Owning an inflatable hot tub is a convenient and enjoyable way to indulge in relaxation and hydrotherapy in the comfort of your own backyard. However, like any piece of equipment, these portable spas require proper care and maintenance to ensure they remain a clean, safe, and long-lasting addition to your outdoor space.
Whether you’re a seasoned hot tub owner or new to the world of inflatable spas, knowing how to maintain your inflatable hot tub is essential. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to maintain inflatable hot tub.
From water quality management and regular cleaning routines to addressing common issues like punctures and leaks, we’ll empower you with the knowledge and skills needed to extend the life of your inflatable hot tub and continue to enjoy the soothing benefits it offers.
The Importance of Safety when Performing Maintenance Tasks
Inflatable hot tubs are becoming increasingly popular due to their easy installation, affordability, and convenience. However, like any other type of spa or pool equipment, it is essential to regularly maintain your inflatable hot tub to ensure its longevity and safe use.
One of the most critical aspects of maintaining an inflatable hot tub is safety. As with any electrical appliance or water-based equipment, there are potential hazards that need to be considered and addressed. As such, it is crucial to follow proper safety precautions when performing maintenance tasks on your inflatable hot tub.
Here are some general safety tips to keep in mind when maintaining your inflatable hot tub:
- Always turn off the power supply before beginning any maintenance tasks. This includes disconnecting the power cable from the outlet and turning off the breaker switch.
- Avoid working on your hot tub while it is still filled with water. Drain the water first before performing any maintenance tasks.
- Use caution when handling chemicals and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, when handling chemicals to prevent skin irritation or eye injuries.
- Regularly inspect all components of your inflatable hot tub for any damage or wear and tear. Replace any damaged parts immediately to avoid potential hazards.
10 Methods How to Maintain Inflatable Hot Tub
1. Check the pH Level of the Water
Maintaining the proper pH level of your inflatable hot tub is essential for keeping it clean and safe to use. The ideal pH range for hot tubs is between 7.2 and 7.8, so you should test the water regularly to make sure it falls within this range. You can purchase a testing kit from most pool supply stores or online retailers to measure the pH levels in your hot tub.
2. Clean and Sanitize Regularly
It’s important to regularly clean and sanitize your inflatable hot tub to keep it free of bacteria and other contaminants that can cause illness or skin irritation. You should use a specially formulated hot tub cleaner that is designed to remove oils, dirt, and other debris from the surface of your spa without leaving behind any residue. Additionally, you should use a sanitizer such as chlorine or bromine to kill off any bacteria or viruses that may be present in the water.
3. Change Out Your Filter Cartridge
Your inflatable hot tub will come with a filter cartridge that needs to be changed out every few months (or more often if you use your spa frequently). This will help ensure that your water remains clear and free of debris and contaminants, which helps keep it safe for use. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when changing out your filter cartridge, as this can vary depending on the model of your spa.
4. Balance Your Chemicals
It’s important to maintain proper chemical balance in your inflatable hot tub in order to keep it safe for use. The primary chemicals you need to monitor are alkalinity, calcium hardness, and total dissolved solids (TDS). You should test these levels regularly using test strips or a digital tester, then add chemicals as needed to bring them into balance according to manufacturer recommendations.
5. Monitor Water Temperature
Inflatable hot tubs are designed for temperatures up to 104°F (40°C), so it’s important not to exceed this temperature when using your spa in order to avoid potential health risks associated with high temperatures, such as heat stroke or dehydration. Additionally, you should always check the temperature before entering your spa in order to ensure it is comfortable for all users.
6. Check Tub Liners & Seams
You should inspect all liners and seams on an inflatable hot tub at least once per month for signs of wear or damage, such as tears or punctures, that could lead to leaks over time if left unchecked. If any damages are found, they should be repaired immediately using special repair kits available from most pool supply stores or online retailers so they don’t become worse over time and cause further damage down the line.
7. Check Pump & Heater Connections
The pump and heater connections on an inflatable hot tub need regular checking to ensure everything is working properly and there are no signs of wear or damage that could lead to leaks over time if left unchecked. It’s also important to check these components every few months, even if they appear fine at first glance since small problems can develop over time if not addressed promptly.
8. Empty & Refill Every Few Months
Inflatable hot tubs should be emptied completely every few months (or more often if used frequently) in order to remove any built-up dirt, debris, oils, bacteria, etc., that may have accumulated over time. This will help ensure that your spa remains clean, healthy, and safe for use. Once emptied, refill with fresh water according to manufacturer instructions.
9. Add Shock Treatment As Needed
Shock treatment helps remove any remaining organic matter from an inflatable hot tub after cleaning/emptying/refilling has been done. It also helps break down oils, lotions, sweat, etc., that may have been introduced into the water by bathers during use. Shock treatment should only be added when necessary, as adding too much can cause unpleasant odors due to elevated levels of chlorine compounds in the water.
10. Store When Not In Use
When not in use for extended periods of time (such as during winter months), it is best to store an inflatable hot tub indoors where it’s protected from extreme weather conditions such as snowstorms, strong winds, etc., which can all cause damage to components like pumps, heaters, liners, etc., if left exposed outdoors.
Things to Consider When Maintaining Your Inflatable Hot Tub
- Always follow manufacturer instructions when performing maintenance tasks.
- Drain and clean your inflatable hot tub if the water is discolored or has a strong odor.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning products on your spa, as this can damage the materials.
- Keep your hot tub covered when not in use to help prevent dirt and debris from entering the water.
- Regularly check the functionality of your spa’s pump, heater, and jets to ensure they are working properly.
- Remember to unplug your hot tub before performing any maintenance tasks in order to avoid electric shock.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Maintaining Inflatable Hot Tub
Inflatable hot tubs have gained popularity in recent years due to their convenience, affordability, and portability. However, just like any other type of hot tub, proper maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
Neglecting to Clean the Filters Regularly
One of the most important maintenance tasks for an inflatable hot tub is cleaning or replacing the filters. These filters are responsible for trapping debris and contaminants, keeping your hot tub water clean and safe. Neglecting to clean them regularly can result in clogging, reduced water flow, and ultimately lead to poor water quality.
Not Balancing the Chemicals
Maintaining proper chemical balance is crucial for keeping your inflatable hot tub clean and safe for use. Failure to do so can result in skin irritations, cloudy or discolored water, and the growth of harmful bacteria.
Overlooking the Cover
The inflatable hot tub cover serves as a protective barrier against debris, sunlight, and other elements. Neglecting to clean it regularly can result in mold or mildew growth, which can then transfer to the hot tub water. Make sure to wipe down and dry the cover after each use and periodically clean it with a mild soap or cleaner.
Conclusion
Understanding how to keep your inflatable hot tub in top condition is essential to preserving its lifespan and ensuring that any family time spent soaking in its warmth is an enjoyable experience.
Fortunately, by setting a regular maintenance schedule, regularly changing out the water, testing the chemistry levels, cleaning the filters and performing general maintenance tasks such as inspecting for small leaks, you can make sure that your hot tub stays in safe and working order so it can be enjoyed for years to come.
With just a little bit of effort, you can guarantee that all those precious family moments you spend together will last for many more years. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to maintain inflatable hot tub!