Whilst some people prefer to drain their hot tubs in the colder months, others revel in a steamy soak after a day at work. There’s a lot to be said for keeping your hot tub heated, even when the weather isn’t always on your side. Despite the mercury dropping, enjoying a dip during the winter can help you unwind and even help you get over a cold if you’re suffering. Below we share our five best tips for getting the most out of your hot tub during the winter months.
Check Your Hot Tub Cover
Your hot tub is made to be used whatever the time of year. However, one thing that can let the side down is your hot tub cover. Covers are like a lid on a saucepan – they’re there to keep everything inside simmering away at the correct temperature. The hot air from the surface of your spa rises so, if your cover is worn, waterlogged or ill fitting, you will be losing a lot of precious heat through it. This will result in a higher than normal energy bill as you fight to keep the water warm. The Cover Mate EX can be a solution.
Replacing the hot tub cover is the best course of action, unless you’re committed to high energy bills throughout the winter.
Keep an Eye on the Water Level
The weather can cause the water in your hot tub to evaporate more quickly than in the summer months. You will need to keep an eye on the water level to ensure it doesn’t fall below the safety point on your specific hot tub. If the water level gets too low the hot tub cannot circulate the water like it is supposed to. In the winter this is critical because poor circulation means frozen pipes. Checking the water level every few days is ideal, specifically after the hot tub has been used.
Stay Hydrated
Whilst we are so focused on maintaining our hot tub during the winter, sometimes it’s easy to forget to look after ourselves too. Whilst soaking away in your hot tub for a while when it’s cold out may seem like a good idea, it can actually have adverse effects on your body. Make sure to drink plenty of water and limit alcohol when using your hot tub in the winter. Whilst we aren’t saying a quick five-minute dip is enough, limiting the length of time spent in the hot tub is best practice.
Take the Jets Down a Notch
There’s nothing better than having the jets on full blast and letting the warm water soothe and relax you. However, did you know that the jets draw in outside air? This has an impact on the water temperature, particularly in the colder months. To avoid having to battle against a dropping water temperature you could choose to turn down the jets a little for a few months.
Make Sure the Water is Clean
During the winter you will have fewer opportunities to drain and refill your hot tub. For this reason, it is imperative to keep on top of water cleanliness and chemical levels. One of our top tips for using your hot tub in the winter is to shower beforehand – this means you aren’t contaminating the water with any lotions, antiperspirant, makeup, or other products. Maintaining the correct chemical balance will also prevent limescale or any other water nasties.