It often feels like there are two types of people: those who embrace winter’s chill and those who count down the days until summer. But could a swim spa change your perspective on the colder months? An all-season pool-spa, a swim spa gives you a place to warm up on those cold nights or a space to exercise — no snowy drive to the gym required.
If you’re new to owning a swim spa or thinking about buying one, you might wonder whether you’ll truly enjoy those warm water workouts or relaxing hydrotherapy sessions when temperatures drop. Or maybe you’re considering winterizing your swim spa altogether.
Before you start to drain your swim spa, you’ll want to explore all the details about winterizing and decide whether it’s really the right choice for you. From enjoying the benefits of year-round use to understanding the steps for proper winterization, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Should you winterize your swim spa?
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures dip, the idea of stepping outside might make you shiver. You love your swim spa, but the thought of braving the cold to use it? That’s another story.
“Maybe it’s time to winterize the swim spa before it gets too cold,” you think.
Deciding whether to winterize your swim spa depends on factors like your lifestyle, energy priorities, and how you plan to use it during the colder months. While winterizing might make sense in certain situations, keeping your swim spa open can offer numerous benefits — especially in the middle of winter.
Benefits of using your swim spa in winter
For those who enjoy the benefits of a swim spa year-round, there are plenty of reasons to keep it open during the colder months. Using your swim spa in winter offers numerous advantages, including continued health benefits, stress relief, and even the ability to use it as a place to relax and unwind after outdoor winter activities.
Year-round exercise and therapy: Working out in the winter can be tough, and it’s not just because it’s cold. The shorter days can drain your energy, and the thought of heading out into freezing temps is enough to make anyone think twice. Add in slippery sidewalks, snow-covered driveways, and the hassle of crowded gyms, and sticking to your routine starts to feel like more trouble than it’s worth. With an H2X Fitness Swim Spa, though, you can keep up with your exercise routine without braving the cold. Adjust the water to your preferred temperature and head outside when you are ready to swim, aqua jog, or go through your favorite water aerobics routine.
Cold weather hydrotherapy: Winter is actually one of the best times to enjoy your swim spa’s therapeutic benefits. A warm soak, especially with the massage jets turned on, can help relieve muscle stiffness and alleviate some of the seasonal aches that come with colder weather.
Social and family time: Your swim spa can be a cozy gathering spot for family and friends on cold winter nights, providing a unique way to connect and unwind, even as the temperatures dip.
Reasons some people choose to winterize
While many swim spa owners enjoy using their spa year-round, others decide to winterize it for the colder months. For some, concerns about maintenance and energy costs play a role in their decision. Others simply can’t picture themselves stepping into a swim spa when the temperatures drop below freezing.
Reduced maintenance: With a winterized swim spa, you won’t need to spend time on maintenance, such as cleaning, balancing chemicals, or monitoring water levels.
Lower energy costs: Heating your swim spa in the winter is often perceived as a major contributor to higher utility bills, which leads some owners to winterize in hopes of cutting back. However, H2X Fitness Swim Spas are designed with energy efficiency in mind, featuring full foam insulation to maintain water temperature and an insulated cover for added protection.
Extended absences: If you’ll be away for a significant amount of time and won’t be able to check on your spa regularly, winterizing provides peace of mind, as it minimizes the risk of freezing or damage due to neglect.
Alternatives to winterizing your spa
Winterizing your swim spa might seem like the only alternative to avoiding winter maintenance or managing perceived higher energy costs. But with the right strategies, you can enjoy your swim spa year-round — even in the coldest months. Thoughtful preparation and a few simple adjustments can make keeping your swim spa running easier — and more rewarding — than you’d expect.
Use a spa blanket or thermal blanket
Placing a floating thermal blanket on the water under the main cover can significantly reduce heat loss. This extra layer of insulation helps trap heat and maintain water temperature, especially in extremely cold weather. It’s an affordable and effective way to cut down on energy usage.
Check water levels regularly
Winter conditions and frequent spa use can lead to quicker water evaporation. It’s essential to monitor water levels regularly and top them off as needed. Low water levels can strain your swim spa’s pumps and affect heating efficiency, which can drive up energy costs and lead to potential damage.
Set up windbreaks and shelters
Excessive wind and exposure to the elements can cause your swim spa to lose heat more quickly. Installing a windbreak, like a privacy fence, tall shrubs, or even a decorative panel, can shield your swim spa and make it easier to maintain its temperature. Some owners go a step further by adding a canopy, pergola, or small enclosure to protect against snow and strong winter winds.
Lower the water temperature
If you don’t plan to use your swim spa as frequently during the winter but still want to keep it running, consider lowering the water temperature. By reducing the temperature, you can decrease the energy required to maintain heat while still keeping the water ready for occasional use.
Leverage your swim spa’s insulation and cover
H2X Swim Spas feature full foam insulation, designed to help maintain water temperature even during freezing temperatures. Coupled with a high-quality cover, which seals in heat and protects against the elements, your swim spa can operate efficiently year-round. These features reduce energy consumption and alleviate concerns about rising utility bills.
The benefits of using your swim spa in winter
Winter doesn’t have to mean saying goodbye to your swim spa. In fact, keeping your spa open during the colder months offers a number of practical benefits. Whether you’re looking for a way to stay active, relieve stress, or simply enjoy the warmth of the water on a chilly evening, a swim spa can make winter more enjoyable.
Boost immune health
Regular immersion in warm water is thought to support immune function, which can be especially beneficial during cold and flu season.
Counteract seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Winter can be a tough season mentally, with shorter days and limited sunlight taking a toll on mood and energy levels. For the 10 million Americans affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD), winter can bring feelings of depression, fatigue, and a lack of motivation.
Warm water and hydrotherapy have been shown to promote relaxation and improve mood, while regular exercise releases endorphins, your body’s natural feel-good chemicals. By providing a warm, inviting space to stay active and unwind, a swim spa can help lift your spirits and offer a healthy, effective way to counteract the effects of SAD during the colder months.
Enhanced recovery for winter sports
If you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or other winter sports, a warm swim spa is the ideal place to soothe sore muscles and recover after a day on the slopes.
How to winterize your swim spa
If you’ve decided to winterize your swim spa, it’s important to follow the proper steps to ensure it stays protected throughout the colder months. Improper winterization can lead to costly damage, including cracked pipes, damaged pumps, or other issues caused by freezing water left in the plumbing system.
If you’re unsure or prefer professional help, contacting your Master Spas retailer is a great way to ensure the winterizing process is done correctly.
1. Drain the water completely
Begin by turning off the power to your swim spa and draining the water. Make sure to drain the main swim spa area, as well as any places where water might pool, such as the hot tub seating. Even small amounts of water left behind could freeze and cause damage. Refer to the Regular Maintenance Procedures in your Owner’s Manual for specific instructions on how to drain your swim spa effectively.
2. Blow out the plumbing
Once the water is drained, use a wet/dry vacuum to blow out any remaining water from the plumbing lines. This step is crucial because water left in the pipes could freeze and cause cracks or other damage to the system. Insert the vacuum hose into the nozzle of each jet to clear the plumbing thoroughly.
3. Clean the shell and components
After draining the spa and blowing out the plumbing, take the time to wipe down the interior of your swim spa. This removes any residual water, dirt, or debris that could cause issues when reopening in the spring. Don’t forget to remove the filters, clean them thoroughly, and store them in a dry place until you’re ready to use them again.
4. Add antifreeze to the plumbing lines
For added protection, it’s recommended to pour non-toxic antifreeze into the plumbing lines. This will prevent any leftover moisture from freezing and causing damage. If you choose to use antifreeze, ensure you use one that is safe for swim spas, as not all types are suitable. Once you’ve added the antifreeze, make sure to flush the system thoroughly before restarting in the spring.
5. Secure the cover
Once the spa is drained, cleaned, and antifreeze has been added, secure the cover tightly. Be sure to check the condition of your cover before putting it back in place. A properly fitting cover will provide insulation and help protect your swim spa from cold air and debris. For additional protection, many swim spa owners opt to cover the spa with a watertight tarp as well.
Master Spas recommends leaving a small gap between the cover and the acrylic shell to allow airflow and reduce the risk of mildew or mold buildup from any trapped moisture.
6. Periodic checks during winter
It’s a good idea to periodically check your swim spa throughout the winter to ensure no water has entered the system, particularly after heavy precipitation. Checking it every few weeks will help you stay on top of any issues.
Choosing to winterize or continue using your H2X Fitness Swim Spa comes down to your personal preferences, lifestyle, and how you plan to use it during the colder months. For some, the benefits of winterizing — like lower maintenance and energy costs — make it the best choice. For others, the idea of warm winter workouts, hydrotherapy, and year-round enjoyment make it worth the effort to keep the spa running.
Whatever you decide, remember that the H2X Fitness Swim Spa is designed for flexibility and durability. With a little extra care, your swim spa will be ready for use, whether it’s a peaceful winter soak or a high-energy spring workout.
Create your own backyard oasis
Do you want to be able to swim, exercise, and relax at home? Having an H2X Fitness Swim Spa by Master Spas allows you to swim on your schedule while adding a fun factor to your backyard. Click here to find out more about the benefits of hydrotherapy and relaxing in a swim spa. Or, contact your local Master Spas retailer to learn more about swim spa ownership. Wondering how much a swim spa costs? Request a quote here.