KEEP YOUR HOT TUB FROM FREEZING UNTIL WE CAN REPAIR.
Protecting Your Hot Tub During Freezing Temperatures
Hot tubs are generally safe during overnight freezing temperatures as long as daytime temperatures rise above 40°F. However, if temperatures remain below freezing for 2-3 consecutive days or longer, there’s a risk of your hot tub freezing.
Key Tips for Freezing Weather
- Keep Your Hot Tub Full:
- Do not drain your hot tub unless you can disconnect and fully drain the pump fittings.
- An empty hot tub can retain about 15 gallons of water in the plumbing lines, which can freeze and burst pipes overnight.
- Monitor Non-Functioning Hot Tubs:
If your hot tub is full but not operating, follow these steps to prevent freezing damage:
Step 1: Keep the Cover On
- A well-insulated cover will help retain heat in the water, slowing down the freezing process.
- Step 2: Add Heat Manually
- Place a submersible heater or bucket heater in the water to prevent freezing.
- Alternatively, add hot water to the tub periodically to maintain a safe temperature.
- Step 3: Run a Space Heater Near the Equipment Area
- Position a space heater in the equipment bay to keep pumps and plumbing lines warm.
- Ensure the heater is placed safely and does not come into contact with water.
- Step 4: Circulate Water Manually
- Stir the water occasionally using a paddle or long stick to help distribute residual heat evenly.
- Step 5: Consult a Professional
- If freezing temperatures persist and your hot tub isn’t functioning, call a hot tub repair expert for immediate assistance.
When to Take Action:
Hot tubs will typically only freeze when exposed to prolonged freezing conditions. However, preventive measures can save you from costly repairs and ensure your spa is ready to use when temperatures warm up..
OPTION #1
Prevent Hot Tub Freezing with a Simple Heat Source
If your hot tub is at risk of freezing due to prolonged cold weather, a simple and effective solution is to use a clip-on light or lamp with a 60-100 watt light bulb that generates heat. Here’s how to use this method to protect your hot tub:
How to Use a Clip-On Light for Freeze Protection:
- Place the Light in the Equipment Area:
- Position the clip-on light or lamp inside the hot tub's equipment area, where the pumps and plumbing are located.
- Ensure the light is safely secured and doesn't come into contact with water.
- Use a Heat-Generating Bulb:
- Choose a 60-100 watt light bulb that gives off heat, such as an incandescent bulb or heat lamp.
- These bulbs can effectively warm up the equipment area to prevent freezing.
- Cover the Exposed Area:
- Once the light is in place, replace the door or cover of the equipment area.
- If your equipment area is still exposed, cover it with a blanket or insulating material to keep the wind out and retain heat.
Why This Works:
The heat generated by the bulb will help maintain a minimum temperature in the equipment area, preventing the water and plumbing from freezing. This is especially useful in cases where the hot tub is not functioning or when temperatures are expected to remain below freezing for an extended period.
Additional Tip:
For even more protection, consider using a thermal blanket or insulated cover on your hot tub during extremely cold weather to further minimize heat loss.
Option #2
Using a Space Heater to Prevent Hot Tub Freezing
If you're dealing with freezing temperatures and need to protect your hot tub’s equipment, you can use a space heater inside the cabinet. This method helps keep the equipment area warm and prevents freezing. Here’s how you can do it:
How to Use a Space Heater for Hot Tub Freeze Protection:
- Remove the Door or Sides:
- First, remove the door or sides of the hot tub’s equipment area to expose the internal components, such as the pump and plumbing.
- Place the Space Heater Inside the Cabinet:
- If there is enough space inside the cabinet, position a small space heater to circulate warm air around the equipment.
- Make sure the space heater is safe to use in damp environments and keep it at a safe distance from any water or electrical components.
- Cover the Exposed Area:
- Once the space heater is securely in place, replace the side panel or cover the exposed area with a blanket or another insulating material.
- This will help block out the cold wind and further retain the heat inside the cabinet.
Why This Works:
The space heater will raise the temperature in the equipment area, keeping your pumps, plumbing, and components from freezing during extremely cold weather. Insulating the area with a blanket helps reduce heat loss, ensuring effective protection.
Option #3 (BEST)
Option #3 (BEST)
Using a Cattle Heater to Prevent Hot Tub Freezing
If you need a quick and effective way to prevent your hot tub from freezing in extreme cold, a cattle heater can be a great solution. These heaters are affordable and easy to use, providing a reliable way to keep your hot tub’s water warm even if the spa itself has no power.
How to Use a Cattle Heater for Hot Tub Freeze Protection:
- Purchase a Cattle Heater:
- You can find cattle heaters at stores like Tractor Supply, priced at around $32.99.
- Place the Heater Directly in the Water:
- Submerge the cattle heater directly in your hot tub’s water. These heaters are designed to operate in water and can effectively maintain a safe temperature.
- Plug It In:
- Simply plug the heater into a power source. The heater will generate heat to keep the water temperature stable, preventing it from freezing.
Why This Works:
Cattle heaters are designed to safely warm water, even in outdoor environments. By using this method, you can protect your hot tub from freezing, even if the hot tub itself has no power or is otherwise not functioning.
No Additional Equipment Needed
This solution works without needing additional power or complex equipment. Once the heater is in place and plugged in, it will keep your water from freezing, even during long periods of freezing temperatures.
Pro Tip:
If you plan on using a cattle heater, make sure it is submerged properly and monitor it occasionally to ensure it’s functioning safely.