How to Drain Your Hot Tub the Right Way

How to Drain Your Hot Tub the Right Way

Draining your hot tub regularly is essential for maintaining clean, fresh water. Over time, oils, lotions, and debris build up, making your water harder to balance. Follow this guide to drain your hot tub the right way and keep it in top condition.

Why Draining Your Hot Tub Is Important

Even with proper maintenance, your hot tub water will eventually become difficult to manage. Draining your hot tub:

• Removes built-up contaminants that affect water clarity and balance.
• Extends the lifespan of your hot tub equipment.
• Ensures fresh, clean water for a safer, more comfortable soak.
• Helps prevent bacterial growth and biofilm buildup in the plumbing system.

Experts recommend draining your hot tub every 3-4 months, or sooner if the water becomes cloudy, has a strong odor, or becomes difficult to balance.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before starting, make sure you have the following:

• A garden hose
• A submersible pump (optional but faster)
• Bucket or sponge (for remaining water)
• Soft cloth or sponge for cleaning
• Hot tub cleaner or mild soap
• Filter cleaner solution
• A line flush cleaner (recommended for deep cleaning pipes)

Step 2: Turn Off the Power

For safety, turn off the power at the breaker. This prevents the heater or pump from running while the hot tub is empty, which could cause damage.

Step 3: Flush the Plumbing System

Before draining, it’s a good idea to clean out your hot tub’s internal plumbing:

1. Add a line flush cleaner to the water. These products break down biofilm, oils, and debris inside the pipes.
2. Turn on the jets and allow the cleaner to circulate for 15-30 minutes.
3. Turn off the jets and proceed with draining.

Step 4: Drain the Water

There are two common methods for draining your hot tub:

1. Using the Drain Plug
   
   • Locate your hot tub’s drain valve, usually near the base of the tub.
   • Attach a garden hose to the valve and place the other end in a safe draining area.
   • Open the valve and allow the water to flow out. This method is slower but simple.
2. Using a Submersible Pump
   
   • Place the pump at the lowest point in your hot tub.
   • Attach a hose to the pump and position the other end in a safe draining area.
   • Turn the pump on and monitor it closely to avoid dry running. This method is faster and ideal for larger tubs.

Step 5: Clean the Interior

Once drained, use a soft cloth or sponge with a hot tub cleaner to wipe down the shell. Pay special attention to water lines, seats, and jets where buildup is common. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.

For stubborn buildup, consider using a non-abrasive scrub brush to clean hard-to-reach areas.

Step 6: Rinse and Remove Residue

Rinse the interior thoroughly with clean water to remove any leftover cleaner or debris. A hose with a spray nozzle can make this step easier. Be sure to rinse jets and corners thoroughly to prevent soap residue from affecting your next soak.

Step 7: Remove Remaining Water

Use a bucket, sponge, or towel to soak up any remaining water that didn’t drain. A wet/dry vacuum can also be helpful for removing trapped water in jets and hard-to-reach areas.

Step 8: Clean the Filter

Before refilling, clean your filter thoroughly:

• Rinse the filter with a garden hose to remove surface debris.
• Soak the filter in a filter cleaner solution to remove oils and buildup.
• Rinse thoroughly before reinstalling.

A clean filter improves water clarity and keeps your hot tub running efficiently.

Step 9: Refill the Hot Tub

Once the interior is clean and dry, it’s time to refill your hot tub:

• Place the hose in your hot tub’s filter compartment to reduce airlocks.
• Fill the tub until the water level reaches the recommended fill line.

Step 10: Restart and Balance the Water

Turn the power back on, then:

• Test your water for pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels.
• Add the necessary chemicals to balance your water properly.
• Run the jets for at least 30 minutes to circulate the chemicals evenly.

Step 11: Inspect Your Hot Tub Cover

While refilling your tub, take time to clean your hot tub cover:

• Use a mild soap solution to wipe down both sides.
• Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry before putting it back on the tub.
• Check for cracks, fading, or signs of wear to ensure your cover remains effective.

Tips for Proper Hot Tub Draining

• Plan for Dry Weather: Draining your hot tub on a dry, sunny day helps speed up cleaning and drying.
• Flush Your Plumbing System: Using a line flush cleaner before draining removes stubborn contaminants in the pipes.
• Avoid Draining on Grass: Hot tub chemicals can harm plants, so drain water away from your lawn or garden.
• Regular Maintenance Matters: Keeping your water balanced between drains extends the time between cleanings.
• Check Local Regulations: Some areas have rules about draining hot tubs into storm drains or onto your property, so check local guidelines before draining.

By following these steps, you’ll keep your hot tub clean, safe, and ready for your next relaxing soak.