Winterize Your Hot Tub - How to Close Your Hot Tub for Winter Safely

Many homeowners in Tucson have hot tubs and spas. It's the perfect way to relax after a long day, and many see it as a way to socialize, interact with family, and connect with those they love. Even in Tucson, though, the cold weather can come in the winter, and if the temps dip below freezing, it could spell trouble for your hot tub or spa. 

By taking the time to learn about winterizing your hot tub for the winter months, you can protect your investment, extend the life of your equipment, and ensure that everything is ready to go when spring arrives once again. So can knowing how to balance hot tub chemicals.

Why Winterizing a Hot Tub or Spa Matters in Tucson

Though Tucson does have a mild winter compared to other areas of the country, it can definitely get down into the 30s and 40s, and snow here. Because of this, you don't want to leave your hot tub or spa unprepared for the weather.

If you don't drain your hot tub and allow it to sit, it will begin to turn into a breeding ground for bacteria and algae. If the temperature drops, the water can freeze. When water freezes, it expands, which will crack everything from drain plugs and valves to drain spouts and hot tub lines. Even a small amount of water can damage the small pieces and parts of a hot tub, which leads to expensive repairs and replacements. 

When you fully winterize, however, you prevent all of this. You also save energy, as you won't be running your hot tub. 

Step 1 – Gather the Right Supplies to Winterize

The first step to hot tub winterizing is gathering the tools and products you need. Having everything in place will make the process smoother and ensure that you don't skip anything. Some of the things you need are: 

• Spa Cleaner - Helps you clean all surfaces without damaging the shell

• Filter Cleaner/Replacements - A dirty filter can trap bacteria and should be cleaned or replaced

• Wet/Dry Shop Vac or Blower - You can use this to blow water from jets and lines

• Garden Hose or Submersible Pump - Used to suck water out of the tub

• Soft Cloths and Sponges - Use these to wipe down the spa

• High-Quality Hot Tub Cover - You need to protect against pests, debris, and winter weather

• Sanitizer and water line flush product - Will thoroughly clean the whole tub before draining

• RV Antifreeze - Added protection for parts you can't remove, including the filter and pump

Step 2 – Un Plug, Drain, and Clean the Hot Tub 

With all of your supplies on hand, you need to make sure, 100% that the electricity to the hot tub is not on. Turn the power off at the breaker, and then begin to drain the water. 

Using a garden hose, or even better, a sump pump, all of the water should be drained from the tub. This includes water that is in the filter cavity, the heater and pumps, or any other places where water can pool. When all of the water is out, you can clean the shell with a non-abrasive spa cleaner. Don't use household cleaners. They could damage the surface of the shell and leave residue that can affect water quality when it's filled again. 

You can remove all filters, too, and if they are still in good condition, they can be rinsed off and cleaned. If not, replace them come spring. Tucson hot tub repair may be able to help.

Step 3 – Remove Water From All Lines with an Air Blower

One of the most important parts of winterizing a hot tub or spa is removing water from the lines. Even in Tucson, temps can get low enough to freeze water, and that can definitely crack pipes, pumps, pump unions, jets, and more. You can use some RV antifreeze in some areas. Pouring the antifreeze into the filter and into the hot tub's plumbing lines. Just keep in mind that it can promote bacterial growth.

Step 4 – Protect the Equipment - Dry and Store Pumps and Heaters

When everything is dry, including the lines, you need to check the pumps, heating elements, and other mechanical components to ensure everything is dry. Also, check things like seals and o-rings, loosen them and give them a bit of lubricant, so that they stay flexible. If there is an electrical panel, make sure it's off and that it can't get turned on. Always disconnect everything until spring.

Step 5 – Cover and Secure the Hot Tub With a Strong Hot Tub Cover

The final step is to cover the hot tub properly. The best type of cover is one that is insulated, thick, and strong. You should inspect the winter cover of the hot tub regularly for tears or holes. 

Professional Hot Tub Winterization in Tucson

While many homeowners take on winterization themselves, hiring a professional spa maintenance company in Tucson provides peace of mind. A professional pool and spa tech has the right tools, knowledge, and experience to ensure no step is missed. They can also identify early signs of wear or damage during the process, preventing costly repairs down the road.

In addition, professional services save homeowners time. Rather than spending hours learning the process and purchasing supplies, homeowners can rely on experts to prepare the hot tub quickly and correctly. When spring arrives, reopening is simple and stress-free.

For anyone who wants to protect their investment without the hassle, working with a trusted local pool and hot tub company is the best option.

Work with E-Konomy Pool Service & Supply

Winterizing a hot tub may not seem necessary in Tucson’s mild climate, but taking the time to prepare makes a big difference. Draining, cleaning, drying, protecting equipment, and securing with a quality cover keeps the spa safe during cooler months. Skipping the process can lead to bacteria buildup, damaged pipes, or expensive repairs. Contact our team for insight on how to clean and change hot tub filters.

Homeowners who want extra peace of mind can call a professional hot tub service in Tucson to handle the details. Whether done as a DIY project or with expert help, winterization protects the investment, saves money, and ensures the hot tub will be ready to enjoy again once the warm weather returns.

E-Konomy Pool Service & Supply is available year-round to help with pool, hot tub, and spa maintenance, including winterizing.