Cleaning an old hot tub involves a thorough process to remove accumulated grime, mildew, and hard water deposits, restoring it to a clean and inviting state.
How to Clean an Old Hot Tub?
Cleaning an old hot tub requires a comprehensive approach, from draining the water to deep cleaning the surfaces, plumbing, and filters, ensuring all components are free from residue and contaminants.
Essential Cleaning Supplies
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and cleaning agents. Using the right supplies will protect your hot tub and ensure an effective clean.
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Tub Drain Cleaner/Flush | Cleans internal plumbing lines | Specifically designed for spa plumbing, removes biofilm |
| Non-scratch sponge or nylon scrubber | Wiping down the shell and surfaces | Essential to prevent damage to the acrylic shell |
| Hot Tub Shell Cleaner | Removes grime, scale, and stains from the shell | pH-neutral, non-abrasive, and safe for spa surfaces |
| White Vinegar or Mild Bleach Solution | For mold/mildew (diluted) or hard water stains (vinegar) | Use with caution and rinse thoroughly; never mix bleach and vinegar |
| Microfiber cloths | Drying and polishing surfaces | Prevents water spots |
| Garden hose | Rinsing | For refilling and rinsing surfaces |
| Wet/Dry Vacuum or Sump Pump | Removing residual water after draining | Helps get out stubborn puddles |
| Filter Cleaning Solution | Degreases and sanitizes hot tub filters | Extends filter life and improves water quality |
| Protective Gloves & Eyewear | Personal safety | Protects skin and eyes from chemicals |
Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning Your Old Hot Tub
A systematic approach ensures no area is overlooked, leading to a truly clean and hygienic hot tub.
1. Drain the Hot Tub Completely
The first critical step is to empty all the water from your hot tub.
- Turn off power: Always ensure the hot tub's power is disconnected at the breaker before draining to prevent damage to the pump.
- Use a plumbing flush product (optional but recommended for old tubs): Before draining, consider adding a specialized hot tub plumbing flush to the existing water. Run the jets for 20-30 minutes to circulate the cleaner through the internal plumbing, breaking down biofilm and mineral buildup. This is especially important for old tubs that may have significant internal grime.
- Open the drain valve: Locate your hot tub's drain valve, typically near the bottom of the tub or in the equipment compartment. Attach a garden hose to direct the water away from your home's foundation or landscaping, as it may contain chemicals.
- Remove residual water: Once the water level is low, use a wet/dry vacuum or a submersible sump pump to remove any remaining water from the footwell and jet crevices.
2. Deep Clean the Hot Tub Shell
With the tub empty, it's time to tackle the interior surfaces. This is where most visible grime, mold, and mildew reside.
- Wipe away residue: Using a sponge or nylon non-scratch scrubber along with a specialized hot tub shell cleaner, wipe away any residue, dirt, and scum lines. Be careful not to scratch the shell as you clean.
- Focus on problem areas: Pay close attention to areas around the jets and other ridges where mold and mildew are more likely to grow. For stubborn stains or mildew, a diluted solution of white vinegar (50/50 with water) or a very mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) can be used, but always test in an inconspicuous area first and rinse extremely thoroughly.
- Rinse thoroughly: Once you've scrubbed all surfaces, rinse the shell thoroughly with fresh water from a garden hose. Ensure all cleaning solution residue is washed away. Use the hot tub drain or a sump pump to remove the dirty water and rinse water as you go, preventing it from settling back on cleaned surfaces.
3. Clean or Replace Filters
Filters are crucial for water quality and often hold a lot of grime in older tubs.
- Remove filters: Carefully remove the filter cartridges from their housing.
- Rinse with a hose: Use a strong spray from a garden hose to remove loose debris between the pleats.
- Soak in filter cleaner: For a deep clean, soak the filters overnight in a specialized filter cleaning solution, following the product's instructions. This will break down oils, lotions, and scale.
- Rinse thoroughly (again): Rinse the filters thoroughly after soaking and allow them to air dry before reinstalling.
- Consider replacement: If your filters are old, discolored, torn, or the pleats are matted, it's often more effective to replace them, especially for an old hot tub, to ensure optimal filtration. You can typically find replacement filters at a hot tub supply store online.
4. Clean the Hot Tub Cover
The cover protects your tub and often harbors mold, mildew, and dirt.
- Inspect for damage: Check for tears, cracks, or waterlogging, which might indicate it's time for a replacement.
- Wipe down: Use a mild soap (like dish soap) and water solution with a soft cloth to clean both the top and underside of the cover.
- Treat mildew: For mildew, a diluted bleach solution (1:10 bleach to water) or a specialized cover cleaner can be used, followed by a thorough rinse.
- Condition the cover: After cleaning and drying, apply a UV protectant or vinyl conditioner to the exterior to prevent fading and cracking, extending its lifespan.
5. Clean the Hot Tub Cabinet
Don't forget the exterior of your hot tub.
- Wipe down: Clean the cabinet panels with a mild detergent and water, or a specialized outdoor furniture cleaner, depending on the material (wood, synthetic, or plastic).
- Address stains/mildew: For wooden cabinets, you might need a wood cleaner and restorer. For synthetic cabinets, stubborn stains can often be removed with an all-purpose cleaner.
- Rinse and dry: Rinse off any cleaning solution and dry the cabinet to prevent water spots.
6. Refill and Balance the Water
Once everything is clean, it's time to refill and prepare your hot tub for use.
- Refill with fresh water: Place your garden hose in the filter compartment or a clean area to prevent air locks and refill the hot tub with fresh water.
- Test and balance: Once full, turn the power back on. Test your water with reliable hot tub test strips or a liquid test kit. Adjust the water chemistry according to manufacturer recommendations:
- Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
- pH: 7.4-7.6
- Calcium Hardness: 150-250 ppm
- Sanitize: Add your preferred sanitizer (chlorine, bromine, or biguanide) according to product instructions to establish a clean and safe water environment.
- Run jets: Turn on the jets for a cycle to ensure all new water and chemicals are circulated properly.
Ongoing Maintenance Tips
To keep your old hot tub clean and prevent future extensive cleaning, establish a regular maintenance routine:
- Daily: Check sanitizer levels.
- Weekly: Test and adjust pH and alkalinity; clean water line scum.
- Monthly: Chemically clean filters; shock the water.
- Quarterly: Drain, clean, and refill the hot tub.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean an old hot tub and enjoy a fresh, hygienic, and relaxing spa experience.
