Deflating an MSPA Lite inflatable spa seems simple on paper, but improper handling can damage the PVC seams or trap moisture inside the structure. The recent Lite ranges incorporate an internal pump system that can be used for both inflation and deflation, which limits risky DIY attempts with third-party pumps. However, it is essential to follow a specific order and adhere to some precautions that the user manual does not always clearly detail.
Water Pressure and Temperature: Two Parameters to Check Before Touching the Valve
The common reflex is to drain the water and then directly open the deflation valve. This shortcut overlooks a technical point that can be costly for an MSPA Lite spa.
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The water temperature at the time of draining influences the internal pressure of the inflatable structure. On the product sheets for the 4 and 6-person Lite models distributed in France, the maximum water temperature is set at 40 °C. Deflating while the water exceeds this threshold exposes the PVC seams to thermal stress combined with residual pressure in the walls.
Before any operation, allow the water to cool to room temperature. If you are in a hurry, turn off the heating several hours in advance. Recent Lite models come with an integrated pressure control system or a pressure gauge on the pump hose, which allows you to check that the pressure is stable before starting the deflation. Ignoring this reading means folding a structure that is still under tension, with a risk of micro-tears at the junction points.
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For those looking for a detailed step-by-step protocol, knowing how to deflate an MSPA Lite spa correctly starts with this pressure and temperature check, which is often overlooked.
Draining the MSPA Lite Spa: The Correct Order to Protect the PVC
Draining always precedes deflation. Attempting to fold a spa that is still filled, even partially, exerts hydraulic pressure on the walls that is not accounted for in the product design.
Drain the Water Without Forcing the Structure
The 4-person Lite models hold about 650 liters of water. The volume is higher for the 6-person versions. Use the designated drain plug connected to a garden hose directed towards an appropriate drainage area. Tilting the spa to speed up the flow is tempting, but this maneuver deforms the inflated walls and can create permanent creases in the PVC.
Once most of the volume is drained, there will still be some stagnant water left. Manually sponge it up or vacuum it with a small water pump. This residue, even minimal, becomes a mold problem if the spa is folded while still damp for storage over several weeks.
Interior Cleaning Before Deflation
Cleaning is done while the spa is still inflated. The logic is simple: the rigid walls provide an accessible working surface. Once deflated, the liner collapses, and the corners become impossible to reach properly.
- Wipe a soft sponge with a non-abrasive cleaner over the entire interior surface, paying special attention to the waterline where limescale and sunscreen deposits accumulate.
- Rinse thoroughly with clear water to remove any chemical residue that could damage the PVC during storage.
- Dry the interior walls with a microfiber cloth, then leave the spa open to the air for at least an hour to allow any residual moisture to evaporate.
This complete drying is the most underestimated condition for successful winter storage. A folded spa with trapped moisture develops mold spots within weeks, sometimes impossible to remove without damaging the lining.
Deflation with the Integrated MSPA Pump: Procedure and Common Pitfalls
On the recent Lite ranges, the internal pump is used for both inflation and deflation. The kit includes a dedicated hose that simply needs to be connected to the valve to suck out the air. This function is accessible via the technical block or the remote control, depending on the models.
This system has replaced the old method where some users plugged in third-party pumps or improvised nozzles, with varying results and a risk of damaging the valve. The hose provided in the kit is calibrated for the exact diameter of the MSPA Lite valve, ensuring a proper seal during suction.
Common Mistakes During Deflation
The first mistake is removing the valve cap without connecting the pump hose, relying on gravity to evacuate the air. The spa partially deflates but in a chaotic manner, creating wrinkled PVC areas that are difficult to flatten later.
The second mistake concerns premature folding. Never start folding until the pump has completed its suction cycle. Residual air trapped in the folds creates pressure pockets that prevent compact folding and can stretch the seams over time.
Folding and Storing the MSPA Lite Spa: Avoid Permanent Creases
Once all the air is sucked out, the spa resembles a large soft tarp. The folding technique directly affects the condition of the PVC for the next inflation.
- Fold the two opposite sides towards the center, following the seams that serve as natural guides.
- Roll the spa from one end while pushing out the residual air, just like rolling a sleeping bag.
- Secure the roll with the straps provided in the kit or with wide elastics, without tightening to the point of marking the PVC.
- Store the spa in its original transport bag, in a dry place, protected from frost and UV rays.
Storing a folded MSPA Lite spa in a location where the temperature drops below zero weakens the PVC, which loses elasticity and becomes brittle at the folds. In contrast, a temperate and ventilated space is sufficient to keep the structure in good condition for several months.
The weight of the empty spa varies depending on the model and the number of seats, but it remains manageable by one person in most cases. Still, ensure you have a clear working space on the ground to lay the spa flat before rolling it up, otherwise, pebbles or rough surfaces may puncture the liner during handling.