How to Drain a Hot Tub: Complete Guide for Jacuzzi Owners

Method 1: Using the Built-in Drain Spigot

Every Jacuzzi hot tub features a built-in hot tub drain spigot located at the base of the exterior cabinet. This gravity-fed system provides the most straightforward approach to draining, though it requires more time than pump-assisted methods.



Begin by locating the drain spigot, which typically sits behind a removable access panel on your hot tub’s cabinet. Remove the panel carefully to access the threaded drain valve without damaging surrounding components.



Attach your garden hose securely to the spigot threads, taking care not to overtighten. Most drain valve threads are plastic and can crack under excessive force, leading to costly repairs.



Remove the drain cap and route your hose to an appropriate drainage area. Check local regulations regarding hot tub water disposal, as many municipalities prohibit chlorinated water discharge into storm drains or directly onto landscaping.



Open the drain valve completely and allow gravity to do the work. Expect draining time of 45-90 minutes depending on your tub size and hose diameter. A standard 400-500 gallon spa typically drains within this timeframe when using proper equipment.



Monitor the process periodically to ensure your hose remains properly connected and water flows to the intended drainage location. Some Jacuzzi models feature multiple drain points, including secondary air valves that help purge internal plumbing lines of stagnant water.

Use a 3/4” diameter hose instead of 5/8” for faster flow rate, and ensure your hose has no kinks or bends that could slow drainage significantly.

Method 2: Using a Submersible Pump

A submersible pump offers the fastest, most efficient method for draining any hot tub. This approach proves especially valuable for larger spas or when time constraints make lengthy gravity draining impractical.

Place the submersible pump in the deepest part of your hot tub for maximum efficiency. Most spas have a slight slope toward the center, making pump placement straightforward.

Connect the pump’s discharge hose and route it to your appropriate drainage location, following the same local regulations that apply to gravity draining.



Plug in the pump and monitor the draining process closely. A quality submersible pump typically completes drainage in 10-15 minutes for standard residential hot tubs, representing a dramatic time savings over gravity methods.



Turn off the pump immediately when water level drops below the pump intake to prevent motor damage from running dry. Most pumps cannot remove the final inch of water, requiring manual removal with towels or a shop vacuum.



The speed advantage of pump draining allows more time for thorough cleaning and maintenance during your service session, making this method particularly valuable for detailed spa care.



Cleaning During the Drain Process

The empty hot tub presents an ideal opportunity for deep cleaning and component maintenance that’s impossible with water present. This cleaning phase is crucial for maintaining your spa’s longevity and water quality.

Remove and clean your hot tub filter while water drains completely. Rinse the filter thoroughly with a garden hose to remove visible debris, then soak in specialized filter cleaner solution for deep cleaning. Most filters benefit from overnight soaking in filter cleaner to break down oils, lotions, and microscopic contaminants.

Clean the hot tub shell using only approved cleaners designed for acrylic or vinyl surfaces. Create a gentle cleaning solution using 4 parts warm water to 1 part white vinegar for effective scale and grime removal without damaging your spa’s finish.

Scrub gently with soft cloth to avoid scratching the acrylic surface. Focus particular attention on the waterline area where oils and residue typically accumulate most heavily.

Pay special attention to jet housings, where soap residue and biofilm often build up. Use a soft brush to clean jet interiors and remove any visible debris or buildup that could restrict water flow.

Flush plumbing lines with specialized line flush products before final drainage to remove biofilm and bacteria from internal pipes. This step prevents contamination of your fresh water and maintains optimal water pressure throughout your hot tub’s plumbing system.

Inspect other components like the hot tub cover, gaskets, and visible plumbing connections for wear, cracks, or damage while everything is accessible.

Refilling Your Hot Tub

Proper refilling technique prevents airlocks that can damage pumps and create ongoing circulation problems. Follow these steps carefully to avoid costly repairs and ensure optimal system performance.



Use the correct fill pipe, typically located in the filter compartment, to prevent airlock formation in your hot tub’s plumbing. This designated fill point ensures water enters the system in the proper sequence, pushing air out through designated air valves rather than creating trapped pockets.

Fill slowly to avoid introducing excess air into the system. Rapid filling can create turbulence that traps air bubbles in plumbing lines, leading to pump cavitation and reduced jet performance.

Monitor water level carefully and stop when reaching the manufacturer’s recommended level, typically just above the highest jets. Overfilling can cause overflow during normal operation, while underfilling may allow air to enter the system during circulation.

Replace and reinstall your clean filter before turning power back on. A properly seated filter ensures optimal water flow and prevents debris from entering your clean system.

Turn on power at the breaker and allow the circulation system to prime properly. Initial startup may involve some air purging as the system establishes normal flow patterns.

Add appropriate water chemicals according to manufacturer specifications, but wait until water reaches operating temperature for accurate chemical balance. Cold water can affect chemical reaction rates and test strip accuracy.

Troubleshooting Common Drainage Issues

Even with proper preparation, drainage problems can occur. Understanding common issues and their solutions helps ensure successful spa maintenance.

Slow drainage often indicates a clogged drain or undersized hose diameter. If your 400-500 gallon spa takes longer than 2 hours to drain via gravity, inspect your hose for kinks, clogs, or diameter restrictions.

Remove both drain plugs if your model features multiple drainage points. Some Jacuzzi models include secondary drainage connections that significantly improve flow rates when opened simultaneously.

Check for hose kinks, bends, or clogs that restrict water flow. Even minor restrictions can dramatically extend drain time, particularly with gravity-fed systems.

If you experience water pressure issues during refilling, this often indicates trapped air in the system. Try cycling pumps on and off several times to force air out through the system’s air valves.

Consider professional service if drainage consistently takes longer than expected or if you encounter recurring airlock problems during refilling. These issues may indicate internal plumbing problems requiring expert diagnosis.

FAQ

How often should I drain my hot tub? 

Every 3-4 months for standard chlorine or bromine systems, annually for salt water systems. Heavy usage may require more frequent draining.

Can I drain hot tub water into my yard? 

Check local regulations first. Chlorinated water may harm plants and grass, and many areas prohibit chemical water discharge into landscaping or storm drains.

What’s the fastest way to drain a hot tub? 

Using a submersible pump reduces drain time from 45-90 minutes to just 10-15 minutes for most residential spas.

Should I clean the filter every time I drain? 

Yes, always clean or replace filters during drainage for optimal performance. Dirty water flowing through clean filters defeats the purpose of fresh water.

How do I prevent airlocks when refilling? 

Use the designated fill pipe in your filter compartment and fill slowly to minimize air introduction into the plumbing system.

Can I use regular household cleaners on my hot tub shell? 

No, use only hot tub-specific cleaners or approved vinegar solutions to avoid surface damage, foaming, or warranty violations.

What should I do if my hot tub won’t drain completely? 

Some residual water is normal with gravity draining. Use a wet/dry vacuum or towels to remove final puddles, ensuring complete moisture removal before cleaning.

Learning how to drain a hot tub properly protects your investment while ensuring safe, enjoyable soaking experiences. Regular draining and deep cleaning prevent costly repairs and maintain optimal water quality. Remember to always prioritize safety by shutting off power and allowing water to cool before beginning any maintenance procedures.

Whether you choose the reliable gravity method or invest in a submersible pump for speed, consistent maintenance scheduling will keep your Jacuzzi performing at its best for years to come. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult professional spa technicians for complex issues or if you’re uncomfortable performing any maintenance procedures yourself.