If you were one of many people wondering if inflatable spas are any good, just picture yourself in warm water with soothing bubbles and some fresh candles. Isn’t that glorious? There’s simply nothing better than sinking into an inflatable hot tub, especially after a long, tiring day!
To keep that experience stress-free and your spa in peak condition, regular inflatable spa maintenance is essential. Read this guide to maintaining inflatable spas to learn the best way to clean an inflatable hot tub.
Basic Maintenance for Inflatable Spas
If you want to learn how to maintain an inflatable spa in Australia, it’s good to start with the basics: water chemistry and cleanliness. Unlike a bathtub, which is drained after each use, a hot tub relies on the same water for weeks or even months—making maintenance all the more crucial.
Water Chemistry
Unbalanced water can cause many problems, such as skin irritation and equipment damage. This makes maintaining your water’s pH balance even more crucial for both your comfort and hygiene. Your water’s pH level should be between 7.2 to 7.8, with an alkalinity of between 80 to 120 ppm. To keep it within the correct ranges, proper water treatment is needed. Follow these tips:
Test Regularly
Use a spa test kit (like test strips) to ensure its balance, ideally twice a week. Simply dip the strip into the water for a few seconds, remove it, and shake off any excess. Then, compare the colour of the strip with the colour provided in your kit to determine the pH, alkalinity, and sanitiser levels. Doing this helps you identify imbalances early to remedy them right away.
Adjust as Needed
Adjusting is key to keeping your spa in top condition. Once you know the results from testing your water, adjust your water chemistry as necessary. If your pH or alkalinity is too high or low, add a pH or alkalinity increaser or reducer accordingly to bring it up to the recommended level.
Use the Right Sanitiser
Sanitisers are hot tub chemicals that keep your water clean and safe. Two of the most common agents are chlorine and bromine. Each of these can kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and algae that may grow in your inflatable hot tub, with chlorine being more affordable in general and bromine being better suited for warmer water.
Water Cleanliness
The best inflatable spa is a clean one—free from dirt, oils, and debris. To maintain pristine water quality, it’s essential to adopt a consistent cleaning routine. Here’s how you can keep your inflatable hot tub sparkling clean and running smoothly:
Step 1: Skim Debris
Skim the surface of the water with a spa net after each use. This will help remove leaves, dirt, and other debris before they have a chance to sink to the bottom or clog the spa pump. This will also reduce the workload for your spa filters, extending their lifespan.
Step 2: Cover It Up
Always use an inflatable spa cover when your hot tub is not in use. This will serve as a protective barrier, keeping dust, debris, and leaves away. It can also help reduce water evaporation, meaning you’ll have to top up less frequently, saving water and chemicals.
Step 3: Clean Your Spa Filters
Your spa filters are key to maintaining water cleanliness. Clean them regularly by rinsing them with a hose to remove dirt and debris that can cause blockages. Make sure to replace them every 2 to 3 months to ensure they continue to function properly. Neglecting your filters could result in poor water circulation and may even lead to issues with water quality, contributing to bacteria or algae growth.
Bonus: How Often Should You Change the Water?
It’s important to ask how often to change inflatable spa water, as this can vary depending on usage. Generally, changing it every 2 to 3 months helps prevent mould growth and keeps your spa fresh.
Maintaining Your Inflatable Spa in the Aussie Climate
Australia’s climate can be tough on your spa. Understanding how to maintain an inflatable spa in Australia means considering factors like insulation, water treatment, and seasonal care. From the harsh summer sun to chilly winter nights, taking care of it year-round ensures its longevity and performance. Read along if you want to increase your inflatable spa’s lifespan:
Insulation
Proper insulation keeps your spa warm and helps you reduce energy costs. To insulate your spa, place a thermal mat under your spa to help prevent heat loss through the ground. You may also invest in a well-fitted inflatable spa cover to lock in warmth and reduce heating time.
Sun Protection
The sun’s UV rays can damage your spa and cause it to degrade over time. Avoid this by setting it up in a shaded area or under a pergola. Keep it covered when not in use to prevent direct sun exposure.
Wind Protection
Strong winds can affect water quality by introducing dust and debris into your inflatable hot tub. Avoid this by placing it near a fence or hedge. You may also use outdoor screens or panels as windbreaks, providing extra protection.
Water Conservation
In hot and dry conditions, water levels can drop quickly. Make sure your inflatable spa is covered with a high-quality spa cover to minimise evaporation and reduce the need for refilling. Regularly inspect the seams and valves for any potential leaks.
Ground Protection
Choose a level surface—such as grass, decking, or pavers—for your spa. A stable base can prevent wear and tear on the bottom part. You may also use a ground mat to prevent any punctures and improve insulation.
Freeze Protection
If you live in a place with a colder climate, like Australia during wintertime, take note that cold temperatures can cause damage to your spa. It’s important to know the basic winter care for inflatable spas in Australia. One of the things you should look for in an inflatable spa is efficient, built-in freeze protection features. Another way to protect it against the cold is to store it away if not in use during winter—simply deflate it and stow it in a dry place.
Safety
Spa safety is a priority, and regulations vary by state. In some areas, spa barriers are required by law, so check your local fence laws. You may also add a more secure, lockable spa cover to your setup to prevent accidents and unauthorised use.
Common Inflatable Spa Problems and Solutions
While inflatable spas offer both relaxation and convenience, they can develop issues over time, which may even lead to (let’s hope not!) mould. Regular maintenance, proper cleaning, and timely repairs are key to preventing mould in inflatable hot tubs, along with other issues.
In this section, we’ll discuss common inflatable spa problems and solutions, but if you want to know everything about inflatable spas, we suggest you read this article as well, as it gives a more thorough discussion.
Cloudy Water
Cloudy water is often caused by imbalanced pH levels, clogged spa filters, or insufficient sanitiser. Test and adjust regularly to ensure water balance and clarity. Regular filter cleaning and replacement is also necessary to improve water circulation.
Heating Issues
When an inflatable spa struggles to heat properly, it may be due to low water levels, clogged filters, or incorrect temperature settings. Ensure the water reaches the recommended level for efficient heating. Make sure your spa filters are clean to improve water circulation and check the control panel for the correct temperature settings.
Leaks
Leaks in an inflatable hot tub can develop from punctures, faulty seams, or damaged valves. To locate the leak, simply apply soapy water to suspected areas and check for bubbles. Small leaks can be patched with a repair kit designed for spa materials.
Pump Issues
Pump malfunctions can result from blockages, low water levels, or a clogged filter. Poor circulation affects water cleanliness and heating efficiency. Check hoses for obstructions and ensure the water level is adequate. You can also clean the filter to help restore the proper pump function.
Energy Efficiency Tips for Aussie Homeowners
Simple adjustments can improve your energy efficiency and lower electricity costs without compromising your comfort. Here are some of our energy-saving practices:
Importance of insulation and covering the spa
Proper insulation is one of the best energy-saving tips for inflatable spas that we can share with homeowners. It helps retain heat, reducing the need for continuous reheating thereby saving you a lot on energy costs. To do this, use a high-quality thermal mat and cover.
Optimising filter usage and lowering temperature when not in use
Running the filter during off-peak hours can reduce energy costs without sacrificing water quality. As reheating from a slightly lower setting is more efficient than maintaining a constant high temperature, it’s a great idea to lower the temperature when the spa is not in use.
Using timers and considering solar covers
Timers help automate heating and filtration, ensuring the spa runs only when necessary. Solar spa covers provide an eco-friendly way to retain heat, reducing reliance on the spa’s heater. These small changes significantly improve energy efficiency and keep costs manageable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my inflatable spa?
Clean the filter weekly, change the water every 2 to 3 months, and wipe down the spa’s surface regularly to prevent buildup and maintain hygiene.
What chemicals do I need for my inflatable spa?
You’ll need a sanitiser like chlorine or bromine, pH balancers, alkalinity adjusters, and shock treatment to keep the water clean and safe.
How do I winterise my inflatable spa?
Drain the water completely, dry all components, remove and clean the filter, and store the spa in a dry, insulated area to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.
How to fix a leak in an inflatable spa?
Locate the leak using soapy water, dry the area, and apply a vinyl repair patch or adhesive designed for inflatable spas to seal the puncture.
How long do inflatable spas last?
With proper inflatable spa maintenance, they can last between 3 to 5 years, depending on usage and storage conditions.
Keep Your Inflatable Spa in Top Shape
Regular inflatable spa maintenance is essential for keeping your inflatable hot tub clean, efficient, and long-lasting. From balancing water chemistry to cleaning filters and checking for leaks, proper care ensures a hassle-free spa experience. Outbax has everything you need—from high-quality inflatable spas to essential accessories. Browse our range today and enjoy ultimate relaxation with confidence!
