Even seasoned hot tub owners can unintentionally make maintenance missteps despite their experience and knowledge. These missteps might be small, but, over time, they can accumulate and cause issues that could affect the lifespan and functionality of your hot tub. This article will shed light on these common mistakes and how to avoid them in the future.
Navigating water chemistry missteps
Maintaining the chemical balance in your hot tub is crucial for user safety and the spa’s longevity. Despite its importance, around 20 percent of hot tub owners do not test their water as frequently as they should, potentially leading to skin irritation or damage to the hot tub’s components.
Avoid household cleaning products
Avoid this pitfall by steering clear of household cleaning products, which can disrupt your water’s pH balance, causing harm to users and the tub’s interior. Instead, use hot tub-specific chemicals specially designed to keep the water sanitized while maintaining an optimal pH level between 7.2 and 7.8. This range is safe for users and helps prevent issues related to both high and low pH levels.
Regular testing is the answer
Regular testing and adjustment of your hot tub’s water chemistry should be part of your routine maintenance. This monitoring ensures a safe soaking environment and improves your hot tub’s long-term health and functionality.
Avoiding hot tub cover mistakes
Spa covers are instrumental in preserving your tub’s temperature and cleanliness, yet they are frequently overlooked in the maintenance process. Covers serve as the first line of defense against external contaminants, such as leaves, insects, and other debris, while also providing valuable insulation that helps maintain the water’s heat.
Avoid overhanging trees
The trees above are so beautiful, but overhanging trees mean that tree sap can fall onto the cover. Tree sap is sticky and will leave an unsightly blob on your pool cover. Once dried, tree sap can be difficult to remove. If you’re dealing with tree sap, start by loosening it with oils before attempting to remove it.
Regular cleaning and conditioning
Avoiding cleaning your cover can lead to premature cover wear and tear, reducing its effectiveness and lifespan. Regular cleaning and conditioning of your spa cover are simple tasks that prevent the cover material from becoming brittle, which can lead to cracks and tears that compromise the cover’s ability to perform its functions effectively.
Invest in a high-quality cover
Lower-quality pool covers can often take on water. Sagging or waterlogged covers should be addressed immediately. A cover saturated with water is heavy and difficult to manage. It also loses its insulating properties, increasing energy costs as your hot tub works harder to maintain the desired temperature.
Investing in a high-quality spa cover might seem like a considerable expense up front, but it’s an investment that pays off over time. These covers offer superior protection for your hot tub, reducing the frequency of water changes and chemical usage and significantly cutting energy costs by maintaining heat more efficiently.
Remember, your hot tub cover is a crucial component of your spa. Giving it the attention it deserves will ensure that your hot tub continues to function optimally, offering you a clean, warm, and ready-to-use oasis whenever you need it.
Preventing hot tub interior pitfalls
Maintaining the hot tub interior is equally important. Unfortunately, a common mistake is not draining and cleaning the tub as regularly as it should be. This oversight can lead to a buildup of substances like body oils, lotions, and other debris that can clog your filter system and reduce the tub’s performance.
Most hot tub manufacturers recommend draining and cleaning every three to four months. However, this frequency might need to be adjusted depending on your tub’s usage and water quality. When cleaning, avoid abrasive cleaners, as they can cause damage to the tub’s surface. Instead, use products specifically designed for hot tubs.
Successful hot tub maintenance requires a holistic approach, considering the water chemistry, hot tub cover, and the tub’s interior. By avoiding common mistakes, you can help extend the lifespan of your hot tub, maintain its performance, and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all users. Contact the Cover Guy today to learn about pool covers that’ll increase the lifespan of your hot tub!
