A spa neglected for 6 months becomes a science experiment.
Seasonal pool care in North Texas is its own science. The advice below is calibrated to DFW pollen counts, freeze risk, hardness levels, and heat. Generic national pool advice gets you most of the way; the local nuance closes the rest.
The quarterly checklist
- Drain fully
- Wipe shell with non-abrasive cleaner
- Soak filter cartridge in degreaser overnight
- Flush plumbing with biofilm remover
- Refill with fresh water
- Balance hardness FIRST (200–400 ppm)
- Set pH to 7.4–7.6
- Sanitizer (bromine 3–5 ppm for most spas)
- Run for 24 hours before use
Skipping step 4 is the #1 cause of recurring foam and biofilm. Do it.