As the leaves begin to change color and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like slipping into a warm, bubbling hot tub. However, to ensure your hot tub is ready to provide comfort throughout the fall and winter months, proper preparation is key. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential tips for getting your hot tub ready for the colder seasons. Whether you plan to use your hot tub all winter long or shut it down for the season, these tips will help you protect your investment and enjoy a relaxing soak no matter the weather.

WHY SEASONAL MAINTENANCE IS CRUCIAL

When temperatures drop, your hot tub faces unique challenges that can affect its performance and longevity. Without proper maintenance, cold weather can lead to frozen pipes, malfunctioning equipment, and other issues that can be costly to repair. By preparing your hot tub for fall and winter, you’ll not only prevent potential damage but also ensure that it operates efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and extending its lifespan.

Check and Balance the Water Chemistry

One of the most important steps in preparing your hot tub for colder weather is ensuring the water chemistry is properly balanced. Maintaining the right chemical levels is crucial for preventing corrosion, scaling, and cloudy water, all of which can be exacerbated by the cold.

If you are needing help with water balancing, we offer our Monthly Water Maintenance service. Read about our water maintenance program here. 

Deep Cleaning Before the Cold Sets In

Before the temperature drops too much, take the time to give your hot tub a thorough cleaning. This will help remove any buildup and prepare your tub for the long winter ahead. We recommend using a Purge product prior to draining your hot tub. This will help to clean out the pipes from build up that happens over time.

If you use the Spa Marvel System, there is a Spa Marvel Cleanser that you can use. It works together with the other products in the Spa Marvel line up. 

Drain and Refill the Hot Tub

Draining and refilling your hot tub is a critical step in fall maintenance. Fresh water not only feels better, but it also reduces the risk of chemical imbalances and contaminants that could damage your hot tub over the winter. Make sure to drain the water completely, including any water in the pipes and pumps, before refilling.

We recommend draining and refilling your hot tub twice per year. Once in the spring and again in the fall. This will help to make sure that you don’t need to do it over the cold, winter months. 

Clean the Shell and Filters

While the tub is empty, take the opportunity to clean the shell thoroughly. Use a non-abrasive cleaner to scrub away any dirt, grime, or algae that might have accumulated. Pay special attention to the filters, as they play a crucial role in keeping your water clean. Clean or replace the filters as needed to ensure optimal performance.

To learn more about the importance of your filters, read our blog post here, Keeping It Clean: The Vital Role Of Filters In Your Hot Tub.

Inspect and Repair Any Issues

Fall is the perfect time to inspect your hot tub for any signs of wear and tear. Addressing minor issues now can prevent them from becoming major problems in the middle of winter.

We recommend a 50 point inspection. Our technician will come out and inspect all aspects of your hot tub. We will need to have full access to all sides of your hot tub and it will need to be filled. We will then fill out an inspection report and you will receive a copy of it. If any work needs to be done or is being recommended by our technicians, we will build you an estimate. From there, you can decide if you would like to move forward with repairs. 

Examine the Cover

Your hot tub cover is your first line of defense against the elements. Check it for any signs of wear, such as tears, cracks, or sagging. If your cover is damaged or has lost its insulation properties, consider repairing or replacing it to ensure it can properly protect your hot tub during the winter months.

Check for Leaks

Leaks are more than just a nuisance—they can lead to significant damage if left unaddressed, especially in freezing conditions. Inspect the area around your hot tub for any signs of water leakage, such as wet spots or pooling water. If you find a leak, call us to schedule a service call. 

Covering Your Hot Tub Properly

A high-quality cover is one of the best investments you can make for your hot tub, especially in winter. It not only keeps debris out but also helps retain heat, protecting your hot tub from the elements.

Properly covering your hot tub is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity, particularly in winter months. Here’s a more detailed look at why investing in a high-quality cover is crucial and how to get the most out of it:

Heat Retention:

• Energy Efficiency: A high-quality cover significantly reduces heat loss, which in turn lowers the amount of energy required to maintain the desired water temperature. This can lead to substantial savings on your energy bills.
• Consistent Temperature: By retaining heat, the cover helps keep the water temperature stable, ensuring a comfortable experience whenever you use the hot tub.

Debris Protection:

• Keeps Out Debris: A well-fitting cover prevents leaves, twigs, and other debris from falling into the hot tub. This reduces the amount of time and effort needed for cleaning and maintenance.
• Minimizes Contaminants: By preventing debris from contaminating the water, the cover helps maintain water quality and reduces the need for frequent chemical treatments.

Weather Protection:

• Shield Against the Elements: In winter, a cover protects the hot tub from snow, ice, and rain, which can cause damage to the hot tub’s surface and components. This helps extend the lifespan of the hot tub.
• Prevents Freezing: For those in extremely cold climates, a good cover can help prevent water from freezing in the pipes and jets, reducing the risk of costly repairs.

Safety:

• Child and Pet Safety: A sturdy cover can act as a deterrent for children and pets, preventing accidental falls into the hot tub. Some covers are designed to be lockable for added security.

Reduced Maintenance:

• Less Cleaning: With a cover in place, you’ll find less debris and fewer contaminants in the water, which means less frequent cleaning and chemical balancing.

Plan for Regular Maintenance

Even after you’ve completed your fall and winter preparation, regular maintenance is still necessary to keep your hot tub in top condition throughout the colder months.

Establish a Winter Maintenance Schedule

Set up a maintenance schedule that includes checking and adjusting the water chemistry, inspecting the cover, and monitoring the water level. Regular maintenance will help you catch and address any issues before they become major problems.

Monitor for Ice and Snow Buildup

Ice and snow can accumulate on your hot tub cover, adding extra weight and potentially causing damage. After a snowfall, gently brush off the snow with a broom, and keep an eye out for ice buildup. Avoid using sharp tools or excessive force, as this could damage the cover.

Winterizing Your Hot Tub for Long-Term Shutdown

If you don’t plan to use your hot tub during the winter, you might consider winterizing it. Proper winterization involves draining, sucking out the lines, and shutting down your hot tub to prevent freezing and other cold-weather damage.

When to Consider Winterizing

Winterizing is a good option if you won’t be using your hot tub for an extended period, such as several months. It’s also a wise choice if you live in an area with extremely cold temperatures that could lead to freezing.

Avoiding Common Winterization Mistakes

Make sure you don’t leave any water in the hot tub, as even small amounts can freeze and cause damage. A small amount of water will freeze faster than a large amount of water. Also, avoid simply covering and abandoning the hot tub without properly winterizing it, as this can lead to costly repairs come spring.

Using Your Hot Tub During the Winter

There’s something magical about soaking in a hot tub while snow falls around you. If you plan to use your hot tub throughout the winter, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind.

Maximizing Comfort in Cold Weather

Keep a warm robe and slippers nearby for when you get out of the hot tub, and consider using a towel warmer for added comfort. You might also want to install a windbreak or shelter around the hot tub to protect yourself from the elements while you enjoy a soak.

Keeping the Hot Tub Clean and Ready

To keep your hot tub clean and ready for use, continue with your regular water maintenance routine and check the water chemistry after each use. If you are needing help with understanding how to maintain your hot tub, RnR Hot Tubs and Spas offers Spa School every Sunday at 11am. Please reach out to our office at 403-203-0860 to get booked in.

A quick wipe-down of the tub and cover will help prevent debris from accumulating and keep everything in top condition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most diligent hot tub owners can make mistakes when preparing for winter. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Skipping regular maintenance can lead to bigger problems down the road. Even during the winter, it’s important to check your hot tub regularly and perform necessary upkeep to prevent issues.

Ignoring Minor Issues

Small problems, like a slow leak or an underperforming jet, can quickly escalate if ignored. Address any issues as soon as they arise to avoid costly repairs and ensure your hot tub remains in good working order throughout the winter.

Preparing your hot tub for fall and winter is essential for keeping it in top condition during the colder months. By following these tips, you can ensure that your hot tub is ready to provide warmth and relaxation whenever you need it. From balancing the water chemistry to insulating and covering your hot tub, each step is crucial for protecting your investment and enjoying a trouble-free winter season. So, start early, stay consistent with your maintenance, and you’ll be able to soak in comfort all winter long.

Our lineup of Vita Spas is the perfect winter addition to any backyard in Calgary and surrounding areas. With innovative technologies such as Northern Exposure® Insulation System and Steel Sub-Structure, we have done the research so you don’t have to. Choose a brand and a local Calgary company that will help you find the perfect hot tub for your home.

Please reach out to one of our experts today to have a look at the hot tubs or swim spas that we have in stock. We would love to help you find the perfect match for you and your family. 

You can visit us at Bay 8 –  5700 Barlow Trail SE in Calgary.

Servicing all makes and models including Vita Spa, American Whirlpool, and Maax Spas.