Whether you live in Britain, the Alps, or northern Canada, winterising your hot tub is essential to protect it from freezing temperatures, snow and ice. Like any outdoor water source, hot tubs are vulnerable to freezing, fractures and breakages.

If using your spa in the winter months is impractical because it’s not sheltered from the weather or running cost’s are too much, then it’s important to get a spa technician to flush and drain your hot tub properly. Technicians have the right equipment, including a wet vac, to get water out of the hard to reach places in hot tub and the pipes.

If any amount of water is left in the hot tub over the winter months, and it is not being used, then the components and plumbing can freeze, which can cause significant damage. The shell of the spa can also become cracked which could result in having to buy a new hot tub if the technician cannot repair it.

The majority of hot tubs come with a specialised cover which regulates the heat and protects it from debris. In the winter it’s advisable to keep the cover over the drained hot tub, but you should also place a layer of Tarpaulin over the top this will help water from getting in and safeguard it from animals.

Deep snow loads can snap the cover inserts, but by putting lengths of wood underneath the cover, this can be prevented. If you are around in the winter months then make sure you brush the snow off the top at regular intervals – don’t use a shovel because this could damage the cover and in result you having to buy a new one.

Of course in ski resorts, shutting down your hot tub for the winter may not be practical. For many chalet companies and hotels, hot tubs are a must after a hard day’s skiing. However, even if you leave the hot tub running it’s important to familiarise yourself with winterising procedures.