August is a good time to give your hot tub a little extra attention.
After a summer of frequent use, heat, sunscreen, changing weather and backyard entertaining, your spa has probably been working harder than you realize.
And with cooler fall weather approaching, now is the perfect time to make sure everything is operating properly.
Use this end-of-summer hot tub maintenance checklist to get started.
1. Test and Balance Your Water
Start with the basics.
Check your spa water and make sure sanitizer, pH and alkalinity are within the appropriate ranges for your system.
Summer can be particularly demanding on water chemistry because higher temperatures, increased usage and contaminants introduced by bathers can all affect water quality.
If you've been making constant adjustments but still can't keep the water balanced, there may be a bigger issue worth investigating.
2. Inspect and Clean Your Filters
Your filters have spent the summer catching oils, debris and other contaminants.
Remove them and give them a thorough cleaning according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Also inspect them for:
- Damage
- Heavy buildup
- Discolouration
- Deterioration
- Reduced water flow
A filter doesn't last forever. If cleaning isn't bringing it back to good condition, replacement may be the better option.
3. Check Your Hot Tub Cover
Your cover takes a beating during summer.
Sunlight, UV exposure, rain and repeated opening and closing can all contribute to wear.
Look for:
- Cracks or tears
- Waterlogging
- Sagging
- Damaged straps
- Poor fit
- Deteriorating seams
A damaged cover can become a much bigger issue as temperatures fall because an effective cover plays an important role in retaining heat.
4. Look for Signs of Leaks
Take a quick look around the spa and equipment area.
Unexplained water loss, damp areas around the cabinet or moisture where it shouldn't be can indicate a leak.
Small leaks don't generally improve on their own. Identifying the source before colder weather arrives can prevent a minor problem from becoming a more inconvenient repair later.
5. Listen to Your Pumps
You use your spa often enough that you probably know what it normally sounds like.
Pay attention to:
- Grinding
- Humming
- Rattling
- Unusual vibration
- Changes in jet pressure
A change in sound or performance is worth investigating.
6. Test the Heater
Even if you haven't been running your spa as hot during summer, make sure the heating system is operating normally.
As fall approaches, the heater will become increasingly important.
If the spa is:
- Taking unusually long to heat
- Struggling to maintain temperature, or
- Displaying an error
have it checked before colder weather arrives.
7. Inspect the Cabinet and Surrounding Area
Walk around your spa.
Check the cabinet for visible damage and make sure vegetation, debris or stored items aren't obstructing equipment access or ventilation.
Keeping the area around the hot tub clean also makes it easier to spot moisture or other signs of trouble.
8. Consider a Drain and Refill
Depending on your water condition and maintenance schedule, late summer can be a convenient time for a drain, cleaning and refill.
Fresh water gives you an opportunity to start the next season with properly balanced water and a clean spa.
Follow the recommendations for your particular hot tub and water care system.
9. Don't Ignore Small Problems Before Fall
A small problem in August is usually much easier to deal with than a failed component during freezing weather.
If you've noticed:
- Unusual noises,
- Inconsistent heating,
- Leaks,
- Weak jets,
- Error messages, or
- Recurring water problems,
now is the time to address them.
Need Help Getting Your Hot Tub Ready for Fall?
Preventative maintenance can help identify problems before they turn into larger repairs.
If your spa needs professional attention, contact Mr. Spa to have your hot tub inspected, serviced or repaired before colder weather arrives.
A little attention at the end of summer can go a long way toward a trouble-free fall and winter.