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11 Tips for the Perfect Hot Tub Drain and Refill

A hot tub with water inside. Maintaining your hot tub routinely ensures a clean, safe, and enjoyable experience every time you use it. Regularly draining and refilling your spa is a super important part of this maintenance. At The Hot Tub Store, we’re here to guide you through the process with our top tips for achieving the perfect hot tub drain and refill.

1. Gather Your Supplies

As you get started, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand. You’ll need:
  • A garden hose
  • A submersible pump (optional but helpful)
  • A bucket
  • A spa purge product
  • Spa-safe cleaner
  • A soft cloth or sponge
  • New filter (if needed)
  • Test strips or a water testing kit
Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more efficient.

2. Purge and Prepare Your Spa

Before you begin draining your hot tub, you want to first clean inside the jets and plumbing where the eye can’t see. The best way to do this is with a quality spa purge product like the SpaGuard® System Flush. The cleanser will enter your hot tub plumbing, purging things like body oils, dirt, and biofilm. Administer and run your ciruclation system according to packaging instructions, but most spa purge products take around 30 mintues to completely clean out the system. After this is complete, ensure that your spa is turned off at the breaker. This prevents any electrical accidents and protects the hot tub’s components from damage during the rest of the drain and refill process.

3. Drain the Water

Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and direct the other end to an appropriate drainage area. If your spa has a built-in drain valve, this process is straightforward. Simply open the valve and let gravity do the work. If you’re using a submersible pump, place it in the deepest part of the tub and let it pump out the water. Using a pump speeds up the process significantly.

4. Clean the Interior

Once the water is drained, it’s time to clean the interior surfaces of your spa. Use a hot tub cleaner specifically designed for this purpose. Avoid household cleaners as they can leave residues that affect water chemistry. Apply the cleaner with a soft cloth or sponge, scrubbing away any buildup, especially around the waterline. Don’t forget to clean the jets and other nooks and crannies as well as the exterior hot tub cabinet.

5. Rinse Thoroughly

After scrubbing, rinse the interior thoroughly with clean water. This step removes any cleaning solution residue. Use a bucket or a hose with gentle pressure to rinse the surfaces. Make sure all the cleaner is gone to avoid foaming or water chemistry issues when you refill the spa and then drain the rinse water out of the hot tub.

6. Replace or Clean the Filters

While your hot tub is empty, it’s an excellent opportunity to clean or replace the filters. Clean filters ensure optimal water flow and cleanliness. If your filters are in good condition, a thorough rinse with a hose will suffice. For a deeper clean, soak them in a filter-cleaning solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If the filters are worn or damaged, replace them with new ones.

7. Inspect the Components

Take a moment to inspect the hot tub’s components, such as the jets, heater, and pump. Look for any signs of wear or damage. Addressing minor issues now can prevent larger problems later. If you notice anything unusual, contact a professional for maintenance.

8. Refill with Fresh Water

Now that your spa is clean and the components are in good shape, it’s time to refill it with fresh water. Place the garden hose in the hot tub and turn it on or add a pre-filter to your hose for the cleanest water possible. The Hot Spring® FreshWater® Clean Screen Pre-Filter or Great Barrier Great Water Filter are the best way to start off right. Also, filling your hot tub through the filter compartment can help to avoid air locks in the plumbing. Monitor the water level to ensure you don’t overfill it.

9. Balance the Water Chemistry

Once your spa is filled, the next step is balancing the water chemistry. Use test strips or a water testing kit to check the levels of pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer. Adjust the levels as needed using the appropriate chemicals. Proper water chemistry is essential for a safe and enjoyable hot tub experience.

10. Turn the Power Back On and Heat

After balancing the water, turn the power back on at the breaker. Set your desired temperature and allow the water to heat up. This can take several hours, depending on your hot tub and the starting water temperature. While the water is heating, keep the cover on to retain heat and speed up the process.

11. Enjoy Your Hot Tub

With your hot tub clean, refilled, and heated, it’s ready for you to enjoy. Regular maintenance, including periodic draining and refilling, will keep your spa in top condition and ensure many relaxing soaks to come.

Need a Professional Touch?

If you prefer to leave the maintenance to the experts, The Hot Tub Store offers professional cleaning services. Our team can handle everything from draining and cleaning to refilling and balancing the water. Contact us to schedule a service and enjoy a perfectly maintained hot tub without the hassle. At The Hot Tub Store, we’re here to support you with all your hot tub needs. From maintenance tips to top-quality products, we’re your go-to source for everything hot tub-related. Follow us on Facebook to stay connected. Happy soaking!
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