It’s that time of year again when we all have to start thinking about how to prepare our homes and yards for the cold winter weather. One question that gets asked is, can you leave a hot tub empty in the winter without any issues arising? The short answer is yes, but there are a few steps you need to take to make sure it’s done properly. Below, we’ll provide you with what you should know if you’d like to close your hot tub this winter to ensure it’s done right.
Why You Would Need to Empty Your Hot Tub During Winter
Most high-quality hot tubs remain functional throughout the year. Hydropool hot tubs, for example, are equipped with advanced insulation technology and energy-efficient features that allow them to run even in the coldest months. You can even confirm this with a Hydropool hot tub dealer in your area. However, some people choose to go away on vacation during the winter months and don’t want to leave their hot tubs open while they’re gone. If this is the case, the best thing to do is empty the tub and clean† it before you go. This will ensure that everything is in working order when you come back and want to start using it again. Another reason to empty your hot tub is if it’s not designed to withstand the cold weather. If this is the case, you must take measures to protect it from the elements while you’re gone.
Getting Your Hot Tub Winter-Ready
If you’re planning on leaving your hot tub empty during winter, there are a few things you need to do to make sure it’s done properly. The first thing to do is to drain it of all water, which can be done with a submersible pump. A hose will also do the trick if you need something longer to get all the water out. Making sure that there’s no water left is crucial, as any water that’s left behind can freeze and potentially cause damage. You can also use a dry/wet vacuum to remove any remaining moisture. After this, you can proceed to turn off all the pumps and close the central water valve.
Once you’ve drained all the water, it’s time to give it a good clean†. This is important as any dirt or debris that’s left behind can also freeze and cause damage. Be sure to use a mild cleaning† solution and scrub the inside of the tub thoroughly.
Lastly, once you’ve done all this, give the hot tub one final inspection to ensure everything is in working order. This includes checking the filters, looking for any cracks or leaks, and making sure that your covers are secure. Once you’re satisfied that everything is in good condition, you can go ahead and leave it until you’re ready to use it again.
How Long Can a Hot Tub Stay Empty?
Now that you know all the steps you need to take to properly empty out your hot tub, you might be wondering how long it can stay like this. As long as you’ve followed all the steps we’ve outlined, your hot tub should be fine sitting empty for a few months. However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and check on it every now and then just to be safe. If you’re planning on leaving it empty for an extended period of time, we recommend winterizing it. This involves adding a non-toxic antifreeze solution to the tub which will prevent any water from freezing and causing damage.
Keeping your hot tub empty during winter is definitely doable as long as you follow the proper steps. Just remember to drain it completely, give it a good clean†, and protect it from the elements while you’re gone.
For more information on choosing the perfect hot tub for your home, download our free buyer’s guide.