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 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.
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.
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.
FAQ – Hot Tub Winter Care
Can I use my hot tub during winter in the UK?
Yes. With proper insulation, a well-fitted cover, and an efficient heating system, hot tubs can be used safely throughout winter, even during freezing UK temperatures.
How long does it take to heat a hot tub in cold weather?
Heating takes longer in winter because the starting water and air temperatures are lower. Keeping the cover on and using insulated walls and a base significantly reduces heating time and helps maintain stable temperatures.
How do I protect the wooden exterior during winter?
Apply linseed or exterior oil twice a year, ideally before and after winter. Remove snow from the cover promptly to prevent excess moisture and unnecessary weight.
How do I prevent my hot tub from freezing?
If the tub will not be used for several days, drain it completely. For short gaps, leave water inside, keep the cover sealed, and use a floating anti-freeze heater to prevent surface freezing.
How do I winterize a hot tub properly?
Drain the tub completely, blow out the jets if fitted, drain the heater, dry the interior and fittings thoroughly, and secure an insulated, weather-resistant cover.
Should I remove pumps and electrical components for winter?
Yes. After draining, remove pumps and store them indoors in a dry, ventilated area within a temperature range of –10 °C to +50 °C. Inspect filters, heaters, and fittings while disconnected.
Can I still enjoy my hot tub in winter?
Absolutely. With proper insulation, secure covers, and an efficient heating system, winter soaking is safe, comfortable, and one of the most enjoyable ways to use a hot tub.