Table of Contents

How to Empty a Hot Tub for Cleaning? A Definitive Guide

Emptying a hot tub for cleaning is a crucial part of maintaining its hygiene and longevity. The process generally involves safely draining the water, cleaning the surfaces, and preparing the tub for refilling, all while adhering to proper safety and environmental guidelines.

Preparing to Drain Your Hot Tub

Before you even think about draining, a little preparation is key to a smooth and successful clean. Think of it as your pre-game strategy.

Assess Your Drainage Location

Consider where the water will drain. Avoid draining directly onto your lawn, as the chemicals can harm the grass and plants. Ideally, drain into a sewer drain, a storm drain (check local regulations first!), or a gravel area. Never drain into a septic system as the large volume of water can overwhelm it.

Gather Your Supplies

Having everything ready beforehand saves time and frustration. Here’s a checklist:

Submersible pump (optional but highly recommended): This speeds up the draining process significantly.
Garden hose: To direct the draining water.
Hot tub cleaner: Choose a cleaner specifically designed for hot tubs to avoid damaging the acrylic surface.
Soft cloths or sponges: For scrubbing.
Bucket: For rinsing.
Vinyl protectant (optional): To protect the hot tub cover.
Screwdriver or wrench (if needed): To access the drain valve.

Power Down and Disconnect

Safety first! Turn off the power to the hot tub at the breaker box. This prevents any accidental electrical shocks during the draining and cleaning process. Also, disconnect any automatic sanitizing systems or ozone generators.

Draining Your Hot Tub: Step-by-Step

Now for the main event: getting that dirty water out! There are two primary methods: using the built-in drain valve or a submersible pump.

Using the Drain Valve

Most hot tubs have a drain valve located near the bottom of the spa. Here’s how to use it:

Locate the drain valve: It’s usually behind a panel or cover.
Attach the garden hose: Connect one end of the garden hose to the drain valve.
Position the other end: Place the other end of the hose at your designated drainage location.
Open the drain valve: Some valves simply twist open, while others may require a screwdriver or wrench.
Allow the water to drain: This can take several hours, depending on the size of your hot tub.

Using a Submersible Pump

A submersible pump significantly speeds up the draining process. Here’s how to use one:

Submerge the pump: Place the pump in the deepest part of the hot tub.
Attach the garden hose: Connect one end of the garden hose to the pump’s outlet.
Position the other end: Place the other end of the hose at your designated drainage location.
Plug in the pump: Be sure to plug the pump into a GFCI outlet.
Turn on the pump: The pump will quickly drain the water.

Important Note: Even with a pump, a small amount of water may remain in the bottom of the hot tub. Use a sponge or wet/dry vacuum to remove any residual water.

Cleaning Your Hot Tub

Once the hot tub is empty, it’s time to give it a thorough cleaning.

Cleaning the Shell

Rinse the shell: Use a garden hose to rinse away any loose debris or dirt.
Apply hot tub cleaner: Spray the cleaner onto the shell, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Scrub the surface: Use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the entire surface of the shell, paying particular attention to waterline stains and areas with mineral buildup.
Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the shell thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of the cleaner.

Cleaning the Jets

The jets can harbor bacteria and mineral deposits. Here’s how to clean them:

Remove the jet faces: Most jet faces can be easily removed by twisting them counterclockwise.
Soak the jet faces: Soak the jet faces in a solution of hot water and hot tub cleaner for at least 30 minutes.
Clean the jet bodies: Use a small brush to clean the inside of the jet bodies in the hot tub shell.
Rinse and reinstall: Rinse the jet faces and jet bodies thoroughly and reinstall the jet faces.

Cleaning the Filter

The filter is crucial for maintaining water quality. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific cleaning instructions. Generally, you’ll want to remove the filter and rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose. Some filters can also be cleaned with a filter cleaning solution.

Protect the Cover (Optional)

Once the hot tub shell is clean, consider applying a vinyl protectant to the cover to protect it from UV damage and cracking.

Refilling and Balancing Your Hot Tub

Now that your hot tub is clean, it’s time to refill it and get it ready for use.

Refilling the Tub

Close the drain valve: Ensure the drain valve is securely closed.
Refill with fresh water: Use a garden hose to fill the hot tub with fresh water to the recommended level.

Balancing the Water Chemistry

This is arguably the most critical step. Use a reliable test kit or test strips to check the water’s pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. Adjust the chemicals as needed to bring the water into the recommended ranges. This ensures a safe and enjoyable soaking experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions people have about emptying and cleaning their hot tubs:

How often should I empty and clean my hot tub? Generally, you should drain and clean your hot tub every 3-4 months, or more frequently if you use it heavily.
Can I use bleach to clean my hot tub? No. Bleach can damage the acrylic surface of the hot tub shell. Always use cleaners specifically designed for hot tubs.
What is “shocking” the hot tub and why is it important? Shocking involves adding a large dose of sanitizer (chlorine or bromine) to quickly kill any remaining bacteria or contaminants. It’s important to do this after cleaning and refilling to ensure the water is sanitary.
How do I prevent algae growth in my hot tub? Maintaining proper sanitizer levels and regular cleaning are the best ways to prevent algae growth. You can also use an algaecide as needed.
What is the ideal pH level for my hot tub? The ideal pH level is between 7.2 and 7.8.
What is alkalinity and why is it important? Alkalinity is a measure of the water’s ability to resist changes in pH. Maintaining proper alkalinity helps stabilize the pH level.
How do I deal with calcium buildup in my hot tub? Calcium buildup can cause scaling and damage to the hot tub. Use a calcium hardness increaser to maintain the ideal calcium hardness level and a scale inhibitor to prevent buildup.
What if my hot tub has a foul odor after cleaning? A foul odor could indicate bacteria growth. Shock the hot tub and check the filter. If the odor persists, consider draining and cleaning the hot tub again.
Can I use my hot tub right after refilling it? Yes, but only after you’ve balanced the water chemistry and allowed the sanitizer to circulate for at least 24 hours.
What should I do with the old hot tub water? Dispose of the water responsibly. Avoid draining it onto your lawn or into a septic system. Check local regulations for proper disposal methods.
How do I winterize my hot tub if I’m not going to use it for several months? Completely drain the hot tub, clean it thoroughly, and dry all the pipes and components to prevent freezing. Cover the hot tub with a waterproof cover. Consult your owner’s manual for specific winterization instructions.
Where can I find more information about hot tub maintenance? Your hot tub’s owner’s manual is the best resource for specific information. You can also find helpful articles and videos online from reputable sources.

By following these steps and addressing common concerns, you can ensure your hot tub stays clean, healthy, and enjoyable for years to come. Regular maintenance is key to a long-lasting and relaxing hot tub experience.