How to Clean Your Hot Tub Filter

Owning a hot tub is one of the nicest 'perks' you can give yourself. Relaxing alone at the end of a long day or inviting your friends over to share the fun are both benefits to hot tub ownership. As most spa owners know, it is very important the water in your hot tub is free from dirt or debris, so you need a reliable water filter. This is the vital part of any spa or hot tub for trapping the contaminants in the water and making it clean and fresh.

Remember that oil, soap of any kind, lotion, skin cream and hair are the worst enemies of filters, so avoid using these to maintain the clarity of your spa and to keep your filter working well for a long time.

Nothing is more important for your hot tubs water quality than the filtering system.  A dirty and clogged or worn-out filter will fail its job of trapping contaminants, and put strain on your spa's pump. Clean your filters with every water change and replace them annually.

Spa filter cartridges should be rinsed every two weeks (more often when the bather load is heavy). Use a garden hose, and apply the water stream at a 45-degree angle, making sure to dislodge all foreign matter by spraying between each pleat.  There are some nifty devices that attach to your garden hose that can make cleaning the filter super easy such as the Grime Blaster and Water Wand.  These devices also allow for deep removal of dirt and grime from the filter pleats, without damaging them.

At least every 3 to 4 months, and with EVERY water change, your cartridge should first be pre-rinsed with the garden hose, then soaked overnight (or according to package instructions) in a non-foaming filter cleaning compound such as Leisure Time's Filter Clean.  Then rinsed again and allowed to dry out.

Tips:

• Check the filter pleats for tears or holes - these allow dirt and debris to go past the filter - it's time for a new filter.
• Avoid laundry detergents and household cleaners-- you may have a major foaming problem with your hot tub if you use them.
• Use a product designed for cleaning pleated filter cartridges.
• Rotate your spa filters.  When cleaning, always rotate out your filters with a clean, dry spare.  With this system you'll never have to wait to use your spa, and your filters will last longer. Allowing filters to dry completely after cleaning will help destroy any resident microorganisms.
• We recommend filters be replaced every six to twelve months.
• Never use a power-washer or dishwasher to clean filter cartridges. The high water pressure will damage the media. Be gentle if you use a brush.
• Always follow your equipment manufacturer's instructions for removing and reinstalling filter cartridges.
• Ensure that you always have the freshest, clearest and cleanest water possible at all times by taking care of your filter and replacing it when necessary.