Have you ever wondered, "Can I leave my hot tub pump running all the time?" Surprisingly, the answer isn’t that simple. While not all entry-level spas have circulation pumps, here’s why it’s so important to keep your hot tub pump running per manufacturer specifications.

What Is a Hot Tub Pump?

Sometimes called a “circ pump” (as in circulation) or a “hush pump,” your hot tub pump is a low-flow pump that circulates the water. This is not the pump that in your hot tub. Its purpose is to ensure the water runs through the filtration system and that heat is distributed through the water to keep it clean and warm.

Prevent Stagnant Water from Breeding

If you’ve ever left an empty bucket or wheelbarrow to fill with rain, you know that stagnant water can attract mosquitos and other bugs, as well as breed bacteria. Stagnant water can be a hot tub’s biggest foe, so it’s important that your hot tub water has sufficient movement throughout each day. While sanitizing your hot tub with chlorine or bromine keeps bacteria from breeding even if your hot tub pump isn’t on your spa pump circulates the chemicals so they are evenly distributed throughout the hot tub. That’s why it’s important to follow the instructions in your user manual for proper hot tub pump operation.

When you’re ready for a soak, you don’t want to wait hours for your hot tub to heat up. A dip in the spa can be a spontaneous event whenever the mood strikes. Since your hot tub pump circulates the warm water as well as the sanitizer, a general rule is to follow manufacturer recommendations or leave the pump on for a minimum of eight hours per day. Make sure to allow the safety settings to shut it off automatically as needed, so the water is always at the perfect temperature for a soak.

Making sure your hot tub is ready when you are is the ultimate in relaxation—let your hot tub pump do its thing, then soak away.