Signs that it’s time to replace your filter are when:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n I’m going to explain exactly what to look for so you’re left in doubt as to when it’s time to order a replacement. Later on, I’ll show you six simple things you can do to prolong the filter’s lifespan and save you money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Filter cartridges are the kidneys of your hot tub, functioning to ensure everything stays healthy. Their importance means that it’s essential that they’re in good working order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here are the seven signs that it’s time to replace your filter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hot tub filters are designed to last approximately one year. Depending on the quality of your filter, it should be able to withstand 10 \u2013 15 chemical rinses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Filters are inexpensive and play a key role in keeping your spa clean and clear, so it’s not worth trying to save a few pennies by using them longer than you should.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Besides, any money you save by not replacing the filter will only be lost on having to add extra chemicals to balance the water due to lack of filtration. Worse still, dirty hot tub filters may even void your spa’s warranty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Spa filters naturally degrade over time. The constant flow of water causes the woven fibers to separate, allowing a greater number of larger and larger particles to pass through unfiltered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And because the filters become less and less efficient over time, they need to be cleaned more frequently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ironically, the damage to the fibers is exacerbated by the cleaning process, with the rinsing and cleaning also stretching the fibers apart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, rinsing and cleaning are part and parcel of filter maintenance and do not mean you shouldn’t bother.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you notice that the time between chemical rinses has increased to fortnightly instead of monthly, then it’s a sure sign that it’s time to replace the filter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even if you don’t use your spa all that often, or it’s been shut down for a long period of time, then you still need to replace the filter after 12 months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And if your hot tub sees a lot of action, or it regularly sees a high bather load, then it’s well worth replacing the filter more often.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In order to prolong the life of your filter and keep your hot tub running smoothly, you should have a regular cleaning routine<\/a> in place. For most users, it’s necessary to perform the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Despite the number of chemicals you use or how thorough you are, it becomes impossible to get the filter clean after a while. Once you notice that no amount of cleaning can get your filter looking like new, it’s time to replace it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As we’ve just seen, it should only be necessary to rinse your filter cartridge with a chemical spray once per month to keep the water flowing freely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But if the filter is clogging up within just a few days of cleaning, then it’s likely coated with mineral scale or an oily film. Unfortunately, these can be very difficult to remove.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thorough cleaning between the fibers of the filter using spa filter cleaner and an Aqua Comb Every time you use your spa, you introduce contaminants that cause the water chemistry to become unbalanced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So long as the filter is in good working order, it’s able to filter out the majority of those contaminants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if the filter becomes clogged or is not positioned properly, it isn’t able to do its job, leading to cloudy water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Removing the filter and giving it a deep clean in a chemical soak Cloudy water is sometimes caused by a chemical imbalance, so you should test and balance the water at the same time you perform the chemical soak in case the clouding hasn’t been caused by the filter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But if the cloudy water returns shortly after cleaning the filter and balancing the water chemistry, then it’s time to replace the filter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you notice that the water exits the filter with decreased pressure, then it means that the filter is clogged with dirt and debris.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unlike a swimming pool, hot tubs are very small bodies of water. With each bather introducing contaminants, it doesn’t take long before there’s a large concentration of particles in the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to clouding, water that isn’t properly filtered can cause damage to the mechanical parts inside the spa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It also increases the amount of time it takes the spa to heat as the water isn’t able to flow as it should.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Again, carrying out a chemical soak and a thorough clean between the pleats might resolve the problem, but the filter must be replaced if it doesn\u2019t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Filters with cracks, splits, or holes don’t occur all that often, but it is entirely possible. Trying to repair a broken filter isn’t possible, so a replacement is the only option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Needless to say, cracks and holes of any size mean that the filter isn’t going to be able to prevent particles from passing through, leading to unsanitary water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cracks usually develop on the colored, rubber end caps or across the central support cage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cracks in the rubber end caps are often caused by a spa filter pump that’s too large for the size of the filter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If the pump is inappropriately sized for the filter, the extreme pressure can cause holes to develop, so make sure that the pump and filter are the right match.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Filters also need to be replaced if you notice that the tips of the pleated fabric are no longer smooth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When the edges of the pleats unravel, they become fuzzy, which reduces the filter’s ability to trap dirt and debris.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The problem is usually caused by cleaning the filter with excessive water pressure, imbalanced water, or using too much sanitizer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Metals such as iron can cause staining to occur on the filter fibers, turning them a light orange-brown color. It’s even possible that the filter to turn yellow, gray, green, or even purple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While a stained filter isn’t always a sign that immediate replacement is necessary, it’s something to keep an eye on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It can be difficult to remove staining completely using spa filter cleaner Heavy staining may cause areas of the filter cartridge to not work properly as the staining clogs the microscopic filter pores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re in any doubt as to whether your spa filter is able to filter out particulate matter, then order a replacement as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Regular maintenance not only prolongs the life of your filter but also your hot tub too. Here are six simple ways to increase the lifespan of your filter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Taking a quick shower dramatically reduces the number of contaminants you introduce into the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Care products such as shampoo, deodorant, hairspray, makeup, and so on cause the water chemistry to be thrown out of balance, increasing the number of chemicals needed and making your filter work extra hard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Rinsing your swimwear off with clean water instead of washing in laundry detergent is also an effective way to increase the filter’s lifespan as well as prevent foaming<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For most hot tub users, it’s recommended to perform a full water drain every three to four months. Getting rid of the water and starting afresh prevents your filter from becoming clogged up by old, stale water. Before draining, use Ahh-Some pipe cleaner<\/strong>\n
7 signs that you need a new spa filter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Filter is more than 12 months old<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Filter is impossible to get clean<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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3. Filter clogs up quickly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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<\/a><\/strong> that attaches to your hose for improved cleaning may work to remove debris, crusty deposits, and oils; however, the filter must be replaced if it continues to clog up shortly after cleaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Spa water becomes cloudy after cleaning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/strong> for 24 hours might well resolve the problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n5. Water flow is restricted<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Filter cartridge is damaged<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. Filter is heavily stained<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/strong>, but never be tempted to use harsh chemicals or alternative cleaning methods to get the fibers white again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n6 ways to prolong the life of your filter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Shower before getting in<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Frequently perform full water drains<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a> to get rid of any traces of biofilm lurking in the plumbing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n