Hot tub maintenance takes about 10 minutes a week: test the water, adjust sanitizer and pH, rinse the filter monthly, and drain and refill every 3–4 months. That’s the whole system. Here’s the simple routine we teach every new owner at our Hampton Falls showroom.
What do you actually need to maintain a hot tub?
Five things: test strips (or a digital tester), a sanitizer (chlorine or bromine), pH up/down, a filter rinse, and a calendar reminder. Skip the wall of confusing chemicals — a basic startup kit covers 95% of situations for a residential spa.
What’s the weekly routine?
- Test the water (2 min). Dip a strip and check three numbers: sanitizer level, pH (target 7.2–7.8), and total alkalinity (80–120 ppm).
- Adjust (3 min). Add sanitizer if low; nudge pH with small doses — wait, then retest. Small corrections beat big swings.
- Shock weekly (2 min). An oxidizer dose after heavy use keeps water clear and odor-free.
- Wipe the waterline (3 min). A quick wipe prevents scum buildup on the shell.
How often should you clean the filter?
Rinse cartridge filters with a hose every 2–4 weeks, deep-clean with filter cleaner every 2–3 months, and replace them roughly once a year. A clogged filter is the number one cause of cloudy water and strained pumps — it’s the cheapest insurance your spa has.
How often should you drain and refill?
Every 3–4 months for a family using the spa a few times a week. Water chemistry gets harder to balance as dissolved solids accumulate; a fresh fill resets everything. Pro tip for New England owners: schedule refills for spring and fall, and avoid draining in a deep freeze — our winter guide explains why.
What are the signs something needs attention?
Cloudy water usually means filter or sanitizer. Foam means body products — shock and rinse the filter. A persistent chemical smell ironically means too little sanitizer, not too much. Error codes or heater issues on a Wellis or Strong spa purchased from us? Call (603) 303-2839 — spas we sell carry up to a 5-year warranty on parts and labor.
Frequently asked questions
Chlorine or bromine — which is better for a hot tub?
Bromine is more stable at high water temperatures and gentler on skin, which is why many spa owners prefer it. Chlorine is cheaper and works faster. Both are correct answers when dosed properly.
How much do hot tub chemicals cost per month?
Typically $15–30 per month for a residential spa, depending on usage. Combine that with energy (see our running-cost guide) for a true monthly total.
Are modern hot tubs easier to maintain?
Dramatically. Newer Wellis models include advanced filtration like Crystal Clean superfine filters and smart water management that extend time between corrections. Browse current models.
Do you help new owners get started?
Yes — every spa from Oceanside Hot Tub & Spa comes with a water-care walkthrough. Visit us at 6 Kensington Rd, Hampton Falls, NH 03844. We serve all of New England.