When the forecast calls for a looming winter storm, it’s crucial for hot tub owners to take necessary precautions to safeguard their spas. Ignoring the potential dangers posed by such weather conditions can lead to costly damages that might not be covered under warranty.
Here, we’ll outline expert tips provided by Thermospas hot tub service expert, Mike Tierney, on how to effectively prepare your hot tub to withstand a winter storm.
Why You Shouldn’t Drain Your Hot Tub
One common misconception during cold weather is the idea of draining your hot tub to protect it. However, this action can actually cause more harm than good. Draining without proper winterization leads to residual water in the pumps and lines. This leftover water can freeze and expand, potentially cracking the plumbing and causing serious damage that your warranty may not cover.
Maintain Maximum Heat
It’s advisable to keep your spa running at the maximum temperature setting, especially if a storm threatens your power supply. Maintaining a temperature of around 104 degrees Fahrenheit ensures that, should you lose power, your hot tub can retain its heat for approximately 2 to 4 days, depending on the external temperatures. This buffer can provide you enough time to arrange for a technician to service your spa before the temperatures inside drop to a critical level.
Securing Electrical Components
Power fluctuations are common during storms. To prevent damage to your hot tub’s electrical system, particularly the circuit board, consider turning off your circuit breaker during frequent power disruptions. This proactive step can help avoid the potentially costly repairs caused by significant power surges damaging the sensitive electronics of your hot tub.
Handling Hot Tub Malfunctions
If your hot tub ceases to function correctly, potentially due to non-storm related issues, take immediate steps to prevent further damage. One effective method is to facilitate as much heat generation and water movement as possible. This can help prevent the water from freezing and causing damage.
Do Not Drain — Utilize a Submersible Pump
Reiterating the primary caution, do not drain your spa. If you believe draining is necessary, understand that about 20 pounds of water could still remain in the plumbing, which will freeze much faster in an empty tub. Instead, use a submersible pump placed in the foot-well of the spa. Let it operate continuously to create water movement and generate heat. This technique helps to simulate a waterfall effect, aiding in keeping the temperature stabile inside the hot tub.
Insulating Your Hot Tub
While your submersible pump does its job, remember to keep your hot tub covered. This helps in retaining the warmth generated, minimizing heat loss. It’s essential to ensure that your spa cover is in good condition; a poorly insulated or damaged cover might not effectively prevent heat loss.
Pre-Storm Checklist
Before a storm hits, ensure you go through this quick checklist to secure your hot tub:
- Check that the temperature is set to the maximum.
- Ensure the circuit breaker is off if you anticipate power surges.
- Place a submersible pump in the foot-well (if needed).
- Confirm the spa cover is secure and insulated.
Contacting a Professional
In situations where you are unsure or if the storm has caused significant disruptions, contacting a professional technician is the safest approach. They can provide specific advice tailored to your model and make of the hot tub and help execute necessary precautions or repairs.
Conclusion
As Ice and snow threaten, the last thing any hot tub owner wants is to deal with preventable damages. By following these expert tips from Mike Tierney of Thermospas, you can ensure that your hot tub remains safe, functional, and ready to provide relaxation after the storm passes.
If you have any more questions or need clarification on specific protection methods for your hot tub during a winter storm, please feel free to ask us in the comments below. We’re here to help ensure that your spa remains a source of joy and relaxation, no matter the weather outside.
