How Long Does It Take to Drain a Swim Spa?

Draining a swim spa is an essential part of maintenance to keep your aquatic retreat clean and functioning optimally. The time it takes to drain a swim spa can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the spa, the drainage method used, and the water volume. On average, it can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours to completely drain a swim spa. However, understanding the process and factors affecting drainage time can help you plan and execute this maintenance task more efficiently.

How often should you drain and clean a swim spa?

Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your swim spa in top condition and ensuring a safe, enjoyable swimming experience. The frequency of draining and cleaning your swim spa depends on various factors, including usage, water quality, and manufacturer recommendations. Generally, it's advisable to drain and clean your swim spa every 3 to 4 months, or at least 3 times a year.

However, if you use your swim spa frequently or have a high bather load, you may need to drain and clean it more often. Some signs that indicate it's time to drain your swim spa include:

• Cloudy or foamy water that doesn't clear up with regular chemical treatments
• Unpleasant odors coming from the water
• Difficulty maintaining proper pH and sanitizer levels
• Visible buildup of algae or bacteria
• A noticeable decline in water quality or circulation

When draining your swim spa, it's essential to follow a proper cleaning routine to ensure all components are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. This process typically involves the following steps:

1. Turn off the power to the swim spa and remove any debris from the water surface.
2. Use a submersible pump or the spa's built-in drain to remove the water.
3. Clean the shell, jets, and other surfaces with a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for swim spas.
4. Rinse all surfaces thoroughly to remove any cleaning residue.
5. Clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer's instructions.
6. Inspect all components, including pumps, heaters, and plumbing, for any signs of wear or damage.
7. Refill the swim spa with fresh water and balance the chemicals.

By adhering to a regular draining and cleaning schedule, you can extend the life of your swim spa, maintain optimal water quality, and ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all users.

What is the fastest way to drain a swim spa?

When it comes to draining your swim spa, efficiency is key. The faster you can drain the water, the sooner you can complete your maintenance tasks and refill the spa for continued enjoyment. Here are some of the fastest methods to drain a swim spa:

1. Submersible Pump: Using a high-quality submersible pump is often the fastest way to drain a swim spa. These pumps can remove water at a rate of 1,000 to 2,000 gallons per hour, depending on the model. To use a submersible pump:
   • Place the pump at the deepest part of the swim spa.
   • Connect a garden hose to the pump's outlet.
   • Direct the hose to a suitable drainage area away from your property.
   • Turn on the pump and monitor the water level.
2. Built-in Drain Valve: Many swim spas come equipped with a built-in drain valve, which can be an efficient way to remove water. To use this method:
   • Locate the drain valve, usually near the base of the swim spa.
   • Attach a garden hose to the valve.
   • Open the valve and allow gravity to draw the water out.
   While this method is convenient, it may not be as fast as using a submersible pump.
3. Combination Method: For the fastest results, you can combine the submersible pump and built-in drain valve methods:
   • Start by using the submersible pump to remove the majority of the water.
   • Once the water level is too low for the pump to operate effectively, switch to the built-in drain valve to remove the remaining water.
4. Siphon Method: While not as fast as a submersible pump, the siphon method can be effective for smaller swim spas or when other options are unavailable:
   • Submerge a garden hose completely in the swim spa to fill it with water.
   • Keep one end of the hose in the spa and take the other end to a lower area for drainage.
   • Once the water starts flowing, gravity will continue to siphon the water out of the spa.

Regardless of the method you choose, there are some tips to help speed up the draining process:

• Plan ahead and choose a suitable drainage area that can handle the volume of water from your swim spa.
• Use multiple hoses or larger diameter hoses to increase water flow.
• Regularly check and clean filters to ensure optimal water flow during draining.
• Consider using a wet/dry vacuum to remove any remaining water in hard-to-reach areas.

Remember that the size of your swim spa will significantly impact the draining time. Larger swim spas with volumes of 2,000 gallons or more will naturally take longer to drain than smaller models. By using efficient draining methods and proper planning, you can minimize the time it takes to drain your swim spa and get back to enjoying your aquatic oasis sooner.

Can you leave a swim spa empty?

While it may be tempting to leave your swim spa empty after draining, especially during periods of non-use or when performing extensive maintenance, it's generally not recommended to leave a swim spa empty for extended periods. There are several reasons why keeping your swim spa filled is preferable:

1. Structural Integrity: Swim spas are designed to hold water, and the weight of the water helps maintain the spa's structural integrity. When empty, the shell may be more susceptible to warping, cracking, or other forms of damage, especially in extreme temperatures or weather conditions.
2. Component Protection: Many of the swim spa's components, such as pumps, heaters, and plumbing, are designed to be submerged or in contact with water. Leaving the spa empty for long periods can lead to drying out of seals, gaskets, and other critical parts, potentially causing leaks or malfunctions when the spa is refilled.
3. Temperature Regulation: Water in the swim spa acts as a thermal buffer, helping to regulate the temperature of the spa and its components. Without water, the spa may be more susceptible to temperature fluctuations, which can stress the materials and equipment.
4. Prevention of Pest Infestations: An empty swim spa can become an attractive habitat for pests like rodents or insects. Keeping the spa filled and properly covered helps deter these unwanted visitors.
5. Ease of Maintenance: It's generally easier to maintain water chemistry in a filled swim spa than to completely drain, clean, and refill it every time you want to use it.

If you must leave your swim spa empty for a short period, such as during cleaning or minor repairs, follow these guidelines:

• Limit the empty period to no more than a few days if possible.
• Thoroughly clean and dry all surfaces to prevent mold or mildew growth.
• Cover the swim spa to protect it from debris, sunlight, and weather elements.
• If emptying during winter in cold climates, ensure all water is completely drained from the plumbing to prevent freezing and damage.
• Consult your swim spa's manufacturer or a professional for specific guidance on winterizing or long-term storage if necessary.

For extended periods of non-use, consider these alternatives to leaving your swim spa empty:

• Winterizing: If you live in an area with harsh winters and don't plan to use your swim spa during the cold months, proper winterization by a professional can protect your investment without leaving it completely empty.
• Maintenance Mode: Many modern swim spas have a "sleep" or "vacation" mode that reduces energy consumption while maintaining minimal circulation and filtration. This can be a good option for periods of non-use lasting several weeks to a few months.
• Reduced Chemical Maintenance: If you're not using the swim spa regularly, you can reduce the frequency of chemical treatments while still maintaining a safe water balance. Consult with a pool and spa professional for guidance on adjusted maintenance schedules.

In conclusion, while it's necessary to drain your swim spa periodically for cleaning and maintenance, it's best to keep it filled with properly balanced water whenever possible. This practice helps protect your investment, ensures the longevity of your swim spa's components, and keeps it ready for use whenever you desire a refreshing swim or relaxing soak.

For more information on hot tub installations and to find out more about our products, please feel free to contact us at info@iparnassus.com.

References

1. Swim University. "How to Drain and Clean a Hot Tub Properly." 
2. Master Spas. "How to Drain a Swim Spa." 
3. Spa Depot. "How to Drain Your Hot Tub or Spa." 
4. Hot Spring Spas. "How Often Should I Drain My Hot Tub?" 
5. Bullfrog Spas. "How to Drain a Hot Tub." 
6. Endless Pools. "Swim Spa Maintenance." 
7. Aqua Magazine. "Winterizing Swim Spas." 
8. Pool Supply World. "How to Drain a Above Ground Pool Fast." 
9. Swim Spa Source. "Swim Spa Maintenance: A Complete Guide." 
10. Hydropool. "How to Maintain Your Swim Spa."