How to Maintain Your Swim Spa Year-Round

Owning a swim spa is a fantastic way to stay fit, relax, and enjoy your home all year long. However, maintaining a swim spa throughout the seasons is key to ensuring it stays in great condition, operates efficiently, and provides you with years of enjoyment. Hydropool, with 45 years of experience in building hot tubs and swim spas, is here to guide you through the best practices for year-round swim spa maintenance.

Why is Year-Round Swim Spa Maintenance Important?

Regular maintenance is critical to keeping your swim spa functional, safe, and efficient. Here’s why:

• Avoid Expensive Repairs: Regular maintenance helps prevent minor issues from turning into costly repairs.
• Extend Lifespan: Proper care ensures your swim spa remains in top condition for many years.
• Ensure Safety: Clean water and functioning equipment are essential for safe use.

By staying on top of regular maintenance, you can enjoy the benefits of your swim spa without worrying about damage or issues down the road.

How Do You Maintain a Swim Spa Year-Round?

Maintaining your swim spa year-round involves a series of simple yet important tasks. Follow these tips to ensure your spa stays in top shape:

1. Regular Water Care

The water in your swim spa needs to be clean, clear, and balanced for optimal performance and to avoid bacteria growth.

• Test Water Regularly: Use a water test kit to monitor levels of chlorine or bromine, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. You can check these levels weekly and adjust as needed.
• Change the Water Every 3-4 Months: Depending on how often you use your swim spa, it’s recommended to change the water every 3 to 4 months to keep it fresh and clean.
• Shock the Water Weekly: Weekly, you should shock the water to eliminate contaminants and prevent build-up of organic material. This process will keep the water clear and safe for use.

2. Clean the Filters

Your swim spa’s filters are vital in keeping the water clean by trapping dirt and debris. Clean the filters every month to maintain water quality and pump efficiency.

• Rinse Filters Monthly: Remove the filters and rinse them with a garden hose to remove any dirt or particles.
• Deep Clean Quarterly: Every 3 months, deep clean the filters using a filter cleaning solution or soak them overnight for a more thorough cleaning. If your filters are damaged or worn out, replace them immediately.

3. Maintain the Jets and Pumps

Your swim spa’s jets and pumps should be inspected and cleaned regularly to maintain optimal flow and function.

• Check for Clogs: Occasionally check the jets for blockages caused by debris or mineral build-up. Clear any debris to ensure proper circulation.
• Inspect the Pump: Listen for unusual sounds coming from the pump. If the pump sounds off or isn't working properly, it could indicate an issue that needs attention.

4. Check the Water Heater

Your water heater keeps the swim spa at the ideal temperature for comfort and relaxation. Periodically check the heater for any issues.

• Inspect the Heater: Ensure the heater is functioning properly by checking the temperature settings and ensuring consistent heat.
• Clean the Heater Elements: If your swim spa uses an electric heater, clean the heater elements to remove any scale or mineral deposits that could affect performance.

5. Cover Maintenance

Keeping your swim spa covered when not in use helps protect the water quality, prevent debris from entering, and keeps the energy usage low.

• Inspect the Cover: Regularly inspect your swim spa cover for tears, wear, and damage. A damaged cover will lose heat and allow debris to enter the water.
• Clean the Cover: Clean the cover with a gentle cleaner to remove any dirt or debris. Applying a UV protector will also help maintain the integrity of the cover material.

6. Inspect the Surrounding Area

Finally, don’t forget about the space around your swim spa. This includes the plumbing connections, insulation, and the structure of the swim spa itself.

• Check the Plumbing: Examine the pipes and connections for leaks or damage. Address any leaks immediately to prevent water loss and equipment wear.
• Inspect Insulation: Ensure that the insulation around the swim spa remains intact and free of gaps. Insulation helps maintain the water temperature and can save you money on energy bills.

How Often Should You Perform These Maintenance Tasks?

Here’s a breakdown of when to perform each maintenance task:

• Water Testing: Weekly
• Filter Cleaning: Monthly
• Deep Filter Cleaning: Every 3 months
• Water Change: Every 3-4 months
• Jet and Pump Inspection: Monthly
• Heater Check: Every 3-6 months
• Cover Maintenance: Regularly, check every 1-2 months

By sticking to a maintenance schedule, you’ll ensure that your swim spa is ready to enjoy year-round, without unexpected issues.

Can You Do It Yourself, or Should You Hire a Professional?

While many of the tasks listed above can be completed by a DIY enthusiast, there are times when professional help may be required. For example, if you’re experiencing issues with the swim spa’s internal components or pumps, it’s best to consult a professional technician. Professional service can also come in handy during seasonal maintenance or when you need a thorough inspection.

If you prefer, Hydropool retailers can assist with annual maintenance and provide professional cleaning services for your swim spa.

How Much Does Swim Spa Maintenance Cost?

While the cost of maintaining a swim spa can vary based on the level of service you need, it’s generally affordable. A typical service call for a professional maintenance check might range from $100 to $200. Regular DIY maintenance, such as cleaning the filters and testing the water, is very cost-effective.

By sticking to a maintenance schedule, you’ll be able to avoid costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your swim spa.

How Do You Maintain Your Swim Spa Year-Round?

Maintaining your swim spa year-round is essential for its longevity and performance. By following these simple steps and staying on top of regular maintenance, you’ll ensure that your swim spa continues to provide a safe, enjoyable experience for years to come.

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