Filling the Spa
Now that you have a brand new hot tub, you have to learn how to fill it and start it. It’s important that you follow all instructions so your water is as clean as possible and the unit is working properly. It can be a bit overwhelming if this is your first time owning a hot tub or spa. But with a little patience and time, you can have your hot tub up and running in no time.
Here are some helpful tips:
1. Rinse and Drain
New hot tub owners will need to get on a regular cleaning regimen, while those who have owned a hot tub before will already know the drill.
New Hot Tubs
You hot tub will likely already arrive with some antifreeze in it in case it is exposed to freezing temperatures in transit. This is designed to protect plumbing from damage, but you’re going to want to drain that out before you fill it with fresh water.
Fill up the footwell at the bottom with water, turn on the pumps for a couple of minutes, and drain.
Restart a Hot Tub
If the water in your existing hot tub has been sitting there for a while with no attention from you, you’ll have to drain it first before refilling so you can get rid of any bacteria that may have accumulated.
Once you’ve drained in, fill the tub with water. Add a jet and drain cleaner, and then run the jets so it can cycle through. Drain the tub again.
2. Turn Off the Power
Before cleaning, you should always disconnect the power to your hot tub. This involves unplugging the tub and switching off the main circuit breaker.
3. Clean the Empty Tub
This is a critical step before you start enjoying your spa. Spray the shell and cover, then wipe them down. Use only non-abrasive cleaning products and a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratches.
4. Install/Clean the Filter
Your filter is the first line of defense when it comes to keeping dirt out of your tub.
New Hot Tubs
Place a filter cartridge into all filter wells.
Restart a Hot Tub
Remove all filter cartridges currently in place and inspect for dirt buildup. You can spray them down if moderately dirty, or soak them overnight if they’re really dirty.
5. Fill the Spa
To do this, use a hose filter to keep impurities like minerals out, as they can clog your system. This will also prevent metals such as iron and copper from getting in, which can result in brown or green water, as well as calcium which can cause a buildup in the plumbing.
6. Prime the Pump
Air in the lines can lead to issues, so you want to get all the air out before doing anything else. If your tub doesn’t have a self-priming mode, you’ll have to prime it manually with a bleeder valve.
Control Panel Priming
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- Press the jets button and run for 10 to 20 seconds.
- Press the jets button once again, running for another 10 seconds.
- Press the jets button again to turn them off.
- Repeat to ensure everything is working properly.
Bleeder Valve Priming
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- Disconnect the power.
- Close the gate valve on the pump to shut off water flow.
- Turn the bleeder valve counterclockwise; you’ll hear a hissing sound. When it stops, this means all air has been released.
- Tighten up the bleeder valve, open the gate valve, and switch on the tub.
- Turn on the jets to check progress and repeat until water flows normally.
7. Add Chemicals
When the water reaches 80ºF (30ºC), it’s OK to add the chemicals because this is when they dissolve best.
- Check the owner’s manual to see how much water your tub holds.
- Measure the chemicals precisely.
- Make sure all chemicals stay separate, as it can be very dangerous to mix them outside of the spa.
- Pour into the tub.
8. Run the Pump and Test the Water
Next, run the pump on high for 10 minutes to distribute the chemicals evenly. Test the water to make sure the chemicals are balanced. You should test once a week at home, and bring a sample of your water to your trusted spa supplier once a month.
9. Set the Temperature
It’s best to keep your water between 98ºF and 102ºF (36ºC and 38ºC), but this is a personal preference. You may like it hotter than that. As a general rule of thumb, though, you shouldn’t exceed 104 degrees F, as this is a scalding risk for you and it could damage your tub.
10. Cover the Spa
Cover the tub for 24 hours, which helps the temperature rise, keep in heat, and prevent evaporation.
11. Test the Water
Test the water once again and adjust chemicals as needed.
For help with any of the above, contact Central Jersey Pools.