How To Clean Hot Tub Filters With Vinegar

Since the arrival of the inflatable hot tub to the market, affordability and space are no longer such a problem. This is great news because, according to Sam Blake from HotTubReviews, along with all the relaxation and enjoyment come great health benefits.

However, having a good hot tub maintenance routine is required to keep your hot tub water crystal clear and safe. Part of this maintenance is ensuring that you have clean hot tub filters.

1. Cleaning Hot Tub Filters with Vinegar

Yes, there are products such as hot tub filter cleaner and cleaning solution on the market, but why spend more than you have to.

First, I will explain why water filters are so important along with the signs you will see from dirty water filters. Having said that, usually, if you see these signs you have left cleaning hot tub filters way too long.

2. Why Cleaning the Water Filter is Important

If you have a dirty filter it can no longer do the job of filtering out tiny particles of dirt and foreign matter. A clean hot tub filter prevents these particles from being sent through your pump and back into your clean water.

Although a new filter may not cost the earth, with regular cleaning, you can prolong the filter’s life saving you money in the process.

3. Signs your Water Filter needs Cleaning

One of the first things you may notice is that you are using more of the harsh chemicals to balance water pH levels. Even worse your hot tub may start to look cloudy, due to the tiny particles no longer being filtered out.

Remember, warm water and humid atmospheres are what bacteria love the most and the last thing you need is any bacteria.

4. How to Clean a Hot Tub Filter with Vinegar

White distilled vinegar is only a weak acid and poses no danger (even if drank) making it ideal to clean the filter in your hot tub. Clean pool filter cartridge with vinegar

Always remember to turn your hot tub OFF before removing the filter for cleaning.

Top Tip: I always have at least two spa filters to hand. This means I can just swap the filters over, allowing me to carry on enjoying it.

1. Remove the filter (check your instruction book or online for how to remove a spa filter if this is your first time)
2. Give the filter a quick but gentle rinse to remove larger pieces of dirt and debris (remember most spas will be fitted with a polyester/paper filter so be careful not to tear or damage the filter media)
3. Prepare a large bucket or container with equal parts white vinegar and water.
4. Place the filter on its side in the bucket and let the filter soak for approximately 2-3 hours, after which turn 180 degrees and leave for a further 2-3 hours.
5. Now for a final rinse and check. Remove the filter and check for any remaining residue or calcium deposits. Replace it into the solution and leave for another couple of hours if it is not yet clear enough.
6. Place somewhere warm and dry to allow it to dry completely.
7. Replace the dry clean filter or store it somewhere safe if you fitted another filter.

5. Cleaning a Hot Tub Filter Using Dishwasher Detergent

If you don’t fancy using cleaning agents such as vinegar then dish detergent can do the job. Although, because this is not acidic (the acid helps dissolve limescale) this is better for those of you who clean the filter every other each week. This does of course vary with how much use the hot tub has.

Please note that if your detergent does not contain TSP (Trisodium Phosphate) you will need to add it.

For approximately 2 litres of water add one cup of dishwasher detergent (4Tbls of TSP if needed) and soak the filter for about 24 hours.

Now follow steps 5 to 7 of the white vinegar procedure above.

6. Cleaning Hot Tub Filters with Bleach

You can actually do your hot tub filter cleaning with bleach, but I will give some warnings with this one.

Firstly, handle with care and remove anything that may get damaged if bleach is spilt.

Secondly, never be tempted to leave the filter in soak for longer than the 2 hours stated.

Lastly, although bleach is a very good disinfectant it can have an unwanted effect on the plastic if used too often.

Mix a quarter of a cup of bleach to 5 gallons of water and place the filter to soak for a maximum of 2 hours. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry fully before reusing.

Conclusion

By having a good routine when it comes to maintenance not only will you reduce the amount of time it takes, you will prolong the life of your unit.