Bruno Pugh
Winter’s chill shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your hot tub! With some simple tweaks, you can keep it running smoothly all season long. But where do you even start? Do you add insulation, fine-tune your water chemistry, or do both? Here are 15 easy steps to help your hot tub stay warm, cozy, and ready for relaxation on even the frostiest days.
Give Your Cover a Checkup
A solid cover keeps the heat in and the cold out. Inspect for cracks, waterlogging, or sagging, as any weak spots let warmth escape. If it’s looking worn out, consider an upgrade to a thicker, well-insulated cover designed for cold weather. It’ll help your hot tub stay warm and save energy.
Invest in a Thermal Blanket
Adding a thermal blanket on the water surface gives your hot tub an extra layer of insulation. It minimizes heat loss, reduces the energy needed to keep water warm, and can even prevent condensation on the cover. Plus, it’s easy to use and adds an extra shield against the chill.
Adjust the Water Temperature
Raise the water temperature a few degrees to help fight off cold air and keep your hot tub warm and inviting. Set it around 100–104°F, which is usually ideal for winter soaking. Just be sure not to overdo it to avoid stressing the heater—warm, not scorching, is the way to go!
Set Your Pump to Run Regularly
You have to keep your pump running to help circulate water and prevent it from freezing in frigid temperatures. Have it run for a few minutes each hour, especially during colder parts of the day. This small step can protect your hot tub’s internal systems and save you from any icy mishaps.
Insulate the Cabinet
If your hot tub’s cabinet isn’t already insulated, foam or fiberglass insulation can help retain warmth and prevent pipes from freezing. Just make sure to leave room for airflow around the pump and motor to prevent overheating.
Clean the Filter
Having a clean filter keeps water flowing smoothly and prevents strain on the heating system. Rinse it out or replace it if it’s due—filters can easily get clogged, which makes the pump work harder to maintain warmth. A quick clean-up keeps everything working efficiently.
Check Your Hot Tub’s Seals
Leaky seals mean heat loss, so inspect the seals around your hot tub’s shell and plumbing. Tighten any loose ones and replace the cracked or worn ones. These small adjustments can prevent chilly drafts from sneaking in and keep your tub cozy without overworking the heater.
Maintain Water Chemistry
Proper water chemistry isn’t just for summer! Balanced water prevents scale buildup and corrosion, which are more likely when temperatures drop. Check and adjust pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels regularly. Well-balanced water means fewer winter maintenance issues
Keep Extra Power on Standby
Power outages are more common in winter, and an unheated hot tub can freeze quickly. A small generator can be a lifesaver for running the heater during outages. It doesn’t need to be fancy—just enough to keep the essentials running and keep your tub’s water from freezing solid.
Protect Pipes with Foam Insulation
Wrapping bare pipes with foam insulation adds a layer of protection against freezing temperatures. You can find foam pipe insulation at most hardware stores, and it’s easy to install. This small step can prevent costly repairs by keeping your pipes safe.
Keep Snow and Ice Off the Cover
Heavy snow can add stress to your hot tub cover, so clear it off regularly. Using a soft broom or your hands is safest—no shovels that might puncture the cover! Keep the cover snow-free to reduce weight on the hinges and keep cold moisture from seeping in.
Seal Gaps in the Hot Tub Cabinet
Gaps or cracks in your hot tub’s cabinet allow cold air to seep in, lowering efficiency. Use waterproof caulk or weatherstripping to seal any gaps you find. A well-sealed cabinet keeps everything warmer inside, letting your hot tub heater work less and keeping the chill out.
Use Windbreaks for Extra Protection
Blocking wind around your hot tub helps it retain heat. Consider setting up a windbreak, like a privacy screen or shrubbery, on the windy side. By cutting down the chill, you’re giving your tub a helping hand in staying warm and making your winter soak extra cozy.
Keep an Eye on Water Levels
Cold weather can cause water levels to drop faster, and a low water level makes it harder for your hot tub to maintain heat. Check levels regularly and top up as needed. Staying on top of this keeps the system running smoothly and ready for those chilly winter dips.
Don’t Skip Winter Maintenance Checks
A quick winter checkup from a hot tub technician can prevent small issues from becoming big problems. They’ll inspect the heaters, seals, and filters. It’s a small investment in keeping your hot tub healthy, warm, and ready for that steamy winter relaxation.