Winter Hot Tub Care Checklist for the New Year

As the New Year begins and temperatures drop, your hot tub becomes one of the best ways to relax, unwind, and stay warm through the winter season. But to keep your spa running efficiently — and to protect it from the harsher winter weather — a little seasonal maintenance goes a long way.

Use this Winter Hot Tub Care Checklist to ensure your spa stays clean, safe, and energy-efficient throughout the coldest months of the year.

❄️ Check and Balance Your Water Chemistry

Cold weather can affect water quality, making it essential to stay on top of your spa’s chemical balance.
Make sure to:

• Test water 2–3 times a week or after you have used your spa

• Maintain proper pH (7.2–7.6) and alkalinity

• Keep sanitiser (chlorine/bromine) at safe levels

• Shock the water regularly to keep it fresh

Well-balanced water protects your equipment and keeps your spa inviting through winter.

💧Keep Water Levels Consistent

Evaporation increases when the air is cold and dry.
Low water levels can cause:

• Pumps to run dry

• Heaters to shut off

• Parts to freeze

Top up your water level routinely to ensure everything stays safely submerged.

🧼 Clean or Replace Your Filters

Filters work harder in winter because the spa is used more and debris breaks down slower in cold water.
Do this monthly:

• Rinse filters with warm water

• Use a filter cleaning solution

• Replace if they look worn or damaged

Clean filters improve water clarity and reduce strain on your pump.

🔥 Maintain a Steady Water Temperature

Turning the temperature down between uses may seem like an energy-saving idea — but in winter, it does the opposite.
Instead:

• Keep water consistently between 37–40°C

• Avoid powering down the spa entirely

• Use Economy/Sleep settings only if you’re away for several days

A steady temperature prevents the heater from working overtime and keeps freezing at bay.

✅ Inspect Your Hot Tub Cover

Your cover is your biggest energy-saving tool in winter.
Check for:

• Cracks or tears in the vinyl

• Waterlogging (a heavy cover = poor insulation)

• Heat escaping along the seams

If your cover is worn out, upgrading can drastically reduce running costs.

✨ Maintain the Area Around Your Hot Tub

Winter weather can make access slippery or unsafe.
Keep the area around your spa:

• Clear of snow and ice

• Dry and slip-free (use rubber mats if helpful)

• Well-lit for evening use

A safe pathway ensures you can soak comfortably whenever you want.

🔌 Be Prepared for Winter Power Outages

A power cut in freezing temperatures can cause rapid cooling.
If an outage occurs:

• Keep the cover on to retain heat

• Avoid opening the spa unnecessarily

• Add hot water if needed

• Once power returns, run the system immediately

In severe weather areas, consider a backup generator or insulating the spa cabinet further.

🛠️ Schedule a Mid-Winter Maintenance Check

The start of the year is a great time for a quick inspection.
Look for:

• Unusual noises

• Reduced jet pressure

• Temperature fluctuation

• Leaks around fittings or pumps

Addressing small issues early prevents costly repairs later.

🎉 Stay Warm and Worry-Free All Winter Long

A well-maintained hot tub doesn’t just perform better — it’s more efficient, safer, and far more enjoyable during the winter months. With just a little care, your spa will continue to provide relaxation, hydrotherapy, and cosy winter nights all season long.

Canadian Spa Co. offers a full range of winter-ready maintenance products, filters, accessories, and energy-efficient hot tubs designed for cold climates.