Top 5 Hot Tub Myths – BUSTED!

By The Hot Tub Pros | Professional Hot Tub Cleaning & Maintenance in King County, WA
https://thehottubpros.com/

You’ve invested in a hot tub — nice move! But whether you’re a spa newbie or a longtime owner, misinformation is everywhere. These common hot tub myths can cause water problems, higher costs, and unnecessary wear and tear.

Let’s bust the top 5 myths that might be quietly sabotaging your soak — and show you how to do things the right way!

1️⃣ “If I don’t use it, I don’t need to add chemicals.”

BIG myth.
Even if your spa sits untouched, the water inside is still active — accumulating bacteria, algae spores, and organics from the air, cover, and plumbing lines.

When untreated, stagnant water can:

• Turn into a swampy mess

• Grow slime, algae, and biofilm

• Corrode equipment and leave unpleasant odors

Hot tubs aren’t passive water features — they’re closed-loop systems that need consistent care.

Pro Tip:

• Test and balance water weekly, even if you haven’t used it.

• Set reminders or sign up for our Silver Service Package to ensure your tub stays safe year-round.

2️⃣ “My hot tub water looks clear, so it must be clean.”

False. Clear ≠ Clean.
Water can look crystal-clear and still harbor bacteria, viruses, and organic debris that your eyes can’t detect.

Invisible threats include:

• Body oils, lotions, sweat

• Detergent residue from swimwear

• Mold or biofilm inside plumbing

That “clean” look? It could be false security unless you’re actively sanitizing and shocking the water.

Want peace of mind?
Read our guide:
Hot Tub Chemicals 101 – A Beginner’s Guide to Balanced Water

3️⃣ “Filters only need to be changed once a year.”

Wrong — and potentially damaging.
Your filter is your spa’s first line of defense against dirt, oil, and grime.

The reality:

• Filters should be rinsed weekly

• Sprayed with instant cartridge cleaner monthly

• Replaced every 12–18 months depending on usage

A clogged or worn-out filter causes:

• Reduced flow

• Cloudy water

• Increased stress on the pump and heater

Check out our full breakdown:
Hot Tub Filter 101 – Care, Cleaning & Replacement

4️⃣ “You don’t need to drain your hot tub if the water looks okay.”

False — this is a shortcut that backfires.
Even with proper sanitation, water slowly accumulates:

• Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

• Hairline oils and waste that build up over time

• Calcium scale and invisible sludge inside jet lines

When TDS is too high, your chemicals stop working efficiently and problems build up fast.

Our rule of thumb:
Drain and refill your spa every 3–4 months, or more often if you host frequent guests or use it heavily.

We offer full-service refresh drain and cleans — with surface sanitation, filter care, and a full chemical reset.

5️⃣ “All hot tub covers are the same.”

Wrong — and a bad cover can cost you.
Cheap, poorly-made, or waterlogged covers:

• Lose heat rapidly

• Soak up moisture, becoming heavy and dangerous

• Raise your electric bill and reduce spa insulation

Even worse? Sunlight damage.

UV rays are one of the biggest contributors to cover failure, especially if your spa is exposed to direct sun bouncing off walls or windows. Even UV-resistant treatments can degrade over time.

When should you replace it?
If it’s:

• Heavy
• Smells musty
• Sagging or cracked

See our full guide:
Is Your Hot Tub Cover Waterlogged? Here’s When to Replace It

Final Thought:

Hot tub myths can cost you more than just money — they cost peace of mind
Don’t let bad advice shorten your spa’s lifespan. The Hot Tub Pros are here to keep your water crystal-clear, your system healthy, and your downtime worry-free

Ready to debunk the myths in your own backyard?
Book your cleaning, consultation, or service today — we’ll take it from here