💦 Hot Tub Filter 101: How to Clean It, How Often, and When to Replace It

Brought to you by The Hot Tub Pros — your trusted source for expert spa care in King County, WA. In this post, we’re diving deep into one of the most important parts of your hot tub’s health: The Filter Cartridge!

Whether your water is looking cloudy, your spa just doesn’t smell right, or you’re experiencing flow issues — chances are your filter has something to do with it.

🧠 What Does a Hot Tub Filter Actually Do?

Here’s the truth: your filter doesn’t destroy contaminants — it traps them.

Every time you use your hot tub, your water collects:

• Body oils, lotions, and sweat
• Dirt, pollen, and hair
• Organic debris and fine particles

Your filter’s job is to store that debris — and if it’s not cleaned regularly, it quickly becomes a clogged sponge, reducing circulation and stressing your system.

🧽 How to Clean Your Hot Tub Filter (The Right Way)

Your hot tub filter is made of pleated paper media, designed to trap and hold debris — not let it go. And while a quick rinse helps remove surface dirt, it’s not enough to restore your filter’s full efficiency.

Quick Rinse – Every 1–2 Weeks

• Remove the filter according to your manufacturer’s instructions
• Rinse thoroughly with a hose, making sure to spray between the pleats
• Allow it to dry fully before reinstalling (or rotate with a spare)

Monthly Deep Clean – With Instant Cartridge Cleaner

To truly clean your filter and break down what’s embedded in the pleats, you’ll need a dedicated filter cartridge cleaner.

Pleated paper filter cartridges are designed to trap and hold onto debris, oils, and organic waste, which is why a rinse alone won’t do the trick.
Filter cleaners are specially formulated to break down:

• Body oils and lotions
• Organic waste
• Greasy buildup between pleats

Using a proper cleaner monthly not only restores your filter’s effectiveness — it also extends its lifespan and keeps your water safer.

How to use:
🧴 Spray thoroughly with instant cartridge cleaner
⏱️ Let it sit for 10–15 minutes
🚿 Rinse until water runs clean

✅ Never use dish soap — it causes foam and throws off your water chemistry.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a Spare on Hand
Having a second filter allows you to rotate while one dries or soaks. This gives your filters time to recover between uses and prevents rushing the process — especially important after monthly cleanings.

🔁 When Should You Replace Your Hot Tub Filter?

Filter replacement isn’t based on time — it’s based on condition.
With proper care, filters typically last 9–12 months, but the key is monthly inspection.

Replace your filter when:

• Pleats appear frayed, fuzzy, or worn
• It has a persistent odor
• It no longer rinses clean
• The material feels soft, spongey, or looks like cotton candy

If you’re unsure, send us a photo — we’re happy to help.

⚠️ Warning Signs of a Clogged or Failing Filter

Don’t ignore these red flags:

• Cloudy or foamy water
• Weak or uneven jet flow
• Longer heating times
• Flow or circulation error codes
• Gurgling or straining pump sounds

These issues often trace back to a dirty or worn-out filter — cleaning is your first line of defense.

🛠️ Don’t Want to Clean Your Filter Every Month? Let Us Handle It.

We get it — most hot tub owners would rather relax than scrub filters. That’s where we come in.

Our Silver Service Package is built for people just like you:

✅ Monthly filter cleanings with instant cartridge spray
✅ Basic chemical balancing (excluding sanitizer and shock)
✅ Visual inspection of spa components
✅ Priority scheduling & exclusive discounts

With professional service, you can enjoy your hot tub without the stress of routine maintenance.

➡️ Book Your Silver Service Package

❌ Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t use dish soap — it creates foam and throws off your chemistry
• Do use spa-safe products — instant filter sprays are fast, effective, and safe
• Don’t let filters sit wet — always dry fully before reinstalling or rotating

✅ Your Hot Tub Filter Checklist

Every 1–2 weeks:
☑️ Remove and rinse with a hose

Monthly:
☑️ Spray with instant filter cleaner
☑️ Rinse thoroughly
☑️ Rotate with a clean spare if possible
☑️ Inspect for wear or damage

Annually (or as needed):
☑️ Replace when pleats are worn, fuzzy, or no longer cleanable

⭐ Let’s Keep That Water Crystal Clear

Your filter is the heart of your hot tub’s water care.
Keep it clean, keep it rotating, and don’t wait too long to replace it.

And if you’d rather not do it yourself?
Let The Hot Tub Pros take care of it for you.

👉 Explore Service Packages
👉 Contact Us with Filter Questions