7 Steps to Winterizing your Hot Tub

While winter can be a perfect season for a relaxing soak, some owners choose to escape to warmer climates or simply prefer not to brave the cold for a dip. If you’re planning to winterize your hot tub, here’s a seven-step guide to help you out!.

1. Clean the Hot Tub:
   • Start by adding a plumbing line cleaner to remove any build-up on the equipment or the plumbing inside the tub.
   • Once the lines have been removed of build-up, turn the power off to the hot tub and drain the water completely.
   • Then clean the interior of the tub.  Do not use any household cleaners for this task, instead visit your spa professional for a proper spa cleaner.
2. Remove and Clean the Filters:
   • Take out the filters and clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow them to dry completely before storing them.
3. Blow Out the Lines:
   • Use a wet/dry vacuum or a blow-out tool to remove any remaining water from the plumbing lines. Make sure to get all the jets and pipes (you may want to do this step twice to ensure there is no water left inside the plumbing). This step is crucial to prevent damage such as cracked plumbing due to a freeze.
   • TIP: Begin with the uppermost jets and work your way around before moving on to the lower jets.
4. Add Antifreeze:
   • Add antifreeze to the plumbing lines as an extra precaution. Make sure to use a type of antifreeze that is non-toxic and safe for hot tub systems.
5. Protect the Equipment:
   • Dry and Cover the Equipment: Open the equipment compartment and dry it out. Cover the pump and heater with waterproof covers or plastic sheeting.
   • Disconnect Power: Ensure the hot tub is completely disconnected from the power supply to avoid any electrical issues.
   • Inspect the perimeter: Check the perimeter of the hot tub for any small openings or cracks that might allow critters to enter. You don’t want to come home to find your hot tub damaged by rodents chewing through wires or other components.
6. Cover the Hot Tub:
   • Use a well-fitting, high-quality hot tub cover to protect the shell from snow and ice. Make sure the cover is securely fastened to prevent any water or debris from getting inside.
   • Consider a secondary cover called a cover cap, which fits over your existing cover similarly to a shower cap.  Providing extra protection from weather conditions.
7. Check the Hot Tub Periodically:
   • If possible, check the hot tub occasionally during the winter to ensure everything is still in good condition and that no damage has occurred. 

If you’re unsure about any consider hiring a professional to help with winterization. Proper winterizing will help extend the life of your hot tub and save you from potential repair costs.