As the crisp air rolls in and the first frost coats the ground, it’s time to think about what many hot tub owners overlook: winter prep. Whether you plan to keep soaking during snowy evenings or shut your spa down until spring, properly winterizing your hot tub is essential. Welcome to Hot Tub Hibernate, your ultimate guide to preparing your spa for winter.
Why Winter Prep Matters
Winter can be tough on hot tubs, especially if they're left unprepared. Freezing temperatures can cause water to expand in your above ground pools spa’s plumbing, leading to costly damage like cracked pipes or a broken heater. Even if you’re using your hot tub during the colder months, taking certain precautions will help keep it running smoothly and efficiently.
Option 1: Keeping Your Hot Tub Running in Winter
If you're among the many who enjoy the luxury of a warm soak under a blanket of snow, you’ll want to maintain your hot tub throughout the season. Here’s how to prepare:
1. Inspect and Clean the Tub
Start with a deep clean. Drain your hot tub completely and scrub the interior with a non-abrasive cleaner. Clean or replace the filters, and flush the plumbing lines with a jet-cleaning solution to remove buildup.
2. Refill with Fresh Water
After cleaning, refill your tub with fresh water. This minimizes contaminants and keeps your water chemistry stable longer.
3. Check Insulation
Ensure your hot tub cover is insulated, undamaged, and fits tightly. A thermal cover or spa blanket can provide an additional layer of protection. If your spa isn’t well-insulated, consider adding foam board or insulation around the cabinet.
4. Maintain Proper Water Chemistry
Cold weather can impact water balance. Regularly test and adjust the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. Balanced water protects both the users and the spa components from damage and scale buildup.
5. Set to Economy Mode
Most modern hot tubs have an economy or sleep mode, which maintains the water temperature efficiently without running the heater constantly. This saves on energy costs while keeping the spa ready for use.
6. Monitor Water Levels
Evaporation still occurs in winter, and if the water level gets too low, it can damage the pump and heater. Keep an eye on it weekly and top off as needed.
Option 2: Winterizing and Shutting Down Your Hot Tub
If you're not planning to use your hot tub during winter, shutting it down properly is crucial to prevent damage.
1. Turn Off the Power
Safety first. Switch off the breaker and unplug your hot tub before doing anything else.
2. Drain Every Drop
Fully drain the hot tub using the bottom drain valve. Use a wet/dry shop vacuum to blow out water from the jets, pump, and all plumbing lines. Water left behind can freeze and cause cracks.
3. Remove and Clean Filters
Take out the filters, clean them thoroughly, and store them in a dry place until spring.
4. Clean the Interior
Wipe down the shell of the hot tub with a spa cleaner to prevent mold or mildew while it sits unused.
5. Loosen Unions and Open Drain Plugs
This step ensures there’s no trapped water in the system. Leave unions slightly open to allow expansion if any moisture remains inside.
6. Cover It Tightly
Use a durable, weather-resistant hot tub cover. Consider placing a tarp over the cover and securing it with straps or bungee cords to protect it from snow and ice.
Bonus Tips for Winter Success
Regular Checks: If possible, check on your tub every few weeks to ensure the cover is secure and no moisture is accumulating.
Rodent Protection: Small animals may seek warmth in the cabinet. Use rodent repellents or mesh to block access points.
Professional Help: If you're unsure about winterizing your spa, many hot tub service providers offer winter prep packages.
Wrapping Up
Preparing your hot tub for winter doesn’t have to be a hassle. Whether you're diving into steamy relaxation or tucking your tub away until spring, proper winterization ensures it stays in top shape. The Hot Tub Hibernate approach combines care, consistency, and a little bit of pre-season effort for peace of mind all winter long.
When spring returns, you’ll thank yourself for the smooth startup—and your hot tub will be ready for another season of bubbly bliss.
