Winter Hot Tub Care: Keep Your Spa Warm and Inviting All Season
Winter is almost here, and there’s nothing quite like relaxing in the warmth of your hot tub while cold air swirls around you. But as temperatures drop, it’s crucial to take special care of your spa to keep it running smoothly and ensure you enjoy all the benefits of a toasty soak throughout the season. Here’s our guide to essential winter hot tub care.
1. Keep Your Water Chemistry Balanced
Winter is not the time to slack on water care. Consistently test and balance your water to maintain proper pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. Cold weather can increase strain on your hot tub's equipment, so balanced water prevents scaling, corrosion, and buildup, keeping everything functioning properly.
Tip: Check water chemistry at least once a week and after heavy use.
Bonus: Envision Pools and Outdoor Living offers water testing services—simply bring your water sample into our showroom, and we'll take care of the rest!
2. Top Off the Water Level
Evaporation occurs even in winter, and a low water level can cause pumps and heaters to malfunction. Make sure your hot tub’s water level stays at the recommended point, as cold air exposure can lead to frozen components and costly repairs.
3. Insulate Your Hot Tub Cover
A well-insulated cover is a hot tub’s first line of defense against heat loss. Inspect your cover for cracks, waterlogging, or wear. Consider upgrading to a thicker, insulated cover if yours is no longer efficient. A snug cover not only retains heat but also protects against debris and cold air infiltration.
Pro Tip: Use a thermal blanket underneath your cover for added insulation and energy efficiency.
4. Monitor Your Hot Tub Temperature
Set your hot tub to a temperature that keeps it warm without overworking the system—ideally around 100-104°F. Keep an eye on fluctuations and ensure your heater is functioning properly. A sudden drop in temperature can lead to frozen pipes, so catch issues early!
5. Protect Against Freezing
Extreme cold can be hard on your hot tub’s pipes and equipment. If you’re not using the hot tub frequently, set it to ‘freeze protection mode’ or run the pump regularly to prevent freezing. In case of a power outage, have a backup heat source ready to keep the water from freezing.
Important Reminder: Draining your hot tub in winter is risky unless you’re shutting it down entirely. Without water circulation, pipes can freeze and crack.
6. Clean Filters Regularly
Dirty filters reduce water flow, causing your heater to work harder. In winter, this can lead to overheating or freezing issues. Clean or replace your filters as needed to keep water circulating smoothly.
7. Maintain the Surrounding Area
Shovel snow, clear ice, and make a safe pathway to your hot tub. A clean and accessible space ensures you can enjoy your hot tub without risk of slipping and keeps snow or ice from falling into the water.
Bonus: For added safety and convenience, consider using HeatTrak mats, available at Envision Pools and Outdoor Living, to keep paths around your spa clear and ice-free.
8. Check Components Regularly
Regularly inspect your hot tub’s heater, pumps, and seals for any signs of wear or damage. Addressing minor issues early can prevent costly repairs or downtime during the colder months.
Keep the Cozy Vibes Going
With the right care, your hot tub can be your ultimate winter escape. There’s nothing quite like braving a chilly evening only to sink into the steamy embrace of your spa. By following these simple tips, you’ll keep your hot tub in peak condition, enjoy energy efficiency, and make the most of your winter soaks.
So bundle up, prepare your hot tub, and let the relaxation begin. Cheers to keeping warm all winter long!
