A hot tub can be a wonderful asset for rest, relaxation and enjoyment, but only if it is kept up properly. Often, the cover is lifted from a neglected or hastily closed hot tub to find a virtual aquatic disaster lurking beneath. The thought of fixing such a troublesome-looking problem has caused many tub owners to simply walk away or procrastinate, but worry not. It only looks difficult. The truth is that with the right hot tub supplies, almost any long-unused unit can be restored to working condition in no time.

The first step will be clearing out any debris from tubs, as this will clog up filters and intake systems and prevent water from circulating properly. Using a fine net, scoop out any leaves, litter, or sludge from the tubs themselves, moving on to the filter areas. Do not turn on the unit yet. Remove the filters and set them aside. Depending on their condition, they may be able to be hosed down and put back in place, or new ones may be needed. If the latter is the case, write down the model number to order them cheaply online.

If the water is only slightly murky, it may be able to be remedied with a simple at-home water testing kit and chemicals; hot tub supplies like these can be shipped directly to the home from a reputable online store. If the water is more of a sludge, the entire tub should be emptied with a small hose and pump configuration, scrubbed out, refilled and turned on to allow the filters, which have either been cleaned or replaced, to work their magic.

Depending on where the unit is located, different obstacles may confront even an industrious owner. For instance, in hot tubs in CT, falling leaves are a definite concern, but can be mitigated with a good cover or gazebo setup. Those same hot tubs in CT, however, may also have problems with frozen pipes bursting from the weather, so be sure to check the mechanical aspects of the unit in addition to the water chemistry and always keep the unit on, drained, or otherwise weatherproofed to prevent damage.

With proper care and upkeep, owners of hot tubs will find they actually need very little maintenance to stay in usable and pleasant condition. Don't let a long-unused unit be a deterrent to enjoyment. Use these tips to reclaim relaxation.