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If your hot tub is well-maintained, covered tightly, and the water is balanced and sanitized correctly, it can remain unused for up to two weeks without significant issues. Beyond this period, the water quality may start to deteriorate, potentially leading to the growth of algae and bacteria. However, it's crucial to note that this timeline can change due to factors like water temperature, sanitation levels, and the quality of your hot tub cover. Regular maintenance and water testing are essential to ensure the water remains safe and clean during periods of inactivity.

Properly maintaining your hot tub will prevent serious issues from occurring down the road. You should replace the filter once a year, regularly look for and repair small cracks in the shell, and test the water quality every few months. You can do this yourself for less than $100 per year.

You can also hire a hot tub service to service your hot tub annually to identify problems early, which could save you money in the long run. They cost about $100 to $200 per call.

Algae-related green hot tub water is generally safe to use, as algae aren't usually harmful to your health. However, if the conditions in the hot tub are hospitable to algae growth, they may also be hospitable to the growth of other types of microorganisms, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, bacteria that can cause hot tub rash, or Legionella bacteria, which can cause respiratory illness.

Hot tub repairs cost between $200 and $500 on average. You can minimize those costs by maintaining your hot tub and keeping necessary supplies on hand. An elevated shelf in the garage is a great place to store your water care chemicals so that kids and pets will stay safe and you’ll always have them around. 

Your hot tub should be drained of existing water, cleaned, and refilled every three to four months at a minimum. Follow your tub manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning, and rinse thoroughly when finished to eliminate any residue from the cleaning products. This is also a good time to inspect your tub’s cover in good lighting for any leaks, tears, or other damage that might cause problems. 

Using your hot tub manufacturer’s suggested cleaners and methods, keep your hot tub filters clean to avoid a loss of water heat. This will help extend the filter’s useful life and efficiency. If the filter is more than two to three years old, replace it with a new one and buy a second filter to keep around as a spare.