Best Practice for using hot tubs in winter
Using hot tubs in winter brings countless benefits. From soothing sore muscles and helping to alleviate a range of medical symptoms, to boosting mental health, promoting better sleep and generally enhancing your mood, it is no wonder so many people become hooked on the hot tub experience.
But what do you do with hot tubs in winter? Do you carry on enjoying the warmth and relaxation that your hot tub has brought you over the warmer months? Or is it time to put a lid on things and wait until the weather becomes a little kinder?
If it’s time to make a decision about what to do with your hot tub in winter, read on for our expert tips. Whether you’re planning to carry on indulging through the winter, or you are more of a fair weather user looking to make sure your tub is well-protected as the temperatures plummet, we have all the advice you need.
To hot tub, or not to hot tub in winter?
This is your key decision. If you like the idea of taking a dip in bubbly warm water no matter the weather it’s important to bear a few things in mind. Because the outside temperature is that bit lower, your tub’s heating system will have to work that bit harder to keep the water at your perfect temperature, which could result in higher heating bills.
If you are still excited about the prospect of using your hot tub in winter, the following advice is for you.
How to prepare your hot tub for winter use
The first thing to think about is preparing your spa for winter use.
1. Check your hot tub cover
Heat loss generally comes from the surface of the water, so it’s vital to make sure the tub’s cover is in tip top condition. So, run a thorough check. Look for any signs of the cover bowing, or rising at the corners. Any lifting will release heat and push up those energy bills. Also make sure the cover is secured in place in case of any high winds.
If your hot tub cover has seen better days, it is probably time to invest in a new one. Choosing the best quality your budget will allow means you get to enjoy the highest possible levels of protection.
Think of practical measures too. In the warmer months, you may leave your cover off between dips. But during the winter, you’ll need to put it back on after each use. So think, is the cover manageable? Is it light enough to handle, whilst still ticking all the durability and quality boxes? There are plenty of options from which to choose such as lid stands and lid lifters that make the job easier, so be sure to take your time and select what’s best for your needs.
A floating thermal blanket is also worth considering. These are designed to sit on the surface of the water and prevent the heat from rising. They also protect the underside of the hot tub cover. Try not to be tempted into purchasing an economical version or even use that roll of bubble wrap you’ve had kicking around in the garage for ages, as they are likely to disintegrating, which can lead to serious issues with the pipework and pump system of your hot tub.
2. Drain and clean your hot tub
It is good practice to change the water in your hot tub before the colder months set in, because cleaning hot tubs in winter is no pleasant task. Before you drain your tub, use the opportunity to use a flushing agent such as Swirl Away to clean out all the inner plumbing and deep clean or replace your filter. When refilling your hot tub make sure not to accidentally create an air lock. If you are unsure how to empty and refill your hot tub give our team a call or book one of our hot tub engineers to service your hot tub for you?
3. Check the water level
And then keep on checking it! This is especially important if you haven’t used your tub for a while. Should the water level drop too low, then your pump and heater may risk shutting down, which could lead to frozen water, hairline cracks and expensive or lasting damage.
Top tips for using hot tubs in winter
Now you’re ready to make use of your hot tub during the winter, here are some top user tips to help enhance the whole experience.
- Turn down the jets
Whilst full-on jets are wonderful for soothing weary muscles, they can cool the tub down. This is because jets draw in air from outside, which reduces the temperature of the water. So turn them down a little if you want to reduce running costs.
2. Be mindful of soak times
Tempting as it might be to go for that extra-long winter soak, it is advisable not to over-do it, because your body can overheat. With the outside temperature that bit lower, this could cause symptoms of hypothermia. So be sure to set your timer before sitting back and relaxing in your hot tub.
3. Be prepared to get indoors
It’s always a good idea to be ready to retreat from your hot tub should the wind whip-up or the heavens open. Keep a stock of dry towels, bathrobes and flip-flops handy so you’re ready to head indoors on the quick should the need arise.
4. Invest in a hot tub gazebo
Lots of people adore using hot tubs in winter, especially if a gazebo adds shelter from the elements. During the summer the gazebo will keep the blazing sun off your shoulders, and come winter, it’s the rain and wind that will be kept away. A gazebo is also useful for protecting the tub itself from the elements and will reduce your hot tub running costs. At Hot Tubs and Living we offer a range of beautifully crafted wood gazebos and garden buildings to create your perfect hot tub oasis.
How to shut your hot tub down for winter
If you’ve decided against using your hot tubs in winter, then here’s what you need to do
- Drain your tub
If the water in your hot tub doesn’t get circulated, it will freeze and damage the plumbing or other components. So if you don’t plan on using it, drain it. This includes all the components, jets and fittings. Depending on your hot tub you can either use the drain valve or a submersible pump. Also use a wet-dry vacuum cleaner to blow air through all the jets individually to ensure there is no water left in the pipes.
2. Check the filters
A hot tub that’s shut down for any period of time will benefit from having its filters removed and cleaned. Once you’ve taken them out, keep them out until you are ready to start using the tub again, then start the new season with a brand new filter.
3. Clean the tub
Once the tub is empty, it’s time to give it a thorough clean to ensure all the bacteria is blitzed so that nothing can fester over the shutdown period. Browse our online shop for our all your hot tub cleaning essentials.
Premium Quality Hot Tubs and Gazebos from Hot Tubs and Living
If you have toyed with the idea adding a hot tub to your home and would like to find out more about the many benefits a hot tub can offer, whatever the time of year, why not take a look at the premium hot tub collections offered by Hot tubs and Living?
With over 10 years of experience in the industry, a range of products featuring exceptional innovation and cutting-edge technology, and a reputation for customer service that is second to none, you can rest assured that you are in good hands. Contact us today and let us help you find the perfect oasis of relaxation for your home.
