How do I maintain my hot tub in the winter?

If you use your hot tub in the winter, keep the water temperature warm, and ensure the cover is properly insulated. For long-term winterization, drain the tub, remove all water, and use antifreeze in the plumbing.

Why Winter Maintenance is Important

Proper winter maintenance is crucial for several reasons:

• Prevents Freezing: The biggest risk during the winter is the potential for freezing water. Frozen pipes and jets can cause costly damage to your hot tub.
  

• Maintains Efficient Operation: Cold temperatures can affect the performance of your hot tub’s heating system and pumps. Regular maintenance ensures that everything operates as it should.
  

• Preserves the Lifespan: A well-maintained hot tub lasts longer. Winterizing and keeping up with maintenance will help preserve its life and avoid expensive repairs.
  

• Ensures Safe Soaking: Maintaining proper water chemistry and temperature during winter ensures a safe and enjoyable soaking experience.
  

How to Winterize Your Hot Tub

If you plan on not using your hot tub for a while, winterizing it properly is key to protecting it during the colder months.

1. Turn Off the Power

Before doing anything, always turn off the power to the hot tub. This prevents the heating system from running unnecessarily and helps you avoid any electrical issues.

• Cut off the circuit breaker completely.
  

• Double-check that the control panel is not active.
  

2. Drain the Hot Tub

If you won’t be using the hot tub during the winter, it’s important to drain all the water from the system to prevent freezing.

• Use the drainage valve or a submersible pump to remove all water.
  

• Tilt the hot tub slightly to let remaining water escape from the lowest point.
  

• Use a wet/dry vacuum to blow out remaining water from the jets and pipes.
  

3. Clean the Hot Tub

Before storing or leaving your hot tub unused, give it a good clean.

• Scrub the interior with a hot tub-safe cleaner.
  

• Remove any scum lines or residue from the waterline.
  

• Clean and dry the filter thoroughly before storing it.
  

4. Cover the Hot Tub

Covering your hot tub is essential for protecting it from snow, ice, and debris during the winter months.

• Use a quality insulated cover that fits tightly.
  

• Secure the cover with straps or a lockable system.
  

• Add a thermal blanket underneath the cover for extra insulation.
  

How to Maintain Your Hot Tub During the Winter

If you plan on using your hot tub throughout the winter, regular maintenance is still required to ensure everything runs smoothly.

1. Monitor Water Chemistry

Proper water chemistry is essential year-round, and even more so during the winter.

• Test water weekly using test strips or a liquid test kit.
  

• Adjust pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels as needed.
  

• Shock the water regularly to prevent buildup of contaminants.
  

Recommended levels:

• pH: 7.4 to 7.6
  

• Alkalinity: 80 to 120 ppm
  

• Sanitizer: Follow your product’s instructions
  
  

2. Keep the Water Temperature Consistent

In colder weather, maintaining a consistent water temperature is important.

• Set the temperature between 100°F and 104°F.
  

• Avoid turning off the heater to prevent freezing.
  

• Consider setting your hot tub to “economy mode” if not used daily.
  

3. Check for Leaks

Cold temperatures can cause seals and pipes to contract.

• Visually inspect the cabinet and base for any water.
  

• Look around fittings and jet connections.
  

• Catch small leaks early with leak sealants or call a professional.
  

4. Run the Jets and Pump Regularly

Keep water moving to prevent it from freezing in the pipes.

• Run the pump and jets for 15–20 minutes daily.
  

• Use automatic programming if available.
  

• Open jets fully to ensure full circulation.
  

5. Clear Snow and Ice

Keep snow and ice off your hot tub cover and surrounding area.

• Use a broom or soft brush to remove snow.
  

• Avoid sharp tools that can puncture the cover.
  

• Use a path de-icer that’s safe for pets and hot tub surfaces.
  

Additional Winter Hot Tub Tips

• Check the cover weekly: Ensure it’s secure, intact, and insulating well.
  

• Add Water as Needed: Water levels can drop faster due to evaporation in cold air.
  

• Use a Floating Thermal Blanket: Reduces heat loss and saves energy.
  

• Monitor Power Supply: Winter storms may trip circuits, so check power regularly.
  

• Have a Backup Power Plan: A generator or battery-powered heater can help in case of outages.
  

How to Protect Your Hot Tub from Freeze Damage

Freezing water can severely damage your hot tub. Here’s how to protect it:

1. Ensure Continuous Water Circulation
   

2. Insulate Exposed Plumbing
   

3. Install a Freeze Protection System
   

4. Use Antifreeze if Drained: Only for fully drained tubs. Use hot tub-safe antifreeze.
   

Preventative Maintenance Checklist

Use this checklist weekly during the winter to keep your hot tub in great shape:

• Test water chemistry
  

• Inspect for leaks
  

• Run jets and pump
  

• Clear snow and ice
  

• Check water level
  

• Confirm heater function
  

• Verify cover is secure