Top Tips for Preparing Your Hot Tub for Winter
Preparing your hot tub for the colder months is essential, especially if you want to make the most out of those relaxing winter soaks! These winter hot tub tips will help you extend the life of your hot tub and prevent costly repairs.
1. Clean your hot tub
Begin by giving your hot tub a thorough clean. At South West Spas we start by draining your hot tub water, then we use a special hot tub cleaner to scrub down the surfaces, removing any grime or mineral buildup. We clean out all jets, seating areas, and steps to eliminate any hidden dirt or bacteria, and don’t forget to tackle the filter! A clean filter keeps water circulation efficient, which is crucial in winter.
2. Inspect and replace filters
At the top of the ‘preparing hot tub for winter’ list is inspecting and replacing filters. If your filter looks clogged or has any visible damage, replace it with a new one. Filters become less effective over time, so replacing it before the winter begins can help keep your water crystal clear and reduce strain on the hot tub’s heating system.
3. Check your hot tub winter cover
A high-quality hot tub winter cover is one of the best investments you can make to protect your hot tub during the colder months. It serves as a barrier against freezing temperatures and falling debris, while also helping to retain heat. Inspect your cover for any damage and make sure it hasn’t absorbed any water (it will be unusually heavy if it has taken on water, and it may not hold its shape). Make sure your hot tub cover fits tightly around the hot tub, as gaps can allow cold air in, leading to a drop in water temperature and higher heating costs. If your cover is old, consider replacing it with a new, insulated cover.
4. Balance and shock the water
Before the cold sets in, it’s essential to balance your hot tub’s pH. Keeping these levels stable helps protect the components and reduces the need for frequent maintenance in winter. After balancing your hot tub water’s pH, we use a shock treatment to eliminate bacteria and organic contaminants. A balanced, sanitised hot tub is much easier to maintain, even when temperatures dip.
5. Temperature
Another must-do on the ‘preparing hot tub for winter’ check list is maintaining a consistent temperature. This is key because frequently turning the heater on and off can lead to wear and tear on the hot tub, and it can end up costing you more to heat the water. Set your hot tub to the desired soaking temperature and keep it there to prevent strain on the heating system and ensure it’s always ready for use.
6. Consider adding insulation or a thermal cover
In addition to a hot tub winter cover, adding a thermal blanket on the water’s surface can help trap heat and reduce evaporation. These floating blankets sit directly on the water and are especially useful in regions with extreme winter weather. This extra layer of insulation not only helps reduce heating costs but also makes your hot tub more energy efficient. You should also consider insulating your hot tub – enquire with South West Spas today and find out how we can help you to reduce your hot tub running costs.
7. Check for leaks
Inspecting all hot tub components, such as the plumbing lines and the cabinet, for any signs of leaks is best left to an expert. Even a small leak can become a major problem during the winter as water can freeze and cause cracks. If you notice any leaks or suspect you might have one, get in touch with us today.
Preparing your hot tub for winter is essential to protect your investment. With these tips, including investing in a hot tub winter cover, you’ll be ready to enjoy warm, relaxing soaks all season long while keeping maintenance to a minimum. Contact us today and make sure your hot tub is winter-ready!
