How to Maintain Your Hot Tub Water Effectively During a Hosepipe Ban

As summer temperatures rise, so do water usage restrictions—and that often means hosepipe bans. If you're a hot tub owner, this can feel like a major hurdle. But don’t worry: with the right maintenance routine, you can keep your hot tub clean, clear, and safe without needing to refill it.

Here’s how to keep your hot tub water sparkling during a hosepipe ban:

First, Know the Rules

Hosepipe bans vary slightly by region and water company. Most bans prohibit the use of hoses to fill or top up hot tubs, but using buckets or water butts (collected rainwater) might still be permitted. Always check with your local water authority.

1. Keep Your Water Chemistry Balanced

A well-balanced hot tub is the first line of defence against cloudy or unsanitary water.

• Test water at least twice a week using test strips or digital testers.

• Maintain these ideal levels:

  • Chlorine/Bromine: 3–5 ppm (chlorine), 4–6 ppm (bromine)

  • pH: 7.2–7.6

  • Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

  • Hardness: 150–250 ppm

Tip: If your sanitizer levels drop, bacteria can multiply fast—especially in hot weather. Keep a close eye!

2. Shock Your Water Weekly

Shocking your hot tub oxidizes contaminants and keeps the water fresh. Use a non-chlorine shock or a chlorine-based oxidizer to break down oils, sweat, and cosmetics that standard sanitizers can’t handle alone.

3. Clean Your Filters Weekly

Your hot tub filter is your best friend during a hosepipe ban.

• Remove and rinse your filters once a week.

• Use a filter cleaner spray every 2–3 weeks to break down oils and scum.

• Consider rotating between two filter sets, so one can soak while the other’s in use.

4. Pre-Rinse Before Every Dip

Encourage everyone to shower before getting in. This simple habit dramatically reduces the amount of body oils, lotions, and debris that end up in the water.

Bonus: Consider installing an outdoor rinse station near your tub if you're hosting guests frequently.

5. Use a Spa Water Clarifier

Clarifiers bind together small particles into larger ones that your filter can trap. Add a clarifier weekly to keep your water crystal-clear, especially if it starts looking cloudy.

6. Maintain the Right Temperature

Lowering your water temperature to around 35°C (95°F) instead of max heat reduces evaporation, sanitizer breakdown, and strain on your chemicals. You’ll also use less energy!

7. Cover It Properly

Always keep your hot tub covered when not in use. A high-quality, insulated spa cover:

• Prevents water evaporation (critical during bans)

• Protects from leaves, insects, and rainwater

• Helps maintain stable water chemistry

Bonus Tip: Try Spa Water Conditioner or Enzyme Products

Products like spa enzymes or water conditioners help break down organic contaminants, improving water clarity and reducing chemical demand. They’re a smart addition when water changes aren’t an option.

Avoid the Need to Drain

If your water is over 12 weeks old, you're probably due for a change—but with a hosepipe ban in place, you’ll need to prolong its life. By following the tips above, many hot tub owners safely extend water life for 16–20 weeks.

What If You Have to Drain?

If you encounter foamy, smelly, or green water that can’t be treated, contact your local authority to request a hot tub exemption or seek professional servicing using portable water tanks.

Final Thought

With just a few smart tweaks, your hot tub can stay hygienic and inviting throughout the hosepipe ban—no refills required. Prevention is key, so stay consistent, act early, and your spa will thank you.

Need help or supplies? At Spa Fuel, we’ve got everything you need to maintain your hot tub safely during water restrictions—from chemical bundles to enzyme kits and insulated covers.