A hot tub should be drained and cleaned every 3 to 4 months depending on the amount of usage. This is especially important if the spa is not going to be used during the winter months. You can usually tell if the water needs to be changed by observing the quality of the water. Proper draining and cleaning inures that any bacteria left after sanitization will be killed before the spa is filled back up and used again. So, no matter the reason, whether it’s that time of the year to clean it or it’s time to winterize, knowing how to drain it is very important. The guide below is an overview of the steps that should be taken to drain a hot tub. Depending on the model, slight variations may be needed to ensure the spa is drained and cleaned to perfection. Check the manual for exact instructions.
- Pre-Drain Notes
Electrical safety is vital when dealing with any appliance that uses water. First, turn off the heater on the hot tub as well as the circuit breaker for the tub. Next, take the tub cover off and remove the filter. It is recommended to clean the filter at this time as well. - Draining the Spa
Locate the tub’s drain spot. Once it is located, securely attach a tube or garden hose to the spigot. It is important to give the water plenty of space to drain. For best results, use a garden hose with at least a 20ft reach. Keep in mind that the lower the end of the hose is the faster the water will drain. Another option for even faster emptying is a Submersible Pump or “Sub-Pump.” These can be found at your Zagers Pool & Spa local supply store. Finally, open the spigot and begin draining the tub. - Valves and Couplers
This section is important if you plan on winterizing the tub. Open the heater housing. Loosen the couplers around each pump. Next, bleed the valves or take out the drains to prevent any freezing problems that could occur during cold weather. - Refilling the Spa
Luckily, refilling the spa is as simple as draining it. Essentially, follow the steps in reverse. Close up the heater housing and turn the valves off. Place a hose into tub before powering the tub back on. Once the tub is full, turn the power on. After starting the spa, add chemicals – this includes shocking the spa.
Additional Tips
Before draining the spa, make sure that the water needs to be changed. To do this, simply check the quality of the water. If the water has an odd smell, is foamy or cloudy, there is a good chance the water needs to be changed.
Have a swimming pool or hot tub related question? Contact Zagers Pool & Spa by email or phone at 616.896.1717 today!