There’s something satisfying about slipping into a clean, warm hot tub at the end of the day. But many hot tub owners, even the well-meaning ones, end up doing more harm than good by sticking to habits that seem helpful. The problem isn’t the lack of effort, but it’s doing the wrong things often enough to create long-term issues. 

This post breaks down five common practices that can quietly wreck your hot tub. You’ll learn how these habits affect your spa and what to do instead to keep everything running the way it should. 

1. Using Too Much Sanitizer Thinking It’ll “Fix” the Water 

When your water looks cloudy or smells a little off, the natural reaction is to reach for more sanitizer. Chlorine or bromine, whichever you’re using, feels like a cure-all. And yes, keeping sanitizer levels within range is important. But dumping in extra “just to be safe” does more harm than you might think. 

High sanitizer levels can strip protective layers off internal parts, dry out seals, and irritate your skin. Instead of fixing the real issue, you’re just covering it up with chemicals. The better move is to test your water first. If everything’s within range but the water still seems off, the problem is likely hiding in the place’s sanitizer doesn’t reach, which brings us to the next point. 

2. Cleaning the Surface but Ignoring What’s Inside 

Most people wipe down the shell, scrub the waterline, and clean the filters. That’s great, but the parts you can’t see are where many problems begin. 

Inside your hot tub’s plumbing, gunk builds up over time. Body oils, lotion residue, and leftover products settle into the lines and start forming a slimy layer. That buildup isn’t just gross but also affects water clarity, circulation, and even jet strength. Regular surface cleaning won’t touch it. 

This is where a hot tub plumbing cleaner actually makes a big difference. It reaches the pipes and internal lines, breaking down the stuff hiding out of sight. Using it every few months clears up buildup and keeps your spa running better. 

3. Waiting Too Long Between Water Changes 

It’s easy to push off a water change. The tub still looks fine, and you’re busy. But letting the same water sit month after month allows minerals, organic waste, and contaminants to pile up. Even if you add sanitizers regularly, they can’t fix water that’s simply overstayed its welcome. 

A good rule of thumb? Change the water every three to four months. But don’t just drain and refill; run a plumbing cleaner through the system before you empty the tub. This way, you’re not just swapping water; you’re actually clearing out the pipes. That fresh start lasts longer when it begins from the inside out. 

4. Using Pool Chemicals or Household Products for Quick Fixes 

You’re out of spa shock. You grab that chlorine from your pool supply stash or even toss in some bleach. It seems convenient, but these shortcuts can quietly mess up your hot tub. 

Pool chemicals are made for different volumes, temperatures, and filtration systems. Household products might seem harmless, but many contain additives or surfactants that don’t mix well with hot tubs. Over time, using the wrong formulas can corrode equipment, stain surfaces, or throw your water chemistry out of whack. 

Stick to spa-specific products. They’re designed to work in hot water and with your hot tub’s materials. A bit of patience here saves a lot of repair money later. 

5. Waiting Until the Jets Stop Working to Check the Plumbing 

Jets that feel weak or uneven don’t always mean the motor’s failing. Often, the problem starts with debris and buildup inside the lines where grime clogs the paths water needs to flow through. But because the symptoms show up slowly, it’s easy to ignore them. 

If you hear gurgling sounds, feel inconsistent pressure, or notice jets that sputter, that’s your tub asking for help.  

Using a hot tub plumbing cleaner on a regular basis keeps things moving. It helps break down clogs before they become serious, reduces stress on the pump, and brings your jet performance back to normal without needing parts replaced. 

Conclusion 

Most hot tub damage doesn’t happen all at once; it builds over time through habits that feel harmless. The good news? A few small changes can protect your investment and make your spa sessions more enjoyable in the long run. 

Cleaning the inside of your hot tub is just as important as maintaining the outside. A smart routine should always include the occasional use of a hot tub plumbing cleaner, not just surface scrubbing and shock treatments. 

The more you understand how your hot tub works, the easier it gets to care for it in a way that actually works. With a little awareness, you can enjoy fewer breakdowns and more quiet soaks with clear, clean water.