As the colder months arrive, one question we’re regularly asked is whether a hot tub needs to be drained down for winter.

The answer might surprise you:

In most cases, no.

Modern hot tubs are designed to be used throughout the year, and winter can actually be one of the loveliest times to enjoy one. There’s something rather special about sinking into warm water on a cold, crisp evening — particularly when the temperature drops and the rest of the garden has been abandoned until spring.

However, if you know your hot tub is going to be left unused for an extended period, it may be better to have it professionally winterised.

The important thing is to do it properly.

Can I Leave My Hot Tub Running During Winter?

Absolutely.

If you’re going to continue using your hot tub, we’d generally recommend keeping it filled, heated and operating normally throughout the colder months.

Your hot tub’s circulation and heating systems are designed to maintain the water temperature, while a good-quality, well-fitting insulated cover helps retain heat when the spa isn’t being used.

Keeping on top of normal water care, filtration and maintenance is just as important during winter as it is during summer.

And don’t forget your cover. A damaged, waterlogged or poorly fitting cover can allow considerably more heat to escape, making your hot tub work harder to maintain its temperature.

When Should a Hot Tub Be Winterised?

Winterisation is generally worth considering when a hot tub will be switched off and left unused during periods of cold or freezing weather.

This might be because you’re away for an extended period, the property won’t be occupied, or you’ve simply decided you won’t use the spa throughout winter.

What you shouldn’t do is simply turn the hot tub off and leave it full of water.

If temperatures fall below freezing, water remaining inside pipework, pumps, heaters or other components can freeze and expand. That has the potential to cause significant damage.

Winterising Isn’t Just Draining the Water

This is where things can go wrong.

Draining the visible water from the hot tub doesn’t necessarily mean the spa is empty.

Water can remain within the plumbing, jets, pumps and equipment even after the main shell has been drained. If that residual water freezes, it can expand inside components and pipework.

A proper winterisation therefore involves more than opening the drain and walking away.

Depending on the hot tub, the process can include draining the spa, removing as much residual water as possible from the plumbing and equipment, cleaning the shell and filters and preparing the hot tub so it can remain safely out of use.

Different hot tubs have different plumbing and equipment configurations, so the correct procedure can vary between models.

Should I Winterise My Hot Tub Myself?

Some experienced owners choose to carry out their own winterisation, but it’s important to understand the potential consequences if water is accidentally left within the system.

Freeze damage can be expensive to repair and may not be covered by a manufacturer’s warranty.

If you’re unsure about the correct procedure for your particular hot tub, we’d recommend having it professionally winterised rather than taking the risk.

Our team can ensure the spa is properly drained and prepared for the period it’s going to be out of use.

Don’t Forget Your Hot Tub Cover

Whether your hot tub is running throughout winter or has been winterised, look after the cover.

Make sure it is properly secured and regularly remove excessive debris or standing water.

If the spa has been winterised, don’t assume the cover can simply be forgotten about until spring. Check the hot tub periodically throughout the colder months, particularly following severe weather.

What About Going Away on Holiday?

A short winter holiday doesn’t usually mean your hot tub needs to be drained.

If the spa is in good working order, it can normally remain running while you’re away. The exact preparation will depend on how long you’re leaving it and the conditions expected, so if you’re unsure, speak to us before you go.

For longer periods where the property and spa will be unattended — particularly during freezing weather — we can advise you on the most appropriate option.

Getting Your Hot Tub Ready Again

If your spa has been professionally winterised, it will need recommissioning before you start using it again.

That means checking the hot tub and its equipment, refilling it correctly, restoring circulation and filtration and getting the water balanced and sanitised before use.

After several months sitting dormant, it’s worth doing this properly rather than simply filling the spa and jumping straight in.

Or… Just Use It!

Of course, there is another option.

Keep it running.

Some of our favourite hot-tub evenings happen during the coldest months of the year. Steam rising from the water, cold air above you and a hot tub at 38°C is a pretty convincing argument for not packing it away for winter.

If you’re unsure whether your hot tub should be left running or professionally winterised, speak to the Hot Tubs At Home team. We’ll be happy to advise you based on your spa and how long it’s likely to be out of use.