If you’re wondering how to properly prepare your hot tub for summer storage, this guide offers detailed steps to ensure that your tub is correctly stored and ready for operation as soon as the cooler weather returns.
Key Takeaways
- Always drain all water and thoroughly clean your hot tub before summer storage to prevent damage.
- Make sure to dry all parts, especially the plumbing and jets, to avoid issues like freeze damage.
- Use a secure, weather-resistant cover and conduct regular check-ups during storage to maintain your hot tub’s condition.
Drain All the Water
Initiate the process by completely draining your hot tub, as any water left within could cause severe damage should temperatures drop suddenly. It’s imperative to ensure that there is no residual water inside that might become problematic. Before beginning the drain, remember to disconnect the hot tub from its power source for safety reasons.
Next, find your hot tub’s drain plug or plugs, if there is more than one, and open them all. To expedite removing all of the water, you should employ a sump pump. This tool effectively draws out large quantities of water quickly. While you are at it, adhere to any specific instructions provided in your owner’s manual during this procedure, since different models may require unique steps for proper draining.
When you are done, confirm there is absolutely no water remaining in your tub’s plumbing system because even minimal amounts can result in significant damage over time. To ensure complete removal of every last droplet, use a shop vac or comparable device capable of extracting residual moisture with precision.
By executing these measures meticulously, you will prepare your hot tub optimally for summer storage without leaving behind potential risks associated with excess water retention.
Do A Thorough Cleaning of Your Hot Tub
After the hot tub has been completely emptied, it is essential to clean it meticulously. Ensure that no trace of dirt remains before you fill the tub again. It’s crucial to keep your spa in prime condition and avoid any accumulation of grime or filth. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner paired with either a soft cloth or nylon brush to scrub down the surfaces within the hot tub and eliminate any lingering residues without inflicting harm on its structure.
For dealing with minor stains on surfaces, baking soda proves to be an excellent choice. Its cool properties make it effective and environmentally friendly while ensuring no damage to your spa.
The task isn’t complete until you’ve attended to the hot tub cover as well. Detach and cleanse this component using a soapy mixture. Softly work away at any patches of mold or accumulated debris that might be on it and rinse adequately after so there are no traces of soap left behind.
To preserve your freshly cleaned spa from environmental exposure during storage periods you can apply a special protective polish designed for spas after cleaning.

Clean or Replace Filters
Cleaning or replacing the hot tub’s filters is essential to ensure a comprehensive cleaning. Begin this process by extracting the filters from within the tub. They capture debris and impurities that can degrade water clarity and hot tub function.
Following their removal, employ a hose to vigorously rinse off any accumulated debris on the filters. For an even deeper cleanse, submerge them in a specialized filter-cleaning solution while adhering closely to the guidelines provided with that product. This step is designed to dislodge infested dirt and contaminants that mere rinsing may not adequately address.
Before placing the filters back into your hot tub system, make sure they are thoroughly dry. Dampness could foster bacterial growth and other harmful microorganisms that might taint your freshly filled tub. Dry filtering components contribute significantly to preserving their operational effectiveness and extending their service life.
By maintaining scrupulously clean filters, you will be rewarded with an impeccably pristine hot tub environment ready for enjoyment upon resuming use.
Dry Completely
It is essential to completely dry your hot tub after thoroughly cleaning it. This step is vital in preventing the growth of mold and mildew. Make sure to meticulously dry the interior surfaces with clean towels until all traces of moisture are gone.
Employing a wet-dry vacuum greatly facilitates this process, allowing you to extract any lingering water within the tub effectively. Concentrate on areas around plumbing and jets where water accumulates secretly. Utilizing the vacuum in these regions guarantees that they’re completely devoid of moisture.
Before putting them away, ensure that the filters are fully dried. Filters can become fertile grounds for bacterial growth, which might later infect your hot tub when refilled with water.
A comprehensive drying routine prior to storage not only prevents potential damage but also maintains your hot tub in excellent working order.
Securely Cover Your Hot Tub
After cleaning and drying your hot tub, it is crucial to fasten the cover tightly. This resilient cover offers protection against various weather conditions, such as rain, snowfall, and harmful UV rays. A proper cover protects your hot tub from external factors, ensuring it remains in top shape.
To make sure that the essential protective layer doesn’t shift out of place, firmly secure it with locking mechanisms or bungee cords. Doing so will safeguard against movements caused by heavy winds or curious wildlife. Ensuring a snug fit also prevents leaves and moisture from entering and causing potential harm over time.
While your hot tub is stored away, it is important to routinely check the condition of your hot tub’s lid for any signs of wear, such as rips or damage, since an impaired covering fails to adequately defend your spa oasis.
Addressing any issues immediately helps preserve its defensive abilities, which is necessary for optimal upkeep of both the lid itself and what lies beneath it—the inviting warmth of your well-maintained hot tub.

Protect the Plumbing and Jets
To protect the hot tub’s jets and plumbing, it is essential to remove any leftover water. If water remains in the tub and temperatures drop, it can freeze and expand, potentially causing significant damage to both the pipes and the plumbing system.
To guarantee complete dryness of your hot tub, employ a wet-dry vacuum to extract all remaining moisture in the jets and plumbing lines. This prevents freezing issues when temperatures drop during colder seasons.
Engage the air blower for several minutes. This action aids in eliminating lingering moisture within both plumbing and jets. Ensuring no residual water is present is critical, as it can solidify upon freezing, resulting in possible damage with falling temperatures.
Drying out your hot tubing systems preserves their structural integrity while circumventing expensive repairs down the line. Using an air blower throughout can effectively enhance drying efficiency.
Store Indoors or Use Weather-Resistant Cover
Storing your hot tub indoors is the best choice, as it ensures a dry area that preserves its state. Nevertheless, in situations where you can’t store it indoors, using a temperature-insulated cover that’s resistant to weather will safeguard it against environmental conditions.
While your hot tub is in storage, do not place any hefty items on its cover. Heavy materials such as bricks might harm the cover and lessen its ability to protect it.
If left outdoors without proper coverage, your hot tub may sustain damage from various weather elements. It’s crucial to thoroughly shield both the hot tub and especially its heater with appropriate covers to avoid complications during off-season periods.

Regular Check-ups During Storage
Even if you’ve properly prepared your hot tub for storage, conducting routine inspections is essential. Make certain that all the hot water has been thoroughly drained from the lower areas of the tub to prevent any complications.
It’s also important to routinely examine the condition of your hot tub cover. Quick attention to any signs of damage or wear is crucial in preserving its protective function.
By consistently checking on your hot tub, you ensure it stays in prime shape and ready for use once the winter off-season concludes. This vigilance prepares you for prolonged periods of nighttime enjoyment by the pool in the weeks ahead. Should you opt to make a purchase when fall arrives, this foresight will only serve to enhance your experiences with hot tubs even further.
Keep Your Hot Tub in Perfect Condition with Action Spa Repair
Since 1993, Action Spa Repair has been San Diego’s trusted choice for expert hot tub repairs and parts replacement. Whether you are preparing your spa for summer storage, fixing leaks, upgrading systems, or replacing jets and heaters, we have the experience and parts on hand to deliver fast, reliable service. We work with all brands and models, ensuring your hot tub stays in top condition year-round, no matter the make or model.
Our team of highly skilled technicians is backed by the best remote support systems in the industry, allowing us to diagnose and fix issues faster and more accurately. Plus, with our stocked local warehouse, you won’t be stuck waiting for parts to ship.
From simple repairs to major system upgrades, Action Spa Repair gives you peace of mind with warranty-backed services and decades of proven expertise. Call Action Spa Repair at 619-444-1720 to schedule your service.
Frequently Asked Questions on How to Store Hot Tub for Summer
Can I leave water in my hot tub during summer storage?
You definitely should drain all the water from your hot tub for summer storage to avoid any potential damage.
Trust me, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
How often should I check my stored hot tub?
You should check your stored hot tub regularly to ensure that there is no water accumulation and that the cover is still secure.
It’s a simple way to avoid any surprises later!
What type of cover should I use for my hot tub?
You should go for a durable, weather-resistant cover to keep your hot tub safe from the elements.
It’ll help prolong its life and keep your relaxation spot in top shape!
Can I store my hot tub outdoors?
Absolutely, you can store your hot tub outdoors!
Just make sure it’s covered with a weather-resistant cover to protect it from the elements.
Do I need to clean my hot tub before storing it?
Absolutely, giving your hot tub a good clean before storing it is key to preventing mold and mildew.
It’ll make sure it’s in great shape for next use!
Conclusion
To correctly store your hot tub during the summer months, you must carry out various important procedures, such as completely draining the water from the tub, meticulously cleaning its interior, verifying that all plumbing is void of moisture, and fastening the cover tightly.
These measures will help you avert any potential harm to your hot tub and prolong its lifespan.
A thoroughly preserved hot tub ensures that it is primed for pleasure when the seasons shift. Investing effort in properly storing your hot tub today reduces trouble and enhances tranquility later on.