We’re entering the depths of winter (well, at least what winter in the Pacific Northwest looks like). We know a lot of folks get tempted to drain their hot tub during the winter and not use it. We’d like to submit to you that the winter time is absolutely one of the BEST times to use your hot tub! It will warm you up, give you a break from the hustle & bustle, allow you get some quiet time on a crisp winter night…it’s good for you 365 days a year, trust us!

Given that, we’d also like to note that, if you choose to use your hot tub less, it would be best to not drain your tub. At the end of the day, it’s better for your tub to stay filled and heated during the winter months. It will keep the plumbing lines in your tub from getting the chance to dry out and perhaps get to the point where being left empty for an extended period might cause issues you could otherwise avoid if it was still full and hot.

That being said, we don’t want you just abandoning your hot tub in the cold for months on end. It will need some attention, just like anything else left outside in the cold. Take note of these and make sure they get done. (That way, if you get the urge to head out for a soak, it’s ready to go!)

• Keep it balanced. Even without use, your water chemistry can get out of balance. Make sure you are testing your water weekly and making sure the alkalinity and pH are in the correct ranges. SilkBalance is a dream in this regard, as it minimizes the need for testing. Just make sure you are still adding SilkBalance weekly regardless of use!
• Keep it hot. Hot Spring Spas draw less energy than a 40 watt light bulb when not in use! Really, you can afford to keep it running and hot and not worry about any extra energy expense.
• Keep the filters clean. Again, even with little use, your filters are cleaning your tub. You want your tub to stay clean, as well as make sure the filters don’t get clogged and affect the tub’s ability to stay heated. If your filters are old, get them replaced.
• Need a new cover? A lot of folks put this off till way too late. A good cover is essential for minimizing heat loss. Whether anyone likes it, a cover should really be replaced at least every four years. If your cover is old, water-logged, and not doing its job to keep the heat in the tub where it belongs, get a new one.

A tiny bit of effort will go a long way on keeping your tub in great shape through these cold winter months and make sure it’s ready for you!

Stay warm.