Hot Tub Startup Checklist for New Owners

Starting a hot tub for the first time can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, you’ll have safe, clean, and relaxing water in no time. This Hot Tub Startup Checklist walks you through everything you need to do as a new owner, from filling and balancing water to setting up filters and sanitation systems.

Why a Hot Tub Startup Checklist Matters

A hot tub isn’t just water and bubbles; it’s a mini ecosystem that requires balance. Skipping steps during setup can lead to cloudy water, skin irritation, or damage to your equipment. 

Having a checklist ensures you cover all the essentials, avoid costly mistakes, and get the best experience from your spa.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location and Prepare the Base

Your hot tub needs a solid, level foundation to support its weight once filled. A reinforced deck, concrete pad, or paver base works best. Make sure the area is close to a water source and has a proper electrical setup. Many hot tubs require a GFCI-protected outlet, so check with a licensed electrician if you’re not sure.

Step 2: Rinse and Clean Before Filling

Even brand-new hot tubs may have dust or residue from manufacturing and transport. Wipe down the shell with a non-abrasive cleaner or a hot tub surface wipe. Check that the drain plug is closed, then remove the filter and rinse it under clean water before placing it back.

Step 3: Fill the Hot Tub Correctly

Use a clean garden hose and place it inside the filter housing (not just in the tub). This helps push water through the plumbing as it fills, reducing the risk of airlocks. Fill the tub until the water level reaches about halfway up the skimmer or designated fill line.

Step 4: Power Up and Check the System

Turn on the power and let the pumps run. Check for proper jet function and confirm the heater is working. If you notice gurgling or no water flow, there may be an airlock. Loosening a pump union slightly while running the pump usually resolves it.

Step 5: Balance the Water Chemistry

Balanced water keeps your hot tub safe and comfortable. Here’s a quick guide:

• Test the water with a strip or digital tester.
  
• Adjust alkalinity first (80–120 ppm). This stabilizes pH.
  
• Adjust pH next (7.2–7.8). Keeps water comfortable and protects equipment.
  
• Calcium hardness should be 150–250 ppm to prevent scaling or corrosion.
  Add chemicals one at a time with the jets running, and retest after 30–60 minutes before making additional adjustments.
  

Step 6: Add a Sanitizer

Sanitizers keep your water free of bacteria and contaminants. Most new owners choose chlorine or bromine, but you can also consider advanced options like Ozone and UV Systems for lower chemical use. Whichever you choose, follow the recommended startup dosage on your sanitizer product.

Step 7: Shock the Water

Shocking oxidizes contaminants and gives your sanitizer a clean slate. Add a non-chlorine shock for bromine systems or a chlorine shock if using chlorine. Run jets with the cover off for at least 20 minutes to let gases escape.

Step 8: Prime the Filtration System

Your filter is the heart of clean water. After filling and shocking, run the filtration cycle according to manufacturer recommendations. Most systems allow you to set a schedule; running twice daily for several hours is common.

Step 9: Heat and Cover

Set your hot tub to the desired temperature, typically between 100–104°F (37–40°C). Put the cover on while heating to conserve energy and keep debris out. Depending on size and starting temperature, heating may take 12–24 hours.

Quick Takeaway Checklist

• ✔ Prepare a stable base and electrical setup
  
• ✔ Clean the tub and rinse the filter
  
• ✔ Fill through the filter housing
  
• ✔ Power up and check pumps/heater
  
• ✔ Balance alkalinity, pH, and calcium
  
• ✔ Add sanitizer and shock
  
• ✔ Run filtration cycles
  
• ✔ Heat and cover before use
  

Pro Tips from Experienced Owners

• Always keep extra test strips and sanitizer on hand.
  
• Invest in a quality cover lifter; it makes daily use easier.
  
• Consider spa steps with built-in storage for chemicals and accessories.
  
• Schedule a weekly 10-minute water check to avoid bigger issues later.
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Filling without rinsing the filter: This traps debris from the start.
  
• Adding chemicals all at once leads to imbalanced water.
  
• Skipping calcium checks: Can cause heater or shell damage over time.
  
• Leaving the cover off during heat-up Wastes energy and slows the process.
  

FAQs About Hot Tub Startup

How long after startup can I use my hot tub?
You can safely soak once the water chemistry is balanced and the temperature reaches your set point, usually within 24 hours.

Do I need both shock and sanitizer?
Yes. Sanitizer maintains ongoing cleanliness, while shock eliminates waste and restores sanitizer effectiveness.

Can I fill my hot tub with softened water?
It’s better to use regular tap water. Softened water can be corrosive and may damage spa components.

How often should I drain and refill?
Most hot tubs need draining every 3–4 months, depending on use and water quality.

What’s the easiest way to test water balance?
Digital testers are more accurate, but test strips are fast and cost-effective for weekly checks.

Ready to Get Started?

Following this Hot Tub Startup Checklist ensures your first soak is safe, clean, and stress-free. If you need help choosing the right sanitizing system, accessories, or replacement filters, explore Backyard Canada’s hot tub supplies or check out our detailed guide on Ozone vs UV Systems to see if an upgrade makes sense for your spa.