The Tool Desk
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →
ThatPainter is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More
Drain a hot tub with its power completely isolated, discharge the water where local rules allow, clean the empty shell and filter, then refill through the specified intake before restoring power. Most chlorine- or bromine-treated spas need fresh water about every three to four months, but persistent cloudiness, odor, foam or chemistry that will not balance calls for an earlier drain. A gravity drain is simplest; a clean-water submersible pump is usually faster and removes more water from the bottom.
Why draining a hot tub promptly matters
Hot-tub water is repeatedly heated, aerated and exposed to body oils, cosmetics, sweat and debris. Sanitizer and filtration remove much of that load, but they do not make the water permanent. As dissolved contaminants accumulate, sanitizer demand rises and pH or alkalinity can become difficult to control. Water may remain unsafe or unpleasant even when a test strip appears close to its target.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Fresh water also gives the shell, cover, filter and plumbing a chance to be inspected. Draining is the only practical time to remove deposits above the waterline, rinse the filter thoroughly and check fittings that are normally hidden. Delaying a drain when the water is persistently dirty can force you to use more chemicals without solving the underlying problem.
Normal replacement interval
For many chlorine or bromine systems, manufacturers commonly advise replacing the water about every three to four months. Treat that as equipment guidance, not a universal guarantee. Bather load, water volume, filtration hours, source-water quality and the specific sanitation system can shorten or lengthen the interval. Follow the schedule in your owner’s manual when it differs.
#1 Best Overall
- COMPLETE 5-PIECE BRUSH SET FOR EVERY PAINTING TASK — Includes 1 Inch Flat, 1.5 Inch Angle, 2 Inch Flat, 2 Inch Angle Stubby, and 2.5 Inch Angle brush giving you every size professional painters use daily. Get all 5 for less than the price of a single brush from hardware store brands — professional grade performance at a fraction of the cost. Perfect for walls, trim, cabinets, doors, furniture, and detailed cutting-in work on any project.
- ZERO BRISTLE LOSS — GUARANTEED BY PRECISION ADHESIVE BONDING — Every bristle is locked in place with precision-set adhesive that keeps them in the brush — not in your paint job. The coated steel ferrule provides structural support while the adhesive bond ensures clean performance on every stroke. Premium SRT synthetic filaments load more paint and release it evenly for a smooth streak-free finish on walls, ceilings, and trim. Works with latex, oil-based paint, primer, sealer, and wood stain.
- INCLUDES THE ANGLE STUBBY MOST SETS LEAVE OUT — Professional painters know the 2 Inch Angle Stubby is the go-to brush for tight cabinet interiors, window sashes, inside corners, and detailed trim where standard angle brushes are too long. Combined with the 1.5 and 2.5 inch angle sash brushes you have precision cutting-in covered at every scale — baseboards, crown molding, door casings, and ceiling lines.
- FLAT BRUSHES FOR BROAD SMOOTH COVERAGE ON ANY SURFACE — The 1 and 2 inch flat brushes deliver even coverage on walls, furniture, shelving, doors, fences, decks, and wood surfaces. Ideal for applying primers, stains, varnishes, polyurethane, and specialty coatings. Solid wood handles provide all-day comfort and control for both professional contractors and weekend DIY homeowners tackling interior or exterior painting projects.
- TRUSTED BY PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND CONTRACTORS NATIONWIDE — Pro Grade delivers professional-grade results at a price that makes sense for crews who go through brushes on every job. Ideal for property managers, remodeling contractors, apartment turnover crews, maintenance teams, and commercial painting operations. Backed by thousands of verified reviews from working painters. Washable and reusable for multiple projects.
Signs you should drain earlier
- Cloudiness remains after the filter is clean and chemistry has been corrected.
- A persistent odor remains after sanitizer and pH are in the ranges specified for your spa.
- Foam returns quickly or will not clear with normal maintenance.
- Test results swing sharply, or pH, alkalinity or sanitizer cannot be kept in the manual’s range.
- The water feels greasy, leaves a film or contains visible scale or debris.
- You are preparing for a repair, a move, seasonal shutdown or a long period without use.
Do not wait for a scheduled date if the water is causing skin irritation or the equipment manual says to replace it. Correct the cause before refilling, such as a neglected filter, a damaged cover or an incorrectly adjusted dosing system.
Safety checks before opening the drain
Disconnect every electrical supply
Turn the spa off at the circuit breaker or its isolation switch before beginning. Jacuzzi’s drain guidance states, “Always turn off electrical power at the circuit breaker before beginning any drain process.” Hot Spring likewise instructs owners to turn power off at the breaker, while portable models that use a plug should also be unplugged as directed by their manual. Switching only the topside control to “off” is not enough: pumps and heaters must not run when the water level is low or the vessel is empty.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteKeep the breaker off until the refill reaches the model’s required level and you have confirmed that the pump intake and jets are covered. A dry pump can be damaged quickly, and an exposed heater can overheat.
Cool the water and plan its route
Very hot discharge water can scald people, damage plants and soften some surfaces. Let it cool before you open the valve or start a pump. Identify the final discharge point first and choose a downhill or level route that will not send water back toward the spa base.
Local sewer, environmental and property rules vary. Confirm whether treated spa water may enter a sanitary drain, yard or other outlet and whether any waiting period or dechlorination requirement applies. Keep the flow away from foundations, retaining walls, delicate landscaping and areas where it could pool. Do not send it into a storm drain when local rules prohibit that route. Never leave a hose where children, pets or vehicles can trip over it.
Gravity drain or submersible pump?
Both methods are suitable when used with the spa manufacturer’s instructions. The right choice depends on how quickly you need the vessel empty, how far the discharge point is from the spa and how much residual water you want to remove.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
| Consideration | Built-in valve and garden hose | Clean-water submersible pump |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Slow, because water moves by gravity and hose friction. | Generally faster; actual flow depends on the pump, hose, lift and restrictions. |
| Equipment cost | Uses the spa’s drain fitting and a compatible hose; no pump purchase is needed. | Requires a pump, discharge hose and any compatible adapter; prices and capacities vary by model. |
| Discharge control | Simple once the hose is routed, but the flow is limited by elevation and hose length. | Better control over where and how quickly water is moved, provided the hose is secured. |
| Last water in the shell | Usually leaves a shallow puddle that must be removed separately. | Can remove more water from the lowest point, although a small puddle may still remain. |
| Cold-weather servicing | Slow drainage can leave water in the vessel and plumbing while temperatures fall. | Faster emptying helps, but plumbing still requires the manufacturer’s winterization procedure. |
| What to verify | Correct thread, valve operation and hose fit; avoid forcing plastic fittings. | Clean-water rating, flow capacity, hose or adapter compatibility, automatic shutoff or dry-run protection, electrical safety rating and warranty terms. |
ThermoSpas describes a submersible pump as the ideal way to drain a spa, but that is equipment-specific guidance rather than a promise that every pump will empty every model at a particular rate. A gravity drain remains a sound option when time and access permit.
Rank #2
- Great Value Pack Artist Paint Brushes: Soucolor 20 brushes in 10 sizes professional paintbrushes set — no shedding, holds paint well, cleans easily, Acrylic, watercolor, oil, gouache, Halloween pumpkin decoration & face painting, rock painting, ceramics. Fantastic high quality gifts for creative, artistic siblings to share!
- Awesome Set of Paint brushes: Professional paint brushes can cover all of your needs. The multi-purposed brushes are ideal for Watercolor, Oil, Gouache, enamel, Acrylic Painting, Body, Nail, Face Painting, Miniature, Model, Wood, Glass, Cup, Ceramic, Fine work, Art class, Craft Art Painting, DIY Art Crafts etc.
- Soft and long-lasting: The bristles are soft and strong, with nickel metal ferrules and blue wooden handles. After cleaning, the bristles will become soft and fluffy again and will not fall off.
- Easy to clean: it’s very convenient to Wash well in soap and water. Retain shape after drying. the brushes hold up very well. Nice selection to beginners and professionals. Keep them clean and they last a long time.
- Halloween Pumpkin Ceramic Crafts Supplies: A Great painting gift for family, friends, kids, girls, women, student, classmate, teacher. For using in school, travel or used in the home and office.
Step-by-step: draining a hot tub safely
-
Confirm the discharge location
Check local requirements and select a route that will not undermine the base, flood a doorway or harm nearby plants. Lay out the hose before opening the drain so you do not have to move it while water is flowing. If using a pump, verify that its discharge hose reaches the approved outlet without kinks.
-
Allow excessive heat to dissipate
Turn down the heat or stop using the spa and wait until the water is safe to handle. Do not begin with water hot enough to scald or damage vegetation. Keep people and pets away from the discharge path.
-
Isolate the power
Switch off the breaker or isolation switch, and unplug a portable spa if the manual requires it. Confirm that the circulation pump, jets and heater are silent. Leave the breaker off for the entire emptying and cleaning process.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy. -
Choose and set up the drain method
For gravity drainage, locate the model’s drain spigot or valve, attach a garden hose without cross-threading the plastic fitting, and place the free end at the approved outlet. For pump drainage, put a clean-water-rated submersible pump in the deepest part of the shell, connect the discharge hose securely and keep the electrical connection dry. Bestway’s concise instruction is to “Power off the pump”; in practice, that means the spa pump must be off before a separate drain pump is positioned.
-
Open the valve or start the pump
Open the drain valve gradually and watch for leaks at the fitting. If you are using a submersible pump, start it only after the discharge hose is positioned. Keep the pump upright and unobstructed so its intake cannot seal against the shell or draw in large debris.
-
Monitor the emptying continuously
Check the route for pooling, displaced hose ends and water approaching the foundation. Never allow a submersible pump to run dry; stop it as soon as the water falls below the pump’s permitted level. Do not leave the spa unattended while water is moving.
Some spas have auxiliary drains, bleed points or unions that remove residual water from plumbing. Open those only when the manufacturer specifically directs it. Do not loosen fittings at random, because a misplaced seal can cause a leak when the spa is refilled.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.Rank #3
AROIC 10 Pcs Paint Brushes, Acrylic Oil Watercolor Painting Brush Set | Nylon Hair Brushes Artist Professional Drawing Kits for Adult, Kids Face Canvas Rock Painting Arts Crafts Supplies(1 Pack)- 【All sizes of art brushes】: The 10 sizes of multi-functional brushes have various shapes, making the mixing color easier, which is very suitable for artists, students, teenagers, children and painters at all levels. Wonderful Present ideas for friends and family who like painting!
- 【general brush set】: Professional paint brush can meet all your needs. Multifunctional brush is very suitable for watercolor, oil, gouache, acrylic painting, body, nail, face painting, miniature, model, ceramics, arts and crafts painting, etc.
- 【high quality process】: It is designed with anti falling bristles, anti-rust nickel ferrule and solid wood handle. You can use the brush to focus on the painting and always be creative.
- 【easy to maintain】: After using the brush, it is very convenient to clean the brush with warm soapy water and reshape the tip of the brush. Air dry the brush and place it on top of the top for long use.
- 【100% satisfaction guarantee - buy now】1 packs of set brushes, you can also get friendly customer service, any questions feel free to contact us, within 24 hours to help you! There is no risk in buying our paint brush kit.
-
Remove the final puddle
When the main drain stops, close the valve and remove the hose. Use towels, a squeegee or an approved wet vacuum to collect the remaining puddle. If a wet vacuum is used, keep it away from energized equipment and follow its electrical instructions. Do not use compressed air in the plumbing unless the spa maker’s winterization procedure calls for it.
-
Inspect while the shell is empty
Look for cracks, lifted fittings, damaged jets, staining, scale and water around the equipment bay. Photograph any defect before refilling and consult the manual or a qualified technician if a structural or electrical issue is present.
Clean the shell and filter without damaging the spa
Remove the filter and rinse it from top to bottom with a garden hose so debris is pushed out of the pleats rather than driven deeper. A filter-cleaning solution approved for your spa can be used when the manual allows it. Let the filter drain and reinstall it only after it is clean.
Wipe the acrylic or other shell surface with a soft cloth and a spa-approved shell cleaner. Avoid dish soap, bleach, abrasive powders, solvents and generic bathroom products unless the manufacturer explicitly approves them. Jacuzzi warns that household cleaners can damage the shell, disrupt water chemistry or affect warranty coverage. Rinse away every cleaner residue; a small amount left behind can create foam after refilling.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Clean the waterline, headrests, cover underside and skimmer area separately. Remove hair and leaves from suction fittings without taking protective grilles off. If the manual permits draining residual water from plumbing, follow its sequence exactly. Otherwise, leave sealed plumbing alone and concentrate on a complete refill before freezing temperatures arrive.
Cold-weather precautions
Freezing water expands and can split pumps, heaters, manifolds and pipes. If temperatures may fall below freezing, do not leave an emptied spa waiting for a convenient refill. Refill promptly, or carry out the manufacturer’s winterization procedure, which may specify how to remove water from the shell, filter housing and plumbing.
A drain alone is not winterization. Water can remain trapped in low sections of pipe after the shell is empty. If you cannot complete the approved procedure, arrange qualified service rather than guessing which unions, valves or lines to open.
Rank #4
- Bates paint brushes come in a convenient 6 pieces with 3 flat and 3 angled bristle styles, including (1”, 1.5”, 2”) flat and (1.5”, 2”, 2.5”) angled bristles, perfect for tackling any surface painting or staining job.
- The sturdy natural bristles of each brush are designed to hold more paint, creating a smoother finish with fewer streaks and saving you time on the job.
- The lightweight wooden handles provide extra comfort and ease during long painting processes like walls, trims, cabinets, and doors.
- These versatile brushes are ready-to-use, easy to clean, and can be reused multiple times, making them economical as well as reliable tools for any painting project.
- Bates paint brushes can be used for both oil-based paints as well as latex stains and are ideal for home or commercial projects such as decks, fences or DIY painting jobs.
How to refill without an airlock
-
Prepare the spa
Close the drain valve, replace every cap or fitting removed during draining and check that the filter housing is correctly assembled. Use a clean hose and inspect it for dirt that could enter the spa.
Recommended Free Tools
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy. -
Fill at the designated point
Place the hose in the fill pipe or filter compartment specified by the owner’s manual. Filling through that location helps push water into the circulation system and reduces the chance of trapping air at the pump. Do not assume the nearest opening is the correct one; some models can siphon or display an inaccurate level if filled elsewhere.
-
Reach the required level before energizing
Fill to the model’s marked line or the level stated in its instructions. The water must cover the required intake and jet level. Keep the breaker off while filling.
-
Check for leaks
Inspect the drain fitting, equipment bay, unions and shell perimeter as the water rises. Stop filling if water appears where it should not, and repair the leak before applying power.
-
Reinstall the clean filter
Fit the dry or properly prepared filter as specified. A missing, loose or incorrectly seated filter can allow debris into the circulation system or prevent the pump from priming.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy. -
Restore power only after the level is safe
Turn the breaker or isolation switch on after the required water level is reached and all fittings are secure. Watch the circulation returns and listen for abnormal sounds. If the pump runs but no water moves, switch power off immediately rather than allowing a dry run.
-
Bleed an airlock according to the manual
Symptoms include sputtering jets, a humming pump, weak circulation or a flow warning soon after refill. Turn power off, verify the water level and use only the model’s designated air-bleed point or priming procedure. Some manuals instruct you to loosen a specific bleed screw or union briefly; others provide a topside priming sequence. Do not remove an unapproved fitting or run the pump repeatedly in an attempt to force circulation.
Best Value
Sale
Pro Grade Paint Brushes, 2 Inch Angled Paint Brush, Trim & Walls, 3 Pack- 2 Inch Angled Paint Brush for Precision Cutting-In – Designed for clean, sharp lines around trim, baseboards, ceilings, corners, and detailed edge work. The perfect size for control and coverage.
- Value 3-Pack for Pros & DIY Projects – Includes three professional 2-inch angled sash brushes — ideal for contractors, remodelers, and homeowners tackling multiple rooms or repeat paint jobs.
- Smooth Results on Walls, Trim & Cabinets – Great for interior wall painting, cabinet edges, furniture projects, and trim work where a smooth finish and crisp control matter most.
- Works with Latex Paint, Oil-Based Paint & Stains – Premium synthetic filaments hold more paint, reduce streaks, and provide a clean finish with latex paints, oil coatings, and wood stains.
- Works with Latex Paint, Oil-Based Paint & Stains – Premium synthetic filaments hold more paint, reduce streaks, and provide a clean finish with latex paints, oil coatings, and wood stains.
-
Balance the fresh water
Test sanitizer, pH, alkalinity and any other parameters listed in the manual. Adjust them before anyone soaks, and allow the filtration cycle to run for the period specified by the manufacturer.
Troubleshooting common drainage and refill problems
The gravity drain barely flows
Confirm that the valve is fully open, the hose is not kinked and its outlet is lower than the spa whenever possible. A blocked hose or clogged fitting can restrict flow. Never pry a plastic valve with tools; stop and consult the model instructions if the handle will not move.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteThe pump stops before the spa is empty
Many pumps stop automatically when their sensor detects low water, while others require manual shutdown. Check the pump’s minimum operating depth and reposition it only with power disconnected. Remove the last puddle with towels or an approved wet vacuum.
Water backs up toward the spa base
Stop the flow and reroute the hose to a lower or more suitable outlet. Pooling can erode the base, enter the equipment compartment or migrate toward a foundation. Resolve the discharge path before continuing.
The pump hums, but jets do not circulate after refill
Turn off power, confirm the water covers the intake, verify that the filter and drain caps are seated, and follow the manual’s air-bleed or priming instructions. Persistent low flow, a tripped breaker or repeated flow warnings indicate a service issue rather than a reason to keep cycling the pump.
The refilled water becomes foamy
Cleaner residue, a dirty filter, body products and incorrect sanitizer or pH can all contribute. Drain and rinse again only if the manual’s chemistry guidance cannot correct it; otherwise remove the cause, clean the filter and rebalance using the specified products.
A practical maintenance rhythm after the refill
- Test sanitizer and pH at the frequency stated in the manual, and test before bathing after a long idle period.
- Rinse the filter regularly and deep-clean it with an approved product when required.
- Keep the cover clean and properly fitted to limit debris and evaporation.
- Record refill dates, unusual odors, foam, cloudy episodes and chemical adjustments. Those notes help determine whether the next drain should occur before the three-to-four-month interval.
- Inspect the drain route and hose before every future emptying, especially if landscaping or construction has changed around the spa.
Bottom line
Drain on a regular three-to-four-month cycle for many chlorine or bromine spas, and do it sooner when water remains cloudy, smelly, foamy or impossible to balance. Isolate power at the breaker, discharge legally and away from structures, choose gravity or a clean-water submersible pump based on your site, clean with spa-approved products, protect plumbing from freezing, and refill through the specified intake before turning power back on. Those steps prevent dry-running equipment, reduce airlock risk and give you a safer starting point for the next water cycle.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
