How to Protect your Hot Tub from Frost Damage

A recent replacement of cracked pipework as a result of frost damage

It is recommended by most hot tub suppliers to “Winterise” your hot tub for the winter months; emptying it completely of its water, adding anti-freeze to the internal pipework and powering down the hot tub. In some cases this may be OK but throughout December 2022 we have seen a huge surge of folks who have done just this and now have serious frost damage in their hot tubs.

Frost damage in hot tubs can be a serious problem for hot tub owners here in the UK and is caused by residual water left in the internal plumbing of the hot tub freezing and causing the pipework to crack when it thaws. It can cause damage to the tub's plumbing, filtration system, and other components which leads to very costly repairs. In addition, leaving a hot tub without water for an extended period of time can lead to other problems such as pumps seizing, bacterial growth, chemical imbalances, and an overall decrease in the tub's hygiene.

This is why we at Elite Hot Tub & Swimming Pool Maintenance implore our customers and readers to keep their hot tubs full and switched on for the Winter. To keep the running costs low during this period we suggest turning the temperature to the tubs lowest setting when not in use (no less than 15°C) and adjusting the program to the Sleep or Economy settings. By doing this you will ensure that your tub is protected during the winter.

However, with the rising energy costs you may wish to shut down your hot tub. In this case there are a few key steps you can take:

• Drain and clean your hot tub completely. Be sure to remove all debris and make sure to drain all the pipework using a wet-vac.

• Add plenty of antifreeze to the plumbing. This will prevent any residual water from freezing and causing damage to the tub's
  plumbing and other components.

• Cover the hot tub when not in use. A good quality cover that fits properly can help to insulate the tub and prevent freezing.

• Add insulation to the pipework and to the cabinet. This could be expanding open cell insulating foam or simple foil-lined insulation material for the cabinet.

• Keep an eye on the weather forecast. Be aware of any upcoming cold snaps or freezing temperatures and take appropriate action to protect your hot tub.

It is important to remember that even if you take all the preventative measures, you still should keep an eye on the temperature, especially in the most cold days.

If you have noticed that your hot tub is no longer working after being switched off over through December or you have find a leak we can help
visit https://www.ehpm.co.uk/hot-tub-repairs and fill out the contact form or alternatively give us a call.