There are a few key considerations that may come up with regard to spa water maintenance for any hot tub you own, and the concept of draining and refilling the spa is a top example. How often should you drain and refill your spa, and which factors might change these frequency recommendations?

At Dolphin Pools & Spas, we're proud to offer the very best selection of custom spas available around Salt Lake City and nearby parts of Utah, plus basic expertise and tips on how to optimally maintain any spa product we sell. Here are some tips on general recommended frequencies for spa draining and refilling, plus some factors that could affect this frequency, some signs draining is necessary, and some tips for safe and effective draining and refilling.

Recommended Average Spa Water Draining Frequency

While we'll go over some factors that can influence this recommendation in a moment, most spa manufacturers tend to recommend draining and refilling the water at least every 3-4 months or so. This length of time is typically recommended to help maintain the cleanliness and effectiveness of spa chemicals, filters, and equipment.

Factors That Can Affect Spa Draining Frequency

Depending on your individual spa and its usage, you may find that you need to drain and refill more or less frequently than the general recommendation. Some factors that could influence this include:

• Usage: Obviously, if you use your spa more often, it will require more frequent draining and refilling.
• Chemicals: The type and amount of chemicals used in your spa can also impact how often it needs to be drained. For example, using a lot of chlorine or bromine can cause water to become cloudy and require more frequent draining.
• Environment: If your spa is located in an area with a lot of debris or weather extremes, it may require more frequent draining and cleaning.
• Filtration system: The type and quality of your filtration system can also affect how often you need to drain and refill your spa. A good filtration system will help keep the water clean for longer periods of time.
• Water quality: The quality of the water in your area can also play a role in how often you need to drain and refill your spa. Hard water, for example, can result in mineral buildup that may require more frequent draining.

It's important to monitor these factors and adjust your draining and refilling schedule accordingly. If you notice any changes in water clarity, you may want to schedule a draining earlier than usual.

Signs It's Time to Drain

There are certain signs that, even if you're not at the recommended time for draining spa water, you should consider doing so anyway:

• Cloudy water: This is a clear sign that your spa water has reached the end of its lifespan and needs to be drained. Continuing to use cloudy water can lead to skin irritation and even bacteria growth, so it's important to drain and refill as soon as possible.
• Strong chemical odors: If you notice a strong smell of chemicals coming from your spa, this could be an indication that the chemicals you're using are no longer effective due to high levels of contaminants. Draining and refilling with fresh water will help reset the balance of chemicals in your spa.
• Chemical imbalance: Over time, the levels of chemicals in your spa can become imbalanced due to various factors such as rainwater, oils from skin and hair, and debris. If you notice that your spa's water is cloudy or has a strange color, it's likely that there is an imbalance of chemicals. Draining and refilling will help restore the proper chemical balance.

Safe and Effective Spa Draining and Refilling Tips

If it's time to drain and refill your spa, here are some tips to ensure a safe and effective process:

• Turn off the power: Before draining your spa, make sure to turn off the power to avoid any potential accidents.
• Use a submersible pump: To drain your spa quickly and efficiently, use a submersible pump. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper usage.
• Clean the interior of the spa: Once the water is drained, take this opportunity to clean the interior of your spa thoroughly. Scrub away any buildup or residue using a non-abrasive cleaner.
• Check for leaks: While cleaning, inspect all components of your spa for any signs of leaks. If you notice any cracks or damage, make sure to address them before refilling the spa.
• Refill the spa: Now that your spa is clean and leak-free, it's time to refill it with fresh water. Use a garden hose and fill until the water level reaches the designated mark.
• Test and balance the water: After refilling, use test strips to check the pH levels and adjust accordingly. It's important to maintain proper water chemistry for optimal enjoyment and to avoid any skin irritations.
• Turn on pumps and heaters: Once you've achieved proper water chemistry, turn on your pumps and heaters to circulate and heat the water. This may take some time depending on the size of your spa.

Dolphin Pools & Spas is Here to Help

For any kind of pool or spa water maintenance, from draining and refilling to water chemistry and equipment repairs, Dolphin Pools & Spas is here to help. We offer professional services from experienced technicians who can ensure your spa is always running at its best.

For any pool or spa need around Salt Lake City, Utah and nearby areas, contact us today!