{"title":"Hot Tub Filters FAQ","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"hot-tub-filter-brands","title":"Hot tub filter brands","description":"\u003cp\u003eChoosing a replacement filter can be a bit confusing. After you’ve found the correct size filter, you’ll notice there are many different brands of that size available. Each brand of filter has its own benefits, with certain brands being more popular than others. This article will outline the different benefits of each brand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePleatco\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePleatco is one of the most used brands of filters, and for good reason. Pleatco has extensively researched the filtration needs of a spa to create Pleatco Advanced Point Bonded Spa Filtration Fabric, exclusively for hot tubs. This unique media has finer fibers, a larger dirt catching wet area, better flow, and greater performance. They also have an exclusive Antimicrobial Filtration Fabric available that provides an extra level of protection against dangerous microbes as it inhibits the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew – these are the Pleatco branded filters with blue colored pleats instead of the usual white.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePleatco also uses their unique Free Flow Core technology in every filter. These allow 50% more access to the filtration fabric, which allows more water flow through the entire filter cartridge. Combined with Pleatco’s Advanced Point Bonded Filtration Fabric, this makes it much easier for the pump to move water through the cartridge, resulting in more even water distribution and greater efficiency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePleatco filters are also frequently used by spa manufacturers, so it’s possible your spa initially came with a Pleatco filter. They are manufactured in the U.S. and have an excellent website detailing everything you could possibly want to know about filters – from technical specifications to a very useful filter finder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnicel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnother leading brand in the filter industry, Unicel makes great quality filters. Their filters use a high quality filtration fabric known as Reemay Filter Medium. Reemay is a spunbonded, 100% polyester material which has FDA compliance. It’s so effective at filtering that it’s even been approved for milk filtration! Genuine Unicel filters have white Reemay fabric to indicate the purity of the product.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUnicel also takes great care to make their pleat folds sharp instead of rounded or fluffy. This allows particles to get down into the pleat which ensures maximum dirt holding, while also making it easier to clean. These sharp pleats allow debris to build up from the inside out which can also prolong the time needed between cleanings. Overall Unicel’s filters are meant to maximize flow and minimize pressure loss, resulting in an efficient and easy to clean filter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUnicel is also manufactured in the U.S., and their website includes a filter cartridge finder and an endcap guide to help you find the correct filter replacement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProAqua\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ProAqua brand filters uses a bonded polyester filtration fabric that is similar to the Reemay filter medium that Unicel uses. They also have a free flow core similar to that of the Pleatco filters and last as long as other brand name filters. These filters are generally made in New Zealand, but only come in limited sizes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere isn’t one best filter brand, but there are definitely different aspects that need to be considered when looking for a replacement filter. Some hot tubs will require a specific brand of filter for the spa’s filtration system to function at manufacturer’s specs, so if there is a specific filter recommended for your spa that will be your best choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBrand name filters such as Pleatco and Unicel will filter out finer particles than the generic brands and will also last longer, as generic filters do not hold up as well to cleaning. However, the generic filters are available at a discounted price and are still great quality filters.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"poolandhottubdepot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44012868173893,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/1134\/2405\/files\/Group_627372__46940.1716496038.600.600.png?v=1763598814"},{"product_id":"how-to-maintain-a-hot-tub-filter","title":"How to maintain a hot tub filter","description":"\u003cp\u003eOver time, if you’re using a pleated filter as opposed to a disposable one, the pleats in your hot tub filter will start to accumulate dirt and debris. It’s important to clean your filter regularly to ensure the flow of water is not interrupted due to grime buildup and to keep your hot tub running at peak efficiency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeekly\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith regular usage, you'll want to pull the filter out of your hot tub and rinse it about once a week. There are a couple of different ways to do this, the most popular being using a hose or a filter brush. If using a hose, you will want to make sure to spread apart each pleat and rinse well in between them to ensure you remove all of the debris. A filter brush is the same idea but will clean up to 8 pleats at the same time, which will end up saving you quite a bit of time and water. Always make sure to let your filter dry before placing it back in your hot tub, as this will discourage any microbial growth that may be lingering on the filter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA common question is if you can use your dishwasher to clean a filter, but it is \u003cem\u003enot\u003c\/em\u003e recommended. In addition to not cleaning the filter thoroughly, this can also damage the pleats in the filter and you will then have to replace it. The same goes for high-pressure sprayers, which can also damage your filter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonthly\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout once a month, again depending on how often you use your hot tub, you will want to do a chemical soak to remove any oils, lotions, or dirt that will not come loose with rinsing. This is easily done in 4 simple steps:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRinse your hot tub filter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFill a bucket with up to 5 gallons of water and add your chemical cleaner (read the instructions included with your cleaner for specific amounts)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoak the filter in the mixture for the length of time specified on your cleaner’s instructions (this can be anywhere from 25 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on which chemical cleaner you are using)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRinse your filter again\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter it’s been cleaned, let the filter dry and then place it back in your hot tub.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen to Replace\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith regular usage and cleaning, you’ll only need to replace your filter about once a year. Sometimes the filter can fail earlier than this if water conditions are not optimal. Here are some signs to watch for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInner portion of the pleats will not come clean, even with a chemical cleaner\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater flow is restricted\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePleats become frayed or torn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater is not staying clear\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThere is a heavy musty or strong smell even after cleaning\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe pleats are separating from the ends of the filter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlastic ends are cracked or broken\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you find that you are frequently replacing your filters, have a closer look at your spa conditions to ensure your chemical levels are not harmful to your filter. You can also use something such as a pre-filter to remove any impurities from the water before filling your spa, or a floating scum remover to reduce the dirt and debris going into the filter.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"poolandhottubdepot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44012868272197,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}]},{"product_id":"disposable-vs-pleated-hot-tub-filters","title":"Disposable vs pleated hot tub filters","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhen first trying to find a filter for your hot tub, it can be a bit confusing. There are many different brands and types of filters. One common question is whether a disposable or pleated filter is better. There are a few key differences to look at so you can make an informed decision.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePerformance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth pleated and disposable hot tub filters will adequately filter your hot tub water. Disposable filters offer increased filtration of up to 1 micron and the added convenience and time savings of not having to clean your filter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaintenance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDisposable filters are becoming more and more popular because there is no maintenance required. These filters are designed to be installed, used for 2-4 months (depending on hot tub usage), and then thrown away. You do not need to do anything to maintain or clean them, which makes them a great option for people who have a busy lifestyle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePleated filters such as Pleatco, Unicel or our house brand require regular cleaning and maintenance. It is recommended that they be rinsed out and cleaned about once a week, which you can do at home with a hose or more easily with a filter brush. Additionally, it is recommended that you use a chemical cleaner about once a month to get rid of oil and scum that has built up. You can read more about pleated filter maintenance on our blog.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUpon first glance, disposable filters definitely look more affordable than pleated filters. However, you will need to replace them about every 2-4 months depending on how often you use your hot tub, which can quickly increase the cost. The other thing to consider is that while using a disposable filter, you do not need to spend money on products such as clarifiers or filter cleaners.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn comparison, pleated filters only need to replaced about once a year, again depending on how often you use your spa. As referenced before, you will also want to use a \u003ca href=\"%%GLOBAL_ShopPathSSL%%\/ecoone-premium-filter-cleaner-226g\/\"\u003echemical cleaner\u003c\/a\u003e about once a month to clean out any oil and scum that has built up. Generally, pleated filters do tend to be the more affordable option.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth pleated and disposable filters have their own advantages and disadvantages. Which kind of filter is better will depend on your own personal hot tub use and preferences. If you’re still unsure which option you would prefer, it’s recommended you take the time to use each kind of filter to see which is better suited for you.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"poolandhottubdepot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44012868403269,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/1134\/2405\/files\/filters__89987.1732809336.600.600.jpg?v=1763598819"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/1134\/2405\/collections\/rectangle_202582_282_29__19677.png?v=1772042212","url":"https:\/\/poolandhottubdepot.com\/collections\/hot-tub-filters-faq.oembed","provider":"Pool \u0026 Hot Tub Depot","version":"1.0","type":"link"}