Draining the Hot Tub
Draining your hot tub is essential prior to cleaning it. This process goes a lot further than simply wiping it down with a cleaning agent. You need to properly eliminate buildup while treating your spa surfaces. When you realize the same water sits in the spa for weeks on end, you will soon see the need for complete draining and cleaning.
Sure, you can sanitize and shock it regularly, but the truth is, it's still the same water sitting in the same hot tub. Every time you use it, the following organic contaminants get into the water, such as:
- Sweat
- Body oils
- Lotions
- Makeup
- Hair products
- Urine and feces
All those contaminants then pass through the filter and plumbing system, creating a layer of biofilm.
Biofilm: What is It?
Bits of bacteria and fungi stick to your pipes and build a barrier around them that resists even chlorine. The longer the biofilm stays in your pipes, the more contaminants remain in your water. After a while, water flow will be affected as well as filter efficiency.
Here are some signs it's time to drain and clean your hot tub:
- You smell foul odors
- The water won't clear, despite your best efforts
- Your spa has been getting frequent use
- More guests have been using the hot tub
- There has been a long period of inactivity
As a rule, you should drain and clean your hot tub on a quarterly basis.
Steps to Draining Your Hot Tub
Follow these steps to ensure a successful hot tub draining.
First, add a plumbing cleaner, also known as a line flush product, which will break down the biofilm. Let it circulate for a half hour or so - more if you haven't use the tub in a while. As it works, you will start to see a gross foam form on the surface. This is normal, as it's an accumulation of all that biofilm from your pipes.
Step 2: Connect a Hose to the Spa Drain
Let gravity do its job and connect a hose to the spa drain. It's the cheapest option but also the most time consuming. But first, hit the hot tub breaker to cut power.
Step 3: Use a Sump Pump
This will take minutes instead of hours. Shut it off when you see a few inches of water remaining.
Step 4: Get Rid of the Drained Water
So where does all that drained water go? Don't dispose of it in a storm drain, because it leads to natural bodies of water and will harm wildlife. Simply run a hose into the drain of your utility sink or just water your lawn with it.
Need help draining your hot tub? No worries. The professionals at Central Jersey Pools can visit your home to perform this task. We can then clean your hot tub for you before filling it back up with water.