As winter begins to wind down, there’s no better way to relax than by soaking in your hot tub, especially during chilly nights in Northeast Ohio and Erie, PA. To ensure your hot tub continues to operate smoothly during the coldest part of the year, proper maintenance is key. February is an ideal time to check in on your hot tub and make sure it’s in great shape for the final stretch of winter. We review some hot tub maintenance tips to keep your spa running efficiently. These simple steps will help ensure your spa stays warm, efficient, and ready for use whenever you need it.
Hot Tub Maintenance Tips for February
1. Check Your Water Levels
Maintaining the proper water level is crucial for hot tub performance, particularly in colder months. Evaporation happens, even in the winter, which can lead to lower water levels and stress on the pump. If water levels drop too low, the heater may shut off, resulting in colder water; not what you want when trying to enjoy a warm soak.
Check the water levels weekly to ensure they are within the recommended range. If you notice consistent drops in water, inspect for leaks and address them promptly.
2. Keep Water Temperature Consistent
A properly heated hot tub makes all the difference during cold weather. The ideal water temperature should be between 100 to 104°F. While energy saving modes can help reduce your power bill, it may take time for the water to reheat to the desired temperature. For frequent use in the winter, consider maintaining a consistent temperature to avoid long wait times for heating.
Regularly checking your hot tub’s thermostat is another key maintenance tip to ensure your water stays at a comfortable temperature throughout winter.
3. Inspect Your Hot Tub Cover
A high quality, insulated cover is essential to maintain water temperature during freezing nights. Regularly inspect your cover for any cracks or signs of wear. If you see any damage, it’s time for a replacement to avoid heat loss and reduce energy costs.
Also, keep your cover clear of snow and debris. Too much weight on the cover can lead to premature damage, which can make it less effective in insulating your hot tub.
4. Balance Your Water Chemistry
Maintaining the right water chemistry is vital to keep your hot tub clean and safe. Test your water weekly to ensure pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels are within the proper range. In winter, it’s easy to overlook water quality, but improper balance can lead to cloudy water and bacteria buildup.
For regular users, shocking the water once a month helps eliminate contaminants that standard sanitizers might miss. This simple maintenance step keeps your water fresh and inviting.
5. Prevent Freezing Pipes
Frozen pipes can cause major issues for your hot tub, leading to expensive repairs. To prevent this, ensure your water pump and heater are running consistently to keep water circulating and avoid freezing. If you’re not planning to use your hot tub for an extended period, consider draining it to eliminate the risk of frozen pipes altogether.
6. Clean Your Filters
A clean filter is essential for proper water circulation and system efficiency. Dirty or clogged filters make your hot tub work harder, which can strain the pump and heater. Clean your filters at least once a month during the winter, and replace them every 6 to 12 months based on usage.
Simply remove the filter, rinse it thoroughly, and for a deeper clean, soak it in a filter cleaning solution.
Keep Your Hot Tub Running Smoothly Year Round
With winter coming to a close next month, February is the perfect time to give your hot tub some extra attention. Following these hot tub maintenance tips will ensure that your spa stays in great condition, ready for you to enjoy during the final cold weeks.
For expert hot tub service, repairs, or maintenance, contact Litehouse Pools & Spas. Our team is here to help keep your hot tub in perfect working order, so you can continue to relax and enjoy all year round.
