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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.

Generally, it is more cost-effective and energy-efficient to leave your hot tub on all the time rather than turning it on and off. Reheating a hot tub from a cold temperature consumes a significant amount of energy, so maintaining a constant temperature is usually more economical, especially with frequent use.

For daily or weekly use, it's recommended to keep the water at a constant, reduced temperature, such as between 80 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, and then increase it to your desired temperature before getting in. If you know you won't be using the hot tub for an extended period, you can lower the temperature to save on energy costs. However, if you use it very infrequently, you can turn it off completely, as long as there is no risk of the water freezing.

Most hot tubs will experience leaks due to wear and tear in the plumbing or the shell itself. The second most common issue is a heater malfunction due to the ongoing heat stress on moving parts. Finally, clogs happen in hot tub jets, especially when it’s time to change the filter.

Whether you can repair a hot tub depends on the severity of the problem and the location. With the right tools and knowledge, you can fix problems like small leaks or switching out a dirty filter. However, electrical and plumbing issues require a licensed professional due to the inherent risk, particularly when mixing water with electricity.