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You can ensure many years of enjoyment and relaxation from your HotSpring® spa with just a little bit of regular maintenance.
Here are a few useful tips:
To clean the spa shell, use a mild non-abrasive, non-sudsing cleaner and a soft rag or nylon scrubber to remove dirt build-up. Common baking soda can also be used for minor surface cleaning. After cleaning and drying your spa shell, apply FreshWater™ Spa Shine to keep your spa looking new. Also, the spa pillows can be removed and cleaned by following the instructions in your Owner’s Manual. The hot tub vinyl cover is best cleaned and conditioned by following this step-by-step method: first, remove the cover and spray it lightly with a garden hose to loosen any dirt or debris that might have accumulated. Using a mild soap solution (1 teaspoon dishwashing liquid with 2 gallons water) or baking soda, scrub the vinyl in a circular motion with a large sponge. Promptly rinse with a garden hose. Rinse the bottom of the cover (do not use soap), and wipe it clean with a dry rag. To condition the cover after cleaning, apply a thin film of HotSpring Cover Shield™ product.
Helpful hint:
Showering without soap prior to entering the spa, and using only the rinse cycle when laundering your bathing suit, will help avoid detergent and soap residue in the spa water.
Cleaning your filter cartridges is simple. As with any water filtration system, your spa filter cartridges can become clogged with mineral particles or calcification from hard water, which may result in reduced water flow. We recommend that you clean your filter cartridges every month. Using a garden hose, spray each cartridge and rotate while spraying to thoroughly remove any debris lodged between the filter pleats. Use either FreshWater™ Instant Filter Cleaner or FreshWater™ Filter Cleaner to keep your filters clean and in good operating condition. Keep in mind that your filters should be replaced every three years with genuine Watkins replacement filters.
Remember to drain your spa water and refill according to the instructions outlined in your Owner’s Manual to eliminate detergent residue from bathing suits and soap film which may have accumulated in the spa water. For fresh, clean water right from the start, we recommend using the CleanScreen™ Pre-Filter when filling your spa. This filter attaches to an ordinary garden hose and removes organic contaminants, metals (such as copper and iron), and tannins before they are introduced into the spa water.
Your HotSpring spa has been designed for year-round use in any climate. Here are some steps you may want to take this time of year to ensure maximum energy efficiency. If you live in an area which has freezing temperatures, you should purchase a Winter Blanket which is available at your local HotSpring spa dealer. This vinyl-covered, fiberglass insulated blanket, which installs inside the equipment compartment door, provides an additional precaution against partial freezing of some of the components and maximises the spa’s energy efficiency. Also, make sure your cover is at peak performance level. Check for signs of wear and tear-make sure the seal is still tight and intact so heat doesn’t escape. If you see signs of sagging, fading or cracking, it’s time for a replacement. Be sure to remove snow from the spa cover before large amounts accumulate. Condensation might occur around the cover locks which could create ice build-up that needs to be removed. Splash with warm water and don’t try to pry the ice off. If you are going away for a few days during the winter months, remember these tips: Before you go, adjust the pH according to the Owner’s Manual. Sanitise the water with super chlorination or the new HotSpring MPS Chlorine-Free Oxidiser according to instructions. Lock down the cover to prevent access. Lock the light and jets feature on the control panel (on 1998 models). Upon your return, balance the pH and sanitise the water prior to using. If you are planning to be away from home a week or longer, call your local dealer for more tips on winterising your spa, or refer to the Owner’s Manual for additional instructions. Sanitiser is extremely important for killing algae, bacteria and other unwanted impurities in your spa water. While it is important to maintain sanitiser levels, you do not want too much, because it can irritate your skin, lungs and eyes. HotSpring recommends only the following sanitisers: EverFresh™ Water Care System with HotSpring MPS Chlorine-Free Oxidiser Sodium Dichlor (chlorine) Granular bromine FreshWater™ Biguanide Water Care or Baqua Spa™ for 1998 to current spa models only. DO NOT use tri-chlor chlorine, any type of compressed bromine or chlorine, acid or any type of sanitiser which is not recommended above. If in doubt, please contact our Customer Service Department or your local HotSpring spa dealer. For more information on caring for and cleaning of your spa, refer to your Owner’s Manual. Call us if you have any special questions. We’re here to help make your spa maintenance as easy as possible. If you have technical or customer service questions, please call (800) 999-4688.
Water is the essential ingredient in your spa, and it’s important to keep it fresh, clean and ready to enjoy. We now offer two accessories that make your water care routine easier, and keep your spa water fresh and pristine.
HotSpring MPS Chlorine-Free Oxidiser dissolves instantly and eliminates unwanted impurities which accumulate in your spa water. This chlorine-free oxidiser increases sanitiser efficiency, enhances water clarity and is compatible with bromine, chlorine and most alternative sanitisers. HotSpring MPS Chlorine-Free Oxidiser is recommended for use with the EverFresh™ water care system for the best quality water possible… fresh, safe, and free of odours and irritation.
The HotSpring Hot Tub Vac cleans dirt, gravel, leaves and other debris without draining your spa. This self-contained, easy-to-use water vacuum requires no pumping, batteries or water hook-ups. The telescopic aluminium pole makes it easy to remove debris from hard-to-reach areas. Use it on your swimming pool steps and in fountains, too.
