How to Drain and Refill a Hot Tub: The Complete Guide

Are you a proud owner of a hot tub, but unsure about the proper process of draining and refilling it? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step instructions on how to drain and refill your hot tub like a pro. Whether you’re starting up a new hot tub, performing a maintenance drain and refill, or reactivating a winterized tub, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and ensure your hot tub is in pristine condition!

Step 1: Locating and Preparing the Drain

Contents

The first step in the process of draining and refilling your hot tub is to locate the drain. In most cases, the drain can be found on the exterior of the hot tub, often in the lower extremities area. However, if you can’t find the drain on the outside, it might be located in the equipment bay. Take a look inside the compartment that houses the equipment, usually situated below the top-side controller.

Step 1.1: Draining from the Exterior

If the drain is on the exterior, you need to ensure it is closed if you’re planning to fill the tub or open it if you’re draining it. To open the drain, simply unscrew the safety cap, attach a garden hose, and turn the ball valve a quarter way to allow the water to drain.

Step 1.2: Draining from the Equipment Bay

In case the drain is located inside the equipment bay, it usually consists of a hose with a similar fitting. Make sure the drain is closed before filling the tub. If it was winterized, check all the unions and valves, tighten them, and ensure the O-ring is in the correct position.

Step 2: Filling the Hot Tub

Now that the draining process is complete or the drain is closed for a maintenance refill, it’s time to fill your hot tub with fresh water. The proper method of filling involves using the filter housing as the entry point for the water. This method allows for the air to be forced out as the water flows through the pumps.

Locate the filter housing, which is usually the highest point of the tub.
Loosen any bleeder valves attached to the filter housing to release air.
Connect your garden hose to the filter housing and turn on the water.
As the tub fills, periodically check for leaks in unions and valves.
If you’re refilling a winterized tub, this is a good time to check the tightened unions again.

Step 3: Cleaning and Maintenance

Once your hot tub is filled with fresh water, it’s essential to ensure proper cleaning and maintenance. Here are some important tasks to consider:

Step 3.1: Cleaning the Filters

The filters in your hot tub play a crucial role in keeping the water clean. Depending on the condition of your filters, you may need to clean or replace them.

Remove the filters and rinse them off with a garden hose.
If the filters are greasy or sticky, use a filter cleaner or degreaser.
For thorough cleaning, soak the filters in a mixture of water and a hot tub filter degreaser.
After cleaning, rinse the filters again with a garden hose before placing them back in the tub.

Step 3.2: Checking Unions and Valves

Inspect all the unions and valves in your hot tub to ensure they are tightened properly. Loose unions or valves can lead to leaks and affect the overall performance of the tub.

Locate the unions on the pumps and heater.
Use your hands to tighten them, and for an extra secure fit, use two hands to add a little more pressure.
Check all gate valves and make sure they are open, allowing water to flow freely.

Step 4: Adding Essential Chemicals

Proper chemical maintenance is vital for maintaining clean and balanced water in your hot tub. Here are the essential chemicals you need to add:

Adjusting pH, Alkalinity, and Sanitizers

To achieve balanced water, you must adjust the pH and alkalinity levels. Additionally, sanitizers like chlorine or bromine are necessary to keep the water clean and free from bacteria. Follow these guidelines:

Test the water using a test strip to determine the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels.
Use a pH increaser or decreaser to adjust the pH level as needed.
Add a total alkalinity increaser to regulate the alkalinity level.
Choose between chlorine, bromine, or non-chlorine shock as your preferred sanitizer.
Follow the instructions on the chemical bottles to add the appropriate amounts based on your tub’s gallonage.
Regularly monitor the water quality using dipstick tests or professional water testing.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How often should I drain and refill my hot tub? It is recommended to drain and refill your hot tub every three to four months to maintain clean and hygienic water.
Can I use alternative sanitizers instead of chlorine or bromine? Yes, alternatives like mineral cartridges or ozone systems can be used, but ensure they are compatible with your hot tub and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
How long should I let the tub run after refilling? It is advisable to let the tub run for approximately 10 minutes after refilling to flush out any air and debris from the lines.
Should I clean or replace my filters? Cleaning the filters regularly is recommended. However, filters have a limited lifespan, so replacement may be necessary if they become damaged or excessively dirty.
Can I use regular tap water to fill my hot tub? Yes, tap water can be used, but be aware of the mineral content. If you have hard water or high mineral levels, using a metal remover product is advisable.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to drain and refill your hot tub. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your hot tub is clean, balanced, and ready for a relaxing soak. Remember to regularly test and adjust the water chemistry, clean or replace the filters, and maintain the integrity of the tub’s components. With proper care, your hot tub will provide you with countless hours of enjoyment and relaxation.