July 23, 2025
Category: Hot Tub
If you’ve got a hot tub, summer is the perfect time to make the most of it. Long evenings and warm days make it easy to enjoy weekend gatherings or quiet evenings in the garden. But before you lift the lid and jump in, give your setup a proper once-over. A few quick checks now can save you hassle later and keep your spa running smoothly.
We’ve helped countless customers prepare their spas for summer, and these are the same practical steps we use on service visits every week. You’ll get clear steps for cleaning, balancing your water, cutting running costs, and sorting out common warm-weather issues all from firsthand experience on the showroom floor.
How do you clean a hot tub for summer?
Start by draining the water completely. After spring use or months of downtime, your tub likely needs a fresh start. Take out the filters, jets, and accessories, and soak them in a cleaning solution. Wipe the shell and headrests with a spa-safe surface cleaner. For any build-up around the jets or waterline, use a soft brush. This works well in tubs we’ve seen come in after a long winter break.
Make sure there’s no residue left. Even a small trace of cleaner can cause foaming or interfere with water chemistry.
Help for hot tub owners: Maintenance, servicing, and more
Make summer easier with our dedicated owner services. We provide servicing, repairs, spare parts, and expert support to help you get the most from your spa. It’s all available here: Hot Tub & Swim Spa Company Servicing.
How should you refill and rebalance your spa water?
Use a hose filter to refill with fresh water. As the tub fills, add a start-up dose of sanitiser and begin testing. Aim for:
- pH between 7.2 and 7.6
- Total alkalinity between 80 and 120 ppm
- Calcium hardness around 150 to 250 ppm
Use either test strips or a digital tester. We always test during refills. It’s a small step that prevents a lot of issues down the line.
Should you replace or clean your filters?
Filters take on a lot especially in spring. If yours are over a year old or visibly worn, it’s best to replace them. If they’re still in good condition, soak them in a non-foaming filter cleaner, rinse thoroughly, and let them dry fully before reinstalling.
Is your spa cover still doing its job?
Covers go through a lot over winter. Check for cracks, waterlogging, or mildew. A damaged cover won’t insulate properly and can raise running costs. Clean the underside and apply a UV protectant to the vinyl.
It’s also worth giving your accessories a once-over such as headrests, steps, drinks holders, and lighting all contribute to daily comfort.
How do hot tub chemicals change in summer?
Heat and sunlight speed up chemical breakdown, which means more frequent checks. Keep an eye on chlorine or bromine levels and consider a weekly spa shock to keep the water fresh.
Always store spa chemicals in a shaded, cool, and dry space to protect their shelf life and safety.
How can you reduce hot tub running costs in summer?
- Set your water to 36–37°C for comfortable soaking
- Use a thermal cover or floating blanket to minimise heat loss
- Run economy or sleep mode when the spa isn’t in use
- Schedule filtration cycles during off-peak hours if your tariff allows
We’ve worked with many owners to fine-tune these settings. Small adjustments can deliver noticeable savings without sacrificing performance.
What are some easy ways to upgrade your spa space for summer?
If you’re planning more regular use, small touches can go a long way:
- Add shade with pergolas or large umbrellas
- Use weather-friendly rugs, planters, and lighting
- Install waterproof speakers or ambient sound systems
- Set up towel storage and hooks for convenience
Upgrades don’t need to be major. Many of our clients add comfort features bit by bit over time and it shows in how much more they use the space.
Quick-reference hot tub checklist for summer
- Drain and clean the spa shell and filters
- Balance pH, alkalinity, and sanitiser levels
- Restock spa chemicals and store correctly
- Check cover condition and apply UV treatment
- Replace or refresh worn accessories
- Lower the set temperature for warm weather use
- Add comfort upgrades where needed
How do you fix common water issues in summer?
Higher temperatures and more frequent use can lead to water quality issues. Here’s how to handle the most common ones:
- Foamy water: Often caused by soap or lotion residue. Encourage guests to rinse first and use a foam reducer.
- Cloudy water: Usually due to poor filtration or pH imbalance. Check and clean filters, then use a clarifier.
- Algae or green tint: Sunlight and low sanitiser levels are usually to blame. Add algaecide and increase sanitiser.
Tackle these early and you’ll avoid needing to drain and restart the system.
Can you use a hot tub in a heatwave?
Yes. Just make a few adjustments:
- Lower the temperature to around 30–32°C
- Run jets without the heater on
- Soak in the morning or late evening
- Add shade to your spa area
What are the best summer spa accessories to buy?
If you’re using your spa more often, a few add-ons can boost convenience:
- Floating drinks trays or spa bars
- Spa-safe aromatherapy scents
- Towel hooks or storage baskets
- Waterproof LED lights or solar lanterns
How often should you change hot tub water in summer?
It depends on how often you use it. For most, 2–3 months is fine. Daily use may bring that down to every 6–8 weeks. Using weekly spa shocks or enzyme treatments can extend clarity.
Thinking of upgrading or buying a hot tub?
If you’re in the market for a new spa, summer is a great time to explore. Here are a few top choices from our range:
- Hydropool Self-Cleaning Hot Tubs – Designed for low-maintenance living with built-in self-cleaning technology. See range
- Bespoke Hot Tubs – Tailored to your home, your style, and your needs. Ideal for those who want something truly unique. See range
- Affordable Luxury Hot Tubs – Entry-level prices with premium features. Great for families or first-time buyers. See range
Need help choosing chemicals, accessories, or upgrades?
We speak with spa owners every day who just want to keep things simple. If you need help choosing a chemical kit, replacing a filter, or picking out a cover that fits, we’re here.
Explore our full range or get in touch to speak with someone who knows the products inside and out.
