How to Backwash a Hot Tub

Most hot tubs have a cartridge filter system made up of a tightly-pleated mesh that helps filter out dirt and waste. It is recommended that you backwash hot tubs at least once per month to cleanse your filter.

Multi-Port Valves

1. Switch the filter pump on your hot tub into the “Off” position before beginning backflow operations.

2. Locate the multi-port valve. It will have a round dial that contains six or seven settings and should be located near your pump or filter unit.

3. Press down and turn the mechanism so the notch faces the “Backwash” position on your multi-port valve.

4. Turn the filter pump into the “On” position. This will reverse the flow of the water to flush the filter of debris. Allow it to run for one or two minutes until the water has gone from cloudy to clear.

5. Turn the pump off and move your multi-port valve into the “Rinse” position.

6. Turn the pump back on and allow it to run for one minute on “Rinse” before turning it off again.

7. Move the multi-port valve from “Rinse” back to the regular filter setting and turn the pump on.

Slide Valves

1. Switch the filter pump on your hot tub into the “Off” position before beginning backflow operations.

2. Locate your hot tub slide valve; these will usually be near the pump or filter area. It will have a handle with two simple positions — up or down.

3. Move the handle in the opposite direction from its normal filtering position (may be up or down).

4. Turn the filter pump into the “On” position. This will now reverse the flow of the water to flush the filter of debris. Allow it to run for one or two minutes until the water has gone from cloudy to clear.

5. Turn the pump off and position your slide valve back into the normal filtering position.

Tip

Never filter your backwash water into regular storm systems — waste water should always be disposed of properly, according to city and county regulations.