Your Hot Tub's Hardest Worker: When to Clean vs. Replace Your Filter

Of all the components in your hot tub, the filter cartridge has one of the most demanding jobs. It runs silently in the background, constantly trapping debris, oils, lotions, hair, and other contaminants to keep your water clean and safe.

But just like any filter, it can't work effectively if it's clogged or worn out. Giving your filter the right attention is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to ensure your spa runs smoothly. So, how do you know when it needs a quick rinse, a deep clean, or a full replacement?

Let's break it down.

Routine Cleaning: The Quick Rinse (Every 1-2 Weeks)

This is a simple maintenance task that should be part of your regular routine, especially if you use your hot tub frequently.

• Frequency: Once every week or two.

• How to do it:

  1. Turn off the power to your hot tub at the breaker.

  2. Remove the filter cartridge(s).

  3. Using a garden hose with a spray nozzle, carefully rinse between each pleat. Start at the top and work your way down, washing the debris out.

  4. Important: Do not use a pressure washer, as it can damage the delicate filter fabric.

  5. Once clean, place the filter back in the spa and restore power.

This quick rinse removes larger debris and keeps your water circulating properly.

The Deep Clean: Chemical Soak (Every 3-4 Months)

A simple water rinse can't break down everything. Body oils, lotions, and chemical residues build up over time, creating a film that clogs the filter's pores. A chemical soak is needed to dissolve these stubborn contaminants.

• Frequency: At every water change, or at least once every 3-4 months.

• How to do it:

  1. Rinse the filter as described above.

  2. Soak the filter overnight in a bucket with a specialized filter cleaning solution, available at any spa supply store. Make sure the filter is fully submerged.

  3. The next day, remove the filter from the solution and give it another very thorough rinse to remove all traces of the cleaner.

  4. Let the filter dry completely before putting it back in the spa. This allows the fabric to "breathe" and can extend its life.

Pro Tip: Many owners keep a second, clean filter on hand. This allows you to swap them out immediately, so you can still use your hot tub while the dirty one is soaking and drying.

Time for a New One: When to Replace Your Filter

Cleaning can only do so much. Over time, the filter's fabric (called "media") will break down and become less effective. Using a filter past its prime puts extra strain on your spa's pumps and can lead to poor water quality.

It's time for a replacement when you see these signs:

• Cracked End Caps: The plastic at the top or bottom is cracked or brittle.

• Flattened or Frayed Pleats: The fabric pleats are no longer distinct and are stuck together, even after cleaning.

• Discoloration: The filter has a persistent tint (often pink or purple) that cleaning can't remove.

• It's Been Over a Year: As a general rule, a hot tub filter has a lifespan of about 12-18 months. Mark your calendar when you install a new one.

We Handle the Dirty Work

Proper filter care is a cornerstone of our premium maintenance packages. With our "Tidal" and "Tsunami" plans, we perform deep chemical soaks and inspections for you, and the "Tsunami" package even includes a brand-new filter every single year.

Take the guesswork out of filter care and let us keep your spa running at peak performance.

Explore Our Service Packages Today!