What Are the Health Benefits of Owning a Spa?
December 21, 2024
Why Is It Necessary to Drain and Refill a Spa?
- Contaminant Buildup
- Over time, body oils, lotions, dirt, and other contaminants build up in the water, even with regular use of sanitizers. This can make the water cloudy and create unpleasant odors.
- Chemical Imbalance
- Continuous use of sanitizers and other chemicals can cause the water’s pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels to become difficult to maintain within the optimal range.
- TDS Levels (Total Dissolved Solids)
- TDS refers to the accumulation of dissolved particles in the water. When TDS levels become too high, the water becomes difficult to treat, leading to reduced clarity and potential scaling.
How Often Should You Drain Your Spa?
A general guideline for spa water replacement is:
Every 3–4 Months
- For most residential spas used a few times per week, draining and refilling every three to four months is sufficient to maintain water quality.
Frequent Use or Heavy Load
- If your spa is used daily or by multiple people, consider draining it more often—every 1–2 months.
Small Spas
- Smaller spas with less water volume may require more frequent draining due to the faster accumulation of contaminants.
Chemical Overuse
- If you’ve had to add excessive chemicals to rebalance the water, draining and starting fresh may be the best option.
How to Calculate the Ideal Draining Frequency
A helpful formula to determine when to drain your spa:
(Spa Volume in Gallons) ÷ (Daily Users × 3) = Number of Days
For example:
- A 400-gallon spa with two daily users:
400 ÷ (2 × 3) = ~67 days
This means you should drain and refill your spa approximately every two months.
Signs It’s Time to Drain Your Spa
- Cloudy Water: Persistent cloudiness, even after shocking or adjusting chemicals, indicates it’s time for fresh water.
- Unpleasant Odors: A strong, musty smell can signal bacteria or contaminant buildup.
- Difficulty Balancing Chemicals: If the pH, alkalinity, or sanitizer levels are consistently out of range, the water may have reached its chemical limit.
- Excessive Foam: Foam buildup on the water’s surface often indicates high levels of contaminants.
Steps to Drain and Refill Your Spa
- Turn Off the Power
- Shut off the spa at the breaker to avoid damaging the pump or heater during the draining process.
- Attach a Drain Hose
- Connect a hose to the spa’s drain valve to direct the water away from your yard or foundation.
- Drain the Water
- Open the drain valve and let the water flow out. For faster draining, use a submersible pump.
- Clean the Spa Surface
- Once empty, scrub the spa’s interior with a non-abrasive cleaner to remove buildup or stains.
- Rinse and Inspect
- Rinse the spa thoroughly and inspect the jets, filters, and surfaces for damage or wear.
- Refill with Fresh Water
- Refill the spa using a pre-filtered hose to reduce minerals and contaminants.
- Balance Water Chemistry
- Once refilled, test and adjust the water’s pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels to ensure optimal balance.
How Gresswim Can Help
Gresswim, a trusted pool and spa maintenance provider in Orangeburg, SC, can assist with all aspects of spa care, including draining and refilling. Here’s how we can help:
- Professional Draining and Cleaning: Our team ensures your spa is thoroughly cleaned during each draining, removing contaminants and buildup.
- Water Testing and Balancing: We test and adjust your water chemistry for a perfect balance after every refill.
- Maintenance Plans: Whether you need seasonal care or regular maintenance, Gresswim offers customized plans to fit your needs.
- High-Quality Products: From sanitizers to filter cleaners, we provide top-notch products to help you maintain your spa between professional visits.
Partner with Gresswim for hassle-free spa maintenance and enjoy crystal-clear water year-round.
Final Thoughts
Draining and refilling your spa regularly is key to maintaining clean, safe water and prolonging the life of your equipment. By staying on top of your spa maintenance schedule and working with professionals like Gresswim, you can enjoy a relaxing, stress-free spa experience. Contact us today to learn more about our spa services!
Important Note
Always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines when using spa chemicals or handling equipment. If you’re unsure about the proper way to maintain your spa water chemistry, reach out to a trusted professional like Gresswim for reliable advice and expert assistance.
