Do you have to empty a swim spa?
Some swim spas have to be emptied more than others!
Swim spas need to be emptied periodically to maintain water quality and ensure proper sanitation.
Here are some reasons and guidelines for emptying a swim spa:
Water Quality:
Over time, chemicals, debris, body oils, hair product, and other contaminants can build up in the water, and the swim spa water eventually appears dull and less clear. This occurs even with regular maintenance, regular water care treatments and rigorous filter cleaning.
This undisolvable and unfilterable product that causes the swim spa water to appear cloudy is called Total dissolved solids or TDS.
Draining and refilling help eliminate these impurities and ensure the water remains clean and safe.
TDS are often measured in parts per million (ppm) and can be measured using a digital meter if you prefer to monitor more closely, for when it's time to
change your swim spa water.
There a few swim spa brands that have amazing water filtration and purification systems that and can therefore remove most Total Dissolved Solids.
If you choose one of these swim spa brands, your swim spa water can last for as long as 12 months.
Chemical Balance:
Maintaining the correct chemical balance in the hot tub is crucial.
As the water ages and becomes more dull and less clear, it can become harder to maintain the proper levels of pH, alkalinity, and sanitiser.
Draining gives you a fresh starting point.
Frequency:
Generally, it's recommended to drain and refill swim spas every three to six months (subject to the effectiveness of the sanitisation and filtration systems), depending on usage frequency and water maintenance practices.
For heavy usage, more frequent changes might be necessary.
Cleaning:
Emptying the hot tub provides an opportunity to clean the interior surfaces, filters, and jets thoroughly, which can help prevent buildup and extend the lifespan of the hot tub components.
Winterisation:
In colder months, if you plan on shutting down your swim spa for the winter, you'll need to drain it to prevent freeze damage unless you have a system designed to run year-round in freezing temperatures.
When emptying and refilling your swim spa, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be aware of any local regulations or restrictions regarding water discharge.
Regular maintenance and water testing can help you determine when a full refill is necessary, ensuring that your swim spa remains a pleasurable and healthy environment.
An annual service by an industry specialist would ensure that the swim spa was kept in the best condition possible.