Whether you’re looking to cut down your water bill or for ways to be more eco-conscious, seeking out ways to conserve your hot tub water is the way to go.
Some modern spas–even larger, luxury spas that hold up to 450 gallons of water, are water-efficient. This is because the water conservation of a hot tub has to do with how long the water can be used before the spa needs to be drained and refilled, and nothing to do with the amount of water in the hot tub. Here are some ways you can increase water conservation and, therefore, decrease the number of times you drain and refill your hot tub a year.
1. Regular Filter Maintenance
Even top-tier spa sanitation systems depend on efficient filters to keep the water clean and free of dust, dirt, leaves, and insects.
To keep your filters effectively, they need to be cleaned regularly. Most filters are easy to access and remove for cleaning and/or replacement. A quick weekly check of their condition is also a good practice. Look for wear, tearing, and crack when inspecting. A short rinse with a garden hose will clear your filters of contamination. To learn more about hot tub filters and their maintenance, read our post: How do Your Hot Tub Filters Actually Work?
2. Keep Your Hot Tub Covered When Not in Use
Hot tubs of quality come with a durable vinyl cover. Whenever your hot tub is not in use, it should be securely covered to prevent water loss from evaporation and contamination from outdoor elements. A hot tub cover will also greatly increase your spa’s efficiency by helping to regulate the water temperature–which will also reduce your electric bill.
Spa covers are great, but they can be heavy and nearly impossible for one person to move. We’d recommend investing in a hot tub cover lift to make your spa much more enjoyable. This will make it easy to remove and replace your cover–and help to ensure you never leave your spa uncovered.
3. Aim Your Jets Consciously
The most obvious way to conserve water is by keeping it inside the hot tub. Today’s hot tub jets are powered by strong motors, and if the nozzles aren’t properly aimed below the waterline, some water may splash out as a result. This may not seem like a big deal, but over time, this could lead to a significant amount of water loss. Adjusting your nozzles so they are aiming straightforward (better for massages anyways), will help you keep your water level where it should be.
4. Rinse-Off Before Using Your Spa
While it’s your water care system’s job to remove impurities within the water, you still want to do your part to prevent further tainting of the water as best you can. We’ve discussed the importance of filter maintenance and covering your spa whenever it’s not in use, but just as important is rinsing your body (and bathing suit) before you enter the spa. Removing sweat and oils from your body before you enter will greatly decrease the water’s contamination. Of course, avoid showering for too long since the overall goal here is water conservation–and definitely don’t use soap as this will contaminate the water.
5. Reuse Spa Water as Gray Water
The water you drain from your hot tub doesn’t need to go to waste–there are things around the house it can be used for. To recycle your hot tub water, stop treating your spa with any chemicals for at least three days before you drain it. After the chemicals have dissipated, this water will be perfect for watering your non-edible plants.
Note: Check with your local municipality to ensure it’s legal to water plants with gray water where you live.
Have Other Questions About Hot Tub Care?
The experts at Cal Spas are here to answer any questions you have about conserving your spa’s water, general care, or anything else! Stop by one of our stores or contact us today.