Caring for Your Hot Tub in Extreme Winter Weather in Philadelphia
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Caring for Your Hot Tub in Extreme Winter Weather in Philadelphia
Spring Dance Hot Tubs – Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia winters can be harsh, with freezing temperatures, snowstorms, and icy winds that put extra stress on outdoor hot tubs. Proper winter hot tub care is essential to prevent damage, reduce energy costs, and keep your spa running smoothly all season long.
At Spring Dance Hot Tubs, we help homeowners throughout Philadelphia, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County protect and enjoy their hot tubs — even during the coldest winter weather.
Why Winter Hot Tub Maintenance Matters in Philadelphia
Extreme cold can cause water to freeze inside plumbing lines, damage pumps and heaters, and shorten the lifespan of your hot tub. Philadelphia’s frequent temperature swings make consistent winter maintenance especially important.
By following these winter hot tub care tips, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy safe, relaxing soaks all winter long.
1. Keep Your Hot Tub Heated All Winter
One of the biggest mistakes hot tub owners make is turning their spa off during winter. In freezing temperatures, stagnant water can freeze and crack internal components.
Winter heating tips:
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Keep your hot tub set to at least 80°F, even when not in use
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Never shut off the heater during winter months
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Use built-in freeze protection mode if your hot tub has it
Philadelphia Tip: During overnight lows in the teens or single digits, maintaining steady heat is the best way to prevent freeze damage.
2. Use a High-Quality Insulated Hot Tub Cover
A properly fitting, insulated cover helps retain heat, block cold air, and reduce energy costs during winter.
Cover maintenance tips:
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Make sure your cover seals tightly with no gaps
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Remove snow and ice regularly using a soft broom
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Consider a thermal blanket or cover cap for extra insulation
A good cover is one of the most important investments for winter hot tub care in Pennsylvania.
TIP: Standard hot tub covers last 3-5 years. Upgrade to a SmarTop or Covana cover to get the most out of the life of your hot tub.
3. Maintain Proper Water Levels and Circulation
Cold air increases evaporation, even during winter.
What to watch for:
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Check water levels weekly
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Keep water above the skimmer to protect pumps
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Ensure water circulates daily to prevent freezing in pipes
Consistent circulation helps distribute heat evenly throughout the system.
4. Balance Hot Tub Water Chemistry in Cold Weather
Winter conditions can affect how sanitizers work.
Winter water care tips:
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Test water chemistry weekly
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Maintain proper pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels
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Balanced water protects heaters, pumps, and jets from corrosion and scale
Clean water also ensures safe and comfortable winter soaking.
TIP: Get your water tested at your local Spring Dance Hot Tubs store or sign up for Water Valet Service and have them come to you!
5. Prepare for Power Outages and Extreme Cold
Winter storms in the Philadelphia area can cause power outages, putting your hot tub at risk.
Preparation tips:
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Monitor weather forecasts during extreme cold snaps
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Consider a backup generator for extended outages
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Raise water temperature slightly before predicted storms to retain heat longer
Planning ahead can prevent frozen plumbing and expensive repairs.
6. Schedule Professional Winter Hot Tub Maintenance
Cold weather makes draining and deep cleaning difficult.
Best practice:
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Perform a full cleaning and water change in early fall
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Schedule professional inspections before winter arrives
At Spring Dance Hot Tubs, we offer hot tub maintenance, winter preparation, and service throughout the Philadelphia area, helping you protect your investment year-round.
Trust Spring Dance Hot Tubs for Winter Hot Tub Care in Philadelphia
We understand the challenges of owning a hot tub in Pennsylvania winters. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency service, or expert winter care advice, our team is here to help.
📍 Serving Philadelphia and surrounding counties
📞 Contact Spring Dance Hot Tubs today to schedule winter service or maintenance

