We Asked a Pool Expert: Here's How to Winterize Your Hot Tub in 8 Simple Steps

How to Winterize a Hot Tub

The key to winterizing a hot tub is getting as much water out of your lines as possible. This is the primary task that will determine your level of success.

1. Verify Everything Works

   Confirm all functions work, including the valves and blowers. This will make it easier to clear water from hard-to-reach pipes.

2. Drain the Hot Tub

   Remove the filter, then drain the hot tub either by unscrewing the drain, using a drain pump, or using a siphon with a garden hose. Sponge up any remaining water that you can.

3. Drain the Blower and Air Lines

   Drain the blower if present. Turn the blower on and cycle it through all
   settings to adequately drain all air lines.

4. Disconnect Mechanicals

   Loosen all unions to the heater and pump, and remove the drain plugs in the pump.

5. Blow Out All Remaining Water

   Use a wet/dry vac to remove any remaining water from the lines. Using the blowing end, blow out all the lines from inside the hot tub until dry. If a line is blocked, change the settings on the controller to open the corresponding valve.

   Then insert the blowing end of the wet/dry vac into every hot tub return and drain. You want to remove as much water as possible.

6. Re-Assemble Drain Plugs and Unions

   Re-install drain plugs and reconnect all unions.

7. Add Anti-Freeze

   Pour some hot tub anti-freeze in the top of the pump and into the filter cavity. Follow the directions on the bottle for how much to add.

8. Assemble for Winter

   Button up the panel and put on the hot tub cover. Make sure it is secure. If any straps or clips are broken on your cover, now is the time to replace them or get a new cover to avoid having to do it in the freezing cold.

When to Call a Professional

If the hot tub is not working correctly or you cannot get the water out, then it is a good idea to call a professional to ensure there will not be any damage to the hot tub over the winter season.