Preparing Your Spa for Heavy Usage Seasons (Holiday Gatherings)

When big holiday gatherings approach, many spa owners start planning more frequent uses of their hot tubs. But increased use — especially under hot weather and with many guests — means you need to prepare carefully to keep water clean, avoid mechanical problems, and ensure a safe, enjoyable soak for everyone. Use the checklist below to get your spa ready for heavy-usage season.

Why Preparation Matters

• Water chemistry fluctuates faster: Warm ambient temperatures and frequent use can lead to rapid chemical imbalance and bacterial growth.

• Filters and plumbing get stressed: More jets, more circulation, more swimmers = more load on pumps and filters. Without proper maintenance, this can lead to cloudy water, reduced water flow, or pump/filter failure. 

• Cover and water loss risks increase: Heat, sun exposure and evaporation may lower water level — which can harm pumps — and degrade spa covers or shells if left open too long.

Pre-Season Spa Readiness Checklist

Here’s what every spa owner should do before the heavy-use season starts (summer, holiday gatherings, weekends, etc.):

• Inspect & Clean Everything

• Empty and deep-clean the spa: Drain, scrub the shell (interior), jets, and seating surface with a non-abrasive cleaner. This removes built-up oils, residues, and contaminants. 

• Clean or replace filters: Rinse filters thoroughly; if they’re old, worn, or clogged beyond cleaning — replace them. Filters are critical to water clarity and preventing strain on the circulation system. 

• Inspect plumbing & pump system: Look for leaks, check pump operation, ensure seals/unions are tight, and that jets operate properly. Preventative check helps avoid breakdowns during heavy use. 

• Balance Water Chemistry & Sanitation

• Test and adjust pH, alkalinity, hardness, sanitizer before filling the spa. Proper balance helps avoid skin irritation, scale buildup, and protects equipment. 

• Establish a more frequent water-testing schedule: For busy periods — weekly testing, or even more often if spa sees heavy use. This helps keep sanitizer levels stable and water safe.

• Use sanitizer / disinfectant appropriately (chlorine, bromine or other recommended spa chemicals) before, during and after gatherings, especially if many people will use the spa in a short period. 

• Manage Water Level, Temperature & Cover Usage

• Monitor water level regularly — heat and frequent use causes evaporation, and low water can damage pumps/jets. Top off as needed. 

• Lower water temperature in hot weather — Instead of a typical “hot soak,” consider dropping to a cooler, more refreshing temp (or as recommended by spa manufacturer) to stay comfortable and save energy. 

• Use a good cover and keep it on when spa is not in use — protects against debris, reduces evaporation, and helps maintain water quality and temperature. 

Recommended Spa Products & Accessories for Heavy-Usage Season

Since you run a parts & supplies store, these items can be very useful to highlight (and sell) right before peak usage seasons:

• High-quality spa filter cartridges — ensure optimal water flow and filtration under heavy load.

• Filter cleaner solutions — for cleaning/reusing filters, or preparedness to swap filters quickly after gatherings.

• Water test kits / test strips — convenient for frequent testing before/after heavy use.

• Sanitizers & pH/alkalinity adjusters — since chemical demand increases with frequent use, good stock is essential.

• Spa shell cleaners & non-abrasive cleaning tools (brushes, soft cloths) — for deep cleaning between cycles.

• Covers (insulated / UV-resistant) and spa-cover protectants — to keep spa water safe when not used and protect spa from sun / heat damage.

• Spare jets / O-rings / seals / gaskets / plumbing fittings — heavy usage may cause wear; having spares handy helps quick repairs or maintenance without downtime.

• Water-level adjust tools / filler accessories — makes it easy to top off water after evaporation or heavy use groups.

Suggested Routine During Heavy-Use Season

Here’s a recommended routine to follow while running your spa frequently: