How to Clean a Hot Tub Filter

Ensuring proper maintenance of your hot tub filter is essential for a clean and enjoyable hot tub experience. Just like the air filter in a car, the hot tub filter plays a crucial role in trapping particles and contaminants, keeping the water pristine. However, as time goes by, the filter gradually becomes clogged and loses its efficiency. That’s why we have put together this comprehensive guide, providing you with step-by-step instructions on how to effectively clean and replace your hot tub filters, maximizing their lifespan and maintaining optimal performance.

The Importance of Hot Tub Filter Maintenance

To truly understand the importance of filter maintenance, it’s necessary to grasp how the filter functions. Composed of fibrous fabric, the hot tub filter acts as a barrier, capturing debris as water flows through it. However, as dirt and debris accumulate over time, the filter becomes obstructed, leading to a decrease in its effectiveness. By adhering to a regular maintenance routine, you can ensure that your filter remains clear of impurities and continues to provide you with clean water, creating the perfect environment for a relaxing hot tub experience.

Different Types of Bullfrog Spas Filters

Bullfrog Spas currently features two types of filters to cater to different spa models and meet specific filtration needs. The first type is the Simplicity Flat Filters, which are utilized in A Series spas (2023 and onward), Swim Series Spas, and M Series Spas. The second type is the traditional pleated cylindrical filter cartridges, which are used in A Series Spas (2022 and prior), R Series spas, X Series spas, and STIL spas. Depending on which spa and filters you have, the maintenance schedule and instructions differ. Be sure to follow the instructions for your specific spa.

Simplicity™ Flat Filter Cleaning and Maintenance

A Series Spas (2023 and onward), Swim Series Spas, and M Series Spas

It is recommended that the pleated flat Simplicity filter be cleaned or replaced every 4 weeks, or sooner if needed. You may prefer to simply replace monthly, or Simplicity filters can be cleaned by spraying along the pleats from one side of the filter to the other with a garden hose and nozzle, then rinsing thoroughly. Even with regular cleaning, Simplicity filters will eventually become less effective and should be replaced at least every 12-16 weeks.

Steps for Cleaning and Replacing:

Step 1: Turn off main power to the spa.

Step 2: Remove the JetPak in front of the Simplicity filter housing (this is the first JetPak to the right of main control)

Step 3: Remove the Simplicity Filter holder. Reach down into the jet pod and grasp the handle. Push toward the inside of the spa and lift up to remove from the housing. Place the unit on a flat surface with the filter facing up.

Step 4: Remove and replace the filter. To remove the Simplicity Filter, compress the pleats and push forward. Lift the edge of the filter past the capture tab. This will allow you to lift the used filter from the filter holder. Clean filter by spraying along the pleats from one side of the filter to the other with a garden hose and nozzle, then rinsing thoroughly. Replace the filter. Orient the filter media with the glue lines facing upward. Slide one end of the filter under the retention tabs, and then press in and down to tuck the remainder of the filter into the frame.

Step 5: Reinstall the Simplicity Filter holder back into the pod, by aligning the bottom of the unit in the housing with the handle up and snap the filtration unit into place in the housing with a back and down motion.

Step 6: Replace the JetPak.

Step 7: Restore the main power to the spa.

Cylindrical Filter Cleaning and Maintenance

A Series Spas (2022 & prior), R Series Spas, X Series Spas, and STIL Spas

It is recommended that pleated cylindrical filter cartridges be cleaned every 3-6 weeks or as needed. Spas equipped with the optional circulation pump system may require increased cleaning intervals based on use and local water conditions. These filters are typically replaced every 1-2 years depending on spa use.

Steps for Cleaning and Replacing:

Step 1: Turn off main power to the spa.

Step 2: Remove filter cap and filter plate.

Step 3: Remove the pleated cartridge(s) by turning the filtercore cap(s) counter clockwise then sliding the cartridge(s) upward from the filter core.

Step 4: Using a garden hose with a nozzle or other high pressure device, clean cartridge(s). Work first from the inside, top to bottom on each pleat then from the outside, top to bottom on each pleat. To remove collected lotions or body oils, soak cartridge(s) in warm water with a filter cleaner or detergent. To remove calcium deposits, soak cartridge(s) in a plastic container using a 1:10 ratio of muriatic acid to water solution. Calcium deposits indicate a high spa pH, which should be corrected. NOTE: Filter(s) must be cleaned with a filter cleaner/degreaser before attempting to remove calcium and mineral deposits with any acidic based product. Using a brush to clean a filter cartridge could cause damage to the filter media.

Step 5: Reinstall cartridges(s) by aligning the cartridge slot with the filter core fin; reinstall the filter core cap(s), filter plate, and filter cap.

Step 6: Restore main power to the spa.

Key Takeaways

In conclusion, maintaining your hot tub filter is vital for ensuring a clean and enjoyable spa experience. Regularly cleaning or replacing the filters helps to prevent debris buildup and maintains the filter’s efficiency in removing impurities from the water. Bullfrog Spas offers different types of filters, so it is essential to follow the specific maintenance instructions for your spa model.

Enjoy the benefits of crystal-clear water and a pristine hot tub environment by prioritizing your hot tub filter’s care.