Start Your Hot Tub with This Ultimate Guide

Seven-steps Hot Tub Opening Guide For Newbies

New hot tub owners are gearing up for the colder months when they can sit back and find some much-needed warmth from their luxurious hot tubs and custom spas. However, there’s one problem: many first-time owners are unsure how to start a hot tub and ensure everything is good to go before kicking back and relaxing. If you find yourself in this position, worry no more–this article will cover everything you need to know about the hot tub start-up process.

There are seven general steps to opening your hot tub for the first time, and each step is described in detail below to guide you through your setup and get your tub ready for relaxation.

Step 1: Rinse & Drain

The first crucial step in your hot tub setup is rinsing and draining it. This step varies slightly depending on whether your hot tub is brand new or if you are reopening it for the season

Starting A New Hot Tub

Starting a new hot tub for the first time requires rinsing and draining to get rid of lingering antifreeze in your tub’s plumbing. To successfully rinse and drain your new hot tub, complete the following steps.

Fill the Bottom with Hot Water: Begin by filling the bottom of your new hot tub with hot water to help dissolve and flush out any residual antifreeze.
Run the Pump: Turn on the pump and let it run for several minutes. This will help circulate the water and remove any antifreeze from the plumbing.
Drain the Tub: After thoroughly rinsing, drain the water completely to ensure no antifreeze remains.

Restarting Existing Hot Tubs

If you have a hot tub, then you have some idea of the hot tub chemical start-up process. However, it’s essential to continue using a guide so you don’t overlook or forget any details.

Drain Old Water: The old water is full of bacteria that could make you sick if you don’t clean your tub.
Clean Jets and Drains: Use a high-quality jet and drain cleaner to remove any buildup.
Refill with Fresh Water: Fill the tub with new water, run the jets for a few minutes, and then drain again to ensure cleanliness.

For Winterized Hot Tubs

If you winterized your hot tub when you used it last to prevent any freezing, you will have to rinse it this year to ensure everything runs smoothly and all connections are in place. The following are vital steps for rinsing a winterized hot tub.

Close the drain valves and tighten up any quick-disconnect fittings.
Put slice valves in an open or up position.
Check that the front and top of your tub’s pump are connected.
Inspect your heater for missing plugs or loose connections.
Check that the air blower is appropriately connected.
Close open drain valves.

Step 2: Turn Off Power & Clean Empty Hot Tub

Once you have adequately rinsed and drained the tub, you can move on to step two. In this step, you will shut off the power to your tub and clean the empty tub.

For New Hot Tubs:

Spray the Shell: Use a non-abrasive cleaner to spray the interior shell of your hot tub.
Wipe Down Surfaces: Wipe down the shell with a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching.
Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure all cleaner residue is rinsed away to prevent foaming when the tub is filled.

If you are restarting your hot tub for the season, you should approach step two differently:

Drain Stagnant Water: Ensure all stagnant water is fully drained.
Deep Clean Jets and Drains: Refer back to step one for detailed cleaning instructions.

Step 3: Inspect for Damage

The next step for starting up your hot tub is inspecting it for any damage. Possible damage might include stains, discolouration, mildew, or cracks. Additionally, you might notice loose wiring in your hot tub. If you notice loose or frayed wires, consult an electrician.

Check for Stains and Mildew: Use a mildew remover if necessary and scrub any discolored areas.
Inspect Wiring: Look for loose or frayed wires and consult an electrician if you find any issues.

Step 4: Install & Clean the Filter

Step four involves installing and cleaning your hot tub’s or spa’s filter. Similar to previous steps, step four will have different guidelines for a new hot tub versus one you are restarting. Follow these steps to install and clean your filter for new hot tubs.

Install Filter Cartridges: Refer to your user manual to install the correct number of filter cartridges.
Check for Proper Installation: Ensure all filters are securely in place.

If you are restarting your hot tub, you should install and clean the filter with the following steps:

Remove Filter Cartridges: Take out any existing filter cartridges for inspection.
Clean Filters: Use a filter cleaner spray or an overnight soak to thoroughly clean the filters.
Inspect and Replace if Necessary: Check for wear and replace filters if needed.

Step 5: Fill Hot Tub

Now that your tub is clean, you can fill it with new water. Use a hose filter for this step in case there are impurities in your water source, including harmful minerals, calcium, and metals. Use your hose to fill the water to the recommended level in your user manual. Ensure that the water is above the jets. Don’t overfill your hot tub.

Step 6: Prime the Pump & Add Start-Up Chemicals

Prime the Pump & Add Start-Up Chemicals: Priming the pump is essential to remove any air from the lines. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions. Once primed, add the start-up chemicals:

Heat the Water: Ensure the water temperature reaches at least 30 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit).
Add Chemicals Separately: Measure and add each chemical according to your hot tub’s size and manufacturer instructions.
Circulate Water: Run the pump on high speed for at least 10 minutes to distribute chemicals evenly.

Step 7: Test – Set – Test

For step seven, start by testing your hot tub water chemistry to ensure it is balanced and safe for use. If you don’t test your water, you risk ignoring harmful chemicals that could damage your skin and hot tub. Test your hot tub water weekly and get it professionally tested monthly. Next, you can use the following steps to set and test your water before use.

Set the temperature of your hot tub. Ideally, the temperature should fall between 36 and 38 degrees Celsius or 98 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not exceed 40 degrees Celsius or 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Let the water circulate for about ten minutes after you set the temperature.
Cover your hot tub for 24 hours minimum to help the temperature rise while preventing water loss and chemical loss.
After 24 hours, test the water again. If necessary, rebalance the chemical levels.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Hot Tub

Now that you have finished the seven-step setup process, you are ready to sit back, relax, and enjoy your hot tub! Allow yourself some well-deserved rest and let your body relax in the hot tub’s soothing water.

Enjoy Your Hot Tub

Starting a hot tub for the first time or restarting your spa doesn’t have to be confusing or tedious. Knowing the best practices for safely setting up your hot tub can prevent hassle and guarantee a relaxing soak. Proper maintenance, such as regular hot tub filter cleaning and priming the hot tub pump, ensures your hot tub runs efficiently and lasts longer.

You can consider making the most of your hot tub spa by adding extra accessories and upgrades. If you are seeking a new hot tub or spa, you can find beautiful options from Edgewater Pools.

How To Start Up Your Hot Tub?

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