How to Drain a Hot Tub

Have you noticed your hot tub water looking cloudy, foamy or carrying a gross smell? 

It might be time to drain your hot tub. Regularly emptying your hot tub can help to keep the water clean, prevent buildup in the plumbing and jets, as well as extend the life of pumps and other equipment. For chlorine or bromine systems, draining every three to four months works well, while saltwater systems usually need a yearly drain. 

Staying on top of draining protects your spa investment and makes balancing the water chemistry so much easier. So, let’s talk more about how to drain the hot tub, what you’ll need and different methods.

How to Get Water out of a Hot Tub: The Quick Answer

To get water out of a hot tub, it’s always really important to start by turning off the power at the circuit breaker. The quickest way is to use a submersible pump, which can empty the spa in just a few minutes. For a slower, low-effort option, you can attach a garden hose to the built-in drain spigot and let gravity do the work. After most of the water is gone, a wet/dry vacuum or some sponges can help you to take care of the last few inches. So, let’s talk about what you need to do in a more step by step manner.

Before You Start: Essential Prep and Tool Checklist

Before draining a hot tub, it helps to gather the right tools and do a little prep to make the process smooth and safe. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Garden hose
• Submersible pump (Vita Pool Supply has reliable options)
• Wet/dry vacuum for the last bit of water
• Spa shell cleaner and soft cloths
• Clean rags or sponges
• Non-slip shoes and gloves for safety

As we mentioned above, the first step is always to turn off the power at the circuit breaker to protect both the equipment and anyone working around the tub. Flushing the plumbing lines with a jet line cleaner before draining can help you to remove built-up biofilm and can make cleaning easier. Finally, make sure the water drains to a safe location and follow any local regulations for spa water disposal.

The 3 Best Ways to Drain a Hot Tub: A Step-by-Step Guide

Draining a hot tub can be done in a few different ways. It really depends on how quickly the water needs to go and what equipment you have on hand. Each of these methods has its pros and cons.

Method 1: Using a Submersible Pump (Fastest Option)

1. Place the pump in the deepest part of the tub.
2. Attach the outflow hose to a safe drainage area.
3. Plug in the pump and keep an eye on it to prevent it from running dry.
4. Use a wet/dry vacuum in order to remove any remaining water.

This method can drain a hot tub fairly quickly.

Method 2: Using the Built-In Drain Spigot (Easiest Option)

1. Locate the drain spigot on your hot tub.
2. Securely attach a garden hose.
3. Direct the other end to a safe, downhill drainage area.
4. Open the spigot and let gravity do the work.

This method is simple and free, but it’s slower. It’s a good option for people who want a low-effort option. 

Method 3: Siphoning or Using a Wet/Dry Vac (How to Empty a Hot Tub Without a Pump)

1. Siphoning: Submerge a garden hose in the tub to fill it with water, cap one end and place that end at a lower elevation. Release the cap to start the flow.
2. Wet/Dry Vac: Useful for starting a siphon or for removing the last puddles of water.

This method works well if a pump isn’t available to you and is a great way to empty a hot tub without a pump. It takes a little bit more effort, but it’s low cost and very effective.

Post-Drain Maintenance: Cleaning and Inspection

Once the hot tub is empty, it’s a great time to give it a thorough cleaning and check for any issues. Start by cleaning the spa shell with a non-abrasive spa cleaner. Make sure you get something that is safe and effective for removing buildup without damaging the surface.

Next, remove the filters and rinse them thoroughly. If they show signs of wear or damage, replace them to keep water flowing properly and maintain clean, balanced water. While the tub is empty, inspect the jets, seals and plumbing for any cracks, leaks or other problems that could cause issues later.

Taking a little extra time during this post-drain maintenance will help you to make sure that all the equipment is in top condition before refilling.

Special Case: Draining a Hot Tub for Winter (Winterizing)

If you live somewhere cold, you might want to consider draining the hot tub. Draining a hot tub for winter is a little different from a regular drain-and-refill, though. The goal isn’t just to refresh the water, it’s to remove all water from the tub, plumbing and equipment to prevent freeze damage during cold months. Leaving water in the lines or jets can cause cracks and really expensive repairs when temperatures drop.

After the main draining is done, a wet/dry vacuum can be used on the “blow” setting to force any remaining water out of each jet and plumbing line. This ensures that the entire system is dry and ready for winter storage.

Eco-Friendly Draining: Where to Safely Dispose of Hot Tub Water

It’s important to drain the hot tub so it’s safe for the environment, too. Before letting any water go, check local city ordinances to make sure spa water disposal is allowed. You want to avoid pouring water into storm drains, since this can carry chemicals directly into local waterways.

If draining onto a lawn or garden, let the chlorine or bromine dissipate for a few days first, and test the water to make sure chemical levels are near zero. The pH should also be close to neutral, between 6.5 and 8.5, to avoid harming plants or soil.

Being mindful about how hot tub water is disposed of protects local ecosystems and keeps everything in compliance with regulations. Taking these simple steps ensures a clean, safe and eco-conscious process whenever draining a hot tub.

With this general information, you should be able to get a good idea of how to drain your spa in the best way. This way, your spa stays clean and safe so you can use it whenever you’d like to. 

Be sure to shop Vita Pool Supply for all of your spa supply needs year round.

Frequently Asked Questions About Emptying a Hot Tub

What is the easiest way to drain a hot tub?

The easiest method is usually using the built-in drain spigot with a garden hose. Simply attach the hose, direct it to a safe drainage area and let gravity do the work. This method is low-effort and doesn’t require a lot of equipment. It can be slow, though.

How do you get water out of a hot tub?

Start by turning off the power at the circuit breaker. There are different methods, and you should always check your owner’s manual. Generally, though, for a quick drain, a submersible pump can empty the tub in minutes. For slower, low-effort draining, connect a garden hose to the spigot. A wet/dry vacuum or sponges can help remove the last few inches of water.

How to empty a hot tub without a pump?

A siphon with a garden hose works well. Fill the hose with water, cap one end and place it lower than the tub. Release the cap to start the flow. A wet/dry vac can also be used to remove remaining water and help start a siphon if needed.

How to make a hot tub drain faster?

The fastest option is using a submersible pump from Vita Pool Supply. Make sure the pump is in the deepest part of the tub, and monitor it to prevent running dry. For the last bit of water, a wet/dry vacuum can speed up the process, ensuring the tub empties quickly and safely.