How to take care of a hot tub in the mountains

Hot tubs in the mountains are amazing: cold air and snow mixed with hot water is a great retreat for kids, families and adults. But as with everything in the mountains, you need to take care of your hot tub so you avoid funky water and bursting pipes.

Tips for Using your Hot Tub

  1. For the safety of all, keep your temperature between 100-102°F

  2. Limit your soak time to 15-30 minutes, especially children or others with any health concerns.

  3. If you are pregnant, stay out!

  4. Shower before use: Skin oils, dirt, lotions, sunscreen all cause issues in your tub from clogging the filter to affecting the water chemistry. It’s best to clean off real quick before you get in!

  5. Don’t wash your swimsuits with laundry detergent. Just run them in your washing machine on rinse. Detergent messes with your tub and the water chemistry.

  6. And for the love of God, don’t let kids pee in the hot tub!

Cleaning your Hot Tub - every 2 weeks

  1. Using a large brush (ideally with a long handle), scrub the inside of the tub thoroughly, and then scrub the bottom side of your cover using the chlorine water.

  2. Run your jets for about 5 minutes to catch debris in the filter.

  3. Take the filters out and rinse them with clean water or your hose. Filters last about a year so should be replace often to ensure your tub is operating properly.

  4. Test the water using water test strips.

  5. Add spa up/ph up or down as needed based on recommendations from your hot tub manufacturer (generally, a PH reading of 7.8 is normal). One tablespoon raises the levels up one square on the test strip.

  6. Add Non-Chlorinated Shock (one cap full).

  7. Add a tab of chlorine into your filter(s) locations (or follow instructions on bromine). One tab lasts about two weeks.

  8. Refill the tank with clean water, if necessary. Always fill through the filter to avoid an air lock.

  9. Drain and refill the tank with fresh water every 4-6 months.

If you do not want to do this on your own, or if your hot tub needs repair, we recommend you contact Peak Spa Service for regular service and maintenance.