As Canadian temperatures begin to fall, hot tub owners face an important decision:
Do I keep my hot tub running all winter—or shut it down?
For many owners, keeping the spa running makes perfect sense. Winter can be one of the best times of year to use a hot tub.
But if you won't be using it for an extended period, proper winterization may be the better choice.
Here's what to consider.
Option 1: Keep Your Hot Tub Running
If you enjoy using your hot tub regularly, there's generally no reason to give that up simply because winter arrives.
Keeping the spa operational also means water continues circulating through the system.
You'll still need to stay on top of:
- Water chemistry
- Water levels
- Filter cleaning
- Cover condition
- Heating performance
- Circulation
- Snow removal around the spa
Winter isn't the time to stop paying attention to maintenance.
Who Should Consider Keeping It Running?
This option makes sense if you:
- Use your spa regularly
- Are home throughout winter
- Enjoy winter hot tubbing
- Are comfortable maintaining it year-round
- Can monitor the spa during periods of extreme cold
For many Canadian owners, this is the obvious choice.
Option 2: Winterize the Hot Tub
If you won't be using your hot tub for several months, you may decide to shut it down.
This is where things need to be done properly.
Winterizing a hot tub involves more than simply draining the visible water and switching off the power.
Water can remain trapped within plumbing lines, pumps, jets and other components.
When temperatures fall below freezing, that remaining water can freeze and expand.
The result can potentially be cracked plumbing, damaged components and an unpleasant surprise when you reopen the spa.
When Does Winterization Make Sense?
Consider winterization if:
- You'll be away for an extended period
- The property won't be occupied regularly
- You don't plan to use the spa during winter
- You won't be able to monitor or maintain it
In those situations, properly shutting the system down can make sense.
Why Professional Winterization Is Worth Considering
The challenge isn't getting the obvious water out.
It's getting water out of the areas you can't easily see.
A professional hot tub winterization service can help ensure the spa's plumbing and equipment are properly prepared for freezing conditions.
That's particularly valuable in Canada, where freeze damage can become expensive.
Don't Just Turn It Off
One of the worst approaches is simply turning off a full or partially drained spa and leaving it outside during freezing temperatures.
If the spa isn't going to operate, it needs to be properly prepared for the conditions ahead.
Make the Decision Before Temperatures Plunge
Early fall is a good time to decide what you're doing with your spa.
If you're keeping it running, address any maintenance or repair issues now.
If you're shutting it down, arrange proper winterization before freezing temperatures become a concern.
Need Help Preparing Your Hot Tub for Winter?
Mr. Spa can help with seasonal hot tub maintenance, service and professional winterization.
We'll help prepare your spa for the months ahead so you aren't dealing with preventable problems in the spring.
Contact Mr. Spa to arrange your fall or winter hot tub service.