We recently purchased a house with a hot tub. I was wondering if it is necessary to completely empty the hot tub for sanitary purposes or just leave it the way it is.

 

Hi Tornadomom,

Some of the best indicators if a spa needs refilling:
Odor
Foaming
Cloudy Water
Grungy Filter

Best thing you can do, is have a sevice call, let them test the water, clean the filter, make sure all is well.

That said, uhhhh things go on in spa's we don't wanna talk about here. Drain it, wipe down all the insides, use a good polish on it, clean or replace the filter, refill, do a chemical startup on it, and ENJOY with peace of mind.

Best in 2008

 

Good advice from gunguy, I would drain it and clean it. No need for a service call though you can do it all yourself it is easy.

Drain tub, take out filter and soak in a bucket of hot water and a couple tbls of cascade (yes dishwasher detergent) for at least 4 hours (better overnight). Meanwhile clean tub real good with a tub/tile cleaner. Rinse tub very well and rinse filter several times then reinstall and fill tub. You can by a starter kit of chlorine or bromine, which ever you want to use at a local pool shop. Follow direction and add chemicals let heat and you're ready to go. Test water at least weekly make sure to use a ph anchor it will help. Hot water = bacteria growing quickly keep it sanitized and shock weekly.