How to Prevent Freezing Pipes in Pools and Hot Tubs

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If you live in a state that experiences temperatures below freezing in the fall and winter, you probably know what to do to prevent freezing pipes in your house each year. But did you ever think about what if the pipes could freeze in your pool or hot tub if you have one?

Hot Tubs
One way to prevent freezing pipes in your hot tub is to winterize it, but why would you want to do that? Winter is one of the best times to be in it! Hot tub owners know why. If you’ve ever been in a hot tub when there’s sleet or freezing rain coming down, you know the juxtaposition between hot and cold is actually quite refreshing—similar to how refreshing it is to jump in a cool pool on a hot summer day. That said, if you don’t think you will use your hot tub for a minimum of three months, it’s probably a good idea to winterize it. Doing so will require you to drain all the water out and use air to blow any remaining water out of the pipes and water lines, which will help winterize it.

Another way is to put your hot tub in “freeze protection mode.” This is a feature on most hot tubs that turns on a circulation pump when temperatures are close to freezing. Similarly, you can run the pump. After all, moving water doesn’t freeze. Makes sense, right? Just make sure all the jets are open and you use low speed.

Other tips: Keep a cover on your hot tub and make sure it fits tightly and/or use spa insulation—the more you have the better.

Pools
Pools are a bit trickier than hot tubs because in wintery states, you don’t use your pool in the winter like you might use a hot tub. If you own a pool, take these steps to make sure the pipes don’t freeze.

• Lower the water level so it’s below the skimmer.
• Put antifreeze specially made for pools in pipes and hoses, then use an air compressor or blower to blow excess water out of the pipes. Do this for several minutes, then plug the pipes. Make sure all the water is out of the skimmer as well.
• Speaking of the skimmer, it’s a good idea to fill an empty water bottle with pool antifreeze, put the cap back on and place it in the skimmer.
• Cover the pool.

Taking care of your pool and/or hot tub in the winter will prevent expensive damage that can keep you from enjoying them when you want to. Put in the effort now—you’ll be glad you did.

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