How to Clean Hot Tub Filters Properly

A hot tub is an investment in your comfort, relaxation, and well-being. To ensure that it operates efficiently and that your water stays clean, you need to maintain it regularly — and cleaning the filters is one of the most essential tasks.

Without clean filters, your hot tub may experience decreased performance, higher energy consumption, or even water quality issues like cloudiness or high levels of bacteria. Fortunately, cleaning your hot tub filters is simple and can be done with a few basic steps. Here's everything you need to know about how to clean hot tub filters properly, so your tub continues to provide you with an enjoyable experience.

How Do I Know If My Hot Tub Filter Needs Cleaning?

Before we dive into the cleaning process, it’s important to know when to clean your filters. Here are some signs that indicate it's time for maintenance:

• Reduced water flow: If the water flow has slowed down despite normal pump operation, the filter may be clogged.
• Cloudy or dirty water: A filter that's not working properly will allow contaminants to remain in the water, making it look murky.
• Increased chemical usage: If you're finding that you need more chemicals to maintain proper water balance, your filter might not be performing optimally.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to clean your hot tub filters.

How Often Should I Clean Hot Tub Filters?

The general recommendation is to clean your hot tub filters every 4–6 weeks with regular use. However, the exact timeline will depend on the frequency of use, the number of bathers, and the surrounding environment (for example, if you have a lot of leaves or debris falling into your hot tub).

At a minimum, you should inspect your filters every month to see if they need cleaning. If your hot tub is used frequently or has a high bather load, you might need to clean your filters more often.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Hot Tub Filters

Here’s a detailed process to follow for cleaning your hot tub filters properly:

1. Turn Off the Power and Drain the Water

Before you begin, make sure to turn off the power to your hot tub to avoid any accidents or electrical malfunctions. If you're doing a more thorough cleaning, it’s a good idea to drain your hot tub to make cleaning the filters easier.

2. Locate and Remove the Filters

Hot tub filters are usually located near the skimmer area, which is typically at the top of the spa or near the waterline. Once you’ve found them, carefully remove the filters by unscrewing or pulling them out (depending on your model). Check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.

3. Rinse the Filters with Water

Use a garden hose to rinse off the filters and remove any visible debris, such as leaves or dirt. Start from the inside and rinse from the outside, ensuring the water flows through the pleats and the entire filter surface. This step helps remove larger particles, but a more thorough cleaning is required.

4. Soak the Filters in a Cleaning Solution

For a deep clean, soak your filters in a filter cleaning solution. You can purchase a hot tub filter cleaner, or use a DIY solution of water and a small amount of mild dish soap. To soak the filter, fill a large bucket or container with the cleaning solution and place the filters in it. Let them soak for at least 1–2 hours (overnight soaking is even better for heavy buildup).

5. Scrub the Filters (Optional)

If necessary, use a soft brush (a filter cleaning brush or an old toothbrush works well) to scrub the pleats and remove any stubborn debris. Be gentle to avoid damaging the filter material.

6. Rinse Again

After soaking and scrubbing, rinse the filter thoroughly with a garden hose to remove all soap or cleaner residue. It’s important to ensure that no chemicals are left on the filter, as they can affect the water chemistry.

7. Reinstall the Filters

Once the filters are clean and dry, carefully reinstall them in your hot tub. Make sure they are securely in place and that the O-rings are properly aligned to prevent leaks.

8. Check Water Quality and Test Chemicals

After cleaning and replacing the filters, turn the power back on and check the water quality. Run the hot tub for a few minutes to ensure everything is working smoothly. Test the water’s pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels to make sure your water chemistry is balanced.

How to Extend the Life of Your Hot Tub Filters

Cleaning your filters regularly is just one part of maintaining your hot tub’s filtration system. To help your filters last as long as possible, follow these additional tips:

• Replace filters every 1–2 years: Over time, filters lose their effectiveness, even with regular cleaning. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations for replacement intervals.
• Use a filter cover: Consider using a filter cover to help protect your filters from large debris and to reduce wear.
• Maintain water chemistry: A balanced water chemistry will help prevent buildup on your filters, reducing the need for heavy cleaning.
• Rinse after each use: If your hot tub sees a lot of use, rinse the filters briefly after each soak to remove debris before it has a chance to build up.

How to Clean Hot Tub Filters Properly

In conclusion, cleaning your hot tub filters properly is essential to maintaining clean water and efficient performance. By following these steps regularly, you’ll extend the life of your hot tub and enjoy a healthier, more relaxing experience. Remember to check and clean your filters at least every 4–6 weeks or sooner if needed, and to replace them as recommended.

For more information about Hydropool’s high-performance hot tubs and swim spas, check out our Hot Tubs Catalog or Swim Spa Catalog. You can also explore the Learning Centre for more tips on hot tub care and maintenance.

Still have questions? Reach out to your local Hydropool retailer here: Hydropool Retailer Locator