It is easy to assume the water is fine because it looks clear. However, hidden bacteria and body oils can build up over several months. If you skip a deep clean in the spring, chances are high that you may spend much of the summer fighting cloudy water or itchy skin. Start the season with a clean slate so that you can focus on enjoying the relaxation rather than worrying about the chemistry.

Flushing Out the Hidden Gunk

Before you even think about draining the water, you need to clear out the pipes where biofilm and scale like to hide. You can buy a specialized plumbing flush that you pour right into the old water before you turn off the power. Let the jets run on high for at least 20 minutes so that the cleaner can break down the sticky layers of grime inside the internal hoses. You might see some foam or brown flakes floating to the top. This is nothing to worry about. It only means that the solution is doing its job. This step is vital because it removes the buildup that regular chlorine cannot touch.

A Fresh Start for the Shell

Now that you have cleared your pipes, you can drain the water. Once your hot tub is empty, scrub the inside of it with a white vinegar and water mixture. This is excellent for removing scum and hard water stains without leaving behind any nasty chemicals. Avoid using regular household cleaners, such as glass cleaner or bleach. They can ruin the inside of the spa and cause foaming issues when you refill it.

Deep Cleaning the Filters

Your filter works hard all the time. After a winter of catching hair and lotion, it more than likely looks gray. Instead of just rinsing it with a hose, soak the cartridge in a bucket of filter degreaser overnight so that the solution can get deep into the pleats. If you see the blue fabric starting to fray or the plastic end caps crack, have a professional replace it. A clogged filter makes your heater work twice as hard and raises your monthly power bill. Setting your filter up for success in the spring is the easiest way to keep your water clear for weeks at a time.

Balancing the New Batch of Water

Once you refill your hot tub, take the time to test and balance the pH and alkalinity before you add any sanitizer. It is much easier to get the water chemistry right in the beginning instead of trying to fix it later. While you can handle some of these tasks by yourself, it’s better to let a professional tackle them while you enjoy your leisure. If you live in Newburgh, NY or a surrounding area and need spa cleaning services, make your first call to Galati Pools and Spas.