Tips for stress-proof cold weather maintenance | Master Spas Facebook Live

Facebook Live — January 17, 2024

Winter weather has arrived. From cold conditions to falling snow, the weather can impact how you use and enjoy your swim spa.

As a spa owner, it's important to make sure your hot tub or swim spa remains in top condition despite the weather forecast. In this Facebook Live video, swim spa specialists Ben Gilliam and Mari Cuticelli offer their pro insights into maintaining your spa in the winter.

Master Spas hot tubs and swim spas are designed to be used year-round, in any climate. There are spa owners in chilly Saskatchewan, Canada, and snowy New England. And many of them find that winter is the best time to soak in the benefits of a backyard spa.

However, the winter weather can change how you maintain your hot tub and swim spa. Owners often have a lot of questions about what to do in the event of a power outage. Removing snow from the cover is also a popular topic.

Managing your spa during a power outage

Experiencing a power outage when you own a hot tub or swim spa can be a concern. However, most owners will not need to stress. The full foam insulation and high density foam cover help to lock in heat. And while the water temperature can drop, it will take a long time for it to go from 104 degrees to 32 degrees. The most important thing to do is leave the cover on and don't open it.

For extended power outages, a small space heater or a clip-on work light can be placed inside the cabinet of the spa. Owners should place the heater or light near the equipment back. But be sure to put the skirting panel back on so that the cold air doesn't begin to blow through the inside of the spa.

Some owners do choose to connect their spa to a back-up generator. However, it's important to make sure you know the electrical requirements of your spa. Most hot tubs and swim spas run on 240V/50-amp service. However, select swim spa models require additional power.

Removing snow from spa cover

Spa covers are made from a high density foam that helps lock in the heat, helping the water maintain a consistent temperature. And snow will definitely accumulate on top of the cover. It's important, though, to remove that accumulation just as you would your walkways and driveways.

Why should you remove snow from the cover of your hot tub or swim spa?

First and foremost, removing the snow will allow you to safely open the cover and enjoy your spa. In addition, heavy snow can damage the cover's foam.