Hot tub

Hot tub maintenance: Step-by-step instructions

Step-by-step instructions [PDF]

Hot tub capacity: 200 gallons

JETSETTER (Model JJ): 

200 gallons (750 liters)

Salt: 4 cups (1150 grams)

Maintenance schedule

(1) Test the water weekly with 5-way test strip and salt test strip (and if needed, balance the water)

(2) Adjust Output level as needed: The recommended output level is 3 to 5. If spa is not used for an extended period of time, set to 1.

(3) Monthly checkup and cleaning: Test and balance the water and confirm output setting. Inspect cell. Clean filters.

(4) Every 90 days clean the ACE Cell. 

(5) Annually, change the water.

Test the water weekly with 5-way test strip and salt test strip (and if needed, balance the water)

Balance the water

How to add chemicals: All spa water chemicals must always be added directly into the filter compartment while the jet pump is running in its high-speed mode, and it must run for a minimum of ten minutes. After administering a super chlorination treatment or nonchlorine shock to your spa, leave the cover open for a minimum of 20 minutes to allow the oxidizer gas to vent. Adjust water components in this order:

(1) Hardness (calcium): If too high, lower it with the Vanishing Act Calcium Remover.

(2) Alkalinity: If too low, use Freshwater pH / Alkalinity Up (sodium hydrogen carbonate). If too high, use Freshwater pH / Alkalinity Down (sodium bisulfate). Raising/lowering alkalinity may cause the pH readings to fluctuate widely. Ignore the pH readings on the test strip while you are balancing the alkalinity. Once alkalinity is balanced, it normally remains stable until the next drain/ refill.

(3) pH: To lower the pH level, use Freshwater pH / Alkalinity Down (sodium bisulfate). To raise the pH level, use Freshwater pH / Alkalinity Up (sodium hydrogen carbonate).

(4) Chlorine: If too low, “shock” the water by adding FreshWater Concentrated Chlorinated Granules. You can also increase chlorine by using the Boost Function on the Output Level. You can reduce the chlorine level by allowing time to pass or adding hydrogen peroxide.

(5) Salt: With jets running, add salt to the filter compartment one cup at a time, and allow 5 minutes to dissolve. Estimated increase in ppm: 4 cups (1150 grams) = 360 ppm.

Filter cartridges - Removal and cleaning

(1) Disconnect the spa from the power supply by tripping both of the GFCI breakers located in the subpanel. Unplug power cord for 115V models.

(2) Remove and carefully set aside the filter compartment cover.

(3) Remove any floating items from within the filter compartment.

(4) Turn the filter retainer handle (located on the top of the filter cartridge) counterclockwise until the retainer can be removed from the filter standpipe.

(5) Remove the filter retainer and cartridge. IMPORTANT: Never remove the filter standpipes when debris is present in the filter compartment. Debris may find its way into the internal plumbing which may result in blockage. NEVER REMOVE SUCTION FITTINGS.

(6) Always clean standard filter using a filter degreaser, such as FRESHWATER Filter Cleaner, to remove mineral and oil buildup. Simply soak the filter in the degreaser according to the package directions, then place the filter on a clean surface and spray until clean using a garden hose. It may be necessary to rotate the filter while spraying to remove any debris lodged between the filter pleats. The Tri-X ® filter can be cleaned in the dishwasher using no soap and no dr cycle. Please contact your HOT SPRING dealer for details.

(7) To reinstall the filter cartridge, reverse the order of steps in which it was removed. Do not overtighten!

ACE Cell cleaning

The cell should be cleaned a minimum of every 3 months. Prevent Cell Damage: NEVER insert anything into the cell or pressure wash it. This will damage the electrodes.

1. Turn off the power to the spa. Open the spa cover and remove the filter lid.

2. Unscrew gray filter cap and gently pull the cell out of the filter.

3. Inspect the cell for scale by looking between the electrodes.

4. Unscrew the lid to the ACE Cell Cleaner (or create a cleaning solution by following the instruction on the cell cleaning bottle included with the ACE system.) NOTE: A stronger cleaning solution of 1 part muriatic pool acid and 10 parts water, or a commercial cell cleaner, can be used if scale is excessive.

5. Remove the lid and place the ACE cell in the solution, ensuring that the bottom of cell is floating.

6. Soak the cell for 10 minutes or until bubbles stop coming from the cell. If bubbles are still releasing from the cell after 10 minutes, continue soaking until the cell is clean and all scale is removed.

7. Rinse cell and inspect for cleaning completion. Repeat as needed.

8. Replace cell into the filter standpipe. Screw on the gray filter cap, replace the filter lid, and power up the spa. Ensure that the cell is at the bottom of the filter standpipe by feeling for the pull of the pump’s suction.

Hot tub maintenance record