What can I use to clean the pipes in my hot tub?

Over time, hot tub pipes can accumulate dirt, grime, biofilm, and mineral deposits which can lead to clogged jets, poor circulation, and even bacterial growth. Regular cleaning is essential for keeping your hot tub pipes clean and your water safe. There are several effective methods and cleaning solutions you can use to remove buildup and sanitize the plumbing system.

Why is it important to clean hot tub pipes?

Here are some key reasons to regularly clean your hot tub plumbing:

• Removes dirt, oils, soap residue – These can accumulate over time from users and the environment and allow biofilm to grow.
• Prevents clogged jets – Dirt and mineral deposits can restrict water flow through jets leading to poor performance.
• Improves circulation – Clean pipes allow water, chemicals, and heat to circulate efficiently throughout the system.
• Limits bacterial growth – Grime and biofilm provide an ideal environment for microbes like legionella to thrive.
• Enhances sanitization – Sanitizers work more effectively in clean pipework without grime and organic matter.
• Prolongs equipment life – Sediment and scale can damage pipes, pumps, valves, and seals over time.
• Keeps water clean and clear – Preventing cloudy, unsanitary water full of particles and grime.

Regular hot tub maintenance should include deep cleaning the plumbing at least 2-4 times per year depending on use. More frequent cleaning may be needed for heavily used commercial hot tubs.

How to clean hot tub pipes

There are a few main methods you can use to effectively clean your hot tub pipes and jets:

Drain and scrub

Draining and physically scrubbing the plumbing is the most thorough cleaning method. Here are the steps:

1. Drain the hot tub completely.
2. Remove any access panels to expose pipes.
3. Use a hot tub pipe brush to scrub the pipes and jets to remove residues.
4. Use a nozzle attachment on your hose to spray inside pipes and jets.
5. Drain any remaining dirty water.
6. Refill the hot tub with fresh water.

This exposes the entire plumbing system for cleaning. It takes more time and effort but is very effective at removing built up gunk.

Hot tub flush

You can flush the pipes while the hot tub is full of water using cleaners and attachments:

1. Turn on the jets to circulate the water.
2. Pour a hot tub pipe cleaner into the water.
3. Allow the jets to run for 10-15 minutes to circulate the cleaner.
4. Use a shop vacuum at the jets to remove any loosened debris.
5. Drain and refill at least 1/3 of the water.

The cleaner will break down organic matter and dissolve scale to clean the pipes. Completely draining after is ideal but not always necessary.

Specialty cleaners

There are some specially designed hot tub cleaning attachments like GFCI Pipe Cleaners that connect to your garden hose. They inject cleaning solution into the pipes under pressure to remove buildup. Simply attach, turn on the water, and spray the jets.

Hot tub pipe cleaners

There are a variety of commercial and homemade cleaners that can dissolve scale, remove grime, and sanitize the plumbing. Here are some top options:

Citric acid

Citric acid effectively breaks down mineral deposits and scale without damaging pipes. Mix around 1 cup of citric acid powder per 500 gallons of water and circulate through the system. Can be done every 1-2 months to prevent scale buildup. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.

White vinegar

The acidic white vinegar eats away at dirt and mineral deposits inside pipes. Use 1 part warm white vinegar to 1 part water and circulate through jets. Follow with a rinse. Do not use with bleach products.

Sodium Bisulfate

This powder is made for dissolving limescale and opening clogged jets. Mix 2-3 tablespoons per 100 gallons of water and circulate for an hour before draining. Rinse thoroughly as it can be corrosive at high concentrations. Can irritate skin and eyes.

Hot tub flush products

Look for hot tub cleaning chemicals at your local dealership or pool supply store. Products will contain strong cleaners like sodium bromide, surfactants, enzymes, and more specifically formulated to break down organics and sanitize the plumbing without damage. Follow product instructions carefully.

Bleach

Regular household bleach is a very effective disinfectant and anti-microbial at killing bacteria in pipes. Use 1 cup of bleach per 500 gallons of water. Never mix bleach with other chemicals. Rinse thoroughly afterward and allow proper ventilation.

Baking soda and vinegar

For a non-toxic homemade solution, mix 1 cup baking soda with 1 cup white vinegar and circulate through your pipes. The chemical reaction helps break down scale. Finish by draining and rinsing thoroughly. Baking soda also absorbs odors.

Liquid dish detergent

Add 2-3 cups of mild liquid dish soap and circulate through the plumbing for 15 minutes before draining completely. The soap helps dissolve oils and lift dirt from the pipes. Rinse thoroughly.

How often should I clean the pipes?

Hot tub manufacturers generally recommend doing a full clean of the plumbing system every 3-4 months. However, more frequent cleaning may be required depending on usage and bather load.

Here are some general guidelines on hot tub pipe cleaning frequency:

• Private home hot tub – Every 2-4 months
• Outdoor hot tub – Every 1-2 months
• Indoor spa at gym/community center – Monthly
• Public hot tub at a hotel/rental home – Weekly or before new guests
• Heavily used commercial hot tub – Weekly

Always inspect jet performance, circulation, and overall water clarity regularly. Increase cleaning frequency if you notice blockages, cloudiness, debris, or slow drainage. Proper maintenance requires staying on top of pipe cleanliness.

Tips for keeping pipes clean

Here are some additional tips for keeping your hot tub pipes clean longer:

• Rinse bathers: Rinse off body oils, lotions, and dirt before entering the hot tub.
• Clean filters: Change cartridge filters regularly to trap debris and particles.
• Shock weekly: Using chlorine or bromine shock treatments helps maintain sanitization between changes.
• Test chemistry: Proper water balance helps prevent scale and corrosion.
• Remove debris: Skim surface and vacuum floor regularly to prevent pipe buildup.
• Check valves: Ensure diverters and check valves seal properly to avoid getting stuck open.
• Watch usage: The more occupants, the more oils and dirt enter the water and coat pipes.

Good water quality and hygiene goes hand in hand with clean pipes!

Warning signs your hot tub pipes need cleaning

Be on the lookout for these signs that your hot tub plumbing needs a thorough cleaning:

• Cloudy water
• Musty odors
• Algae growth
• Decreased jet power
• Leaking pipes
• Low water pressure
• Damage or corrosion
• High pump usage
• Reduced heating efficiency
• Higher electricity bills
• Skin/eye irritation
• Unsanitary water

Don’t ignore these warning signs. Cloudiness, odor, damage, and skin irritation can indicate bacterial growth and it’s time for pipe cleaning. Catching it early keeps your water safe.

Conclusion

Regular hot tub pipe cleaning is crucial for system performance, sanitation, and user health. Allowing dirt, scale, oils, and bacteria to buildup puts bathers at risk. There are many effective products and methods for deep cleaning your plumbing ranging from citric acid to liquid dish soap. With the right tools and cleaners, the job can be relatively quick and easy. Most hot tub owners need to flush and scrub their pipes thoroughly every 1-3 months depending on use. More frequent cleaning may be required for outdoor or commercial hot tubs. Keep an eye out for cloudy water, blockages, and odors as signs to get those pipes sparkling again!