Cleaning your plug and play hot tub regularly is important to keep the water safe and prevent the buildup of bacteria and minerals. Experts generally recommend cleaning your hot tub every 3-4 weeks, with some additional maintenance in between.
What is a Plug and Play Hot Tub?
A plug and play hot tub is a self-contained, portable spa that can be set up either indoors or outdoors. It comes with everything you need, including the fittings and pipework. All you need to do is find a suitable location, plug it into a dedicated electrical outlet, and fill it with water.
When Should I Clean My Hot Tub?
You should clean your hot tub fully every 3-4 weeks. In between full cleans, you may want to top up chemical levels if needed after heavy use. Here is a suggested maintenance schedule:
- Every day – Check chemical levels and top up if needed
- Once a week – Remove and clean filters
- Every 2 weeks – Deep clean inside surfaces with hot tub cleaner
- Every 3-4 weeks – Completely drain, clean, and refill your hot tub
Supplies Needed for Cleaning a Plug and Play Hot Tub
- Hot tub filter cleaner
- Hot tub surface cleaner
- Algaecide
- Test strips for pH and sanitizer levels
- Drain hose
- Fresh-filled water with mineral remover added
- Cleaning cloth and scrub brush
- Protective gloves and eyewear
How To Clean a Plug And Play Hot Tub?
Follow these steps for a complete hot tub clean:
Drain the Hot Tub
- Turn off the power to the hot tub
- Locate the drain valve or connect a hose
- Drain water away from electrical components
Clean the Surface and Jets
- Use hot tub surface cleaner and scrub inside surfaces and jets
- Rinse thoroughly and drain any remaining water
Clean and Inspect Filters
- Remove filters and soak in filter cleaner
- Rinse filters and check for any damage
- Replace filters if needed
Refill your Hot Tub
- Add mineral remover to fill the water as per the manufacturer’s guidelines
- Turn the power back on once it is filled
- Run jets on high for 10 minutes before adding chemicals
Add Start-Up Chemicals
- Test and adjust pH and alkalinity per your hot tub manual
- Add sanitizer to reach ideal levels
- Add a hot tub clarifier or flocculant to help filter newly added minerals
Replace Accessories
- Put filter and headrests back in place
- Replace the hot tub cover
Be sure to test pH and sanitizer levels daily for the first week after cleaning your hot tub. Adding a hot tub system flush product monthly can also help keep your water clear.
How Should I Maintain My Hot Tub Between Full Cleanings?
- Check chemical levels daily and top up as needed
- Run filtration system as recommended
- Shock treat your hot tub weekly by adding either chlorine or bromine shock
- Remove and rinse filters weekly
- Remove organic debris like leaves regularly
- Use hot tub test strips to monitor pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels
Maintaining proper water chemistry is important for safety and preventing buildup in your hot tub system. If chemical levels become unbalanced, drain and refill your hot tub with fresh water.
What Chemicals Does My Hot Tub Need?
There are 5 main chemicals needed to keep your hot tub water clean and balanced:
- Sanitizer: Chlorine or bromine to kill bacteria and viruses
- pH Up/Down: Controls acidity of the water
- Alkalinity Up: Buffers pH and prevents fluctuations
- Calcium Hardness Up Prevents mineral staining and cloudy water
- Shock: Weekly oxidizing shock treatment
Levels should be checked before each use with test strips. Use chemical up/down products to maintain recommended levels.
How Do I Know When to Drain and Refill My Hot Tub?
Here are some signs it’s time for a complete hot tub drain and refill:
- Cloudy water even after shocking
- Persistent foam or scum lines
- Odor issues
- Irritation of eyes or skin after use
- Inability to reach proper chemical levels
Draining and refilling every 3–4 months is recommended for most portable plug-and-play hot tubs. This helps clear out any buildup and restore water quality.
Cleaning your hot tub regularly and maintaining chemical levels are essential to relaxation and safety. Test the water before each soak and refresh every few months for a hot tub that is ready to enjoy.
