What do you clean the inside of a hot tub after draining it?

Cleaning the inside of a hot tub after draining it is an important part of hot tub maintenance. When water sits in a hot tub for an extended period of time, contaminants from the water and bathers can stick to the surfaces and components. This can allow bacteria, mold, mildew, and other undesirable elements to grow. Thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing the hot tub after draining ensures it stays clean and safe for users.

Why Clean a Hot Tub After Draining?

There are a few key reasons you need to clean the inside of a hot tub after draining:

Remove Contaminants and Residue

Over time, contaminants in the water can leave behind residue on the hot tub surfaces and components. This includes minerals from the water, body oils, cosmetics, lotions, and other substances that enter the water from bathers. If left behind, these residues can build up over time and become difficult to remove. Cleaning the hot tub after draining removes these contaminants before they have a chance to accumulate.

Prevent Biofilm Buildup

Sitting water allows biofilm to develop on submerged hot tub surfaces. Biofilm is a slimy substance made up of bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms. It provides an environment for more microbes to thrive. If biofilm builds up, it can clog filters and jets. It also makes disinfection less effective. Thoroughly cleaning the hot tub after draining removes biofilm so it can’t accumulate.

Kill Harmful Bacteria

Stagnant water enables bacteria, mold, mildew and algae to grow, especially in the hidden areas of the hot tub plumbing system. This includes Legionella pneumophila bacteria which can cause Legionnaires’ disease. Cleaning and disinfecting the hot tub after draining kills harmful microbes that can make users sick.

Remove Scale Buildup

The high temperature of hot tub water causes scale, or calcium deposits, to form on the surfaces. This scale buildup is difficult to remove if left to accumulate over time. Cleaning the hot tub after draining dissolves and scrubs away scale before it becomes a bigger problem.

Refresh Appearance

A dirty, grimy hot tub is unappealing to users. Grime, scale, stains, and water deposits make the hot tub surfaces look old and unkempt. Cleaning the hot tub after it’s drained will make it look fresh, inviting and well-cared for.

How Often Should You Drain and Clean a Hot Tub?

Hot tub maintenance experts generally recommend draining and cleaning your hot tub every 3-6 months. However, the frequency depends on your specific usage and conditions. Here are some factors to consider:

– Bather Load – The more people use the hot tub, the more contaminants are introduced that can build up over time. More frequent draining and cleaning may be needed with heavy bather load.

– Frequency of Use – Hot tubs used daily need more frequent cleaning than those used infrequently.

– Water Quality – If water quality declines between cleanings despite chemical maintenance, draining and cleaning may be needed more often.

– Water Hardness – Hard water leads to more scale buildup, requiring more frequent cleaning.

– Environment – Outdoor hot tubs in dusty areas may need cleaning more often.

– Pet or Kid Use – Hot tubs used by kids or pets need more frequent cleaning.

Here are some general hot tub cleaning guidelines:

– Light Use – Drain, clean and refill every 4-6 months.
– Medium Use – Drain, clean and refill every 2-3 months.
– Heavy Use – Drain, clean and refill every 1-2 months.
– Very Heavy Use – Drain, clean and refill monthly.

How to Clean a Hot Tub After Draining

Follow this step-by-step process for cleaning a hot tub after draining:

Step 1 – Drain the Hot Tub

Turn off power to the hot tub at the circuit breaker. Locate the drain valve and attach a garden hose. Open the valve to drain the old water. Let it drain completely.

Step 2 – Remove and Clean the Filter

Remove the filter cartridge or media bag from the hot tub. Rinse debris from the filter with a hose. Soak the filter in hot tub filter cleaner solution to dissolve oils and scale. Rinse thoroughly before replacing.

Step 3 – Clean the Shell Surface

Use a hot tub surface cleaner to scrub stains and buildup from the interior shell surface. A nonabrasive brush can also be used. Avoid abrasive scouring pads. Rinse thoroughly with water.

Step 4 – Wipe Down Components

Wipe down hot tub components like topside control panels, pillows and grab rails using a microfiber cloth and all-purpose cleaner. Rinse thoroughly.

Step 5 – Clean Jets and Plumbing

Fill the hot tub with clean water about 6 inches deep. Add hot tub pipe cleaner to the water. Run the jets for 30 minutes allowing cleaner to circulate. Drain the hot tub again.

Step 6 – Remove and Clean Jet Covers

Remove jet covers and filter basket lid. Scrub with a soft brush and hot tub surface cleaner. For stubborn buildup, soak covers in hot tub cleaning solution first. Rinse thoroughly.

Step 7 – Check Sump Area

Check the sump / pump area for debris. Remove any leaves, dirt or debris. Vacuum if needed.

Step 8 – Clean and Condition Cover

Use hot tub cover cleaner and apply vinyl conditioner to the topside of the hot tub cover. This protects the cover from chemical and UV damage.

Step 9 – Disinfect Hot Tub

Fill hot tub with fresh water. Add hot tub sanitizing shock as the tub fills to disinfect all surfaces. Let circulate for 30 minutes with jets on full blast. Drain once more.

Step 10 – Refill the Hot Tub

Fill hot tub with fresh water. Reinstall filter and other components. Balance water chemistry adding hot tub chemicals as needed. Turn power back on.

Cleaning Solutions for Inside Hot Tub Surfaces

Specialized hot tub cleaning solutions are made to break down and dissolve the grime, oils, scale and residues that build up inside a hot tub. Look for cleaners that work on both acrylic and fiberglass surfaces. Here are some recommended options:

Sodium Bromide Hot Tub Cleaner

Sodium bromide is an effective cleaner and degreaser for hot tubs. It breaks down oils, minerals, scale, scum and other residues. Sodium bromide is a milder alternative to harsh chlorine bleach solutions.

Citric Acid Hot Tub Cleaner

Citric acid effectively dissolves and removes scale and mineral deposits from hot tub surfaces. Look for a product formulated for use on spa and hot tub surfaces.

Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner

Non-chlorine oxygen bleach cleaners with hydrogen peroxide can break down stubborn organic stains in a hot tub. Hydrogen peroxide also has disinfectant properties.

Sodium Percarbonate Cleaners

These alkaline cleaners dissolve oils and other stubborn hot tub residues. They also have a bleaching effect to brighten surfaces.

Enzyme Hot Tub Cleaners

Enzyme based cleaners use natural bacteria to break down biofilm, body oils, scale and other buildup in a hot tub. They provide a non-toxic cleaning option.

Muriatic Acid Cleaners

Muriatic acid (hydrochloric acid) quickly dissolves scale and mineral deposits. These harsh acid cleaners need proper handling to avoid damage to surfaces.

Tips for Cleaning a Hot Tub

Follow these tips for the most effective hot tub cleaning process:

Remove Debris Before Draining

Use a spa vacuum or net to remove any leaves, dirt or large debris before draining the hot tub. This prevents it from being left behind.

Clean Filter Early in Process

Clean the filter after initially draining. This allows the cleaner to dissolve debris from the filter when circulating.

Scrub Stains and Scum

Use a stiff nylon scrub brush to vigorously scrub stains and areas of scum buildup. This agitation helps break down residues.

Use Pump to Circulate Cleaner

After adding hot tub cleaning solution, run the jets on high speed for even distribution and maximum contact time with surfaces.

Drain and Refill Twice

Drain the old cleaner solution and refill with fresh water. Drain once more before refilling with clean water for use. This removes more residues.

Clean Jet Covers Separately

Removing jet covers allows a more thorough cleaning of the pipework beneath. Soak covers in cleaner solution to remove buildup.

Let Surfaces Dry

After cleaning and draining, allow surfaces to air dry before refilling. This prevents new water from reactivating residues.

Shock After Refill

Shock the filled hot tub water at a high dose for thorough disinfection after cleaning. Let circulate before using.

Common Problems Cleaning Hot Tubs

You may encounter these challenges when cleaning a hot tub:

Difficulty Removing Scale

Stubborn calcium or mineral scale may require an acidic cleaner. Ensure entire surface is contacted by cleaner for maximum effect.

Stains Persist After Cleaning

Some stains like those from metals or oils can be difficult to remove entirely. A bleach-based cleaner may be required.

Cloudy Water After Refill

This is typically caused by rinsing residues into the clean water. Drain and refill the hot tub again if cloudiness develops.

Foamy Cleaner Solution

Excess foaming when circulated can prevent adequate contact with surfaces. Use a defoamer additive in the cleaner solution.

Corrosion of Components

Harsh chemicals can corrode hot tub components. Use cleaners formulated for spa surfaces and avoid prolonged contact.

Skin/Eye Irritation

Chemical cleaning solutions can cause irritation. Wear protective eyewear, gloves and clothing during the process.

Not Fully Draining

Any water left in plumbing areas after draining can harbor bacteria. Ensure hot tub drains fully each time.

Steps for Cleaning Specific Hot Tub Surfaces and Components

Cleaning Hot Tub Jets

– Remove jet covers to access openings
– Aim water jet to flush debris from inside
– Use a small jet scrub brush to clean inside jets
– Soak jet covers in a cleaning solution
– Rinse any cleaner residues from jets

Cleaning Hot Tub Pillows

– Remove pillows from the hot tub
– Use a mild detergent and soft brush
– For scale, use a citric acid cleaner
– Rinse pillows thoroughly before replacing

Cleaning Hot Tub Acrylic Surface

– Wipe surface with a microfiber cloth
– Use a nonabrasive acrylic cleaning brush
– Apply a acrylic surface cleaner and let soak briefly
– Scrub gently and rinse thoroughly

Cleaning Hot Tub Plastic Components

– Wipe with a solution of mild detergent and water
– For stubborn buildup, use a plastic cleaner and marine brush
– Avoid harsh abrasives on plastic components
– Rinse thoroughly after cleaning

Cleaning Hot Tub Plumbing Lines

– Fill hot tub with 6 inches of water
– Add hot tub pipe cleaner and jet shampoo
– Run jets on high for even distribution
– Drain tub completely after treatment

How to Keep a Hot Tub Clean Between Draining

Here are some tips to keep your hot tub cleaner between scheduled cleanings:

– Shock treat the water weekly to oxidize contaminants
– Check and adjust chemical levels regularly
– Run filtration cycles for 8-12 hours daily
– Scrub surfaces weekly with a soft brush
– Use an enzyme cleaner monthly to control oils and biofilm
– Drain and replace 1/3 of water monthly
– Use a clarifier to prevent scale and residues
– Replace filter cartridges every 3-4 months
– Use an eco-friendly surface protectant
– Have bathers shower before entering tub
– Empty skimmer basket of debris regularly
– Check suction covers/drains for debris

Safety Tips for Cleaning a Hot Tub

These safety precautions are important when cleaning a hot tub:

– Turn off GFCI protected power before draining
– Avoid mixing chemical products
– Wear gloves and eye protection
– Ensure adequate ventilation
– Keep children and pets away from chemicals
– Handle acids carefully to avoid burns
– Thoroughly rinse all surfaces after cleaning
– Check water chemistry after refilling tub
– Never enter hot tub if water appears unsafe

When to Hire a Professional for Hot Tub Cleaning

Consider hiring a professional hot tub cleaning service if:

– Severe scum, mold or algae growth is present
– You are unable to identify or remove stubborn stains
– Mineral deposits are very heavy
– The acrylic surface is etched or damaged
– The plumbing lines have suspected bacterial growth
– You don’t have time for a thorough cleaning
– You need help getting to hard-to-reach areas
– You do not feel comfortable with the chemicals required

Many hot tub dealers offer professional drain and clean services using specialized tools, chemicals and techniques for superior results.

Conclusion

Cleaning the inside of a hot tub after draining should be done every few months to keep it sanitary, prevent buildup, and maintain the appearance. This involves fully draining the old water, scrubbing all surfaces with a specialized cleaner, completely rinsing residues, soaking components like jets and filters, disinfecting with a sanitizer, draining again and refilling with fresh water. Pay close attention to problem areas like jets and plumbing lines. Following safety precautions and using the right hot tub cleaning solutions will result in a fresh, clean hot tub ready for enjoyable soaking. Regular surface maintenance between cleanings prevents the growth of bacteria and scale. Contact a professional cleaning service for a deep clean if buildup becomes too difficult to tackle on your own. With the proper care, your hot tub can stay clean and last for years of regular use.