Draining your Wellis hot tub is an essential part of routine maintenance and cleaning. The process primarily involves preparing the spa, locating the drain valve, and then opening it to allow the water to exit.
Preparing Your Wellis Hot Tub for Draining
Before you open the drain, it's beneficial to perform a few preparatory steps to ensure a thorough cleaning of your spa's internal system.
- Chemical Treatment: To effectively clean the internal plumbing and remove buildup, it is highly recommended to run a hot tub pipe cleaner through the system.
- Add the recommended amount of hot tub cleaner to the water.
- Run the open jets at maximum performance for 20 to 25 minutes. This process helps the cleaner circulate thoroughly, removing any limescale and dirt from the spa and its pipework before the water is drained.
- Filter Removal: Prior to initiating the draining process, always remove all hot tub filters. This prevents debris from clogging the drain and allows for easier cleaning or replacement of the filters themselves.
Locating and Opening the Drain Valve
Wellis hot tubs, like most spas, are equipped with a main drain valve designed to empty the water quickly and efficiently.
- Power Off: For safety, always turn off the hot tub's power at the main breaker before you begin draining or any maintenance.
- Locate the Drain Valve:
- The primary drain valve on a Wellis hot tub is typically situated at the bottom of the spa cabinet.
- It is often found on one of the side panels, usually near the equipment compartment (pumps, heater), which may require removing a cabinet access panel to reach.
- Look for a small spigot or a cap that can be unscrewed or pulled out.
- Attach a Garden Hose:
- Once located, most drain valves are designed to accept a standard garden hose.
- Screw a garden hose onto the drain spigot. This allows you to direct the draining water to a suitable location, such as a nearby drain, a lawn that can absorb the water, or a designated wastewater area, keeping it away from your home's foundation.
- Open the Drain Valve:
- The method for opening the valve varies slightly by model, but it generally involves either:
- Turning a Cap: Unscrew the cap from the spigot, and then pull out the stopper valve.
- Twisting a Handle: Rotate a handle or knob counter-clockwise to open the valve.
- You will hear the water begin to flow through the hose once the valve is open.
- The method for opening the valve varies slightly by model, but it generally involves either:
- Monitor Drainage:
- Allow the hot tub to drain completely. This can take several hours depending on the size of your tub and the water pressure.
- For the last remaining water, you might need to use a wet/dry vacuum or sponge to remove it from the footwell.
Tips for Efficient Draining
- Submersible Pump: For faster draining, especially if you have a larger hot tub, consider using a submersible pump. These pumps can significantly reduce the draining time.
- Water Disposal: Be mindful of where the water will drain. Hot tub water, especially if treated with chemicals, should be directed away from gardens with sensitive plants or directly into storm drains without proper consideration of local regulations.
- Check for Secondary Drains: Some larger Wellis models may have additional drain points or air release valves that can help speed up the process. Consult your Wellis owner's manual for specific details on your model.
By following these steps, you can effectively open the drain and empty your Wellis hot tub, preparing it for cleaning, maintenance, or refilling.
