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If you don’t clean your hot tub filters, they’ll build up dirt and grime, preventing them from filtering out contaminants like dirt and bacteria. The dirty water will then circulate through the filter and back into the hot tub, leading to dirty water, a damaged pump and jets, and low heat. This can lead to higher hot tub costs because you may have to pay for repairs.

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.

Though a hot tub has many benefits, there are a few cons. Mainly, hot tubs require a lot of maintenance. You’ll need to deep clean yours quarterly, test the pH at least once or twice a week, and add sanitizing chemicals once a week. They also have relatively high ongoing costs since you’ll need to pay for electricity and repairs. 

Hot tub heaters typically last seven to 10 years, though some might only last five years if not properly maintained. You can maximize your hot tub heater’s lifespan by ensuring the water’s pH level is properly balanced.