It is extremely important to properly winterize your spa in order to avoid leaks, damage to the filtration system and deformities on its acrylic shell. Careful winterizing will extend the life of your spa, as long as you take good care of it.
Although you should never turn off your pump prior to winterizing, you may adjust the thermostat down to its minimum temperature setting.
Once you are ready to close your spa for the winter, proceed as follows:
Turn off the pump.
Remove, clean and store the filter cartridge.
Remove and store spa accessories, such as baskets, floating objects, brome dispenser, etc.
Drain the spa.
- Switch off the breaker that powers the spa.
- Remove cover.
- Connect a garden hose to the draining valve, and extend hose to the street.
- Open the draining valve.
- Once the spa is drained, remove excess water with flexible plastic cups and towels.
- Open the access panel located under the electronic control panel.
Unplug pump, blower, ozone generator, light and any other items connected to the electric control panel. Store indoors.
Unscrew all the plumbing connections and fittings.
Unscrew all the water jets and store them indoors.
Using a blower or a ShopVac-type vacuum cleaner, vacuum and blow into every pipe to ensure that all jet holes are dry and free of water.
A good way to proceed is as follows: With your vacuum or blower in one hole, plug every other hole with a rubber stopper, except for one. Blow or vacuum, then switch the rubber stoppers around to close the previous hole and open another one. Repeat for every hole. This will ensure maximum pressure within the plumbing circuit. Use the top-mounted valves to direct the air flow to different zones.
Blow air into every hole leading to the spa’s blower, if applicable.
With a towel, wipe down the water ejected from the holes.
Add spa antifreeze (non-toxic) to all the pipes from inside the spa, as there may still be water remaining in the plumbing circuit.
Pour antifreeze into the holes that lead to the spa’s blower.
Remove excess water with a flexible plastic container.
Use a towel to wipe down the spa until it is dry.
Close the access panel.
Insert the pre-formed foam block so it reaches the same height as the cover.
Install spa cover over foam block, ensuring it is centered and properly aligned.
Install a tarp over the spa and attach it securely. This will protect your spa against snow, ice and wind damage.
Store your chemicals in a dry, heated place, so you can use them again next year.
If you choose to keep your spa operational in winter:
- You’ll need to drop by the store to obtain some additional information.
- Clear a safe passageway to access the spa.
- Remove snow from the cover.
- Use and maintain your spa exactly as you would in summer. If you don’t use it very often, ease up on the addition of sanitizer.
- When you decide to drain your spa, drain only 6 to 12 inches at a time with a submersible pump. Quickly add new water and restart your pump before the pipes freeze.
- Check your spa regularly to ensure that the pump(s) and water heater are working properly.
- Keep your spa water at a minimum temperature of 30°C (85°F).
- When a power outage occurs, avoid removing the cover in order to keep the heat inside the spa. It can remain off for up to 3 or 4 days without freezing.
