Get The Most Out of Your Hot Tub This Winter

Summer is over, and the pool is closed, but that doesn’t mean you have to put your bathing suit away for the winter!

Your hot tub was designed for year-round use in any climate. Below are some steps you may want to take this time of year to ensure maximum enjoyment and energy efficiency this winter.

  1. Set Your Controls
    If your hot tub has a freeze protection system, make sure it is activated and that the heat settings are set higher than the bare minimum.
  2. Turn off Air Jets
    If you do use your jets in the winter, make sure they are in the off position when the hot tub is not in use.
  3. Inspect your cover
    Your hot tub cover provides much-needed insulation during the cold winter months.  If your cover is waterlogged or deteriorated, it can’t do its job properly.  Check your cover for signs of wear and tear-make sure the seal is still tight and intact so heat doesn’t escape. If you see signs of sagging, fading or cracking, it’s time for a replacement.
  4. Consider using a Floating Thermal Blanket
    To save energy, a floating thermal blanket can help to lower heat loss by reducing evaporation and keep moisture buildup on the inside of your hot tub cover to a minimum.
  5. Monitor the water level
    Make sure to keep an eye on the water level in your spa.  Low water levels cn cause the pump to shut down, water to not circulate, the heater to not run, and ultimately, if the temperature gets low enough, your spa could freeze.
  6. Water Temperature
    Check your water temperature daily to make sure the heater is functioning properly
  7. Follow a vacation checklist
    If you are going away for a few days during the winter months, remember these tips:

    • Before you go, adjust the pH according to your owner’s manual.
    • Sanitize the water with Rising Sun Pool’s Spa Chlorine Concentrate (according to instructions.)
    • Lock down the cover to prevent access.
    • Lock the light and jets feature on the control panel
    • Upon your return, balance the pH and sanitize the water prior to using.