Tips on Draining, Refilling, and Rebalancing for a Fresh, Clean Spa Experience
Mid-summer is the perfect time to give your hot tub a fresh start. With warmer weather, heavier use, and the occasional summer storm, your spa water may start to look or feel off. Whether you’re dealing with cloudiness, funky smells, or just want to keep your hot tub in peak condition, refreshing your water is a smart move.
Here’s a simple guide to draining, refilling, and rebalancing your hot tub so you can enjoy a clean, soothing soak for the rest of the summer.
Step 1: Know When It’s Time to Change Your Water
Hot tub water should typically be changed every 3 to 4 months. But if your spa has been heavily used for summer parties, or if water quality has deteriorated—think cloudy water, persistent foam, or stubborn odors—it may be time to refresh it early.
Signs it’s time to refresh your hot tub water:
- Strong chlorine or chemical smell
- Water feels slimy or sticky
- Cloudiness that doesn’t clear up with shock
- Foam buildup despite using anti-foam agents
Step 2: Drain Your Hot Tub Properly
Before you start draining, turn off the power to the spa to protect your equipment. Then follow these steps:
Option 1: Use the Built-in Drain Spout
Most hot tubs have a drain valve you can connect to a garden hose. Open it and let gravity do the work.
Option 2: Use a Submersible Pump
Want to speed things up? A submersible pump can drain most spas in 15–30 minutes.
Once the tub is empty, use a spa-safe cleaner and soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the shell. Don’t forget to clean the jets, headrests, and cover.
Step 3: Clean or Replace the Filter
This is a crucial part of your mid-summer reset. A dirty or clogged filter won’t effectively trap contaminants and can shorten your water’s lifespan.
- Rinse with a hose to remove debris
- Soak in a filter cleaner overnight
- Replace the filter if it’s more than 12 months old or looks worn
A clean filter = cleaner water and fewer chemical headaches.
Step 4: Refill with Fresh Water
Use a garden hose with a pre-filter if possible. This reduces minerals and contaminants before they even enter your spa.
Pro tip: Insert the hose into the filter compartment while refilling. This helps push air out of the system and prevents airlocks in the plumbing.
Step 5: Rebalance the Water
Once your tub is filled, give the water some time to circulate. Then test and balance your water chemistry:
- Total Alkalinity (80–120 ppm): Always balance this first. It acts as a buffer for pH.
- pH Level (7.4–7.6): If pH is too low or high, it can affect sanitizer effectiveness and irritate skin.
- Sanitizer: Add chlorine, bromine, or your preferred sanitizer to recommended levels.
- Calcium Hardness (150–250 ppm): Especially important in areas with soft or hard water.
Use test strips or a digital water tester for accuracy, and adjust chemicals slowly.
Step 6: Shock the Water
After balancing, shock your hot tub to remove any remaining bacteria or organics. Use a chlorine or non-chlorine shock product based on your sanitizer system. Let the spa circulate for several hours (or overnight) before using it again.
☀️ Bonus Tips for a Fresh Spa Experience All Summer
- Keep the cover clean and dry: Wipe it down weekly to prevent mildew and odors.
- Shower before soaking: Less body oil and sunscreen = cleaner water.
- Use spa enzymes: These natural products help break down oils and contaminants.
- Check water weekly: Stay on top of balancing to avoid larger issues.
Ready to Refresh?
Giving your hot tub a mid-summer water refresh is easier than you think—and your skin, eyes, and guests will thank you for it. Clean water not only looks and feels better, but it also helps your spa run longer and stronger.
Need help with chemicals, filters, or cleaning products? Visit South East Spas online or stop by your local showroom for expert advice and all your hot tub care essentials.
