How to look after the shell on your new Jacuzzi® Spa

The shell is one of the most important parts of a spa pool and swim spa. Unlike most spa components, the shell cannot be replaced. In this article, we’ll cover how to take care of your Jacuzzi® spa shell, how to protect it from further damage and more.

Jacuzzi® J-385™

Whether you’ve just bought a Jacuzzi® Spa or you’ve had one for years, it’s important to look after it properly. Proper maintenance of your spa shell is essential for its longevity and to ensure you get the most out of your investment.

In this article, we’ll share the best ways to keep your Jacuzzi® Spa in top condition. From cleaning the shell to protecting it from the elements, we’ve got all the tips you need to make sure your Jacuzzi® Spa looks and performs at its best.

In this article, you’ll learn:

The image shows the Jacuzzi® J-375™ Spa Pool

What is the Jacuzzi® Spa shell?

The spa shell is the inside surface of your spa where all other components such as the jets, lights, and controls are set. The spa shell is the biggest and most important component of your spa. It is what gives the spa its shape and style, and it needs to be kept in proper condition in order to ensure that the spa is functioning properly.

When selecting a spa, it is important to consider the shell as it is an essential element that cannot be replaced. It must be strong to bear the weight of the water and the users, as well as attractive since it makes up the majority of the spa's aesthetic.

What to do when your new Jacuzzi® spa arrives

As soon as your spa arrives, it is essential to begin taking care of its shell right away in order to ensure that it remains in the best condition possible. Here are the steps needed to maintain your spa and avoid any potential harm.

Unwrap the spa on delivery

Once your new spa arrives, the first thing you should do is take off any plastic wrapping. This will prevent overheating from the sun which can cause damage such as blistering and bubbling. This is because heat from the sun builds up within the spa, like a greenhouse and can become damagingly hot.

Secure your spa with a spa cover

Until you're ready to use your spa, use the spa cover provided to prevent direct sunlight from damaging its shell. Acrylic spa shells can develop small hairline cracks that make the finish look hazy when left uncovered under the sun. This is caused by the heat of the sun being concentrated in the spa shell. Please note that these damages are not covered under warranty.

Important reminders:

  • Once your spa arrives, it is crucial to keep it from overheating – whether through sunlight exposure or heat build-up inside the wrap. Failure to take these steps can lead to delamination, which will be considered ‘misuse’ and will not be covered by your spa warranty.
  • Before using the spa, there are other steps to take when your spa arrives such as plugging it in, filling it with water and treating the water. You can learn all about this and more below.

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How to take care of the Jacuzzi® Spa Shell

In order to ensure the longevity of your Jacuzzi® spa shell, it is important to take proper care of it. To preserve the sheen of your spa’s surface, ensure that regular cleaning and maintenance are performed.

Keep your spa water balanced

The acceptable pH level for spa water is between 7.2 - 7.8, while 80 – 160 for total Alkalinity.

Unbalanced water can cause corrosion, staining, and scaling on the surfaces of the spa which can lead to costly repairs. Additionally, unbalanced water can cause skin and eye irritation for users, as well as create an ideal environment for bacteria and algae to grow.

To avoid these issues, it is important to regularly test the spa water and adjust the pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and sanitiser levels as needed. The acceptable Properly balanced spa water will also help to protect the equipment from damage and ensure that users have a safe and comfortable experience.

To learn more about water care and maintenance, click the button below.

Wipe down the spa’s inside

It is advisable to wipe down the inside of your spa every 2 to 3 weeks even if you do not drain your water.

You may use a soft cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the surface of the spa shell. Doing this regularly will also mean less work when you do drain your water.

Drain your spa and refill it with fresh water

The ideal opportunity to perform a deep cleaning of your spa or swim spa is when you are changing the water. This should be done every 3-6 months for spas and once a year for swim spas.

Once the spa is empty, you may use a sponge, soft scrubbing pads or cloth with mild detergent and warm water to remove any dirt or grime. Please make sure to rinse the spa shell thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.

Power Tip: Spa World™ recommends a small amount of Pipe Degreaser to help remove any water line build-up.

Use non-abrasive cleaner

In the case of tougher stains, white vinegar or commercial acrylic cleaner can be used. It is essential to be aware of the directions of use for commercial stain remover and make sure it is suitable for your spa shell. After using a cleaner for the shell, it is important to thoroughly rinse and wipe the area to avoid any leftover residue which can disrupt the water chemistry.

Use shell protectant

For added protection, you may also apply a specialised acrylic shell protectant that polishes and protects the shell of your spa.

Pro Tip: Always follow the manufacturer’s usage instructions.

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This image shows the Jacuzzi® J-375™ Spa

What’s the lifespan of Jacuzzi® Spa Shell?

A Jacuzzi® spa shell is designed to last for many years, with proper care and maintenance. The lifespan of a Jacuzzi® hot tub shell can vary greatly depending on the environment and care it receives.

Generally, the shell of a Jacuzzi® spa can last anywhere from five to twenty years. Regular maintenance and proper care of the spa shell will help to extend its lifespan. This includes regular cleaning and draining of the hot tub, as well as checking the water chemistry and temperature.

Additionally, the use of a high-quality cover can help protect the shell from the elements and extend its life. With proper care and maintenance, your Jacuzzi® spa shell can provide years of relaxation.

Click the button below to learn more about the lifespan of the spa shell including the lifespan of other spa components.

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In Summary

We hope this article has given you a good understanding of how to take care of your Jacuzzi® spa shell.

If you need further information or have any questions about this topic, or anything else to do with your spa pool, please contact our customer care team. We are here to help!

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