How To Thoroughly Clean Your Hot Tub Filter

Published on

April 16, 2023

Hot tub bathing is a perfect way to stay healthy physically and mentally. Still, it can come with health risks associated with water contaminants. Installing a hot tub filter diminishes these risks, but it's essential to learn how to clean hot tub filters properly for them to be effective.

This blog post explores every aspect involved in cleaning hot tub filters. You will learn how they work, how to maintain them, and what mistakes to avoid. By the end of this article, you will become a pro in spa filter cleaning.

What is a Hot Tub Water Filter System? 

hot tub water filter system

Hot tubs are a great way to relax and recover from injuries. Despite its benefits, spa water can be a breeding ground for bacteria. One way to keep your hot tub clean and safe is to install a hot tub water filter system.

Spa filter systems prolong the life of your hot tub by preventing corrosion and scale build-up. They remove impurities and make the water safer for hot tub users. Hot tub filters remove contaminants such as:

  • Bacteria
  • Algae
  • Metals

Spa water filters work by trapping contaminants in the filter. These contaminants are removed when the filter is changed. Hot tub owners should change their filters on a regular basis to ensure water safety.

Importance of Cleaning Hot Tub Filters

why important clean hot tub water filter

Hot tub filters can easily clog with dirt and grime. If they are not cleaned regularly, they will stop working properly in the near future. This can lead to several problems, including cloudy water, bad odors, and even skin irritation.

Cleaning hot tub filters is easy. Most hot tubs come with a filter cartridge that can be removed and soaked in a cleaning solution. Once it is clean, you can reposition the cartridge in its place and use the hot tub again.

Regular cleaning of hot tub filters is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy hot tub.

The main risks of soaking in a dirty hot tub include:

  • Skin irritations
  • Bacterial infections
  • Rashes
  • Nausea (if ingested)

How to Clean Your Hot Tub Water Filter

how to clean hot tub water filter

One of the most important aspects of hot tub maintenance is cleanliness, starting with clean filters. It's important to clean your filters on a regular basis to prevent a build-up of debris & make a dirty filter. This keeps your hot tub jets functioning properly. The process is quite simple if you follow these steps:

  1. Turn off your hot tub at the isolator.
  2. Remove the filter from the housing unit.
  3. Place the hot tub water filter in a large bucket or container and fill it with water so the filter is completely submerged.

1. Turn Off Your Hot Tub at the Isolator

Like most people, you don't give much thought to your hot tub until you use it. When the time comes to turn it off, it's important to know exactly how to do so. Many people wrongly think they can turn the power off at the breaker box. This is an incorrect way to shut down your hot tub. The correct way is to turn off the power at the isolator.

The isolator is a switch located near the hot tub. It is marked with a red or green push button. Push the button to turn off your hot tub at the isolator.

Once the power is off, you can shut down your tub by following the manufacturer's instructions. If you have an automatic cover, you must open it before shutting down your tub. Otherwise, you could damage the cover or cause it to become stuck in the closed position.

2. Remove the Hot Tub Water Filter From the Housing Unit

This step is essential to keep your filter clean and free of debris. It ensures that your vacuum cleaner is operating at peak efficiency. Follow these five steps to remove the filter from the housing unit and clean it out:

  • Step 1: Unplug your vacuum cleaner from the power outlet.
  • Step 2: Remove the dustbin from the vacuum cleaner.
  • Step 3: Locate the housing unit - it should be located near the dustbin.
  • Step 4: Press the release button on the housing unit and open the door.
  • Step 5: Remove the filter and tap it to remove any dust or dirt particles.

3. Submerge the Hot Tub Filter in Water

Even the best-maintained filters can become clogged with dirt and debris over time. When this happens, it's important to give them a deep clean. One way to clean your hot tub or pool filter is to place it in a large bucket or container and fill it with water so the filter is completely submerged. Use a garden hose to flush out the dirt and debris.

How O-Care Prevents Sediment Build-up

sediment build-up water filter

Using the O-Care formula prevents sediment build-up in residential and commercial water systems. O-Care works by causing a chemical reaction that breaks down the bonds between sediments and other particles in water. This makes it easier for the sediments to be flushed away.

Using O-Care reduces the amount of sediment build-up in pipes and filters. It also improves water quality. O-Care is safe for men, women, and children. It is biodegradable and environment-friendly.

O-Care provides the following benefits:

Safety

O-Care reduces the amount of chlorine or bromine needed by up to 78%. Chemicals can irritate eyes, ears, and skin, so O-Care is safe for children who love to go underwater.

Softness

Your skin will feel soft and lack the unpleasant scent of excess sanitizer. The mixture of high-quality mineral salts leaves your skin feeling soft and odorless. No need to shower after bathing.

Simplicity

Add the two compounds to the hot tub water once a week using the measuring cup included. The O-Care Hot tub maintenance box will last 3 to 5 months.

Key Considerations for Cleaning Your Hot Tub Water Filter

cleaning hot tub water filter

A hot tub is a wonderful way to relax after a long day. One of the most qualifying aspects of hot tub ownership is properly caring for your filter. A build-up of dirt and debris can lead to poor water quality. It can also put unnecessary strain on your filter pump.

You can easily clean your filter and prolong its lifespan with a little effort as follows:

Pro Tip 1: Never Use an Abrasive Cleaner on Your Filter.

Abrasive cleaners can damage the filter media and reduce its efficiency. Instead, opt for a filter cleaner designed for hot tubs. These cleaners are less expensive and do a better job removing dirt and debris.

Pro Tip 2: Soak Your Filter in Cleaner Before Attempting to Clean It.

Here are the steps you need to take to soak your filter properly:

  • Step 1: Soaking your spa filter in a strong cleaner loosens any stubborn dirt and simplifies the cleaning process.
  • Step 2: Place your filter in a container filled with cleaner and let it soak according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Step 3: Remove the filter and hose it off, paying attention to the pleats. A hot tub water filter cleaning comb is a handy tool that allows you to clean your filter faster and reduces the need for filter-cleaning chemicals.
  • Step 4: Allow the hot tub water filter to dry completely before placing back in the hot tub to kill the remaining microbes.

These simple steps allow you to clean your hot tub filter and extend its life easily. They save you money in the long run and ensure that your hot tub is always ready for use.

Mistakes to Avoid While Cleaning Your Hot Tub Water Filter

Most people believe they know how to clean their hot tub water filter. They are often wrong, and a few common mistakes can lead to serious damage:

  • Rinsing the hot tub filter with a pressure washer. One mistake is to rinse the filter with a pressure washer. High-pressure water forces dirt and debris into the filter's pores, making it harder to clean. If you must use a pressure washer, hold the nozzle at least six inches away from the filter.
  • Using the wrong cleaners. Many household cleaners are too harsh for hot tub filters and can damage the fibers. Always use cleaners that are designed for hot tub filters.
  • Using bleach. Bleach is an effective disinfectant but will also break down the filter's fibers, leading to premature deterioration. If you need to disinfect your filter, use a hot tub–a safe sanitizer designed for that purpose.

When to Clean Your Hot Tub Water Filter

when clean hot tub water filter

You need to clean your hot tub water filter when it becomes difficult to pump water through the filter. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning your filter regularly, every three to six months.

Over time, filters become clogged with sediment, decreasing water flow and making pumping more difficult.

Proper Maintenance is The Key to Defeating the Hot Tub Water Filter Material

Most hot tub filter materials are sensitive and must be taken care of to work properly. Hot tubs are a great way to relax and enjoy time with friends or family, but if they are not properly maintained, they can become a health hazard. A few important things need to be done to keep your hot tub in good shape, and one of those things is using the right products for hot tub maintenance.

O-care products are designed for hot tubs and can help keep your hot tub clean and safe for everyone. When you use these products, you can extend the life of your hot tub. Here are some additional resources to ensure you're always up to and keep the water nice and clean:

  1. Download the O-Care app for weekly maintenance and step-by-step problem-solving.
  2. Use our online water assistant to diagnose your water quality issues.
  3. This article would cover more situations if the app didn't help solve your problem.
  4. I need to solve an underlying contamination issue in my hot tub; maybe it's biofilm?
  5. How to avoid future problems and keep your hot tub clean?
  6. What kind of sanitizers can I choose from?

What is the best way to maintain my hot tub water?

FAQs about Hot Tub Water Filter

1. Can I Clean my Hot Tub Filter with Vinegar?

Yes, vinegar is a great natural cleaner and can be used to clean your hot tub filters. Make sure to rinse the filters with water after cleaning them with vinegar. You can also use O-Care products for cleaning hot tub filters.

2. O How Long to Soak a Hot Tub Filter?

You should soak your hot tub filter in a cleaning solution for at least 12 hours. Make sure not to leave it in for more than 24 hours.

3. How Often Should Spa Filters Be Replaced?

You should replace spa filters every 12 to 18 months. This depends on how often you use your spa and how well you maintain your filters. If you use your spa frequently or live in an area with hard water, you may need to replace your filters more often.

4. How Do I Know What Spa Filter I Need?

When ready to replace your filter, get the right one for your spa. The size, shape, and type of filter you need will be determined by your hot tub's model.

5. What Are the Best Filters for Hot Tubs?

The best filters for hot tubs are designed for your make and model of the hot tub. These filters fit your hot tub and provide the best possible filtration. Make sure to research before purchasing.

6. How Long Do Hot Tub Cartridge Filters Last?

Hot tub cartridge filters last for about 12 months. This depends on how often you use your hot tub and how well you maintain your hot tub filters.