How to Drain an Inflatable Hot Tub Without Making a Mess
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Draining an inflatable spa is straightforward once you know the fittings — and messy if you learn mid-stream. Here is the process we use on camera, adapted for a typical backyard.
Before you open the valve
- Pick a day above freezing if you are in Michigan winter.
- Decide where the water goes: lawn (away from wells and neighbors’ basements), or a drain allowed by local rules. Spa water with chemicals should not go into storm drains in many areas — check local guidance.
- Power down the pump/heater pack per the manual.
Drain steps
- Locate the drain plug / fitting on your model. Attach the included drain hose or a garden hose adapter if your kit has one.
- Open the valve slowly. If flow is weak, a small submersible pump into a hose speeds the job on larger tubs.
- As the water drops, wipe the walls. A cordless spa vacuum helps with sand before the last few inches.
- Finish draining; remove and rinse filters; wipe the floor.
- Leave the valve open until you are ready to refill so the bladder can dry.
Refill notes
Fill to the line marked on the liner — overfilling stresses seams and the filter housing. Reinstall filters before running the pump. Balance water before the first soak.
We also have a full drain, clean, and refill walk-through on the channel if you want to see hose routing. Gear links: shop.