Is it hard to maintain a hot tub? | Jacuzzi® Help Center

There are many questions that will come up as you prepare to become a hot tub owner. One of the questions you may have in determining what type of hot tub you purchase is: “Is it hard to maintain a hot tub?” The answer to this question can depend not only on the type of hot tub you have or want to purchase, such as inflatable, portable or in-ground, but also on the brand and model. This article will address hot tub maintenance as it relates to standard portable hot tubs.

What is a portable hot tub?

If hot tub cleaning is a major determining factor for you when it comes to what type of hot tub you are going to purchase, you’ll want to consider a spa that is mostly hassle free and nearly maintenance free. Many of today’s luxury portable hot tub models from premium portable hot tub brands are designed to be just that, so you can work less on maintaining your hot tub and instead spend more time simply enjoying it.

A portable hot tub is a self-contained unit that is not built into the ground. It can be placed on a level surface of the ground or on a platform or deck that can handle the weight. While called a portable hot tub, these models are still very heavy and it is highly recommended to have it professionally delivered or relocated. Other types include inflatable hot tubs and built-in hot tubs. Inflatable hot tubs are blow-up spas while built-in hot tubs are built into the ground, often adjacent to or in conjunction with a swimming pool.

The basics of hot tub cleaning

Despite the fact that premium portable hot tubs are designed to be mostly hassle free, they will still require routine maintenance and occasional service. For this reason, it is always advisable to work with a credible hot tub dealer and to choose a spa that comes with a solid warranty.

Your hot tub maintenance will depend on the model itself, but also the features of that hot tub such as the filtration system and water management system. For example, a multi-stage filtration system will keep water fresh and clean* by removing more particles and debris. The more sophisticated the systems, the less effort will be required of you to keep your hot tub water sparkling clean*.

Water care and management

For example, the Jacuzzi® CLEARRAY Active Oxygen® System is designed to provide you with a virtually hands-free approach to water care and UV-C technology is standard on all Jacuzzi® models. The Jacuzzi® CLEARRAY Active Oxygen® System features the combination of ozone and UV-C technology, through which ozonated water is exposed to a UV-C bulb to energize the molecules, unlocking Active Oxygen to clean*.

The CLEARRAY® Active Oxygen® System utilizes various technologies to achieve cleanliness.* One of them is ozone, which aids in the grouping of smaller debris to form larger clusters that can be more easily captured in the filtration process. The Jacuzzi® CLEARRAY Active Oxygen® System is designed to provide you with peace of mind that your water is cleaner, longer* — ensuring you have more time to enjoy your hot tub.

However, if an ozonator is fitted or used incorrectly, it can cause potential damage and ozone in its pure form is potentially hazardous. The levels within Jacuzzi® ozone systems are safe for use and do not have any known negative effects on the hot tub itself.

Filtration care and management

The filtration system in your hot tub is another aspect that will need maintenance. How much maintenance and how often you need to change the filters will depend on the brand and model. When it comes to maintenance for a Jacuzzi® hot tub, the filtration system’s cartridge that traps large debris can last up to 18 months. The inner filter that traps small particles should be replaced every four months. Jacuzzi® hot tubs also have up to five stages of filtration, depending on the model.

The Jacuzzi® five-stage filtration process** results in cleaner water*, which means fewer water changes and less effort for you. The five stages are as follows:

STAGES 1 and 2 — The skimmer and unique mesh ProCatch™ filter work together to clean the water surface and trap large debris for easy removal.

STAGE 3 — This exclusive system features a 60-square-foot ProClarity® filter connected directly to a ProStream™ filtration pump that filters an incredible 35 gallons of water per minute, resulting in clean water* faster.

STAGE 4 — The ProClarity® depth load filter polishes the water down to a 3-micron level.

STAGE 5 — The second 60-square-foot ProClarity® filter cleans* and activates when you are using the hot tub. This doubles the filtration when you need it the most.

Hot tub cleaning in various climates and seasons

You may need to clean and maintain your hot tub more depending on the climate and seasons. Maintenance may also depend on how often the hot tub is used. If you use your hot tub in the winter on a very regular basis, for example, you will want to make sure the water is chemically balanced and maintained.

Hot tub maintenance and chemical use

Much like balancing the water in a swimming pool, the water in your hot tub will need to be chemically balanced. There are a variety of water sanitizer options and systems that you can choose from for your hot tub as well. Some of these include UV, ozone or saltwater — and each has its own unique pros and cons. Even with advanced water care systems and filtration systems, your hot tub water will still need to be oxidized with chlorine, bromine or a non-chlorine shock product.

To preserve the quality, maximize effectiveness and increase the shelf life of your chemicals, consider the following “Chemicals 101” checklist:

Keep the temperature steady — Exposing chemicals and test strips to dramatic shifts in temperature can reduce their efficacy.

-Store them away from direct sunlight and heaters.

-Avoid leaving them in non-insulated attics, basements or garages where they may be subject to extreme temperatures in summer and winter.

Keep chemicals dry — Place them on a shelf or in an enclosed area where they won’t be exposed to the elements — or vigorous hot tub splashing.

Keep them secure — Lock up chemicals so they are not accessible to kids or pets.

Keep chemicals in their original containers — While decorative storage looks lovely, transferring containers could lead to chemical mix-ups. -Read each package’s storage and usage instructions and follow them for safety.

Hot tub maintenance and a quality hot tub cover

A high-quality hot tub cover is your best first defense in protecting your water from debris and other disturbances that can disrupt the chemical balance. A good hot tub cover will keep debris out of the water while also shielding your hot tub from the elements, helping to maintain residual heat and even adding an extra layer of safety when your hot tub is not in use.

Technology and hot tub maintenance

Technology can be another line of defense in helping you maintain your hot tub with ease. The Jacuzzi® SmartTub® remote monitoring system and app, for example, is not only designed to help you conserve energy, it makes maintaining and managing your hot tub simple and convenient to use. The Jacuzzi® SmartTub® system can even automatically alert your local dealer if your hot tub needs immediate attention. It can detect power outages, freezing, and overheating. In addition, the Jacuzzi® SmartTub® system’s Smart Heat Mode can save you up to 25 percent on standby heating. With the ability to monitor, track and customize usage, you can also take advantage of off-peak hours, further allowing you to conserve costs without sacrificing time spent in your hot tub.

There are many things to consider when choosing a hot tub, and maintenance should certainly be one of those factors. When shopping for a hot tub, ask your local dealer about some of the features that make hot tub maintenance easy and virtually hassle free, including water care systems, filtration systems, technology and other systems. If you are looking for a premium hot tub that is specifically designed to make maintenance nearly hands free, consider a Jacuzzi® hot tub.

*Clean is defined as the removal of microscopic (down to 3-micron level, varies by model) debris from the water. The CLEARRAY Active Oxygen® System utilizes various technologies to achieve cleanliness. One of them is ozone, which aids in the grouping of smaller debris to form large clusters that can be more easily captured in the filtration process.

**Stages of filtration may vary by collection.

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Medical disclaimer: This information is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or other medical professional for advice if you have any concerns about your current health or well-being.