So, you’ve received your hot tub—what’s next? Many new hot tub owners don’t know where to start, and that’s totally OK! With a bit of guidance, you’ll feel confident in the first steps of hot tub ownership. Let’s get you off to the right start so you can enjoy every soak from day one.
1. Fill ‘Er Up!
Grab your garden hose and place it inside the filter housing of your hot tub. Go ahead and fill your hot tub until the water fully covers the lights and jets! Do not power up your hot tub before completing this step!
2. Install the Filters
Then, screw the filter housing lid back on.
3. Power It Up and Run the Jets
It’s time to power it up! Plug it in (or turn on the breaker if it’s hardwired). Press the “temp up” button. You should see some numbers pop up on screen (diagnostics)–ensure that either “120V” or “240v” pops up (depending on which one your spa is). If one of these numbers don’t pop up, contact us or your electrician. Once your screen says “----F”, set the temperature using the temp buttons (once you see your desired temperature, you’re all set!). Run the jets for a few minutes to ensure the pump is working smoothly and there are no airlocks.
4. Let it Heat Up
Press the temperature button and set your temperature to around 98-102°F (37-39°C) —the sweet spot for most hot tub users. Be patient; heating your tub for the first time can take several hours, so give it time before you plan your first soak.
5. Check Your Water Chemistry
Only after the water has been heated until at least 85°F, you’ll want to check and balance the alkalinity, then pH of your water. Dip your test strip in horizontally, add in alkalinity booster as needed, and if your pH isn’t between 7.2-7.6, adjust it using pH up or down chemicals. Since the water is fresh, you don’t need to add chlorine just yet–add it just before your second soak. Remember: Keep your cover off and jets on when adding chemicals.
Check out our guide on hot tub chemical basics for more info: Hot Tub Chemicals: All You Need to Know or this visual guide!
6. Enjoy Your New Hot Tub!
With your hot tub filled, balanced, and warmed up, it’s time to relax. Keep the water in top shape by regularly testing alkalinity, pH and adding sanitizer as needed.
Owning a hot tub is easy when you know the basics! We hope this was a quick, helpful guide so you know everything you need to know for countless relaxing moments. For tips on hot tub maintenance, check out our other blogs!