March break is just around the corner and many people are headed out of town for a fun-filled family vacation. If you have a trip planned, before leaving it’s essential to ensure that your hot tub is prepared so that it can stay in top condition while you're away. As any spa owner knows, a hot tub is a significant investment, and it's crucial to take the necessary steps to protect it. Luckily, preparing your spa so that you can go out of town only requires a few simple steps and then you will be able to enjoy your trip and return to a clean, clear and well-functioning tub.

Step 3: Clear the Hot Tub Cover

Make sure to clear any heavy snow or ice off the cover before you leave. As increased weight is allowed to rest on the top of the cover, the core weakens and cracks. A hot tub cover will keep debris, such as leaves, dirt, rain, and snow out of the hot tub. It will also help maintain the water temperature, preventing heat from escaping your spa. If the core is damaged the cover will lose its integrity and will no longer provide any value.

It is important to remember to use the locking clips to keep the cover securely in place and add an extra layer of security. The last thing you want to come home to is a spa that’s missing its cover, or vandalism from unwanted use of your hot tub while you are away.

Step 3: Check the Filtration Cycle

Your spa should be running a minimum of 8 hours a day. This is usually split into 2 four hour cycles. Never turn the power off to your hot tub unless you have properly drained and winterized it. Even though you will not be home to use your hot tub, there must be sufficient circulation in order to prevent the water from stagnating and to allow for heating when necessary.  

Step 5: Schedule Maintenance

We also recommend you ask a friend or family member to stop by every few days and check in on your spa while you’re away. Since we are still experiencing winter storms with heavy snow, ice and high winds, a power failure while you are away is not outside the realm of possibility. The cold temperatures can freeze lines quickly and lead to an expensive predicament. Having someone check in, will ensure that everything is in order and someone will be there to take care of or address any issues that may arise.

They should make sure that there is still power to the hot tub and the temperature of the water is where it should be. It is also a good idea for them to open the cover and run the jets for 10-15 minutes. This way the water can be agitated and has a chance to breathe. If you have given them permission to use your spa while you are away, make sure you let them know where the chemicals are in case they need to shock the water after heavy use.

Asking this favour of someone you trust will give you peace of mind knowing that your hot tub is in good hands and you can relax knowing that you’re not coming back to any unforeseen disasters.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your hot tub will be well taken care of and properly working when you return home from your vacation. Of course, if you have any questions, our team of spa experts is here to help. Feel free to reach out to us online or visit any of our locations. Safe travels!

Have any questions? Feel free to reach out to us online or visit any of our locations so that our Spa Experts can assist.