The Importance of Draining a Swim Spa
A swim spa is a great investment that provides endless benefits. However, just like any other equipment or appliance in your home, it requires maintenance to keep it in good condition and functioning correctly. One of the most crucial aspects of maintaining a swim spa is draining it regularly. Draining your swim spa eliminates contaminants and refreshes the water, making it cleaner, clearer, and safer. Neglecting to do so can lead to mechanical issues, unhealthy water, and could put you and your family at risk.How Bacteria and Minerals Can Accumulate in Your Spa
Even with pumps, filters, and spa chemicals, your swim spa can still be a breeding ground for bacteria and minerals. Bacteria can come from human contact, environmental pollutants, and even pets. Swimmers can also contribute to the buildup of minerals, particularly if they use skincare products and cosmetics. Minerals such as calcium and magnesium can build up and cause scale, leading to damaged jets, pipes, and heaters.The Damage Caused by Neglecting to Drain Your Spa
If you neglect to drain your swim spa regularly, you can subject it to several problems. For instance, the buildup of minerals can cause scale, leading to corrosion and decreased water flow. Additionally, bacteria can grow and lead to foul odors, cloudy water, and skin irritations, which is not only unhygienic but also unappealing. Neglecting to drain a swim spa can also cause mechanical issues, leading to costly repairs.The Benefits of Cleansing Your Spa’s Shell
Draining your swim spa allows you to give the shell and the surface a thorough cleaning. You can use gentle cleansers to wipe the shell, removing any dirt, grime, or buildup. A clean surface ensures that the water stays clean for longer, reducing the amount of chemicals needed. It also prolongs the lifespan of the spa, preventing any issues caused by neglect and buildup.Refreshing Your Old Pool: The Process of Draining Your Spa
The process of draining your swim spa is not complicated, but it requires proper planning and preparation. You will need to turn off power sources, empty the hot tub completely and dry all surfaces. Draining and refilling your spa can take several hours, depending on the size of your swim spa. Once done, you should use a spa cleaner to give the surface a good scrub before refilling the spa with fresh water and balancing the chemicals.Maintaining a Safe Level of Contaminants with Regular Draining
Regular draining helps maintain a safe level of contaminants in your swim spa. The recommended duration between each draining session varies from spa to spa, but it is generally every three to four months. If you use your swim spa frequently or have several swimmers using it, you might need to drain it more frequently. Regular draining also allows you to keep up with any potential mechanical issues, preventing them from escalating.Tips for Maintaining Your Swim Spa Between Draining Sessions
Maintaining your swim spa between each draining session can go a long way in prolonging its lifespan. Here are some tips to keep in mind:- Shower before using your swim spa to remove any debris or body oils that can cause buildup.
- Check and replace the filter regularly to ensure it captures contaminants and allows free flow of water.
- Use a spa shock treatment to boost the effectiveness of the chemicals.
- Monitor the pH and alkalinity levels daily to ensure they stay within the recommended range.
- Avoid using chemical cleaners on the shell surface, as they can cause damage to the spa.
