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Using your hot tub in winter is a great way to get the most out of your investment. Not only that, it can be a really effective way to wind down after a long, cold day. But, outdoor hot tubs can be a challenge to maintain during the winter in Portage, MI. Cold temperatures, snow, and water issues can sour the hot tub experience.
Don’t stress! You can still get the most out of your hot tub by following a few simple tips!
It’s important to be extra vigilant of your hot tub in the winter. Regular maintenance can be a bit trickier and a little more involved. However, it’s totally possible to use your outdoor hot tub year round. But, you’ll need to take extra care of it and yourself. So, let’s look at how you can enjoy your tub all year round.
How to Use Hot Tubs in the Winter
1. Protect It From Cold Air
First things first, you’ll want to purchase a tight-fitting hot tub cover. A good cover will safeguard your hot tub by preventing heat loss, keeping debris out, and slowing water evaporation. These things combined can, quite often, damage your tub’s heater by forcing it to work harder to keep the water temperature up.
You should also use a spa water blanket in addition to your hard cover. The blanket simply floats on top of the water and creates an extra barrier of insulation to help and protect your spa cover.
2. Keep an Eye on the Water
During the winter months, you’ll want to keep an extremely close eye on your hot tub’s water. It’s crucial that you keep the water level up, as low water levels can make it difficult for your hot tub to circulate and, worst case scenario, can lead to frozen pipes and cracked shells.
You’ll also want to be extra careful to keep dirt, debris, and unwanted chemicals out of your tub. Since it’s nearly impossible to drain your hot tub in winter, you should try to keep it from getting dirty. Provide your guests with towels to wipe down and a weatherproof rug to clean their feet on before entering the hot tub.
3. Be Cognizant of Your Health
Lastly, be conscientious of your health! It’s easy to get comfortable, forget how long you’ve been in your hot tub, and get hypnotized by the warm water. Keep a water bottle near you so you stay hydrated, have slippers beside your tub so your feet don’t freeze to the frozen ground, and limit your soak times to under thirty minutes.
Benefits of Using Your Hot Tub in Cold Weather
At Locey Swim & Spa, we believe that winter hot tubbing is a great way to get the most out of your outdoor space. On top of that, soaking in your hot tub can reduce anxiety, soothe sore muscles, and provide opportunities to socialize with friends and family.
So, don’t let extreme weather conditions or hot tub maintenance spoil your outdoor sanctuary. Reach out to the experts at Locey Swim & Spa today to learn how to keep your water clean, your chemical balance ideal, and your hot tub running during cold weather.