How to Drain a Hydro Spa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your hydro spa clean and well-maintained is crucial to ensure it runs smoothly and lasts longer. Part of this maintenance process involves draining the water periodically to clean the spa’s interior thoroughly. Knowing how to drain a hydro spa is essential for any hot tub owner, whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a first-time buyer.

Draining a hydro spa may seem like a daunting task, but it’s quite simple if you follow the right steps. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to drain your hydro spa and give you tips on how to maintain it properly.

Before we dive into the steps, let’s take a look at why it’s important to drain your hydro spa regularly, what tools and materials you’ll need, and when you should do it. So, let’s get started!

Read on to learn everything you need to know about draining a hydro spa and keep your hot tub running smoothly for years to come.

Know When to Drain Your Hydro Spa

Knowing when to drain your hydro spa is essential to ensure that it stays clean and runs efficiently. One important factor to consider is frequency. You should drain your hydro spa at least every three to four months, or more frequently if it is heavily used. Another factor is water quality. If the water appears cloudy or has an unusual odor, it may be time to drain and refill the spa.

The climate can also play a role in determining when to drain your hydro spa. If you live in an area with hard water, you may need to drain your spa more frequently due to mineral buildup. Additionally, if you experience severe weather conditions like storms, floods, or heavy rainfall, it’s a good idea to drain your spa to prevent contamination.

Finally, another indication that it may be time to drain your hydro spa is filter maintenance. If the spa’s filter appears clogged or dirty, it is likely time to drain and refill the spa. Neglecting to drain and refill your hydro spa regularly can lead to poor water quality, bacteria growth, and can even damage your spa’s components.

By keeping an eye on the frequency of use, water quality, climate, and filter maintenance, you can ensure that you are draining your hydro spa at the right time to keep it in optimal condition.

Determine the frequency of draining

1. Manufacturer’s recommendation: Check your spa manual or consult the manufacturer’s website to determine the recommended frequency for draining your hydro spa. Typically, this ranges from every 3 to 6 months, depending on usage and maintenance.

2. Water quality: Pay attention to the water quality of your hydro spa. If the water looks cloudy, has an odor, or feels slimy, it’s time to drain and refill the spa, even if it hasn’t been the recommended amount of time yet.

3. Heavy usage: If you use your hydro spa frequently or have many people using it at once, you may need to drain it more frequently. Heavy usage can cause a buildup of chemicals and contaminants in the water, which can be harmful to your health and the spa’s equipment.

4. Climate and season: Consider the climate and season when deciding how often to drain your hydro spa. In warmer months, you may need to drain and refill more frequently due to increased evaporation and heat. Additionally, if you live in an area with hard water, you may need to drain your spa more frequently to prevent mineral buildup.

By determining the frequency of draining your hydro spa, you can maintain its water quality and ensure its longevity.

Look out for signs that indicate the need for a drain

Regular maintenance and proper cleaning of your hydro spa is essential to its longevity and performance. Knowing when to drain the water is equally important to ensure its smooth operation. Here are some signs that indicate the need for a drain:

• Cloudy water: If the water appears hazy or cloudy, it could be due to a buildup of bacteria and other contaminants.
• Unpleasant odor: If you detect a strong or unpleasant odor, it could be a sign of bacteria or other harmful substances in the water.
• Excessive foam: If there is too much foam, it could be due to a buildup of soap residue or other contaminants.
• Unbalanced pH levels: If the pH levels are not balanced, it could lead to corrosion, scaling, or damage to the hydro spa equipment.

By keeping an eye out for these signs, you can determine when it’s time to drain your hydro spa and ensure its optimal performance.

Consult the manufacturer’s instructions

If you’re unsure about when to drain your hydro spa or how to do it properly, it’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions. These instructions should be included with your spa when you purchased it, or you can often find them online on the manufacturer’s website.

The manufacturer’s instructions will provide specific guidelines for draining your hydro spa, as well as other important maintenance tasks. Be sure to read and follow these instructions carefully to ensure that you don’t damage your spa or void your warranty.

If you don’t have access to the manufacturer’s instructions or if you have any questions about them, don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer directly. They should be able to provide you with the information you need to properly maintain your hydro spa.

Remember that every hydro spa is different, and what works for one spa may not work for another. Following the manufacturer’s instructions is the best way to ensure that you’re properly maintaining your specific spa.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before draining your hydro spa, you’ll need to make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything in one place can make the process go more smoothly. Here are some items you’ll need:

Hose: You will need a hose long enough to reach from the spa to a drainage area. A regular garden hose will suffice.

Submersible pump: If your spa doesn’t have a built-in drainage system, you will need a submersible pump to drain the water.

Wrench: If your spa is connected to pipes, you may need a wrench to disconnect them before draining.

Cleaning supplies: You will want to have cleaning supplies on hand to clean the spa once it has been drained.

Spa chemicals: Before refilling your spa, you may need to add spa chemicals to balance the water’s pH levels.

Prepare the Draining Tools

Before draining your hydro spa, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. Here are a few items you’ll need:

• Submersible pump: You’ll need a submersible pump to remove the water from the spa.
• Hose: A hose will be used to direct the water out of the spa and away from your home.
• Bucket: It’s a good idea to have a bucket nearby in case you need to remove any remaining water from the spa.
• Towel: Keep a towel handy to wipe up any spills or drips that may occur during the draining process.
• Gloves: It’s always a good idea to wear gloves to protect your hands while handling the draining tools and equipment.

Having these tools on hand will make the draining process easier and more efficient.

Check the chemicals needed for cleaning

Before draining your hydro spa, it’s important to check the chemicals you’ll need for cleaning. This will help you remove any buildup or residue that may have accumulated in the spa.

Chlorine: Chlorine is essential for killing bacteria and algae in the spa water. Make sure you have enough to sanitize the water during refilling.

pH balancer: A pH balancer is needed to adjust the pH levels of the water. The ideal pH level is between 7.2 to 7.8.

Cleaner: You’ll also need a cleaner to scrub the spa surfaces, remove any stains, and eliminate any grime or dirt. There are various cleaners you can use, including enzymatic cleaners, foam removers, and scale removers.

Filter cleaner: Your spa’s filter is an essential component that removes debris from the water. You’ll need a filter cleaner to get rid of any buildup that may have accumulated on it.

It’s crucial to have these chemicals on hand before you begin the draining process. This will ensure you can clean and sanitize the spa thoroughly before refilling it with fresh water.

Turn Off the Power and Water Supply

Locate the main power source of your hydro spa. Typically, the power source is near the control panel of the hydro spa. Switch off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the hydro spa. Make sure that the power is disconnected before proceeding with the draining process.

Turn off the water supply valve. The water supply valve is usually located near the hydro spa. Shut off the valve to stop water flow into the spa.

Open the drain valve. Locate the drain valve at the bottom of the hydro spa and turn it counterclockwise to open it. Make sure that the drain valve is fully open to allow water to flow out smoothly.

Open the air relief valve. The air relief valve is typically located on the filter or pump. Opening this valve will help break the vacuum seal and allow water to flow out more easily.

Let the water drain out completely. Once the drain and air relief valves are open, wait for the water to drain out completely. This may take some time depending on the size of the spa and the amount of water left in it.

Switch off the power supply

Locate the main power source of your hydro spa and turn it off. This may involve switching off the power at the main breaker box or unplugging the spa from the outlet.

If your spa has a timer, make sure to turn it off as well to prevent the pump from accidentally turning on during the draining process. It’s important to ensure the spa is completely powered down before beginning any work.

Drain the Water from Your Hydro Spa

When it’s time to drain your hydro spa, it’s important to do it correctly to avoid any damage. You should gather all the necessary tools and materials, and follow the steps outlined in the manufacturer’s instructions.

Before draining the water, turn off the power and water supply to the spa to ensure your safety. You can then use a submersible pump or gravity to drain the water, but remember to check the frequency of draining to avoid problems in the future.

If you notice any signs that indicate the need for a drain, such as cloudy or foamy water, a strong odor, or skin irritation, it’s best to address them as soon as possible. Make sure to also clean the spa thoroughly with the appropriate chemicals before refilling it.

Following these steps will help you properly drain the water from your hydro spa and keep it in good condition for years to come.

Locate the drain valve

The drain valve is usually located at the bottom of the spa and is a small faucet that looks similar to an outdoor hose faucet. If you cannot locate the drain valve, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific location details.

Before opening the drain valve, ensure that you have a drainage point for the water, either a floor drain or a hose that leads to a suitable drainage area. It is important to ensure that the water is not drained in an area where it can cause damage to property or create a slip hazard.

Once you have located the drain valve and prepared the drainage area, open the valve and let the water flow out. Keep in mind that it may take some time for all the water to drain out of the spa, so be patient.

After the water has drained out, close the drain valve and proceed with cleaning and maintenance as required.

Flush the remaining water out of the spa

After draining the bulk of the water, it’s important to flush out any remaining water to prevent freezing. To do this, attach a submersible pump to the hose and place it in the bottom of the tub. Turn on the pump and let it run until all the water is pumped out.

If you don’t have a submersible pump, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out the remaining water. Be sure to switch the vacuum to the blow setting and use it to blow out any remaining water through the drain valve.

Next, use a towel to soak up any remaining water in the tub. Wipe down the surfaces to ensure they are completely dry.

Finally, leave the drain valve open and let the tub air out for a few hours. This will help any remaining moisture to evaporate and prevent mold and mildew from forming.

Clean and Maintain Your Hydro Spa

Regular cleaning of your hydro spa is important to maintain its longevity and keep it working properly. Be sure to clean the filter and remove any debris from the water on a regular basis.

Use the right chemicals to keep your hydro spa clean and sanitary. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use only the recommended chemicals.

Inspect your hydro spa regularly for signs of wear and tear. Check the spa cover, jets, and plumbing for any damage or leaks. Address any issues promptly to avoid further damage.

Winterize your hydro spa if you live in an area with freezing temperatures. Drain the spa and add antifreeze to prevent any water left in the system from freezing and causing damage.

Clean the shell, cover, and filter

To keep your hydro spa clean and maintained, it’s essential to clean the shell, cover, and filter regularly. Start by turning off the power and draining the water from the spa.

Use a non-abrasive cleaner to clean the shell, and a vinyl protector to keep it in good condition. The cover should be cleaned with mild soap and water, and a cover cleaner can be used to protect it from the elements.

1. Remove the filter and clean it with a filter cleaner and water, or replace it if it’s worn out.
2. Regularly check the water chemistry and add chemicals as needed to keep the water clean and balanced.
3. Use a skimmer net to remove debris from the water surface.
4. Regularly test the water pH and alkalinity levels and adjust them as needed to maintain proper levels.

Cleaning and maintaining your hydro spa can be time-consuming, but it’s essential to ensure that it remains in good condition and provides you with a relaxing and enjoyable experience for years to come.

Inspect the internal parts for damage and wear

Regular inspection of the internal parts of your hydro spa is important to ensure that they are functioning properly and to detect any damage or wear. Here are some steps to follow:

Step 1: Remove the access panel to the equipment compartment.

Step 2: Check the condition of the pump, heater, and other internal components. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks, and wear and tear, such as rust or corrosion.

Step 3: Check the condition of the electrical connections. Look for any signs of fraying or damage, and make sure that all connections are tight and secure.

Step 4: Inspect the hoses and fittings for damage or wear. Make sure that all hoses are properly attached and that fittings are tight and secure.

By performing regular inspections and addressing any issues as soon as they are detected, you can help to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your hydro spa.

Refill and Restart Your Hydro Spa

Refill your spa by turning on the water supply and filling the spa to the appropriate level. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended water level.

Remove the airlocks by turning on the jets and allowing the water to flow for several minutes. This will help remove any airlocks in the system that may cause issues with the pump or heater.

Restart the power supply by turning the spa back on at the circuit breaker. Allow the system to run for several minutes to ensure everything is functioning properly.

Test the water quality by using a test strip to check the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. Adjust as necessary to ensure the water is safe and comfortable for use.

Refill the spa with fresh water

After draining and cleaning your hydro spa, it’s time to refill it with fresh water. Fill the spa with water from a garden hose, making sure to not exceed the maximum fill line.

Before filling the spa, it’s recommended to add a spa water treatment product to the water to balance the pH levels and prevent any bacteria growth.

Once the spa is filled, turn on the power and water supply. Check for any leaks or unusual noises. Let the water circulate for at least 30 minutes to ensure it’s properly balanced and heated to the desired temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions