Ensuring the longevity and cleanliness of your hot tub is a vital part of owning one. The thrill of sinking into a clean, warm, and bubbling hot tub is unrivaled, but to maintain this pleasurable experience, regular care is needed. Among the various cleaning processes, one crucial step that often gets overlooked is the hot tub purge. This article is your comprehensive guide on how to purge a hot tub and keep it in top-notch condition.
Why Purge Your Hot Tub?
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The importance of a hot tub purge cannot be overstated. Over time, your hot tub can develop a nasty biofilm, a collection of bacteria and other microorganisms that thrive in the moisture-rich environment. This biofilm can cause health problems and also affect the performance of your hot tub.
Steps to Purge a Hot Tub
Let’s walk through the process step by step:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You will need the following:
- A hot tub purge product: Preferably one in dry, powdered form. Ideal Water Care’s Hot Tub Scrub is a great option as it’s easy to use and highly effective.
- A submersible pump: An extreme portable pump can drain your hot tub in a matter of minutes.
- A shop vacuum: A battery-powered vacuum is recommended for convenience.
- Cleaner: Bio Guard’s Off the Wall Cleaner or Natural Chemistry’s Clean and Perfect are good choices.
- Garden hose
- Your hot tub filters
Step 2: Preparing for the Purge
Open your hot tub and ensure all jets are open and your water features are running. This step prepares your hot tub for a deep clean.
Step 3: Apply the Purge Product
Pour in about half the bottle of your chosen purge product. Adjust the quantity based on the size of your hot tub. The product will start foaming and cleaning up the biofilm.
Step 4: Wait and Let the Product Work
Allow the purge product to do its work for around 30 to 45 minutes. During this time, the product will foam up and start removing all the grime, residue, and biofilm.
Step 5: Drain the Hot Tub
After the wait, it’s time to drain your hot tub using the submersible pump. This step usually takes around 16 minutes with an extreme portable pump.
Step 6: Rinse and Vacuum
Use your garden hose to rinse off any foam or residue left after the purge. Follow up with a shop vacuum to suck out the remaining water, making sure to cover all areas.
Step 7: Wipe Down the Hot Tub
Thoroughly wipe down your hot tub using a suitable cleaner. Make sure to address any scum lines and stubborn residue.
Step 8: Clean or Replace Your Filters
While your hot tub is empty, it’s the perfect time to clean or replace your filters.
Step 9: Fill Up Your Hot Tub
Now, fill up your hot tub again. If you have a saltwater hot tub, follow the specific instructions for it.
FAQs
How often should you purge a hot tub?
You should purge your hot tub at least once a year. However, the frequency may increase depending on the usage and water quality.
Can I purge my hot tub more often than once a year?
Yes, you can. However, it’s not generally recommended unless necessary, as too frequent purging might be unnecessary and wasteful.
Can I clean the hot tub while there’s still water in it?
Yes, you can wipe down the scum line and other residue with the right cleaner, even when the tub is filled with water.
What does purging a hot tub do?
Purging a hot tub helps get rid of biofilm and other dirt, ensuring a clean and healthy hot tub environment.
Do I have to use a specific product to purge my hot tub?
While you don’t necessarily have to use a specific product, I recommend using a quality hot tub purge product, like Ideal Water Care’s Hot Tub Scrub, for best results.
What should I do after purging my hot tub?
After purging, you should drain, clean, wipe down, and then refill your hot tub.
Can I use a shop vac to remove water after draining my hot tub?
Yes, a shop vac is excellent for removing any leftover water after draining your hot tub.
Conclusion
Knowing how to purge a hot tub properly is a significant aspect of being a responsible hot tub owner. With regular purging, not only will your hot tub serve you longer, but it will also provide you with cleaner and safer relaxation time. Remember, a well-maintained hot tub equals a happy hot tub owner. Happy soaking!
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