Should I drain my hot tub for the winter?

If you don’t plan to use your tub for weeks, yes—drain and dry it completely to prevent freezing damage. For regular use, keep water circulating and cover tightly.

How do I keep my hot tub from freezing?

Use an insulated cover and a floating winter heater, and make sure water keeps circulating. Drain the system if not used for a long period.

Can I still use a hot tub in winter?

Absolutely. With proper insulation, heating, and maintenance, wood-fired and electric hot tubs can be enjoyed all winter long.

How often should I oil the wood exterior?

Apply protective wood oil twice a year—before and after winter—to maintain the natural look and prevent cracking.

What’s the best cover for winter?

Use a thick, insulated, waterproof cover with tight seals to trap heat and prevent snow or debris accumulation.

Winter Hot Tub Care – Protect & Enjoy Your Spa in Cold Weather

Hot Tub Winter Care: How to Protect Your Spa During Cold Weather (UK Guide)

There’s nothing like sinking into a steaming wood-fired hot tub on a snowy evening. To enjoy your spa safely all winter long, follow this essential winter hot tub care guide — including maintenance, freeze protection, oiling, and smart heating advice. Whether you own a wooden, fiberglass, or electric model, proper winterizing keeps your tub efficient and damage-free.

1) Heating a Hot Tub During Cold Days

During cold weather, your hot tub heating system works harder than usual. Since the starting water and air temperatures are lower, it takes longer to reach your target warmth. Keep the cover on while heating to reduce heat loss. Insulated walls and base (see our insulation guide) can significantly shorten heating time and maintain stable temperatures.

2) Maintain the Exterior Look

Protect wooden parts like steps, cladding, and covers from winter wear. Apply linseed or exterior oil twice a year — ideally before and after winter. This keeps the wood hydrated and weather-resistant. Brush off snow promptly to prevent excess weight and moisture on the lid. For wood selection details, see best wood for outdoor hot tubs & saunas.

3) Prevent Water From Freezing

When temperatures drop below 0°C, stagnant water can freeze and expand — damaging liners, heaters, jets, and pipes. If you’re not using your tub for several days, drain it completely. For overnight gaps, leave water inside and use a floating anti-freeze heater to keep the surface liquid. Always cover the tub securely to retain warmth.

Floating heater prevents freezing in hot tub

4) How to Winterize a Hot Tub (Step by Step)

If you plan to shut down your spa for the season, winterizing is essential. It prevents freeze damage and springtime repairs. Follow these steps carefully or hire a professional for peace of mind.

Drain completely: Use your drain valve or pump to remove all water.
Blow out jets: If equipped with air/hydro massage, run the blower for 5 seconds three times to clear water from lines.
Drain the heater: Water trapped in heating elements can freeze and cause cracks.
Dry thoroughly: Wipe down the interior and fittings.
Cover securely: Use an insulated, well-sealed cover to block snow and debris.

5) Store Electrical Pumps & Components

Once drained, remove pumps and store them indoors in a dry, ventilated area (recommended storage range: -10°C to +50°C). While you’re at it, inspect the filter, heater, and fittings for buildup or wear. Learn how to maintain them in our wooden hot tub maintenance guide.

6) Bonus Tip: Keep Enjoying Winter Soaks

Don’t feel limited to summer! With proper insulation, covers, and an efficient heating system, you can enjoy your eco-friendly hot tub experience year-round — even in the coldest UK nights.

Preparing Your Hot Tub for Winter