How do I know when it’s time to replace my hot tub filter?
27th November 2025
Typically, a Hot Tub filter will last up to one year with normal home use and regular maintenance. With very heavy use, for example at a holiday park or holiday cottage, you may need to change your filter more regularly.
If you notice a restriction or a reduction in the performance of the hot tubs jets, it might be an indication that your filter is causing a restriction in the system. It is likely it will need either deep cleaning or replacing.
If your filter has been damaged and there are holes in the filter pleats, the filter will need replacing immediately. Using a damaged filter can lead to dirt getting into the hot tub pipes and reducing the lifespan of other parts.
To get the maximum life out for your hot tub filter we suggest that you should clean them weekly. You can wash them off with a hose. We recommend that you also use a quality Hot Tub filter cleaner as part of your maintenance schedule. These help lift off oils and other particles that water alone can’t wash away. Check out our range of hot tub filter cleaners here.
Making your filter last
Some hot tub models, like those from American Whirlpool, can also have a pre-filter fitted. These catch larger particles before they reach the main filter. The First Filter is uniquely designed as an extra layer of protection. It captures debris allowing your filter to work optimally to filter out the finer particles for maximum filtration and water clarity.
For the best filter performance, it’s best to let the filter completely dry before reinstalling. With the filter paper completely dry. When the paper fibres dry, they tighten and ‘reset’, improving the filter’s effectiveness when reinstalled. We always recommend having a second filter, or set of filters, that you can rotate between for this reason. This means you can install a dry one straight away as you clean and dry the dirty filter that has been removed.
What filter do I need?
We stock an extensive range of high quality filters for most hot tub brands. Shop all our filters here. If you’re not sure what filter you need, please contact us and one of our team can help you find exactly what you need.
Takeaway
Hot Tub filters should be changed once a year unless they are visibly in poor condition or limiting performance. They should be changed more often in heavy use or when used in a business such as a holiday let.
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