A hot tub offers comfort, relaxation, and health benefits, but it also requires consistent care. One of the most important maintenance tasks is draining a hot tub at the right intervals. Over time, the water becomes less effective at holding a proper balance of chemicals, and residue builds up that can affect both the system and your soaking experience. Knowing the correct hot tub drain process is essential for keeping your spa in good condition.
Why Draining a Hot Tub Is Necessary?
Many new hot tub owners wonder why draining is needed when filters and sanitizing chemicals are already in use. While those systems work well for weeks or even months, they cannot maintain water quality indefinitely.
- Chemical saturation: After about three to four months, the water contains too many dissolved minerals and sanitizers to work effectively.
- Organic buildup: Oils, lotions, sweat, and skin cells collect in the water, feeding bacteria if not removed.
- Water clarity: Old water often looks cloudy, feels less refreshing, and can irritate skin.
Replacing the water restores balance, improves safety, and makes every soak more enjoyable.
Preparing for the Hot Tub Drain Process
Before starting, plan ahead. Proper preparation prevents delays and keeps the process safe.
- Check the weather: Avoid freezing conditions. Cold temperatures can damage plumbing if water remains inside the lines.
- Gather supplies: You’ll need a garden hose, a submersible pump if you prefer faster draining, soft cleaning cloths, and a mild spa-safe cleaner.
- Choose a drainage spot: Ensure the water flows into a safe area, away from storm drains, gardens, or lawns. Hot tub water often contains chemicals that can harm plants.
Preparation makes emptying a spa safely less stressful and more efficient.
Steps to Drain a Hot Tub
Draining and cleaning should be thought of as a routine maintenance habit. Here are the steps to drain a hot tub in the correct order:
1. Turn Off the Power
Always start by switching off the power at the breaker box. This protects the pump and heater from running without water, which can cause serious damage.
2. Find the Drain Valve
Most models have a drain spout near the base of the tub. Connect your garden hose to it and direct the flow away from your home. If your spa does not have an external valve, a submersible pump is the best alternative.
3. Release the Water
Open the valve or activate the pump. Draining may take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the method and tub size.
4. Clean the Interior
When empty, scrub the shell with a non-abrasive cleaner. A soft sponge or microfiber cloth prevents scratching. This step helps the next fill stay clean for longer.
5. Flush the Plumbing Lines
Over time, biofilm, a layer of bacteria and organic matter, can form inside the pipes. Specialized spa line flush products are available and should be used before the final drain whenever buildup is suspected.
6. Refill and Restart
Close the drain, place a hose in the filter compartment to refill, and restore the water supply. Once full, turn the power back on, run the jets, and balance the chemicals.
Safety Considerations When Emptying a Spa
Safety is more than just turning off the power. Keep these important points in mind:
- Do not leave a hot tub empty in freezing weather, as water left in the lines can expand and crack the plumbing.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive powders, which can damage the acrylic surface.
- Always rinse cleaning products thoroughly so they do not affect the new water chemistry.
- Prevent runoff into gardens, storm drains, or septic systems. Direct water to an approved drainage spot.
Common Mistakes When Draining a Hot Tub
First-time owners often make a few errors during their initial attempts. Recognizing them helps you avoid costly problems.
- Leaving the power on: This can burn out pumps or heaters.
- Skipping the cleaning step: Failing to wipe down the shell and flush the lines leaves behind residues that quickly contaminate new water.
- Using the wrong cleaners: Harsh solutions damage the acrylic shell and affect the next water fill.
- Draining in the wrong location: Allowing water to flood lawns or gardens can kill plants because of the chemical content.
Patience, careful preparation, and gentle cleaning products always provide the best outcome.
How Often Should You Drain Your Hot Tub?
The standard guideline is every three to four months. However, frequency depends on use:
- Heavy use: Families who use the spa daily or host gatherings should drain more often.
- High mineral content: Areas with hard water may require more frequent changes.
- Seasonal timing: Many owners align draining with seasonal shifts for easier scheduling.
By maintaining a predictable schedule, you avoid cloudy water, protect the system, and extend the lifespan of your spa.
Choosing Between Gravity Drain and Submersible Pump
There are two main methods for removing water:
- Gravity drain: Simple and requires no extra equipment, but can take longer.
- Submersible pump: Much faster, but requires purchasing or renting a pump.
Both are effective, so the final choice depends on personal preference. Regardless of the method, the same steps to drain a hot tub apply.
Cleaning After Emptying a Spa Safely
Cleaning is just as important as draining. When the water is gone, spend time removing buildup.
- Wipe down the shell: Use vinegar or spa-safe products for stains and mineral deposits.
- Rinse thoroughly: Ensure no cleaner residue is left inside.
- Check filters: Clean or replace them before refilling to maximize water quality.
A clean shell and plumbing system provide a fresh start for your next soak.
Refilling and Restarting Your Hot Tub
When refilling, always place the hose inside the filter compartment. This helps push water through the plumbing and minimizes airlocks. After the tub is full:
- Turn the power back on.
- Run the jets to circulate water.
- Test and balance the chemicals.
At this stage, your spa should feel like new, providing clear and safe water for use.
Regional Hot Tub Care Considerations
Climate and location affect the best approach to draining. In colder regions, avoid leaving your spa empty during the winter months. In warmer states, focus on safe runoff management.
In communities with growing demand, many homeowners schedule draining at seasonal points, which makes upkeep predictable. For the people with hot tubs in Kaysville or Roy, Utah, following a clear maintenance routine helps protect the investment and ensures every soak is refreshing.
Conclusion
Learning how to empty a hot tub is an essential skill for any owner. By preparing correctly, following the correct sequence, and focusing on safety, you can drain your spa or hot tub with confidence. Emptying and cleaning your spa a few times a year protects the equipment, maintains water quality, and gives you a more enjoyable soaking experience.
With the right care, your spa remains a place of comfort, relaxation, and reliability throughout the year. If you are looking for expert guidance, maintenance support, or quality hot tubs in Roy, Utah, the team at Blue Wave Spas is here to help you keep your spa in its best condition.
