A guide to owning a hot tub and swim spa – FAQs

1. What method can I use to determine the volume of water that my hot tub can contain?

You will need to know the capacity of your hot tub to ensure that you are providing the correct water conditions. You can get this data from the manual or look for it on the manufacturer’s website. If you cannot get this information from the manufacturer, then you should contact the manufacturer directly.

To determine the volume of your hot tub, you can use the Exterior Dimension Method or the Fill Time Method. This involves the use of the hot tub dimensions and a formula that depends on the shape of the hot tub. However, the Fill Time Method is the most accurate as it takes into account the features that are inside the hot tub. To calculate the volume of your hot tub using the Fill Time Method, you should first measure the time it takes to fill the tub and a one-gallon bucket under the same water pressure. Divide the time it took to fill the hot tub by the time it took to fill the bucket to estimate the volume of your hot tub in gallons.

2. What is the type of filter used in my hot tub and how often should I clean it?

It is important to note that the majority of the hot tubs use cartridge filters. The filters operate by passing the water through the system where the debris is caught in the filter media. The contaminants that are caught are then washed away so that clean water is pumped back to the hot tub.

Cleaning the filter is important in the proper functioning of the hot tub. The duration of cleaning the filter will depend on the usage of the hot tub, but cleaning the filter with fresh water once a week is the most recommended. Furthermore, a filter cleaner product should be used for chemical cleaning once a month. It is recommended that you soak your filter in a chemical solution for 24 hours every 3 to 4 months for thorough cleaning. Remember to change your filter as recommended by the manufacturer.

3. How do I turn on my hot tub for the first time?

It is very important to start a hot tub in the right manner to avoid any damage to the equipment and to ensure that it is working as required. Here’s a step by step process:

Wash the Shell: Before filling, wash the hot tub shell with a soap and water solution. Rinse well.

Insert the Filter: A fresh filter cartridge should be inserted into the filter well. It is important to note that if your hot tub has multiple filters, ensure that all filter wells are fitted with filters.

Fill Your Hot Tub: The tub is filled with water through the filter area while the water is in circulation and the air that is trapped is released. It is also recommended that a hose filter be used to purify the water source. Fill the hot tub to the level indicated in your owner’s manual, usually about an inch above the highest jets.

Prime the Pump: Fill the tub with water and switch on the power and turn on the pump for a few seconds at a time until you see bubbles coming out of the jets. Keep running the pump until all the bubbles are cleared.

Add Start-Up Chemicals: Before adding chemicals, determine your hot tub volume by using the methods that were explained above. When the water temperature reaches 80°F (30°C), begin adding chemicals. Refer to Chapter 6 of your owner’s manual for more information on how to add chemicals to your hot tub water.

Water Chemistry and Maintenance

4. What are the ways of ensuring that the chemical balance in the water of my hot tub is achieved?

In order to balance the water in your hot tub you will need to ensure that the pH, alkalinity and calcium hardness are at the right levels. Here’s a guide:

Check the Water: Check your water at least once a week using test strips or digital testing kits to determine the levels of free chlorine (or bromine), pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness.

Adjust Alkalinity: If the level of alkalinity is low, then the alkalinity increaser should be added. If it is high, then the pH decreaser should be added to lower it.

Adjust pH: Add a pH increaser to increase pH if it is low and a pH decreaser if it is high.Sanitize the Water: Use one of your chosen sanitizers; chlorine, bromine, biguanide, mineral sanitizer, or a UV system. Use the instructions in the owner’s manual to determine the correct dosage.

Add Calcium Chloride: If your calcium hardness level needs to be raised then you should add calcium chloride.

Regular testing and adjustments will ensure crystal-clear, safe, and comfortable water.

5. What are the different types of hot tub sanitizers available?

Several types of sanitizers are available, each with its pros and cons:

Chlorine: This is one of the most commonly used sanitizers which is available in granular, liquid, or tablet form.

Bromine: This is a good sanitizer to use in a hot tub as it does not degrade in hot water.

Biguanide: This is a different type of sanitizer that cannot work without the help of an oxidizer.

Mineral Sanitizers: These work alongside chlorine or bromine to reduce the amount of traditional sanitizer that is needed.

Ultraviolet (UV) Systems: These work by using UV light to kill bacteria but you do still need a small amount of chlorine or bromine as a backup.

Your decision will depend on the type of sanitizer you prefer and the chemical composition of your water.

6. Why is my hot tub water cloudy?

Cloudy hot tub water can be caused by various factors:

High pH: If the pH level is high, then the calcium can start precipitating out of the water and that can cause cloudiness.

High Alkalinity: High alkalinity can also cause the water to be cloudy, especially when the pH is also high.

Low Sanitizer Levels: Bacteria and other microorganisms can multiply when the sanitizer level is low, and the water appears cloudy.

Dirty Filter: This means that the filter is not working properly to remove the debris from the water, and the water looks cloudy.

High TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): Too many dissolved minerals and chemicals can cause the water to be cloudy.

To address cloudy water:

Balance Your Water Chemistry: Check and adjust the pH, alkalinity and calcium hardness.

Clean or Replace the Filter: Every week you should rinse the filter and once a month you should chemically clean the filter. If necessary.

Shock the Water: A chlorine or non-chlorine shock treatment is used to kill bacteria and oxidize contaminants.

Consider a Clarifier: A clarifier product can help clump together fine particles and make them easier for the filter to remove.

If the problem persists, it is advisable to seek the help of a professional to identify and solve the problem.

7. How often should I drain and refill my hot tub?

The general rule is to drain and refill your hot tub every 3 to 4 months. However, several factors can influence this frequency:

Bather Load: More frequent use with multiple bathers will mean that the water will need to be drained and refilled more often.

Water Chemistry: Badly managed water chemistry may mean that the water will have to be changed more often.

Water Source: Water that is hard or that has high mineral content may need to be changed more often.

Draining and refilling your hot tub allows you to begin with fresh water that is balanced and helps to avoid the accumulation of contaminants and minerals that can harm the components of your spa.

8. What are some common hot tub problems and how can I troubleshoot them?

Here are a few common hot tub problems and troubleshooting tips:

No Power: Check the GFCI breaker, check if the power cord is properly plugged in and check the wiring for any damage.

Weak Water Flow: Check for a clogged filter, low water level, faulty pump or air lock in the system.

Cold Water: Check the heater operation, water level in the heater, and the high limit switch. For specific issues, check the error codes.

Malfunctioning Jets: The jets need to be cleaned thoroughly and checked for any obstruction or air locks or low water pressure.

Tripping GFCI Breaker: Inspect the wiring for any signs of wear and tear, worn breaker, worn components or component flooding.

Error Codes: Check the user’s manual for the specific error codes and the steps to be taken to resolve them.

When working with electrical components always make sure that you follow safety precautions and if you need to call a professional then do so.

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