How to Drain and Store Your Hot Tub for the Season

How to Drain and Store Your Hot Tub for the Season

If you live in a cold climate or just want to take a break from using your hot tub, proper shutdown is important. Leaving water inside or skipping key steps can cause damage to the plumbing, shell, and pumps. Whether you’re closing it for winter or extended travel, storing it right will help your hot tub last longer. Here’s how to drain and store your hot tub the right way.

Why You Should Drain and Store It

Draining and storing your spa protects it from:

• Frozen pipes and cracked plumbing
  
• Mold and mildew buildup
  
• Overworked pumps and heaters
  
• Damaged control panels
  

Even in milder climates, stagnant water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and algae.

1. Turn Off the Power

Before doing anything else, shut off the power to your hot tub at the breaker.

• This prevents electrical accidents
  
• Keeps the pump and heater from running dry
  

Always double-check that the control panel is completely off before continuing.

2. Remove and Clean the Filters

Filters trap dirt, oils, and debris. If left dirty, they can clog and mold.

Steps:

1. Remove filters from the filter housing.
   
2. Rinse with a garden hose to remove debris.
   
3. Soak in a filter cleaner for deep cleaning.
   
4. Allow to fully dry before storing.
   

Store them in a dry, sealed container in a garage or shed.

3. Drain the Water Completely

You can’t just pull the plug and walk away. You need to fully drain every part of the hot tub.

Options to Drain:

• Use the built-in drain spout
  
• Connect a garden hose to direct water away from the foundation
  
• Use a submersible pump to speed things up
  

Tips:

• Open all jets and water features to allow trapped water to escape
  
• Remove and drain water from the air blower if your model has one
  

4. Blow Out the Plumbing Lines

Water left in pipes can freeze and expand, leading to cracks.

Here’s how to blow out the lines:

1. Use a wet-dry shop vac or air compressor.
   
2. Attach it to each jet and force air through the system.
   
3. Work your way around the spa to ensure all plumbing is cleared.
   

Don’t skip this step. Even a little leftover water can cause damage in winter.

5. Clean the Shell

Now that your hot tub is empty, it’s the perfect time to deep clean the interior.

Use a non-abrasive cleaner to:

• Remove scum and residue
  
• Clean around jets and controls
  
• Wipe down the waterline
  

Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that can damage the acrylic.

6. Drain the Pump and Heater

Even after draining the spa, water may remain in the pump housing and heater.

• Remove drain plugs if your model has them
  
• Tip the pump slightly to let any residual water out
  
• Wipe down and dry the area
  

This helps prevent freezing damage in colder climates.

7. Remove and Store Accessories

Take out any removable items like:

• Pillows
  
• Cup holders
  
• Aromatherapy canisters
  
• Steps or benches
  

Rinse and dry everything thoroughly. Store in a dry area where mold won’t develop.

8. Secure the Cover

Your hot tub cover will stay on while in storage, so it needs to be in top condition.

Steps:

1. Clean the top and underside with mild soap and water
   
2. Use a cover protectant to shield it from UV rays and moisture
   
3. Lock it in place to prevent wind or animals from getting in
   

If your cover is damaged or sagging, it’s a good time to replace it.

9. Use a Hot Tub Winter Blanket

For extra insulation and protection, add a thermal spa blanket underneath the cover. This helps keep any trapped moisture from freezing and reduces heat loss if your spa is still semi-active.

10. Consider Adding Antifreeze

If you live in an area with severe winters, adding non-toxic RV antifreeze to the plumbing can offer extra protection.

Important:

• Only use antifreeze designed for hot tubs or RVs
  
• Pour it into jet lines, pump lines, and the heater chamber
  
• Do not use automotive antifreeze
  

Always flush it out completely before refilling the spa next season.

11. Store the Owner’s Manual and Parts

Keep the manual, warranty, and any small detachable parts like drain plugs in a labeled plastic bag. Store it with your filters so you can easily find everything later.

12. Check on It Periodically

Even if your spa is closed for months, it helps to check on it now and then.

• Look for signs of pests or weather damage
  
• Clear off heavy snow from the cover
  
• Reapply protectant if needed

Draining and storing your hot tub the right way will protect your investment and save time when you’re ready to use it again. Following these steps will make opening it back up a breeze next season.