Highlife Aria Freshwater

A Hot Tub isn’t just for summer…

As the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like soaking in a hot tub surrounded by crisp air and maybe even a snowy landscape. But to enjoy your hot tub during the colder months, it’s essential to properly maintain it. Winter can be particularly tough on hot tub equipment, but with the right care, your tub will remain cozy and functional all season long. Here are some winter-ready hot tub maintenance tips to help you keep the heat on.

1. Balance the Water Chemistry

The first hot tub maintanence tip is to stay on top of your water chemistry. Water chemistry is always important, but even more so during the winter. Regularly test your water to ensure the pH, alkalinity, and sanitiser levels are within the correct range. Adjust the chemicals at least once a week to prevent scaling, cloudy water, or corrosion—issues that are even harder to handle in freezing weather. (We have these in store!)

2. Flush Drain and Refill before the Cold

If you’re heading into winter with your hot tub already in use, it’s a good idea to Flush, drain and refill it before the temperatures drop too low. Fresh water, along with balanced chemicals, will last most of the season, minimising the need for a mid-winter water change—which can be quite difficult in cold conditions. Try to schedule this on a warmer day to avoid complications like frozen pipes during the refill process.

3. Invest in a High-Quality replacement Cover

A good hot tub cover is your first defence against winter’s cold. It helps trap heat, keeps debris out and prevents the water surface from freezing. Inspect your cover for signs of wear, such as cracks or gaps. A well-insulated cover can significantly reduce heat loss, keeping your energy bills in check and ensuring the water stays hot. You can also use a thermal Hot Tub blanket covers for extra protection.

4. Maintain the Water Level

A low water level can cause the pump and heater to malfunction, potentially leading to frozen water in the pipes. Be sure to check and maintain the proper water level so that all components are submerged and running smoothly.

5. Run the Jets Regularly

Even if you’re not using the tub, it’s important to run the jets occasionally to keep water circulating. This prevents freezing in the pipes, particularly during cold snaps. Many modern hot tubs have a “freeze protection” feature that automatically circulates water when temperatures get too low. However, manually running the jets once in a while ensures everything is in working order.

6. Monitor the Temperature

Keep an eye on the temperature settings throughout the winter. The ideal hot tub temperature is between 38℃ and 39℃, ensuring both a comfortable soak and the prevention of water freezing. If you’re not planning on using the tub for an extended period, reduce the temperature to around 26oc. This saves energy while still keeping the water from freezing.

7. Check Filters and Jets

Dirty or clogged filters can overwork your pump, which may cause damage during the winter months. Clean the filters regularly and replace them if necessary. Make sure all jets are functioning properly to ensure even water circulation. Clean and functioning filters and jets will keep your hot tub running efficiently and reduce strain on the heater.

8. Stay Ahead of the Weather

Winter weather can be unpredictable. If a particularly cold snap or snow is in the forecast, take extra precautions. Clear any snow off the hot tub cover to prevent damage. If temperatures are expected to plummet, consider increasing the water temperature slightly to counterbalance the extreme cold.

9. Winterise If Needed

If you don’t plan to use your hot tub during the winter, it’s crucial to winterise it properly. This involves draining all the water from the tub, pipes, and components to prevent freezing, which can cause serious damage. Disconnect the power, thoroughly clean the tub and its components, and securely cover it. If you’re unsure about the process, we offer a professional winterisation service to ensure your hot tub is fully protected throughout the colder months.

Conclusion

Proper maintenance is key to enjoying your hot tub all winter long. By balancing water chemistry, keeping the water level stable, investing in a quality cover, and ensuring your tub is ready for the season, you can relax in a warm soak whenever you like. And if winterizing becomes necessary, don’t hesitate to reach out for our professional service to keep your hot tub in great shape until the warmer months return. Keep the heat on and enjoy the best of winter with a well-maintained hot tub!

Need Help with Winterising? We Offer Winterisation Services!

If the idea of winterising your hot tub feels overwhelming, or you simply want the peace of mind that everything’s done right, we’ve got you covered. Our professional Winterisation Service will take care of draining, cleaning, and prepping your hot tub for the cold season, so you don’t have to worry about frozen pipes or costly repairs. Contact us today to schedule your winterisation and ensure your tub is ready for springtime relaxation.

Check out our latest winterisation offer for the month of October below