How long does a hot tub filter last depends on the type of filter cartridge and usage of the hot tub.
Most hot tub filter manufacturers specify their filters to last one to two years. When you follow your hot tub maintenance routine and clean your filter monthly your filter will easily last 12 months. However, it depends on the level of usage of the hot tub. If you have a large hot tub and a lot of people use it change the filter more often. When you need to clean the filter more often or add more sanitizer than normal it’s time to replace the filter cartridge.
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How long should a hot tub filter last?
Typically, a hot tub filter can last 1 or 2 years before requiring replacement.
When a person is immersed in a hot tub the dirt, sweat, skin flakes, hair, sunscreen, make-up, shampoo residue, etc. can make the relatively small volume of water become dirty very quickly. You know when you take a bath how dirty the water becomes in just 5 minutes of bathing. Hot tub water also becomes dirty very quickly.
That’s why the water must be sanitized with bromine (or chlorine) to kill bacteria and contaminants. The filter removes the dirt and dead bacteria from the water trapping it in the fabric element.
Every time you clean the filter cartridge the delicate fabric element is stretched and worn. This reduces the filter’s ability to trap fine particles of dirt. Eventually, the filter cartridge allows fine particles to pass through and your spa water is not as clean as it should be. The filter element has reached its half-life and will no longer filter the water as effectively as a new filter element.
Also deposits build up in the filter fabric that cannot be cleaned away. The fabric becomes discolored and no longer able to hold fine particles of dirt.
Now is the time for a new filter cartridge.
How do you check a hot tub filter?
How do I know when to replace my hot tub filter?
Most hot tub filter manufacturers recommend to replace the filter cartridge every 12 to 24 months. However, this is only a rough guide and you need to consider the usage level of your hot tub or spa. When a hot tub is heavily used the filters will become dirty quicker and require more frequent cleaning. However, the more you clean a filter element the more you shorten its life span.
My advice is to replace your filter cartridge more frequently to ensure the water is being adequately filtered. Hot tub filter cartridges are relatively cheap so it’s not worth the extra effort to try to make your filter elements last longer. I recommend to replace the filter cartridge twice a year. Replace it before the winter season which is usually when hot tubs are in heavy usage. I also recommend to replace the filter cartridge before summer as many people use their hot tub as a cool spa during the summer season.
Is the Spa Water clear?
When the spa water is not as clear and sparkling as it should be it’s time to replace the filter.
Are you using more sanitizer than normal?
When your filter is not working effectively you will find yourself using more sanitizer than normal to compensate for the poor filtration. And running the filter for a longer period of time doesn’t help when the filter doesn’t trap the fine particles of dirt.
Do you need to clean your filter more often?
Another way to tell if the filter cartridge has reached its half-life is when you have to clean the filter more frequently. Previously you found the filter needed cleaning once a month. Now you need to clean it twice a month to keep the water clear and clean.
Low water flow
When the filter cartridge becomes full of dirt and contaminants the water flow through the filter will be reduced. If the water flow is not improved after cleaning the filter, the filter element needs to be replaced.
How to make your hot tub filter last longer
- Don’t use household detergents on the filter element.
- Soak the filter in a mild chlorine or bromine solution for 15 minutes to kill bacteria.
- Don’t use a pressure washer. It will damage the delicate filter element.
- Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle.
- Don’t use a brush on the filter element.
- Use two filters. Install the clean filter while cleaning the dirty filter.
- Dry the filter in the sun after cleaning.
How to Clean Hot Tub Filters
How often should I clean my hot tub filter?
When you are actively using your spa clean the filter every two weeks. During the periods of less usage clean the filter every month.
Can you clean a hot tub filter in the dishwasher?
No, I don’t recommend cleaning a spa filter element in a dishwasher. The filter elements are delicate and contain a fine filter material which would be damaged in a dishwasher. Don’t use any type of household detergent on a spa filter element as it will damage it.
Can you run a hot tub without a filter?
Yes, you can run a hot tub without the filter cartridges but this process is only to flush out the plumbing pipes when cleaning the spa.
Do not run your hot tub without filters while bathing in the tub. Hot tubs only hold a relatively small volume of water which becomes dirty very quickly. Without the filter your spa water will be unsanitary and unhealthy for bathing. You run the risk of getting a skin rash or picking up a viral infection.
How often to change inflatable hot tub filter?
Inflatable hot tubs contain a small volume of water which can quickly become dirty. Sanitation and filtering the water only goes so far before the water becomes saturated with chemicals and dissolved solids. Inflatable hot tub filters are small and quickly become overwhelmed with dirt and deposits that cannot be cleaned away. I recommend replacing the filter every 3 months to guarantee your spa water will be clean and clear.
How long should I run my hot tub filter?
Please follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your brand of hot tub.
Most hot tubs are factory set to operate twice a day for two or three hours each cycle. You can vary the times and length of the filtering cycle depending on your personal requirements. When you hot tub usage increases you need to increase the filtration cycle time. When not using your spa you can decrease the filtration cycle time to save energy.
How often should I change my hot tub water?
The frequency that you change the water depends on the level of usage of the hot tub. When you follow your hot tub maintenance schedule and maintain correct water chemistry I recommend to change the water every quarter (3 months). I recommend starting each season with a clean hot tub, clean filter element and fresh water.
Please read our article on How Often Should You Change Your Hot Tub Water
Conclusion
Our team have over 30 years’ experience with hot tub care. I recommend to change your hot tub filter(s) at least every 12 months. With frequent cleaning you may extend the life of your filter element beyond 12 months. However, filter cartridges lose their filtering ability after 12 months and become less efficient exposing you to poorly filtered water. Hot tub filter cartridges are not expensive so change your filter more frequently to ensure your spa water remains clean and clear.
If you have any questions or comments fill out the comments section below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.