HotSpring Spas are equipped with balanced filtration, meaning that the filter cartridges are sized to meet the needs of the jet pump system. Additionally a separate filter is dedicated to serving the 24-hour circulation system.
As with any water filtering system, the filter cartridges may become clogged, resulting in reduced water flow. In your HotSpring® spa, it is important to maintain a clean, unobstructed filtering system. This not only provides maximum performance from the jets, but allows the 24-hour filtration system to function effectively. Watkins Manufacturing Corporation recommends the filter cartridges be cleaned (either by spraying clean with water or by soaking to dissolve minerals) once every month.

WARNING: Failure to maintain the cartridges in a clean, unobstructed manner will result in reduced water flow through the heater assembly that may cause the High Limit Thermostat or Heater Thermal Cut-Off to trip. If this high limit or thermal cut-off trip occurs during sub-freezing temperatures and goes unnoticed, the spa water may freeze. Any damage to the spa (due to freezing) caused as a result of poor maintenance will not be covered by your spa warranty.

TIP: Rotating the placement of the filter cartridges within the filter compartment after each cleaning will help extend their service life.

 Filter Cartridge Removal And Installation Instructions:

Remove and carefully set aside the filter compartment cover.
Remove any floating items from within the filter compartment.
Turn the filter handle (located on the top of the filter cartridge) counter-clockwise until the retainer can be removed from the filter standpipe.
Remove the filter retainer and cartridge.
SERVICE NOTE: Never remove the filter standpipe. Debris may find its way into the internal plumbing which may result in blockage. NEVER REMOVE SUCTION FITTINGS.

Filter Cartridge Cleaning Instructions:

Try to time it with a drain & clean.  BEFORE DRAINING YOUR SPA:  Always clean the filters using a filter degreaser to remove mineral and oil buildup. Simply soak the filter in the degreaser (according to the degreaser directions), then place the filter on a clean surface and spray until clean using a garden hose. It may be necessary to rotate the filter while spraying to remove dislodged debris between filter pleats.  Put clean filters back in spa and run jets for 20 minutes.  This way if not all of the cleaner was removed by spray rinsing, it will foam up your old water not your new.  Drain and refill your spa by putting your garden hose down the gray-capped, hollow filter standpipe.
WARNING: Do not use the spa with the filter cartridges or filter standpipe removed!

TIP:  Have an extra clean or new filter on-hand for those times when it is too cold to use your garden hose.