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
Before your hot tub leaves the manufacturer, it can have what is referred to as a "wet test". Essentially, this means the spa is filled prior to shipment to ensure all fittings are tight and there are no leaks. Sometimes this process can leave trace water behind in the plumbing. The spa may also contain an amount of antifreeze to protect it from freeze damage. Before you begin using your spa, it's a good idea to clean the lines first with a Spa Purge or System Flush.
Simply fill the spa, remove your filters, turn the jets on and following the manufacturers instructions, add the cleaning product. This ensures anything that may have remained in the lines is now removed. Once the product has done it's job, refill, let the spa come up to temperature, balance the water and you're ready to go!
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. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. Cover the Spa
Cover the tub for 24 hours, which helps the temperature rise, keep in heat, and prevent evaporation.
10. Test the Water
Test the water once again and adjust chemicals as needed.
For help with any of the above, contact Central Jersey Pools.