Welcome to our comprehensive guide on draining your Artesian Spa. Whether you’re a new owner or a long-time user, knowing how to drain and clean your spa is an essential part of its maintenance. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to easily drain your spa in no time.
Draining your spa can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and precautions, it can be done easily and efficiently. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to drain your Artesian Spa, including the tools you’ll need, when to drain it, and how often you should do it.
So, if you’re ready to take your spa maintenance to the next level and ensure your spa stays clean and healthy, read on for our expert advice.
Table of Contents
Step-by-Step Guide
Draining your Artesian spa may seem daunting, but with the right tools and steps, it can be done easily. Here’s how to drain your spa quickly and efficiently:
Step 1: Turn off the power – Before draining your spa, you must turn off the power to avoid any electrical hazards. Locate the power source and turn it off to prevent any accidents.
Step 2: Attach a hose to the drainage valve – Locate the drainage valve on your spa and attach a hose to it. Make sure the other end of the hose is in a suitable drainage area.
Step 3: Open the drainage valve – Once the hose is securely attached, open the drainage valve and let the water flow out of the spa. You may need to use a submersible pump to speed up the process.
Step 4: Clean and Refill – After the spa has been drained, take the opportunity to clean it thoroughly before refilling it with fresh water. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper way to clean your Artesian spa.
Following these steps will help you drain your Artesian spa safely and efficiently. Keep reading to learn about the tools needed for this task, precautions to consider, and more.
Turn off Power
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Locate the Circuit Breaker: Before starting the process of draining your spa, you must first turn off the power source. Locate the circuit breaker for your spa and switch it off to prevent any electrical accidents.
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Disconnect Any Power Source: Next, disconnect any power source that might be connected to your spa, such as the pump, heater, or blower. This will prevent any potential electrical hazards.
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Wait for the Water to Cool: Once you’ve turned off the power and disconnected any power sources, it’s essential to wait for the water to cool before you start draining it. This will prevent any burns or damage to your spa’s components.
Remember, safety should always come first when dealing with electrical appliances, so make sure to follow these steps carefully.
Locate Drain Valve
Once you’ve turned off the power, you’ll need to locate the drain valve on your Artesian spa. This is usually located at the bottom of the spa and can be identified by a hose bib or a spigot.
If you’re unsure where the drain valve is located, consult your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for assistance. Some Artesian spas may have the drain valve located in a hard-to-reach area, so you may need to use a flashlight or mirror to locate it.
Make sure you have a garden hose nearby, as you’ll need it to drain the water out of your spa. If the hose isn’t long enough to reach a drain, you can use a submersible pump to remove the water from the spa.
Connect Garden Hose
Prepare the garden hose: Before attaching it to the spa, make sure the hose is long enough to reach the desired drainage area. Ensure the hose is clean and free of any blockages.
Attach the hose: Find the drainage valve on your spa and remove the cap. Connect one end of the hose to the valve and ensure it is securely fastened.
Position the hose: Make sure the other end of the hose is in a suitable location for draining the water. Avoid directing the water towards any structures or landscaping that may be damaged.
Connecting the garden hose is an essential step when draining your Artesian spa. By following these simple steps, you can avoid any mishaps and ensure the water drains smoothly. Keep reading to learn more about the precautions to consider when draining your spa.
Tools Needed
Draining your artesian spa is a simple process that requires a few basic tools. Here are the essential tools you need:
- Garden Hose: A garden hose is needed to drain the water out of the spa.
- Pump: A submersible pump may be necessary if your spa has a lot of water in it.
- Wrench: You may need a wrench to remove the drain plug or cap.
Before you start the draining process, ensure that you have all the necessary tools at hand. Having everything you need beforehand will make the process smoother and faster.
Garden Hose
- Length: Make sure your garden hose is long enough to reach the drain location without any obstructions.
- Diameter: A garden hose with a diameter of at least ¾ inch is recommended to allow for efficient drainage.
- Nozzle: A high-pressure nozzle can be helpful to blast away any debris that may be clogging the drain valve.
Make sure to inspect your garden hose for any damage or leaks before using it to drain your spa. It’s also a good idea to have a spare garden hose on hand, just in case.
Precautions to Consider
Electricity: Before draining your Artesian spa, make sure the power is completely turned off. The risk of electrocution is high if electrical equipment is used around water.
Chemicals: Before draining, you should turn off the chemical feeder to avoid accidentally mixing the chemicals with fresh water. It can cause a hazardous reaction or even explosion.
Drainage Area: Choose a suitable drainage area for your spa. Make sure the drainage area is able to handle the amount of water that will be drained from your spa.
Cleaning: Always clean your spa thoroughly before draining it. This ensures that no debris or chemical residue is left inside the spa.
Check Chemical Levels
Test the water: Before draining the spa, test the chemical levels of the water to ensure they are within the recommended range. Adjust the levels if necessary.
Use gloves: Always wear protective gloves when handling chemicals to avoid skin irritation or chemical burns.
Follow instructions: Make sure to follow the instructions on the chemical packaging carefully, and never mix different chemicals as this can be dangerous and cause chemical reactions.
By taking these precautions and ensuring proper chemical levels, you can safely drain your Artesian spa and ensure that it is ready for use when you need it.
Wear Gloves and Eye Protection
Protective Gloves: Wear heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands from chemicals and hot water. Rubber gloves are a good option as they are durable and offer good grip.
Eye Protection: Chemicals and debris can splash into your eyes, so it’s crucial to wear protective goggles or glasses. Make sure they fit snugly and are clear, allowing you to see your work clearly.
Protective Clothing: Wear protective clothing such as a long-sleeved shirt and pants to avoid skin contact with chemicals. Choose clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty or ruined as some chemicals can permanently stain.
These precautions are important to ensure your safety during the process of draining and cleaning your hot tub. Follow them carefully to avoid any injuries or accidents.
Beware of Water Temperature
Hot water can cause burns: The water that comes out of the pressure washer can be very hot, and can cause serious burns if it comes into contact with your skin. Make sure to wear protective gloves and clothing to avoid any accidental burns.
Cold water can be uncomfortable: If the water temperature is too low, it can be uncomfortable to work with for extended periods of time. Consider wearing a wetsuit or other protective gear to keep your body warm while working with cold water.
Be aware of your surroundings: When using a pressure washer, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make sure there are no children or pets nearby, and avoid spraying water at any electrical outlets or appliances.
When to Drain Your Spa
Frequency: The frequency of draining your spa depends on how often it’s used. As a general rule, it’s recommended to drain and refill the spa every 3 to 4 months to ensure that the water is clean and fresh.
Chemical Imbalance: If you notice that your spa water is consistently cloudy, foamy, or has an unpleasant odor, it’s time to drain and refill the spa. This can be an indication of a chemical imbalance in the water.
Seasonal Changes: Seasonal changes can also impact when you should drain your spa. If you live in an area with a particularly hot summer or cold winter, it may be necessary to drain and refill the spa more frequently to maintain water quality.
Manufacturer Recommendations: Be sure to consult your spa’s owner manual for specific recommendations on when to drain and refill your spa. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines will ensure that your spa is maintained properly and that your warranty remains valid.
After Heavy Usage
Water Condition: After heavy usage, check the water’s condition with a test strip to ensure it is still balanced. If not, it may be time to drain and refill your spa.
Frequency: The frequency of draining your spa depends on how often you use it. If you use it daily or multiple times a week, it may need to be drained and refilled more frequently.
Smell: If you notice a strong odor coming from the water, it may be a sign that it’s time to drain and refill your spa. This can be caused by the buildup of organic matter or bacteria in the water.
Draining and refilling your spa is an important part of spa maintenance, and it’s important to know when it’s time to do so. By paying attention to the water’s condition, frequency of use, and any unusual smells, you can determine when it’s time to drain and refill your spa.
When Water Appears Cloudy
Test the water chemistry: Cloudy water can be an indication of improper chemical levels. Test the water and adjust the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels as necessary.
Clean the filter: A dirty or clogged filter can cause cloudy water. Clean or replace the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Shock the water: If the chemical levels are correct and the filter is clean, shock the water with a chlorine or non-chlorine shock treatment. This will help to kill any bacteria or algae that may be causing the cloudiness.
How Often Should You Drain Your Spa?
Frequency of Use: The more frequently you use your spa, the more often you should drain it. If you use your spa frequently, it is recommended to drain it every 3-4 months.
Water Quality: Poor water quality can be a sign that it is time to drain your spa. If the water is cloudy, has a strong odor or is discolored, it is time to drain it and start with fresh water.
Seasonal Changes: The change in seasons can impact how often you need to drain your spa. During the summer months, your spa will require more frequent draining due to increased usage and higher temperatures.
Chemical Usage: If you use a lot of chemicals to keep your spa clean and balanced, you may need to drain it more often. Overuse of chemicals can cause a buildup of contaminants, which can be harmful to your health and the longevity of your spa.
Manufacturer Recommendations: Finally, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for draining your spa. Most manufacturers will provide guidelines for how often you should drain your spa based on its size, usage and other factors.
Every 3-4 Months
| Factors | Frequency | Exceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Use | Every 3 months | If the spa is not used frequently, you may extend the draining period |
| Heavy Usage | Every 2-3 months | If the spa is used frequently or by many people, it may require more frequent draining |
| Chemical Balance | Every 3-4 months | If the water chemistry is consistently balanced and maintained, you may extend the draining period |
It is generally recommended to drain your spa every 3-4 months to maintain water quality and prevent buildup of contaminants. Regular use of the spa, heavy usage, and chemical balance are some factors that can affect the frequency of draining. If the spa is not used frequently or if the chemical balance is well-maintained, you may extend the draining period. However, if the spa is used frequently or by many people, it may require more frequent draining.
Following Manufacturer’s Recommendation
Manufacturers typically include information in the manual that comes with your spa, regarding how often you should drain and refill it.
It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation, as they have specific knowledge about the design and components of your spa, and their recommendation will ensure that your spa continues to function properly and remain in good condition.
The frequency of draining and refilling your spa may vary depending on the type of spa you have, the usage it gets, the size of the spa, and other factors, so it’s important to consult the manual for guidance.
| Type of Spa | Frequency of Draining and Refilling | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Acrylic Spa | Every 3-5 months | Acrylic surfaces are prone to wear and tear over time, and draining the spa helps prevent damage. |
| Wooden Spa | Every 6 months | Wooden spas are more vulnerable to rot and decay than other types, so they require more frequent draining and refilling. |
| Plastic Spa | Every 4-6 months | Plastic spas are more durable than acrylic spas, but they still require regular draining and refilling to maintain proper water chemistry. |
If you’ve lost your manual or are unsure about the appropriate frequency for your spa, you can reach out to the manufacturer or consult a professional for guidance.
Professional Assistance
If you’re not comfortable draining your spa on your own or you want to ensure that it’s done correctly, consider hiring a professional.
A qualified spa technician can assess your spa and advise you on the appropriate schedule for draining and refilling, as well as provide other maintenance services.
Professional assistance may also be necessary if you’re experiencing issues with your spa, such as leaks or malfunctioning parts. Attempting to fix these issues on your own could lead to further damage and potentially costly repairs.
When selecting a professional to assist with your spa maintenance, be sure to choose someone who is licensed, insured, and experienced with spa repair and maintenance.
Remember that regular maintenance, including draining and refilling your spa, can help prolong its lifespan and ensure that it continues to provide a safe and enjoyable experience.
Hire a Certified Technician
If you are unsure of how to properly maintain your spa or need more advanced repairs, it may be best to hire a certified technician to assist you.
A certified technician has the training and expertise to diagnose and repair any issues with your spa, ensuring that it operates safely and efficiently. They can also provide guidance on proper maintenance techniques to prevent future problems.
When selecting a technician, be sure to look for someone with the proper certifications and experience. Ask for references and check online reviews to ensure that you are working with a reputable and reliable professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps for draining an Artesian Spa?
Draining an Artesian Spa involves a few simple steps. First, turn off the spa’s power and locate the drain valve. Connect a garden hose to the valve and open it. Allow the water to drain out completely, taking care to not damage the spa’s interior or exterior. Finally, close the drain valve and clean the spa’s interior before refilling it with fresh water.
How often should an Artesian Spa be drained?
The frequency of draining an Artesian Spa depends on the usage and the manufacturer’s recommendation. Generally, it is recommended to drain and refill the spa every three to four months to maintain the water quality and prevent buildup of contaminants. However, it is important to refer to the owner’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
What precautions should be taken before draining an Artesian Spa?
Prior to draining an Artesian Spa, it is important to turn off the power and ensure that the spa is not in use. Additionally, it is recommended to wear gloves and eye protection to prevent any harm from the chemicals in the water. It is also important to take care while draining the spa to prevent any damage to the interior or exterior of the spa.
Can a professional assist in draining an Artesian Spa?
A certified spa technician can assist in draining an Artesian Spa. They can ensure that the process is done safely and efficiently. Additionally, they can perform a thorough inspection of the spa to identify any potential issues and provide guidance on proper maintenance.
What are the benefits of regularly draining an Artesian Spa?
Regularly draining an Artesian Spa can provide several benefits. It helps maintain the water quality, prevent buildup of contaminants, and extend the lifespan of the spa. It also allows for a thorough cleaning of the spa’s interior, ensuring that it is safe and enjoyable to use.