Cleaning and Winterizing Your Hot Tub

Cleaning and Winterizing Your Hot Tub: A Northern Michigan Guide

Hot tubs are a great addition to any home, offering relaxation and therapeutic benefits year-round. However, as the temperatures drop and winter approaches, it's essential to properly clean and winterize your hot tub to ensure it remains in excellent condition and ready for use when the warmer months return. Grand Traverse Leisure is here to guide you through the steps to clean and winterize your hot tub effectively.

Cleaning Your Hot Tub

1. Drain and Clean the Tub

   Before winterizing, it's crucial to drain the water from your hot tub. Use a submersible pump or the spa's drain feature to remove the water completely. Once drained, use a mild, non-abrasive spa cleaner to clean the interior surfaces. Pay special attention to the spa shell, jets, and filter compartment.

2. Clean the Filters

   Hot tub filters play a vital role in maintaining water quality. Remove the filter(s) and rinse them thoroughly with a hose to remove debris. For a deeper clean, soak the filters in a bucket of filter cleaner overnight, then rinse again. Consider replacing old or damaged filters to ensure optimal filtration.

3. Scrub the Cover

   Your hot tub cover is exposed to the elements and can accumulate dirt and grime. Gently scrub the cover with a sponge or soft brush using a mixture of water and a mild detergent. Rinse it thoroughly, and allow it to dry before storing it for the winter.

4. Inspect and Maintain Jets

   Check the jets for clogs or mineral buildup. Use a specialized jet cleaner to remove any obstructions and ensure the water flows freely for a relaxing experience.

Winterizing Your Hot Tub

1. Balance the Water Chemistry

   Test the water's pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels to ensure they are within the recommended range. Adjust as necessary using spa chemicals. Balanced water chemistry helps prevent scale buildup and corrosion during the winter months.

2. Add Winterizing Chemicals

   Winterizing chemicals, such as antifreeze and a specially designed winterizing solution, should be added to the water to protect the plumbing and components from freezing. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when adding these chemicals.

3. Protect the Plumbing

   You must drain and blow out the lines to safeguard the hot tub's plumbing from freezing. Consult your hot tub's manual for specific instructions on this process, as it can vary between models. Alternatively, you can hire a professional from Grand Traverse Leisure to perform this task.

4. Cover and Seal

   Once the hot tub is prepared, cover it with a durable, insulated hot tub cover. Ensure it's securely fastened to prevent heat loss and protect against debris and snow. Use a cover cap to shield it from the elements further. If your hot tub cover is water logged, Grand Traverse Leisure offers replacement hot tub covers. 

5. Regular Maintenance Checks

   Throughout the winter, periodically check the hot tub to ensure the cover remains secure and the water level hasn't dropped significantly. It's also a good time to inspect for any damage or wear and tear on the hot tub's components.

Properly cleaning and winterizing your hot tub is essential to protect your investment and extend its lifespan. By following these steps, you can ensure that your hot tub remains in excellent condition throughout the winter months, ready for you to enjoy when spring arrives. Remember to consult your hot tub's manual and consider seeking professional assistance if you're unsure about any aspect of the winterization process. With the right care, your hot tub will continue to provide relaxation and therapeutic benefits for years to come.

Feel free to contact us at Grand Traverse Leisure with any questions regarding winterizing your hot tub.