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Your hot tub filter might be out of sight, but it should never be out of mind. One of the simplest — and most overlooked — ways to reduce chemical use and keep your spa water clean is by properly maintaining your filters. In this post, we’ll explain: Why filters matter How often to clean and replace them How poor filter maintenance leads to excess chemical use Tips to maximise filter life and water quality Where to get reliable, eco-conscious chemicals that actually work Why Your Hot Tub Filter Matters Your filter is the first line of defence against dirt, debris, oils, and other contaminants. Without a properly functioning filter, your water quickly becomes cloudy, unbalanced, and much harder to treat — leading to higher chemical usage  and more frequent drain-downs . In short: a clean filter means your chemicals can work efficiently  — not overtime. How Often Should You Clean and Replace Filters? Clean every 1–2 weeks - Rinse your filter with fresh water to remove surface debris and oils. Avoid using harsh detergents — these can damage the filter and leave residue in your spa. Deep clean every 4–6 weeks - Use a specialist hot tub filter cleaner (like our Spa Fuel Filter Clean ) to soak and flush out stubborn build-up. Replace every 12 months - Even with regular care, filters degrade over time. An old, worn-out filter won’t trap particles effectively, meaning your chemicals have to work harder — which drives up your chemical costs and water waste. What Happens If You Don’t Maintain Your Filter? Chemicals like chlorine or bromine are used up faster You’ll notice cloudy or foamy water You might battle constant pH and alkalinity imbalances You’ll need to drain and refill more often — wasting hundreds of litres  of water This isn’t just bad for your hot tub — it’s also bad for the planet. 🌍 Tips for Cleaner Filters and Lower Chemical Use Stick to a maintenance schedule  — set calendar reminders or use a maintenance log Keep a spare filter on hand  — rotate them to allow proper drying between uses Use enzyme-based cleaners  — they break down oils and organics more effectively Check your filter housing  — a clogged or loose-fitting filter won’t do its job Looking for High-Quality, Eco-Friendly Hot Tub Chemicals? At Spa Fuel , we offer a full range of premium spa-safe chemicals designed to be: ✅ Gentle on skin✅ Safe for holiday let compliance (HSG282)✅ Highly effective — so you use less , not more✅ Compatible with all hot tub systems From chlorine granules and pH balancers to filter cleaners and fragrance crystals, we’ve got everything you need to care for your hot tub the smarter, greener way. 📦 Delivered direct to your door 🌍 Better for the environment 💧 Backed by spa experts Spa Fuel: Smarter, Greener Hot Tub Care We're not just here to sell — we're here to help . Spa Fuel is built around real solutions for real hot tub owners, with expert advice and sustainable products that make maintenance easier, cleaner, and more eco-conscious. Explore our blog  for more maintenance tips or reach out anytime for advice. Less chemicals. Less waste. More peace of mind. That’s the Spa Fuel way. 💚 #HotTubTips #SpaFuel #EcoSpaCare #FilterMaintenance #SaveWater #GreenLiving #HotTubChemicals

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.

Owning a hot tub or spa is one of life’s great luxuries—but with great bubbles comes great responsibility! Whether you're soaking to relax, ease sore muscles, or enjoy a little slice of serenity at home, spa chemicals  are what keep your water clean, safe, and crystal clear. In this guide, we break down the must-know facts about spa chemicals—what they do, why they matter, and how to use them properly. Why Are Spa Chemicals Important? Unlike pools, hot tubs have smaller water volumes and higher temperatures. This makes them the perfect breeding ground for bacteria if not maintained correctly. Spa chemicals help: Kill harmful bacteria and viruses Balance water pH to prevent skin and eye irritation Protect your spa equipment from corrosion and scale buildup Keep water clear, clean, and inviting The Core Spa Chemicals You Need - Here’s a quick overview of the essentials: 1. Sanitiser (Chlorine or Bromine) These are your front-line defenders, killing bacteria and keeping your water safe. Chlorine works fast and is widely available. Bromine is gentler on skin and works better at higher temperatures. 2. pH Balancers Your water’s pH should be between 7.2 and 7.8. If it's too high or low, it can cause skin irritation and damage your spa. Use pH Increaser or pH Reducer to keep things balanced. 3. Alkalinity Adjuster This stabilizes your pH and prevents wild fluctuations. Keep total alkalinity between 80–120 ppm. 4. Shock Treatments A weekly shock treatment breaks down organic contaminants like sweat, oils, and lotions. Use non-chlorine shock for a quick, odourless refresh. Use chlorine shock for a deeper clean when needed. 5. Water Clarifiers & Foam Reducers Clarifiers bind tiny particles into larger ones so your filter can remove them. Foam reducers help eliminate that bubbly film caused by oils and detergents. Simple Spa Care Routine Frequency Task Daily / 2–3 days Test pH and sanitizer using Insta4 strips  (included in kits; see kits above) Weekly Apply Non‑Chlorine Shock ; add Spa Clarifier  or No Foam  as needed Monthly Clean filters and vinyl; run Spa Flush  (found in XL Starter Kit) Every 3–4 months Drain, refill, and restart maintenance with a kit Bonus Tip: Choose Spa-Safe Fragrances Want to add scent to your soak? Make sure you’re using spa-safe aromatherapy crystals  or liquids. Regular bath products can mess with your water chemistry and even damage your spa. The Bottom Line Taking care of your spa doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right spa chemicals and a simple routine, your hot tub will stay clean, safe, and ready whenever you need to unwind . Looking for high-quality, easy-to-use spa chemicals? [ Shop our full range here → https://www.spafuel.co.uk/category/all-products

Keeping your hot tub water clean, clear, and safe is essential — and that means using the right sanitiser. For most hot tub owners, that comes down to one big question: Should I use chlorine granules or chlorine tablets? Both are effective at sanitising your spa, but they work in slightly different ways. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each so you can decide which is right for your setup. What Are Chlorine Granules? Chlorine granules  are fast-dissolving, powdered chlorine that you manually add to your hot tub water. ✅ Pros of Chlorine Granules: Fast-acting  – Quickly raises chlorine levels, ideal for shock treatments or rapid response. More control  – You can fine-tune your dosage based on water volume and condition. Dissolves quickly  – No residue left behind if used correctly. Great for occasional users  – Perfect if you don’t use your spa daily and just want to sanitise before and after use. ❌ Cons of Chlorine Granules: Manual dosing required  – You’ll need to test your water more frequently and add chlorine as needed. Not automated  – No slow-release; needs regular attention. What Are Chlorine Tablets? Chlorine tablets  are slow-dissolving, compressed chlorine that you place in a floating dispenser or inline feeder. ✅ Pros of Chlorine Tablets: Slow-release  – Provides a steady, consistent level of sanitiser over time. Low-maintenance  – Great for busy hot tub owners or holiday lets. Convenient  – Less frequent dosing required. ❌ Cons of Chlorine Tablets: Slower to act  – Not ideal for shock treatments or quick fixes. Can lead to over-chlorination  – If left too long in a small spa, chlorine levels can spike. Can lower pH  – Over time, tablets may acidify your water and require balancing. So, Which One Should You Use? That depends on how you use your hot tub : For frequent, hands-on users: Chlorine granules offer more control and are great for regular testing and tweaking. For hotels, rentals, or low-maintenance setups: Chlorine tablets provide a convenient, slow-dissolving option that keeps your water clean with less effort. Our Recommendation For many hot tub owners, the best approach is a combination  of both: Use chlorine granules  to shock the water or quickly boost sanitiser levels. Use chlorine tablets  for consistent maintenance in between. Whichever you choose, always test your water regularly  and follow dosage instructions to keep things balanced, safe, and soak-ready. The difference between Chlorine Granules and Chlorine Tablets

One key part of this is raising awareness of Legionnaires’ Disease —a rare but serious lung infection caused by Legionella  bacteria. Although the risk is very low for most hot tub users, simple precautions can significantly reduce the chance of exposure. What Is Legionnaires’ Disease? Legionnaires’ Disease is a severe form of pneumonia contracted by inhaling tiny droplets of water that contain Legionella  bacteria. These bacteria naturally exist in water but thrive in warm, stagnant environments—especially where hygiene is poor. Important:  You cannot catch Legionnaires’ Disease from drinking water or from other people. Common Sources of Legionella Legionella  is typically linked to large or poorly maintained water systems, such as: Cooling towers and HVAC systems Hot and cold water systems in hotels, hospitals, and office blocks Unused taps or showers Decorative fountains, humidifiers, and misting systems Whirlpool baths in gyms or salons Public facilities have a legal duty to manage these risks through professional maintenance and regular assessments. Who Is Most at Risk? While anyone can get Legionnaires’ Disease, certain groups are more vulnerable: Adults over 45 Smokers and heavy drinkers People with chronic illnesses (e.g. diabetes, asthma) Individuals with weakened immune systems Recognising the Symptoms Symptoms usually appear within 2–14 days of exposure and resemble pneumonia: High fever and chills Persistent cough (with or without mucus) Muscle aches Confusion or mental changes If symptoms follow hot tub use or exposure to any water system, seek immediate medical help and mention potential Legionella  exposure. Early treatment with antibiotics like clarithromycin is essential. Hot Tubs and Legionnaires’ Disease: What You Need to Know Hot tubs, like any warm water system that produces mist or spray, can harbor Legionella  if not properly maintained. The good news? With regular care, the risk is extremely low. To keep your hot tub safe: Use continuous disinfectant  (e.g., chlorine or bromine) as per manufacturer guidance. Test the water  before each use at home, and at least twice daily in business settings (every 2 hours in commercial spas). Log all test results and maintenance , keeping records for at least five years (for business/commercial use). Follow BISHTA Standards , and health and safety guidelines like HSG 282 (HSE) and PWTAG's resources for business settings. Business operators should use commercial-grade spa systems designed for high bather loads and water turnover. Prevention Starts with Good Practice Legionnaires’ Disease is extremely rare in well-maintained hot tubs. Whether at home or in a business setting, following proper water treatment protocols is the best way to stay safe. BISHTA urges all hot tub professionals to stay updated on current guidance and ensure staff are trained in Water Hygiene Management . Training is available through BISHTA. Expert Help from BISHTA Members Every BISHTA member must have at least one staff member trained in Water Hygiene Management—many have several. This ensures customers receive reliable advice and safe water care practices. When you buy from or consult a BISHTA member, you get access to expert support. If you have questions about water testing, disinfectant use, or spa maintenance, your local BISHTA member is there to help.

Life gets busy, and sometimes your hot tub may sit unused for weeks or even months. But what happens to your water and spa during that downtime? Understanding this can help you avoid surprises and keep your spa ready for a relaxing soak whenever you’re ready. Water Quality Declines Even when not in use, your hot tub water is a living environment. Without regular circulation and chemical maintenance, bacteria and algae can start to grow, leading to cloudy, smelly, or slimy water. The chemicals you added will naturally break down over time, reducing their effectiveness. Filters Can Get Clogged If the water isn’t circulating, debris and contaminants settle, making your filters work harder or clogging them altogether. Dirty filters reduce water quality and can cause damage if left unattended. Potential Equipment Damage Standing water with unbalanced chemistry can lead to scale build-up, corrosion, or biofilm forming inside pipes and jets. Over time, this can shorten the life of your spa’s pump, heater, and other components. What Should You Do? Run the jets and circulation daily  for at least 15-20 minutes, even if you’re not soaking. Test and adjust water chemistry weekly  to keep sanitiser and pH levels in check. Use a Spa Flush product  before a long break to clean the plumbing and prevent biofilm build-up. Consider draining and refilling  if you plan to leave it unused for several months. Spa Fuel PRO Tip: When you’re ready to use your hot tub again, test the water thoroughly and rebalance with Spa Fuel’s colour-matched essentials. Our easy system makes restoring perfect water balance quick and stress-free. Don’t let your hot tub sit neglected—proper care during downtime keeps your hot tub ready for relaxation anytime!

Why Is My pH Level Constantly High or Low? If you're finding that your hot tub’s pH level keeps drifting too high or too low, even after adjusting it, you're not alone—this is a common issue for many spa owners. Understanding the cause can help you take control and maintain a better balance in your water. Common Reasons for Fluctuating pH Levels: 1. Bather Load & Products Body oils, lotions, perfumes, and even sweat can alter your water’s pH. The more people using your spa, the more impact on your water chemistry—especially if they’re not rinsing off before getting in. 2. Source Water The pH of your tap water varies depending on where you live. If you’re filling from a source with naturally high or low pH, you’ll need to manage this from the start with the right balancing products. 3. Unbalanced Alkalinity Total Alkalinity acts like a buffer for pH. If it's too low, your pH will swing dramatically. If it's too high, it can lock your pH in an unwanted range. Always balance alkalinity first before adjusting pH. 4. Inconsistent Chemical Use Adding too much pH increaser or reducer can lead to a see-saw effect. Use small, measured amounts and allow time between adjustments for accurate results. 5. Old or Stressed Water Over time, hot tub water absorbs dissolved solids that make it harder to manage. If your water is overworked or hasn’t been changed in a while, it might be time for a drain, flush, and refill. Spa Fuel PRO Tip: Use your LaMotte test strips regularly and match the colours to your Spa Fuel pH Increaser or Reducer packaging. Our colour-coded system takes the guesswork out of balancing and makes it easier to spot when your water is off track. Consistent testing, correct order of adjustments, and quality products like Spa Fuel essentials are the key to keeping your pH in check—and your hot tub water feeling just right.

If you’ve tested your spa water and found the alkalinity is consistently high—even after refilling—it’s likely due to your local water source . Some regions have hard water or mineral-rich supplies that naturally raise the alkalinity level. While this isn’t uncommon, it does make hot tub care a little more hands-on. Why High Alkalinity Is a Problem: Locks your pH  in the wrong range Causes cloudy water and scale build-up Reduces the effectiveness of sanitisers Can lead to skin or eye irritation How to Lower It: Use an alkalinity reducer  – Add small, measured doses of a product specifically designed to lower total alkalinity. Spa Fuel’s pH Reducer (which also affects alkalinity) can help—just follow the instructions carefully. Circulate the water  – Run your jets to help distribute the chemical evenly. Test and repeat  – Wait a few hours after each adjustment before retesting. It may take several rounds to bring it down into the ideal range (80–120 ppm). Balance pH afterwards  – Lowering alkalinity may also drop your pH below the ideal level. If needed, bring the pH back up using a small amount of pH Increaser. Spa Fuel PRO Tip: Always test alkalinity before adjusting pH , as it stabilises the water. Use your LaMotte test strips, and match the result to Spa Fuel’s colour-coded packaging for clear guidance on which product to use next. High alkalinity is manageable with the right approach—and the right products. Keep your water balanced and your spa experience stress-free with Spa Fuel.

Can I Use My Hot Tub Without Chlorine or Bromine? Technically, yes—you can  run a hot tub without chlorine or bromine, but it’s not recommended unless you're using a proven alternative sanitising system. Without a proper sanitiser, your hot tub becomes a warm breeding ground for bacteria, algae, and harmful microbes that can cause skin irritation, cloudy water, or even serious health risks. What Happens Without a Sanitiser? Bacteria and biofilm  grow quickly in warm water Water becomes cloudy or smelly Filters and plumbing clog faster , leading to damage Risk of skin infections  or hot tub rash increases What Are the Alternatives? Some people use systems like UV or ozone  combined with minerals  or non-chlorine shock , but even these usually require a small amount of chlorine or bromine  to be effective. These systems can reduce chemical use—but they don’t eliminate the need for sanitisation entirely. Spa Fuel PRO Tip: If you're looking for a low-chemical routine , Spa Fuel essentials can help you keep control with minimal hassle. Stick to a clear, balanced routine, use our colour-coded system to guide you, and always ensure your water is properly sanitised—whether with traditional methods or modern alternatives. Bottom line:  A hot tub without chlorine or bromine isn’t worth the risk. Clean water = safe soaking.

Regular testing is one of the easiest—and most important—steps in keeping your hot tub water clean, safe, and enjoyable. But how often should you actually be testing it? Here's a simple rule of thumb: You should test your hot tub water at least 2 to 3 times a week , and always before using it. Water chemistry can change quickly depending on how often your spa is used, the number of bathers, weather conditions, and whether you’ve recently topped up the water or added chemicals. Testing helps you catch imbalances early, before they lead to issues like cloudy water, skin irritation, or damage to your hot tub components. When to test more frequently: After heavy use or parties After rain or topping up with tap water If the water looks or smells different When adjusting or adding chemicals Spa Fuel Pro Tip: Use LaMotte test strips and match your results to the colour-coded Spa Fuel packaging—making it simple to know which product to use, and when. When the colours align, your water’s in perfect balance. Consistent testing is the key to hassle-free hot tub care. A few seconds now saves you hours of maintenance later.

Absolutely—cleaning and changing your hot tub filters plays a key role in how well your chemicals work. Your filter is the first line of defence against dirt, oils, and debris in your spa water. If it becomes clogged or dirty, your sanitiser (like chlorine or bromine) has to work harder to keep the water clean. This means you'll often find yourself using more chemicals, seeing unbalanced water, or dealing with issues like cloudiness and foaming, even if you’re adding the right products. Here's how filter maintenance supports chemical balance: Improves water flow  – Clean filters allow water to circulate properly, helping chemicals distribute evenly throughout your spa. Boosts sanitiser efficiency  – Less debris means your sanitiser can focus on killing bacteria, not fighting off oils and grime. Prevents chemical overload  – When filters are neglected, you might overcompensate with chemicals, which can throw off your water balance and lead to skin or equipment irritation. Extends the life of your water  – A clean filter helps you get the most out of every water fill by maintaining clarity and balance longer. Spa Fuel PRO Tip: Rinse your filters weekly, use a filter cleaning solution monthly, and replace them every 12 months  or as recommended by your manufacturer. Regular filter care, combined with Spa Fuel’s colour-coded essentials, makes it easier to maintain crystal-clear, balanced water without the guesswork. Clean filter = cleaner water = less chemical hassle. Simple.

For clean, safe, and enjoyable spa water, you should drain and refill your hot tub every 3 to 4 months —even if you're keeping your water balanced with chemicals. Over time, your spa water accumulates dissolved solids from body oils, cosmetics, and chemical residues that your filter and sanitiser can't fully remove. This build-up can make water harder to manage, less comfortable to soak in, and can even shorten the life of your components. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide when it’s time: Regular use (2–3 times a week):  Every 3–4 months Heavy use (daily or by multiple users):  Every 2–3 months Infrequent use:  Up to 4 months, but always monitor water quality We recommend pairing your refill with a Spa Flush  to remove hidden biofilm in the pipework and a deep clean  of the surfaces and filters. Once refilled, use your Spa Fuel essentials  to rebalance the water correctly—our packaging colours match your test strip results to make this process simple and fool proof. 💧 Tip:  Set a reminder or schedule it with the seasons—drain in spring, summer, autumn, and before winter shutdown if you close your spa.