The Ultimate 2024 Guide to Spa and Hot Tub Care: Tips from Your Pool Professional Near Me

When you first installed your hot tub or spa, you probably envisioned relaxing evenings soaking away stress. But here’s the truth—without the right care, your spa can quickly go from soothing to stressful. Proper maintenance is key to keeping your hot tub a place of tranquility, and as your trusted pool professional near me in Burlington, WI, Loomis Pools is here to help.

This 2024 guide is packed with practical, easy-to-follow advice that will make spa care a breeze. Whether you're a first-time spa owner or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you keep your hot tub in tip-top shape all year round.

Why Spa Maintenance Matters More in 2024

Let’s face it, life in 2024 is hectic. Between juggling work, family, and everything else, taking time to relax in your spa might feel like a luxury you don’t have time for—let alone maintaining it. But here’s why spa care is critical: without proper upkeep, your spa can turn into a health hazard. Bacteria and algae love to thrive in poorly maintained hot tubs. Gross, right?

Plus, an unmaintained spa can lead to costly repairs. Imagine finding out you need to replace your entire pump system because of neglect. That’s not exactly the kind of “spa day” anyone looks forward to.

By staying on top of regular maintenance, you can avoid these issues and keep your spa water clean, safe, and ready for you to unwind after a long day.

What Does Spa Maintenance Look Like? Your Pool Professional Near Me Explains

Hot tub care doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require regular attention. Here’s a breakdown of the core tasks every spa owner should get comfortable with.

1. Water Chemistry: The Magic Formula for Clean Water

Maintaining balanced water chemistry is the foundation of spa care. If your water’s out of balance, it can cause skin irritation, eye discomfort, and even damage to your hot tub equipment.

  • pH Level: Ideally, your pH should be between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH is too low, the water is acidic, which can corrode your spa. Too high, and you’ll be dealing with scale buildup.
  • Alkalinity: This keeps your pH stable. Aim for a range of 80-120 ppm.
  • Sanitizer: Whether you use chlorine or bromine, keeping sanitizer levels in check is crucial for killing bacteria and keeping your water sparkling clean.

Testing your water weekly is a good habit to get into, especially during high-use seasons like summer. If you’re not sure how to balance your water, don’t sweat it—just call your pool professional near me at Loomis Pools for help.

2. Filter Cleaning: Your Spa’s Best Friend

Your hot tub’s filter is responsible for keeping the water free of debris like leaves, hair, and dirt. If your filter’s clogged, your spa won’t function efficiently, and you might end up with murky water.

Clean your filter every 4-6 weeks. A quick rinse with a garden hose is usually enough, but if you’re noticing it’s still dirty, you may need to soak it in a filter cleaning solution. Regularly cleaning your filter ensures your spa runs smoothly and extends the lifespan of your equipment.

3. Draining and Refilling: Fresh Water, Fresh Start

Even with the best care, your spa water will eventually need to be replaced. In 2024, experts recommend draining and refilling your spa every 3-4 months. Over time, water accumulates contaminants that sanitizers can’t fully remove, which can lead to cloudy water or bad smells.

When draining your hot tub, it’s a good idea to give the shell a thorough cleaning with a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner. This will prevent any buildup or residue from affecting your water quality once you refill.

2024 Spa Care Trends You Need to Know About

As we move through 2024, spa care technology is evolving, making it easier than ever to maintain your hot tub. Here’s what’s trending this year:

Smart Spa Controls

Gone are the days of manually adjusting water temperatures or guessing if your spa needs maintenance. With smart spa controls, you can monitor everything from water temperature to chemical levels right from your smartphone. If something’s off, you’ll get an alert, making maintenance a breeze.

Energy-Efficient Covers

In 2024, more spa owners are investing in energy-efficient hot tub covers. These covers are designed to lock in heat, reducing the energy required to keep your spa warm. Not only do they help lower your energy bill, but they’re also better for the environment—an important consideration for many people these days.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

People are becoming more environmentally conscious, and that’s showing up in spa care, too. Eco-friendly cleaning products are now widely available, allowing you to maintain your spa without harming the planet. Ask your pool professional near me for product recommendations.

Seasonal Spa Maintenance: Adjusting to Wisconsin’s Weather

Living in Burlington, WI means your spa has to deal with all four seasons. The hot summers and freezing winters require different approaches to maintenance.

Summer Spa Care

During the summer, your hot tub might see more use, especially if you enjoy unwinding outdoors on warm evenings. With more frequent use, you’ll need to test and adjust your water chemistry more often. It’s also a good idea to clean the filter every couple of weeks during peak use.

Winter Spa Care

Winter can be a bit trickier. If you plan to keep your spa running through the winter, make sure it’s well-insulated. An energy-efficient cover is crucial for preventing heat loss. And if you won’t be using your spa regularly, it’s smart to winterize it—this means draining the water and ensuring no pipes freeze. Frozen water can cause pipes to burst, leading to expensive repairs.

Common Spa Issues and How a Pool Professional Near Me Can Help

Even with regular maintenance, issues can still pop up. Here are a few common spa problems and how to handle them.

Cloudy Water

Cloudy water is usually a sign that your water chemistry is out of balance. It could be due to high pH levels, insufficient sanitizer, or a dirty filter. If adjusting the chemicals and cleaning the filter doesn’t clear things up, it’s best to call a pool professional near me to diagnose the problem.

Hot Tub Won’t Heat

If your hot tub isn’t heating up properly, there could be an issue with the heater or circulation system. This is definitely a job for a professional. The experts at Loomis Pools can quickly identify the problem and get your spa back up and running in no time.

Foul Odor

Bad smells coming from your hot tub usually mean bacteria is present. This can happen if sanitizer levels are too low or if the water hasn’t been changed in a while. Shock the water with a higher dose of sanitizer, and if the smell persists, consult with a pool professional near me for a more in-depth cleaning.

Bullet Points: Quick Spa Maintenance Tips

  • Test water chemistry weekly
  • Clean filter every 4-6 weeks
  • Drain and refill water every 3-4 months
  • Use energy-efficient covers to conserve heat
  • Schedule professional inspections twice a year

Why Loomis Pools Is Your Go-To Pool Professional Near Me

At Loomis Pools, we understand that spa care can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Our team is here to take the stress out of maintenance, ensuring your hot tub stays clean, safe, and enjoyable all year long.

We’re based right here in Burlington, WI, so we know the unique challenges that come with owning a spa in Wisconsin’s climate. From balancing your water chemistry to repairing equipment, we handle it all with expertise and care.

Ready to give your spa the care it deserves? Contact Loomis Pools, your trusted pool professional near me, for expert hot tub maintenance in Burlington, WI. Whether you need a routine check-up or have a specific issue, we’re here to help you keep your spa in perfect condition. Visit our website today or give us a call to schedule your service!