Winter Hot Tub Care Tips: Covers, Insulation, and Maintenance Essentials
Alberta winters can be tough on your hot tub. Cold air, snow, and ice may lead to heat loss, higher energy bills, and extra wear on your spa if it’s not well protected. With effective hot tub care, you can keep your water warm and your spa efficient throughout the entire season.
Here are some ways to protect your spa this winter using the right covers, insulation, and maintenance practices.
1. Choose a High-Quality Hot Tub Cover
A strong, snug hot tub cover helps keep in heat and block snow, ice, and debris. Investing in the right cover is a key part of proper hot tub care, ensuring your spa stays efficient and protected.
What to look for:
Tight seal: Should fit closely to retain heat and minimize energy loss.
Moisture resistance: Replace covers with heavy or sagging foam to prevent water damage.
Cold-weather materials: Marine-grade vinyl with reinforced stitching can withstand extreme conditions.
After each snowfall, gently brush off your cover to prevent heavy buildup and sagging that could damage the hinges.
2. Improve Insulation for Maximum Efficiency
Even with a quality cover, proper insulation is crucial to keep water warm and minimize energy use.
Ways to improve insulation:
Inspect the cabinet: Check the foam panels inside your spa’s cabinet for any gaps or damp spots.
Add a thermal blanket: Floating one beneath the cover traps heat and reduces evaporation.
Block cold wind: Position your hot tub near a fence or install a spa canopy from The Spa Spot to shield it from icy gusts.
These small improvements can make a big difference in comfort and efficiency during winter.
3. Maintain Water Levels and Keep It Clean
Consistent water levels and clean water help your spa run efficiently, preventing strain on pumps and heaters. Proper cleaning and monitoring are integral to effective hot tub care.
Winter maintenance tips:
Keep the water level halfway up the skimmer opening.
Run jets daily for a few minutes to circulate warm water.
Wipe the cover with a UV-protectant cleaner to prevent cracking.
Remove snow gently, avoiding sharp tools that could damage vinyl.
Regular attention ensures your spa remains functional, safe, and inviting all winter.
4. Keep a Consistent Temperature
Turning your hot tub on and off may seem like a way to save energy, but it often does the opposite. Instead, keep a consistent temperature of 38–40°C. This reduces strain on your heating system and keeps your spa ready for use.
Prepare Your Spa for Winter With The Spa Spot
With proper hot tub care, your spa stays warm, efficient, and relaxing all winter. The Spa Spot offers premium hot tubs and swim spas made for Alberta’s cold climate, so your backyard can be a cozy retreat any time of year. Check out our collection today!