Your Complete Hot Tub Maintenance Guide
Hot tub maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated—and with the right routine, it can actually be effortless. Whether you’re a first-time spa owner or a seasoned spa enthusiast, proper hot tub maintenance is the key to a clean, comfortable soak every time.
Don’t own one yet? Discover Gib-San hot tubs to start your journey.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every aspect of hot tub maintenance:
From preventing costly repairs to creating a safer soaking experience, the steps you take today can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Let’s dive in.
Why Proper Hot Tub Maintenance Matters
A well-maintained hot tub isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s essential to performance, longevity, and user safety.
Here’s why consistent maintenance matters:
It Extends the Life of Your Hot Tub
Routine care helps reduce wear and tear on critical components, such as pumps, jets, and heaters. Clean water, balanced chemistry, and a functioning filtration system all contribute to fewer breakdowns and a longer-lasting spa.
It Protects Your Health
Unchecked bacteria, scum, and chemical imbalances can lead to skin irritation, unpleasant odours, and even health risks. Proper maintenance ensures your hot tub remains a clean and safe environment for relaxation.
Explore the health benefits of hot tubs.
It Saves You Money
Addressing minor issues before they escalate prevents expensive repairs. Balanced water also means fewer chemicals wasted and less frequent need for refills or part replacements.
In short: regular maintenance = better performance, safer water, and smarter ownership.
Daily and Weekly Maintenance Tasks
Even a few minutes of regular care can make a big difference in your hot tub’s longevity, water clarity, and overall enjoyment. These daily and weekly tasks are simple to perform and help prevent larger maintenance issues down the line.
Daily (or After-Use) Checks
These quick checks help ensure your spa is always ready for your next soak:- Check Water Levels: Water should always sit above the jets. If the level dips too low, your pump may strain or shut down entirely.
- Confirm Temperature Settings: Make sure the temperature remains stable. Sudden drops may indicate a mechanical issue.
- Secure the Cover: Always latch the cover after use to retain heat, prevent debris, and keep out unwanted pests or moisture.
Weekly Tasks (15–20 Minutes)
Each week, take time to complete these essential tasks to keep your spa looking and functioning its best:- Skim the Surface: Use a spa net to remove leaves, bugs, and debris that may have collected in the water.
- Wipe the Waterline: Oils and dirt can leave a visible scum ring. A quick wipe with a soft cloth and spa-safe cleaner helps keep your shell sparkling.
- Check the Underside of the Cover: Condensation and humidity can lead to mildew. Wipe down the underside regularly with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner.
- Inspect Jets and Surfaces: Look for signs of buildup or wear. If water flow seems uneven or weak, the jets may need a rinse or adjustment.
Water Chemistry Essentials
Balancing your hot tub’s water chemistry is essential to maintaining a clean, safe, and long-lasting spa. Imbalanced water can lead to cloudy water, unpleasant odours, skin irritation, and even damage to your hot tub’s components.
Key Levels to Monitor
To keep your hot tub water clean, safe, and easy to manage, it’s important to test your water two to three times per week. During periods of heavy use or after adding fresh water, more frequent testing is recommended.
Use the chart below as a quick reference for ideal ranges and why each level matters:
| Parameter | Ideal Range | Purpose |
| pH | 7.2 – 7.6 | Keeps water comfortable, prevents corrosion and scale, and supports sanitizer effectiveness. |
| Total Alkalinity | 80 – 120 ppm | Stabilizes pH levels and prevents sudden shifts in water balance. |
| Chlorine | 1 – 3 ppm | Destroys bacteria and organic contaminants. |
| Bromine | 3 – 5 ppm | Alternative to chlorine for effective sanitation with slower dissipation. |
Need help balancing your spa water?
Bring a sample to Gib-San for free in-store water testing and expert advice. Learn moreCommon Chemical Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Likely Cause | Recommended Action |
| Cloudy water | Low sanitizer, high pH, dirty filter | Shock the water, clean the filter, rebalance water |
| Foam or bubbles | Body oils or soap residue | Add defoamer, clean filter, wipe waterline |
| Eye or skin irritation | Improper pH or low sanitizer | Adjust pH and sanitizer levels |
| Unpleasant odour | Bacteria or aging water | Shock or drain and refill the hot tub |
Recommended Products
Use high-quality, spa-specific chemicals to maintain water balance and protect your investment. These may include:- pH increasers and decreasers
- Alkalinity increaser
- Chlorine or bromine sanitizer
- Non-chlorine spa shock
- Water clarifier or defoamer as needed
If you’re unsure which product is right for your system, the Gib-San Care Team is happy to assist. Visit our Etobicoke retail location or contact us directly for expert guidance.
Deep Cleaning and Draining
While weekly maintenance keeps your spa running smoothly, a thorough deep clean is essential to remove build-up that routine care can’t address. Over time, minerals, oils, and dissolved solids accumulate in your hot tub’s water and plumbing, making it more difficult to maintain balance and clarity.
How Often Should You Drain Your Hot Tub?
We recommend a full drain and clean every three to four months. You may need to do it more frequently if:- You use your hot tub heavily
- You host guests often
- The water becomes difficult to balance despite chemical adjustments
Steps for a Full Drain and Deep Clean
- Add a line flush product to the water and run jets for 15–20 minutes. This cleans the internal plumbing and helps remove biofilm.
- Shut off power to your hot tub at the breaker.
- Drain the spa using a built-in drain or a submersible pump.
- Clean the interior shell with a non-abrasive, spa-safe cleaner. Wipe all surfaces thoroughly.
- Rinse and clean the filter, or soak it overnight if needed.
- Wipe down the underside of the hot tub cover and check for signs of mildew or wear.
- Refill with fresh water, using a hose pre-filter if possible to minimize mineral content.
- Test and rebalance your water once the tub is full and heated.
Filter Care
Your hot tub’s filter is a critical component of water circulation and cleanliness. It traps debris, oils, and contaminants before they affect water quality or reach internal components. A neglected filter is often the root cause of cloudy water, poor jet performance, or strain on your system.
Cleaning Frequency and Replacement Timelines
Regular filter maintenance not only keeps your water clean but also helps your pump operate efficiently.Recommended filter care schedule:
- Weekly: Rinse the filter with a garden hose to remove visible dirt and buildup.
- Monthly: Use a spray-on filter cleaner to break down oils and finer particles. Rinse thoroughly before reinstalling.
- Quarterly: Soak the filter overnight in a dedicated filter cleaning solution for a deeper cleanse. Rinse well before use.
- Annually: Replace your filter entirely. Over time, pleats wear down, and performance declines—even with regular cleaning.
Types of Hot Tub Filters and Best Practices
Most residential spas use cartridge filters, which are easy to remove, clean, and replace. Other systems may use ceramic or disposable filters, but cartridge filters remain the most common due to their balance of performance and convenience.Best practices for filter maintenance:
- Always turn off the hot tub before removing the filter.
- Never use household cleaners—they can damage the filter media and leave residues in the water.
- Allow filters to dry completely between deep cleanings when possible, as this helps remove bacteria.
- Keep a spare filter on hand to swap in while the other soaks or dries.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips
Your hot tub maintenance needs can shift with the seasons, especially in the Canadian climate. Preparing your spa for changing weather not only protects your equipment but also ensures uninterrupted enjoyment throughout the year.
Cold-Weather Considerations
Winter can be a great time to enjoy your hot tub—but only if it’s well-prepared.
Tips for winter hot tub care:
- Maintain a stable water temperature. Dropping below freezing can cause plumbing damage, so it’s best to keep your system running—even if you use it less frequently.
- Use a high-quality, insulated cover. This helps retain heat, reduce energy usage, and protect against snow and ice buildup.
- Clear snow and ice regularly. Keep the cover and surrounding area free of accumulation to maintain safe access and prevent strain on the structure.
- Install a floating thermal blanket. This extra layer sits on the surface of the water, further improving heat retention.
Summer Usage Adjustments
Hot tubs are often used differently in warmer months. Adjust your care routine accordingly:
- Lower the temperature. A slightly reduced water temperature (around 98°F or 36.5°C) can offer a more refreshing experience.
- Monitor sanitizer levels more frequently. Warm temperatures and frequent use can cause faster chemical depletion.
- Shade your spa. Use a pergola, canopy, or umbrella to minimize UV exposure and reduce water evaporation.
- Top off water levels more often. Evaporation increases during heat waves or after heavy usage.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with regular hot tub maintenance, occasional issues can arise. The good news? Many of the most common problems are easy to identify and resolve with a few simple steps—often without the need for professional service.
Below is a guide to common hot tub issues, their likely causes, and how to fix them before they become more serious.
| Issue | Likely Cause | Recommended Action |
| Cloudy water | Low sanitizer, dirty filter, imbalanced pH | Shock the water, rinse or deep-clean the filter, retest levels |
| Foam or bubbles | Body oils, lotions, soap residue | Add a defoamer, wipe the waterline, clean or soak the filter |
| Unpleasant odour | Bacteria, poor water circulation | Shock treatment, check filters and water chemistry |
| Eye or skin irritation | Improper pH, sanitizer too high or too low | Adjust pH and sanitizer to recommended ranges |
| Reduced jet pressure | Dirty filter, air lock, or clogged jets | Rinse or replace filter, bleed air from lines, clean jet nozzles |
| Heater not working | Tripped breaker, dirty filter, thermostat issue | Check power source, clean filter, consult a technician if needed |
When to Call a Professional
While many problems can be solved with basic troubleshooting, you should contact a spa technician if you experience:- Recurring water clarity issues despite proper chemical use
- Electrical or heating malfunctions
- Persistent leaks or unusual sounds
- Signs of freeze damage or system failure
Long-Term Care and Upgrades
A well-maintained hot tub will deliver years of enjoyment, but as your system ages, a few thoughtful upgrades and periodic inspections can go a long way in extending its life—and enhancing your experience.
Smart Add-Ons to Consider
Upgrading your spa with the right accessories can make regular maintenance easier and improve your day-to-day use.- Cover lifter: Makes it easier to open and close your hot tub cover, reducing wear and tear and encouraging more frequent use.
- Energy-efficient pumps: Lower your energy bills while maintaining optimal circulation and heating performance.
- Water monitoring systems: Smart systems track water chemistry in real time and send alerts when adjustments are needed.
- Saltwater conversion: Offers softer water, reduced chemical usage, and a more spa-like soaking experience.
- Lighting and water features: LED lights, waterfalls, and aromatherapy injectors add ambiance and elevate the backyard spa environment.
When to Schedule Professional Support
Even the most well-maintained hot tubs benefit from periodic inspection by a qualified technician. Consider booking a service visit if:- You’re experiencing recurring water chemistry imbalances
- Your heater, jets, or pump are underperforming
- It’s been over a year since your last system inspection
- You’re preparing for winterization or reopening your spa after a period of inactivity
Maintaining Your Hot Tub with Confidence
Hot tub maintenance is more than just a checklist—it’s the foundation of a clean, safe, and enjoyable spa experience. With regular care, balanced water chemistry, seasonal adjustments, and the occasional upgrade, your hot tub will stay in top condition for years to come.
To recap:
- Daily and weekly tasks help prevent small issues before they escalate
- Balanced water chemistry keeps your spa safe and efficient
- Seasonal maintenance protects your system in extreme weather
- Routine inspections and upgrades improve performance and extend lifespan
Whether you’re new to spa ownership or simply want to improve your current routine, Gib-San is here to help. Our Care Team offers expert advice, quality products, and professional service—so you can focus on enjoying your backyard retreat.
Need Help with Hot Tub Maintenance?
- Shop Hot Tub Supplies – Visit our Etobicoke retail location for water care products, filters, and accessories
- Schedule a Service Appointment – Book seasonal maintenance, troubleshooting, or a system inspection
- Contact the Gib-San Care Team – We’re just a call or click away for expert support year-round
Because when your spa is properly maintained, every soak feels like a fresh escape.