Casa Blui Blog
The Ultimate Guide to Stainless Steel Spa Maintenance
By Aditya Rao
Stainless steel spas are prized for their durability, modern aesthetic, and longevity. While robust, proper and consistent maintenance is the key to protecting your investment and ensuring it performs beautifully for years. This guide covers everything you need to know, from routine cleaning and water chemistry to seasonal care.
Caring for Your V4A Stainless Steel Finish
How do I clean the stainless steel shell and remove water spots? Always use a soft cloth with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. For hard water spots, a simple mixture of vinegar and water is effective. After cleaning, rinse the surface thoroughly with fresh water and dry it completely with a soft towel to prevent new spots from forming.
Can a V4A stainless steel spa rust outdoors? V4A is a marine-grade stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance. True rust is highly unlikely. What may appear as rust is often surface contamination from environmental metal particles. Regular cleaning of the spa shell prevents these particles from settling and causing blemishes.
Are stainless steel spas suitable for coastal climates? Yes, the V4A grade of stainless steel is specifically designed to withstand harsh environments, including salty air. To maximize protection in coastal areas, it is important to regularly rinse the spa's exterior with fresh water. This washes away salt deposits that can accumulate and harm the finish over time.
Mastering Your Spa's Water Chemistry
Balanced water is crucial for bather comfort and protecting your spa's components. A spa with an ozone disinfection system still requires correct water balance.
What are the ideal water chemistry levels? For optimal performance and longevity, maintain the following levels:
- pH Level: For water treated with bromine products, keep the pH value in the 7.4 to 7.8 range.
- Total Alkalinity (TAC): Aim for a concentration between 80 and 125 mg/L. Proper alkalinity helps buffer the pH and prevent wild swings.
- Water Hardness (TH): The ideal range is between 10°F and 25°F (100-250 mg/l).
How do I prevent scale buildup from hard water? If your source water is hard, it is mandatory to install a water softener (cationic resin decalcifier) upstream of the spa's water connection. This is the most effective way to prevent limestone encrustations that can damage the spa walls, pipes, jets, and heating units.
How do I clean the pressure-chamber filter? The filter should be cleaned every week. The process is simple:
- Turn off all power to the spa.
- Open the filter housing.
- Unscrew the filter by turning it clockwise to remove it.
- Rinse the filter element thoroughly with fresh water from a hose, making sure to clean between the pleats.
- Screw the clean filter back into place and secure the housing.
What is the best way to drain and refill the spa? To drain, locate the pneumatic drainage switch next to the filter and press it for three seconds. The draining process will start and automatically shut down after about an hour. When refilling, it is highly recommended to use mains water, as water from a well can contain metals or organic substances that can harm the spa's systems.
The Stainless Steel Spa Ember is designed for easy draining and refilling, simplifying this crucial maintenance task.Â
How do I winterize my outdoor stainless steel spa? Proper winterization is essential to prevent freeze damage.
- Drain the spa completely using the dedicated drain function.
- Open the drain valve to ensure all water is emptied from the internal pipes and plumbing. Use a wet/dry vacuum on the jets and plumbing lines to remove any remaining water.
- Dry the filter housing and remove the filter cartridge for storage.
- Secure a high-quality, insulated hard cover over the spa to protect it from snow, ice, and debris.
- Ensure the main electrical supply cable is adequately protected from frost.
