As a proud owner of a luxurious hot tub, you know that it provides relaxation, hydrotherapy, and countless hours of enjoyment. However, like any complex appliance, regular maintenance is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Join us as we address the frequently asked question, “Does a hot tub need an annual service?” Discussing the benefits of hot tub servicing, its frequency, the cost of running a hot tub, and the significance of professional care for your hot tub.

How Often Does a Hot Tub Need Servicing?

Hot tubs should ideally be serviced annually to maintain their performance, efficiency, and safety. Regular servicing helps identify and address potential issues before they become major problems. By adhering to an annual servicing schedule, you can minimise the risk of costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your hot tub.

What’s Included In A Hot Tub Service?

A comprehensive hot tub service involves several key elements to ensure your at-home hot tub remains in top condition. These typically include:

Inspection and cleaning of the shell:

The interior surface of the hot tub undergoes thorough inspection and cleaning to maintain its condition and identify any potential issues. This includes checking for cracks, leaks, or signs of wear that could compromise the structural integrity or water tightness of the hot tub. Regular cleaning of the shell involves removing dirt, debris, and any buildup that may have accumulated over time. By conducting these inspections and cleanings, hot tub owners can address problems early on, prevent further damage, and ensure a safe and enjoyable soaking experience.

Filter maintenance:

Proper maintenance of the hot tub’s filter(s) is essential for efficient water circulation and effective filtration. Regular cleaning of the filter helps remove debris, oils, and other particles that can clog the filter media and reduce its performance. In some cases, the filter may need to be replaced if it becomes excessively dirty or damaged. By maintaining the filter in good condition, hot tub owners can ensure that the water remains clean and clear, free from contaminants that could affect water quality or the performance of other components.

Water chemistry check:

Regularly testing and adjusting the water’s pH balance, sanitisation, and chemical levels is vital to create a safe and hygienic bathing environment. Testing the pH balance helps maintain the water’s acidity or alkalinity within the recommended range, ensuring comfort and preventing damage to the hot tub and its users. Sanitisation levels, typically maintained through the use of chlorine or bromine, are tested to ensure effective disinfection and prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. Additionally, chemical levels such as alkalinity and calcium hardness are checked and adjusted as needed. By monitoring and maintaining proper water chemistry, hot tub owners can provide a clean and safe bathing experience for themselves and their guests. You can learn more about hot tub water balancing here.

Electrical system checks:

The electrical connections and wiring of the hot tub are inspected to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. This involves checking for loose or damaged wiring, proper grounding, and secure connections. Additionally, verifying that all electrical components, such as pumps, heaters, and control panels, are functioning correctly is essential. By regularly inspecting the electrical system, hot tub owners can mitigate the risk of electrical hazards, ensure the safe operation of their hot tub, and comply with electrical codes and standards.

Pump and equipment inspection:

The mechanical components of the hot tub, including pumps, jets, valves, and heaters, require regular inspection to ensure proper operation and identify any potential issues. This involves checking for unusual noises, leaks, or malfunctions that could indicate a problem with the equipment. Additionally, lubricating moving parts, such as pump seals or valve o-rings, may be necessary to maintain smooth operation. By conducting routine inspections and addressing any concerns promptly, hot tub owners can prevent breakdowns, extend the lifespan of their equipment, and ensure consistent performance.

Cover Inspection:

The hot tub cover is examined to assess its condition and effectiveness. This includes checking for any damage, such as tears or cracks, that could compromise its ability to insulate and protect the hot tub. Additionally, the cover’s insulation properties are evaluated to ensure it is properly retaining heat and preventing energy loss. If any issues are detected, repairs or replacement may be necessary to maintain the hot tub’s energy efficiency and protect it from debris, weather elements, and UV rays.

How Much Maintenance Is There with a Hot Tub?

Proper hot tub maintenance involves routine tasks that can be easily incorporated into your regular maintenance schedule. These tasks include:

Testing and adjusting water chemistry:

It is crucial to regularly check the pH levels, sanitisers, and alkalinity in a hot tub. This involves using test strips or kits to measure the pH levels, ensuring they fall within the recommended range to prevent discomfort or damage. Sanitisers like chlorine or bromine should be monitored to maintain proper disinfection levels. Additionally, alkalinity levels need to be balanced to prevent fluctuations in pH. By routinely testing and adjusting these factors, hot tub owners can create a safe and enjoyable environment for soaking, minimising the risk of skin and eye irritation and ensuring optimal water quality.

Cleaning the filter:

To maintain the effectiveness of the hot tub filter, it is necessary to regularly rinse or soak the filter cartridge. This helps remove accumulated debris, such as hair, oils, and dirt, that can clog the filter and hinder its ability to trap impurities. Depending on the type and usage of the hot tub, the filter may require replacement periodically. By cleaning or replacing the filter as needed, hot tub owners can ensure efficient filtration, preventing contaminants from circulating in the water and maintaining clean and clear water quality.

Draining and refilling:

In order to preserve water quality and freshness, it is important to periodically drain and refill the hot tub. Over time, the water can become stagnant, leading to a decrease in clarity and hygiene. By completely emptying the hot tub, cleaning the shell, and refilling it with fresh water, hot tub owners can eliminate built-up impurities and rejuvenate the soaking experience. The frequency of this task can vary depending on factors such as usage, water quality, and manufacturer recommendations, but performing regular water changes helps maintain a clean and inviting hot tub environment.

Surface cleaning:

Maintaining a clean and inviting hot tub goes beyond water chemistry and filter maintenance—it also involves surface cleaning. Wiping down the shell with a non-abrasive cleaner helps remove dirt, oils, and other residues that can accumulate over time. Additionally, removing debris, such as leaves or insects, that may have fallen into the hot tub is essential. In case of stains, treating them promptly with appropriate cleaners or stain removers can help restore the hot tub’s aesthetic appeal. By regularly attending to surface cleaning, hot tub owners can ensure a visually pleasing and hygienic environment for soaking.

Cover care:

The hot tub cover is an important component that requires proper care to prevent issues such as mould, mildew, and damage. Regular cleaning is necessary to remove dirt, debris, and any organic matter that may accumulate on the cover. This can be done using a mild detergent or a cleaner recommended by the manufacturer. Additionally, applying a conditioner or protectant specifically designed for hot tub covers helps maintain the cover’s integrity and prolong its lifespan. By cleaning and conditioning the cover, hot tub owners can minimise the risk of mould or mildew growth, as well as protect it from UV rays and other environmental factors that could lead to deterioration. You can learn more about hot tub cover care and repair here.

Do I Need to Get My Hot Tub Serviced?

Yes, it is highly recommended to get your hot tub serviced regularly. Annual servicing ensures the longevity, efficiency, and safety of your investment. Even with regular maintenance tasks performed by the owner, professional servicing is essential to address underlying issues, thoroughly inspect the components, and maintain warranty requirements.

Why Do I Need an Annual Hot Tub Service?

Annual hot tub servicing offers several key benefits, including preventative maintenance to identify and address potential problems before they become major issues, ensuring optimal performance of all components for a relaxing and enjoyable experience, maintaining health and safety through proper water chemistry, sanitisation, and filtration to minimise the risk of skin irritations or infections, and prolonging the lifespan of your at-home hot tub by addressing wear and tear and providing thorough cleaning and maintenance of its components.

What Does a Hot Tub Service Entail?

A professional hot tub service typically includes a thorough inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of various components, as mentioned earlier. By entrusting the servicing to qualified technicians, you can have peace of mind knowing that your hot tub is in expert hands, and any potential issues are identified and addressed promptly.

Regular servicing and maintenance are vital for preserving the performance, longevity, and safety of your hot tub. While some maintenance tasks can be handled by the owner, an annual professional service is essential to address underlying issues, ensure optimal performance, and maintain warranty requirements. By investing in the care and maintenance of your hot tub, you can enjoy years of relaxation and rejuvenation in your luxurious spa.

Learn all about Hot Tub Assist, our hot tub servicing and repair partner here or speak to our team today for more information about our hot tub repairs and servicing across Cheshire, Shropshire and Staffordshire. Call us today on 0800 849 2468 and a member of our team would be happy to help.