Hot tubs offer a fantastic way to relax and unwind, but they do require maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Hot tub filters work hard to keep your water clear for a more enjoyable tubbing experience and need regular checking and maintenance. In this article, we’ve got some tips and tricks on general filter maintenance to ensure your hot tub stays clean and enjoyable.
Common hot tub filter problems
Filters keep your hot tub water clean by trapping dirt, debris, and other particles. However, they can encounter a few problems.
Clogging
Over time, hot tub filters can become clogged with leaves, dirt, and other debris, leading to reduced water flow and filtration efficiency. This clogging can significantly impact the quality of your hot tub experience, making the water look murky and uninviting. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent clogging and ensure your hot tub remains a clean, refreshing environment for relaxation and enjoyment.
Wear and tear
Just like any other component of your hot tub, filters are subject to wear and tear from constant use. Over time, the filter material can degrade, leading to tears or holes that compromise the filter’s ability to trap debris effectively. This wear can result in diminished water clarity and quality, emphasizing the importance of periodic inspections and timely replacements to maintain optimal hot tub performance.
Calcium buildup
In areas with hard water, calcium and other minerals can accumulate on hot tub filters, forming a hard, crusty buildup that reduces filtration efficiency. This mineral buildup can obstruct water flow and diminish the effectiveness of your filter, necessitating more frequent cleanings or even premature replacement. Using water softeners and regularly cleaning your filter can help mitigate the effects of calcium buildup and keep your hot tub running smoothly.
How to unscrew a hot tub filter
If your hot tub filter won’t unscrew, it might be because it’s too tight, cross-threaded, or has been in place for too long. Here’s what you can do.
Cool the tub down
After using your hot tub, allow it to cool down. The heat from the water can cause the filter and surrounding components to expand, making them more difficult to separate. Waiting for the hot tub to cool down can cause these components to contract slightly, potentially making it easier to unscrew the filter without requiring excessive force.
Use rubber gloves
Donning a pair of rubber gloves can significantly enhance your grip, making it easier to unscrew a stubborn filter. The added traction from the gloves can provide the necessary leverage to overcome the resistance of a filter that’s screwed on too tightly or has become stuck due to prolonged exposure to water and chemicals.
Apply lubricant
When a hot tub filter refuses to budge, apply a silicone-based lubricant. The lubricant works by seeping into the tight spaces between the filter and its housing, reducing friction and making it easier to unscrew.
It’s important to use a silicone-based product to avoid adverse effects on the hot tub’s water chemistry. Remember to thoroughly clean off any lubricant residue before you use the hot tub again to maintain water quality.
Use tools wisely
In cases where manual efforts fail, using tools like a filter wrench or pliers can provide the extra leverage needed to unscrew the filter. However, take care when using tools to avoid damaging the filter or the hot tub itself.
Gentle, consistent pressure is key. Too much force can crack the filter housing or deform the filter, leading to leaks or other issues. If you must use tools, choose ones specifically designed for hot tub maintenance to minimize the risk of damage.
How to keep your hot tub filter flowing
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your hot tub filter in good working condition. Here are some tips.
Rinse regularly
Remove and rinse your hot tub filter with a hose every few weeks to clear away loose debris, such as leaves, dirt, and small particles. This helps maintain optimal water flow and filtration, ensuring your hot tub water remains clean and clear for a more enjoyable soaking experience.
Chemical clean
For your hot tub filter to operate at peak efficiency, give it a deep clean with a specialized filter cleaner solution every few months. This process helps dissolve and remove stubborn oils, lotions, and other buildups that a simple rinse can’t eliminate. Regular chemical cleaning extends the life of your filter and improves water quality.
Dry completely
After washing your filter, let it dry completely before reinserting it into your hot tub. Allowing the filter to air dry helps kill any remaining bacteria and pathogens, further ensuring the cleanliness and safety of your hot tub water.
When it’s time to replace your filter
Even with the best care, hot tub filters don’t last forever. Here are signs it’s time for a hot tub spa filter replacement.
Persistent dirty water
If you notice your hot tub water remains dirty or cloudy even after thorough cleaning of the filter, it’s a clear indication the filter may no longer be effective. Consistently poor water quality suggests it’s time to consider investing in a new filter to restore the cleanliness and clarity your hot tub requires for safe and enjoyable use.
Damaged filter
Inspect your hot tub filter regularly for signs of physical damage, such as rips or tears in the filter material. Such damage compromises the filter’s ability to trap debris effectively, leading to reduced water quality. If you discover any form of damage, replace the filter immediately to maintain the optimal functioning of your hot tub.
Age
If your filter is over two years old, it’s likely not performing as well as it should, making it less effective at cleaning your hot tub water. Replacing an aged filter is essential for ensuring your hot tub remains a clean, inviting, and safe environment.
Tips for draining your hot tub
If you’re performing deep maintenance or replacing your filter, you might need to drain your hot tub. Using a hose to empty your hot tub is an efficient method. Here’s a quick how-to guide.
Turn off power
Before beginning any maintenance tasks, turn off the power to your hot tub. This precautionary step prevents electrical hazards during the draining process.
Connect the hose
Carefully attach a garden hose to the hot tub’s drain valve. Have a secure fit to prevent leaks. Guide the other end of the hose to a suitable area for draining, considering local regulations and the impact on your landscaping.
Open the valve
Gently open the drain valve to initiate the water flow. The time it takes to empty your hot tub will vary based on its size and the hose’s flow rate, so patience may be required.
The Cover Guy for your hot tub filter replacement
When you need a new water filter, remember that The Cover Guy offers a wide range of water filters at great prices, ready to fit most makes and models of hot tubs, from the TCG-RD50 that replaces the Filbur FC-2390, Unicel C-4950 and Pleatco PRB50-in and fits dozens of makes of hot tubs to the TCG-WY45M that fits a more limited range of makes and models. Contact The Cover Guy today, your one-stop shop for hot tub accessories, cleaning supplies, and filters.
