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Yes. If you test the water and the alkalinity is too low, you can raise it by adding an alkalinity increaser, which likely came with your hot tub’s chemical kit. In a pinch, you can use baking soda to raise the hot tub’s alkalinity. Raising the alkalinity will prevent the hot tub water from becoming too acidic.

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.

Similar to a hot tub, swim spas last anywhere from five to 20 years, depending on quality and your attention to maintenance. The best way to increase the lifespan of your swim spa is to carefully maintain it—including draining it around every six months to deep clean the parts.

Biofilm growth can cause a hot tub to feel slimy. Hot tub biofilm is a slimy substance that’s typically due to natural contaminants like makeup, soaps, skin oils, deodorants, or lotions. A hot tub can also have a slimy interior or slimy water if the tub’s filters are old or damaged, or if the hot tub isn’t properly cleaned. You should drain your hot tub, wipe away any slimy residue, then refill the water and use a spa purge product that prevents the buildup of biofilm.