Winterizing a Hot Tub

As the temperatures start to drop and the snow begins to fall, it’s time to think about how to protect your hot tub for the winter months. Winterizing your hot tub isn’t just about saving energy, it’s about preventing costly damage that freezing temperatures can cause. Whether you plan to shut it down completely for the season or keep it running for cozy winter soaks, knowing how to winterize your hot tub properly is essential for keeping it in top shape.

Why Winterizing Matters in Canadian Winters

Canadian winters are no joke. In many provinces, temperatures can stay well below freezing for months at a time. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, winter temperatures can regularly dip below -20°C in regions like Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec. Without proper winterization, any water left inside your hot tub’s plumbing can freeze, expand, and cause pipes or fittings to crack. 

That kind of damage isn’t just frustrating, it can be extremely expensive to repair. Preparing your hot tub properly protects your investment and ensures it’s ready to go when spring returns.

The First Step: Decide Whether to Keep It Running

Before you start winterizing, you need to decide whether you plan to keep your hot tub operating during the winter. Many Canadians enjoy using their hot tubs year-round, even in sub-zero temperatures. If you choose to keep it running, your job will focus more on insulation, regular maintenance, and making sure the water stays clean and warm. If you decide to shut it down for the season, the process will involve a complete drain, thorough drying, and proper covering.

How to Winterize a Hot Tub You Plan to Keep Running

Keeping your hot tub open for winter use is a great choice if you want to enjoy steamy outdoor soaks under a snowy sky. To protect it during the cold months, make sure the water chemistry is balanced. Test for pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels weekly. Balanced water prevents the build-up of scale or corrosion, both of which can become worse during winter. 

Insulate the hot tub cover properly. A well-insulated, heavy-duty cover is critical. It keeps heat in, reduces energy costs, and prevents snow and ice from weighing down and damaging the cover. 

Invest in a thermal blanket that floats directly on the water’s surface for an extra layer of insulation Check the water level regularly. Low water levels can expose the pump or heater, causing them to freeze and break. 

Always top up your water as needed. Set the hot tub to “economy mode” or “freeze protection mode” if available. These settings keep the water warm enough to prevent freezing without overworking the system.

How to Winterize a Hot Tub You Plan to Shut Down

If you’re not planning to use your hot tub through the winter, you’ll need to drain it completely and protect it from freezing. Start by turning off the breaker to cut power to the hot tub. Never work on your hot tub’s systems while it’s still connected to electricity. Drain the tub thoroughly. Use the built-in drain spout, then remove any leftover water with a shop vac. 

Make sure to blow out the jets and plumbing lines too. A small amount of leftover water in the pipes can freeze and cause major problems. Remove and clean the filters. Let them dry completely and store them indoors to prevent freezing or mold growth. 

Dry out the inside of the tub completely. Wipe down every surface to ensure no moisture is left behind. Moisture trapped under the cover can still cause freezing damage. Protect the tub shell and components by covering the hot tub securely. 

A good quality winter cover, plus a tarp for extra protection, can keep snow, rain, and debris out while allowing some ventilation to prevent mold. In colder provinces, many experts also recommend placing plywood boards across the top of the covered tub to support heavy snow loads and prevent cover collapse.

Tips for Maintaining a Winter-Running Hot Tub

If you decide to enjoy winter soaks, a little extra maintenance will go a long way. Keep a shovel nearby and regularly clear snow from the cover to prevent weight damage. Ice can build up quickly during Canadian winters, and excess weight can warp or crack even the best hot tub covers. 

Check your hot tub after every major snowfall or storm. Inspect the outer panels, cover seams, and water level weekly to catch small issues before they become expensive problems. Make sure your path to the hot tub is safe too. Lay down non-slip mats or sand the walkway to prevent slips on ice. The last thing you want is to injure yourself on the way to a relaxing soak.

What Happens if You Don’t Winterize Properly?

Skipping proper winterization is risky. If water is left inside the pipes or pump system, it can freeze, expand, and burst the plumbing. Repairs for frozen pipes can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the extent of the damage. 

A cracked hot tub shell from freezing can sometimes be so serious that it requires a full replacement. The peace of mind you gain by properly winterizing is more than worth the effort.

Signs You Need Professional Help

Sometimes, it’s better to leave winterizing to the pros. If you’re not comfortable draining and blowing out the plumbing yourself, hiring a hot tub technician can ensure everything is properly prepared. Professional winterizing services usually cost between $200 and $400, depending on your location in Canada and the complexity of your hot tub system. 

It’s a small price to pay to avoid thousands of dollars in potential repairs. Many hot tub retailers across Canada offer winterizing packages that include full system checks, drain and dry services, and secure covering.

Keeping Your Hot Tub Safe Year-Round

Winterizing your hot tub might feel like a chore, but it’s a critical part of owning one, especially in Canada’s harsh winter conditions. Whether you choose to keep it running for snowy evening soaks or shut it down for the season, taking the right steps protects your investment and ensures many more seasons of relaxation to come. 

Stay ahead of the weather, plan early, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your hot tub is safe, secure, and ready for whatever winter has in store.

Looking for the right supplies or professional advice to keep your hot tub in perfect shape this winter? Visit Backyard Canada for everything you need, from covers and accessories to expert support that helps you enjoy your hot tub all year long.