Replace the spa water

Small volume, heavy use

A hot tub holds a fraction of a pool's water, runs hot, and takes the same body oils and lotions from every soak. Jacuzzi says to replace the water about every 3 months — more often with heavy use, less with light use and careful chemistry.

You will also feel when it is due

Even before three months, change the water when you can no longer control sudsing, or the water has lost its normal feel and sparkle, even though your balance readings all look fine.

What to do

1. Turn power to the spa off at the breaker before draining. Leave it off until the spa is refilled.
2. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and drain fully. It is a good time to run a jet-line cleaner through the plumbing first.
3. Close the drain, then refill through the filter well(s) to avoid an airlock.
4. Turn the power back on, rebalance the water, and let it circulate before anyone gets in.

Do not leave an empty spa in direct sun or in freezing weather.