When it comes to maintaining your Lay-Z-Spa, one of the most important tasks is knowing how to drain it properly. Whether you’re looking to store it for the winter or simply need to refresh the water, draining your spa is an essential part of the process. But how exactly do you go about draining a Lay-Z-Spa in the correct way?
In this blog, we will take you through a step-by-step guide to help you drain your Lay-Z-Spa without hassle.
Why Should You Drain Your Lay-Z-Spa?
Draining your Lay-Z-Spa regularly is important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps keep the water clean, safe, and free from bacteria. Stagnant water can quickly become a breeding ground for germs and can start to smell unpleasant. Secondly, draining the water stops mould and mildew from building up, which can happen if moisture is left in the spa. Finally, if you’re planning to store the spa for the colder months, draining the water completely is essential to stop freezing, which could damage the spa or its parts.
How Do You Drain a Lay-Z-Spa?
There are many ways to drain your spa, and we’ll cover the most common and effective methods. So, here’s how to drain your Lay-Z-Spa:
Turn Off the Spa and Disconnect the Power
Before you start draining, always ensure that the spa is completely powered off. Disconnect the power supply to avoid any electrical issues. It’s also a good idea to unplug the pump or heater unit if possible. This step is necessary for your safety, as you don’t want any electrical components getting wet or damaged.
Locate the Drain Valve
Once the spa is powered off, you need to locate the drain valve on your Lay-Z-Spa. The drain valve is typically located at the bottom of the spa or on one of the sides. It might be hidden behind a small flap or cover, so look carefully. Once you’ve found it, you’ll be ready to start draining.
Attach the Drainage Hose
To avoid water spilling everywhere, you’ll need to attach a drainage hose to the valve. Some Lay-Z-Spas come with a hose designed specifically for draining, but if yours doesn’t, you can use any standard garden hose. Moreover, you need to make sure that the hose is long enough to direct the water to a safe drainage area, such as a drain or an open space in your garden.
Open the Drain Valve
With the hose securely attached, open the drain valve. You should open the valve slowly to ensure that water flows out at a steady pace. The water should start draining right away, but it might take a few minutes, depending on the size of the spa and how quickly the water can drain. However, if the water isn’t draining fast enough, try gently lifting or tilting the spa to help the water come out easier.
Let the Water Drain Completely
It can take a while for all the water to drain, depending on how full your spa is and the size of the drainage hose. Therefore, be patient and allow the water to flow out fully. If you notice any water left at the bottom of the spa, use a towel or a wet vacuum to soak it up. Moreover, make sure to remove as much water as possible before you start the cleaning process.
Clean the Spa
Now that the water has been drained, it’s time to clean your spa properly. Wipe down the sides and the bottom of the spa with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the material or leave unwanted residues. Additionally, if you want to give it a deeper clean, you can use a hot tub cleaner, but ensure it’s suitable for inflatable spas.
Dry the Spa
After cleaning, make sure to dry the spa thoroughly. Use a dry towel to wipe away any leftover moisture. This will help prevent the growth of mould and mildew while the spa is not in use. Furthermore, if you’re storing your spa for the winter, make sure it’s completely dry before deflating it to avoid any dampness that could cause problems later on.
Store the Spa (if Necessary)
You should deflate your spa if you’re not planning to use it for a while. Most Lay-Z-Spas have a deflation valve, which you can use to release the air from the spa. Once it’s deflated, fold it up neatly and store it in a dry, cool place. Moreover, make sure it’s away from any sharp objects or areas where it could be damaged.
Things to Keep in Mind
While draining your Lay-Z-Spa is an easy process, there are a few things you should keep in mind to avoid complications:
- Check the Drainage Area: Make sure the area where you’re draining the water is suitable. To prevent water damage, avoid draining it near your house’s foundation or any electrical outlets.
- Don’t Leave Water in the Heater or Pump: You must make sure that all components, including the heater and pump, are free of water to prevent freezing during the winter months. Water left in these parts can lead to damage.
- Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals: As mentioned earlier, it’s important not to use harsh chemicals when cleaning your Lay-Z-Spa. So, stick to mild soaps or dedicated hot tub cleaners to protect the materials.
- Store Properly: If you’re not using the spa for a while, deflate it and store it in a safe place to prevent damage. Moreover, make sure it’s kept away from sharp objects or heavy weight.
Tips for Maintaining Your Lay-Z-Spa
Regular care helps to keep the water clean and also prevents potential issues with the pump, heater, or inflatable structure. So, here are some essential tips for maintaining your Lay-Z-Spa:
- Check and Adjust Water Chemicals Regularly: To keep the water safe and comfortable, you should regularly test the pH and chlorine levels. Too high or too low a pH can lead to skin irritation and damage to the spa’s components. Therefore, adjust the chemical levels as needed and replace the water filters every few weeks.
- Clean the Filter Often: The filter plays a very important role in keeping the water clean. Thus, clean or replace it regularly to ensure that the pump works properly. You can rinse the filter with fresh water or, for a deeper clean, soak it in a filter cleaner solution.
- Cover the Spa When Not in Use: When your Lay-Z-Spa is not in use, always cover it with the included protective cover. As a result, this helps to keep out debris, prevent dust accumulation, and maintain the water temperature. Plus, it helps to prolong the life of the spa by protecting the material from UV damage.
- Inspect the Spa for Leaks or Damage:Â Catching small issues early can prevent them from turning into bigger, more costly problems later. Therefore, regularly check the inflatable walls and floor of your spa for any signs of wear or small punctures.
- Empty the Spa Every Few Months: Even if you’re not planning on storing it, it’s good to drain and refill your Lay-Z-Spa every few months. This keeps the water fresh and also ensures that the spa itself is thoroughly cleaned.
Conclusion
Draining your Lay-Z-Spa may feel a bit overwhelming at first, but it is actually quite simple once you know the proper steps. By following the tips above, you can ensure that your spa stays in great condition, whether you’re cleaning it for a fresh fill of water or preparing it for winter storage.
Remember, draining your spa isn’t just about getting rid of the water; it’s about maintaining the health of your spa and ensuring that it lasts for years to come. So, the next time you find yourself asking, “How do you drain a Lay-Z-Spa?” you’ll know exactly what to do.
