How to Protect Your Hot Tub During a Storm

As Winter Storms blast the northern latitudes with blizzard conditions, many people wonder how to protect their homes, cars and hot tubs.

The three most common causes of damage to your hot tub during a snow storm are:

• The spa cover being blown away
• Frozen plumbing
• Debris falling on your hot tub cover (tree branches, excess snow, etc.)

Wind

If you know a storm is coming, it is important to make sure your hot tub cover is securely latched to your hot tub. Because of their shape, spa covers act as a large kite during wind storms and can fly several yards in one big gust. This often causes the foam to crack and the vinyl to become punctured, ruining your hot tub cover.

Hurricane Spa Cover Straps are great for adding additional tie-down support for your hot tub cover.

Freezing Temperatures

During large storms you can expect that your power will be out for a day or two, maybe more. While you’re prepared with extra candles and a flashlight, it is important not to forget about your hot tub!

Freezing temperatures in your hot tub can lead to cracked plumbing and leaks. You can save yourself a lot of trouble and expense by taking a few precautions.

Option 1: If a long term power outage is possible, it is a good precaution to drain the spa, and loosen the lower pump fitting so that water can drain out of the plumbing. This will help prevent water from freezing inside the pipes and causing cracks.  You can also use a wet/dry vac to blow any residual water out of the plumbing.

Option 2: If you decide to leave your hot tub full because a long term power outage is unlikely, you may want to invest in a Thermofloat Blanket. If your power does go out, the blanket will help insulate the water and slow the cooling process, giving you extra time before freezing temperatures reach the plumbing.

Debris

Debris falling on your hot tub is always a concern during storms. Flying tree branches can puncture the vinyl and penetrate the foam, ruining your cover.

Carefully placing a piece of plywood on top of the cover (and strapping it down) during a storm can help prevent falling debris from puncturing your cover.

If a small puncture does happen, you can use a waterproof vinyl patch to fix the cover. Be sure to also patch the interior plastic wrapping around the foam.

Snow Accumulation

Even a few inches of wet snow can weigh over 50 lbs! Several feet of snow can collapse even the best hot tub covers.

Prevent snow load damage to your hot tub cover by monitoring snow accumulation. Use a broom or other (non-sharp) object to brush off excess snow from your hot tub cover.

Read more about Winterizing your Hot Tub Here

Do you have any questions or suggestions about how to protect your hot tub during a storm? Comment below!