As winter approaches, hot tub owners face an important decision: should you keep your spa running, or shut it down and winterize it? Proper winterization protects your tub from freeze damage and can prevent costly repairs. This guide covers each essential step to help you winterize your hot tub like a pro, ensuring it’s ready for easy reactivation in the spring.
Why Should I Winterize My Tub?
If you plan to leave your spa unused during freezing temperatures, winterizing it is crucial. Any water left in the plumbing, drain, or heating elements can freeze, expand, and cause damage like cracked pipes or broken components. If you live in a region with harsh winters and don’t plan to use your hot tub regularly, winterizing it is the best option to protect your investment.
Shutting Down vs. Running in Winter
Some hot tub owners opt to keep their spa running in winter to enjoy warm soaks even in cold weather. If you choose this option, you’ll need to check and maintain the tub regularly, which can be more costly due to increased energy usage. However, if you won’t use your tub frequently, shutting it down and winterizing is often more practical, helping you save on energy and avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
Step-by-Step Guide to Winterizing Your Hot Tub
Once you decide to shut down your tub for the winter, follow these steps to ensure it’s thoroughly protected:
1. Shut Off Power
Before starting, turn off the power to your tub at the breaker. This ensures safety and prevents the tub from accidentally turning on while you’re working.
2. Drain the Hot Tub
Locate the drain spout or drain valve, usually near the bottom of the tub, and attach a garden hose to direct the water away from your property. Open the drain valve and drain the water entirely. Allowing chemical levels to drop for 24 hours before this step can also reduce environmental impact and keep your hot tub in a superior condition.
3. Remove and Clean the Filters
Take out the filters and clean them thoroughly. Rinse the filters with water or a filter-cleaning solution, let them dry, and store them in a safe place. Make sure to check the filter cavity to remove any residual debris. If the filters are worn out, consider purchasing replacements before reopening your tub in the spring.
4. Drain the Pump and Heater
To prevent residual water from freezing and damaging your spa, locate the pump and heater and drain them completely. These parts typically have a drain plug; open this to remove any trapped water. If your spa has an air blower, drain the air blower by briefly turning on the power to push out the remaining water, then turn the breaker back off.
5. Blow Out the Lines
Residual water in the plumbing lines is a common cause of freeze damage. Use a wet-dry shop vacuum to blow air through each jet individually to drain water from the lines. Spend a few seconds on each jet to ensure the plumbing is completely dry.
6. Loosen Unions on the Pump and Heater
Loosening the unions (the large nuts that connect your pump and heater) can allow any remaining water to escape, preventing pressure buildup and reducing the risk of freezing.
7. Remove Remaining Water from the Shell
After draining and blowing out the lines, use a wet-dry vacuum to suction any remaining water from the spa shell. Even small amounts left in the bottom can freeze, so ensure the shell is completely dry.
8. Add Antifreeze for Extra Protection (Optional)
To guard against any trapped moisture, you may choose to add antifreeze, specifically non-toxic, RV-approved antifreeze, to the jets and lines. Pour a small amount directly into each line to prevent freezing. Avoid automotive antifreeze, as it’s toxic and difficult to remove.
9. Clean the Shell and Hot Tub Cover
Wipe down the shell with a non-abrasive cleaner to prevent staining and remove any buildup. Cleaning the shell now will save time when reopening your spa. Clean the hot tub cover as well using mild soap, then rinse and dry. A clean cover improves insulation and extends its lifespan.
10. Secure the Cover
Place the tub cover on your tub, ensuring a snug fit to keep out debris and moisture. If your cover is worn or cracked, consider replacing it to ensure maximum insulation. Secure it with straps or tie-downs to prevent wind or snow from dislodging it.
Final Tips for Successful Winterization
- Turn Off the Breaker: After all drain steps, double-check that the breaker is turned off for the season.
- Store Cleaned Filters: After removing, cleaning, and drying your filters, store them in a safe place.
- Check the Cover’s Condition: A well-sealed cover is essential for winter protection, so make sure it’s in top shape.
Conclusion
Winterizing your spa properly is essential to protecting it during the cold season. Following these steps will help prevent freeze damage and make springtime reopening quick and easy. By putting in a little effort now, you can enjoy your hot tub worry-free when warmer weather returns.
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