Spa Filters Explained

Most spa and hot tub manufacturers have their own bespoke spa filters manufactured for there customers, but these usually only have subtle differences or are identical to filters used by all kinds of spas. Therefore, there is much competition in the market place for these products, and your hot tub dealer might not be the most economical supplier for you.

However, once you enter the minefield of researching and selecting alternative replacement spa filter cartridges, you will discover hundreds upon thousands of products to “filter” through… This guide is intended to instruct hot tub owners on the various features and specifications to look out for, and how to identify a cheap spa filter that is suitable for your requirements.

Quality Spa Filters

Some extremely cheap filters can crack and tear.  Brittle plastics on attachments can break off and clog a pump.  Also, poor quality fabrics can degrade and disintegrate, meaning they need replacing more often.  The number of pleats will identify how densely packed a product is, and the more pleats, the greater the filtration area.  Choose a branded filter who boasts strong plastics, high quality fabrics as well as good value, such as QualAqua Hot Tub Filters.

Finding Spa Filters

The first time can be tricky, especially if you do not have any information about your existing spa filter.  Good suppliers will provide spa filter a-z guides so you can simply search by the manufacturer’s name of your spa.  

However, you must also check carefully before purchasing as many spa manufacturers use different filters in different models.  To avoid accidental purchase of an incompatible spa filter, take accurate dimension measurement (in mm) for the filters length, outer diameter, and inner diameter of holes or thread screws.  Take note if your filter is open at both ends, or closed, or if it has a handle or special attachment such as clip on mouldings, or threaded screw attachments.

What are Microban spa filters?

Microban filters utilise a special anti-bacterial technology which is especially useful in the application of spa filters.  Microban spa filters provide increased protection from unwanted bacteria and help keep your filter cleaner for longer (this is especially nice in spas and above ground pools where the filter is visible in the design), due to the Microban being built inside the filter fabric, and does not evaporate or dissolve into a solution.  

Due the the high temperatures maintained in hot tubs, and the fact that bacteria grows wildly in warm and wet conditions, your spa filter is an ideal target for unwanted odours and staining if bacteria is not dealt with.  All filters eventually need replacing but Microban filters survive longer, degrading at a slower rate.

Do I need Microban filters for my spa?

Microban spa filters are more expensive that conventional spa filters and not a necessity.  However, for ultimate conditions they are a useful upgrade to your normal spa filter.