How to Store a Hot Tub When Not in Use: Essential Tips for Maintenance

Knowing how to store a hot tub when not in use can save you hundreds in repairs and keep your spa running smoothly when you're ready to use it again. Whether you're closing it down for the winter or taking a break during the summer months, proper storage ensures that your hot tub's heater, pipes, and pump stay protected. Poorly stored hot tubs are prone to frozen pipes, damaged filters, cracked surfaces, and chemical imbalances that can affect long-term water quality.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about preparing your hot tub for short-term or seasonal storage, from draining and cleaning to insulation, chemical maintenance, and safety tips.

Preparing for Storage

Storing your spa properly starts with prep. The first step is deciding whether you plan to store your hot tub short-term (a few weeks) or long-term (months or an entire season). For long-term storage, especially during cold months, fully shutting down the system is recommended.

Here’s a summary of what that preparation should include:

• Drain all the water from the spa, jets, and pipes
• Clean all surfaces and internal components
• Blow out or vacuum excess water to prevent freezing
• Protect internal plumbing with RV antifreeze (for winter storage)
• Turn off and unplug the spa at the breaker to save energy

Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions, especially regarding how to handle pumps and heaters.

Draining the Tub

Draining your hot tub completely is critical to prevent ice buildup or water stagnation. Leaving water inside during winter, or an extended storage period, can lead to frozen water damaging the pipes or cracking the shell.

Step-by-step draining process:

1. Turn off the power at the breaker.
2. Remove the drain plugs or connect a garden hose to the external drain valve.
3. If needed, use a sump pump to speed up water removal.
4. Open the jets and blow out remaining water with a shop vac (wet/dry vacuum).
5. Remove and clean the filters to prevent future clogs or mold.

Don't forget to check under the seats and along plumbing lines for any remaining water. Even small amounts can freeze and cause damage.

Cleaning and Maintenance

After draining the water, it’s time to clean. A clean hot tub will be much easier to reopen and less likely to develop odors, mildew, or staining during storage.

Use a non-abrasive cleaner or spa-specific product and a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the shell, seats, jets, and cover.

Pay attention to:

• Water lines and jets (flush them if needed)
• Spa pillows and removable accessories (clean and store separately)
• The filter compartment and pump housing

Once cleaned, leave the hot tub open and dry for several hours before covering it. This helps eliminate residual moisture.

Using a Cover During Storage

A properly fitted hot tub cover is essential for storage. It prevents dust, snow, rain, and animals from getting into the shell and water system.

Choose a heavy-duty, insulated spa cover with a secure fit, ideally one that includes lockable straps or clips.

Hot tub cover tips:

• Ensure the cover is dry before installing
• Secure it tightly to avoid wind lift
• Use a protective tarp for added UV protection if storing outdoors
• Clean and condition the cover before storage (vinyl protectant helps prevent cracking)

A strong, clean cover also helps maintain any residual heat if you’re doing short-term standby storage.

Water Treatment and Chemistry

If you’re storing the hot tub with water left inside (not recommended for long-term winter storage), water chemistry is critical. Poor balance can lead to biofilm, bacteria, and scaling inside plumbing lines.

To maintain water quality during short-term storage:

• Adjust pH to 7.2–7.8 and alkalinity to 80–120 ppm
• Add a spa shock or sanitizer before shutting down the circulation
• Use non-chlorine oxidizers if you won’t be circulating the water often
• Test the water weekly with strips

If you’re storing the tub drained, make sure no water remains in the plumbing lines or heater to avoid freeze damage.

Circulation and Filtration (Short-Term Storage)

For tubs not in use for a few weeks (but not fully shut down), periodic circulation keeps the water fresh and the plumbing in working condition.

• Set the circulation pump to run 15–30 minutes every day or two
• Keep filters clean and in place
• Lower the temperature setting to around 50°F/10°C to save energy
• Use a floating dispenser to maintain sanitizer levels

Running the system occasionally prevents bacterial growth and protects your pump and lines.

Short-Term vs Long-Term Storage: Key Differences

Understanding how long you’ll be away helps determine whether you need a full shutdown or light maintenance.

Safety Precautions

Always keep safety in mind when storing your spa:

• Turn off the power at the breaker when draining or cleaning
• Use gloves when handling chemicals or antifreeze
• Secure the cover with locks to prevent access by pets or children
• Inspect surroundings for ice or slip hazards if stored outdoors
• Never leave tools or hoses inside the hot tub during storage

Following manufacturer recommendations also reduces warranty-related risks.

Conclusion

Storing your hot tub correctly when not in use protects it from cold weather damage, chemical issues, and unnecessary energy costs. Whether you’re shutting it down for a season or just skipping a few weeks, the key is preparation: drain the water, clean the surfaces, secure the cover, and either maintain the water or shut off circulation completely. With the right maintenance approach, your hot tub will be ready to heat up and perform when you need it most.

Get Your Hot Tub Storage-Ready with Expert Help. Whether you're winterizing for the season or pausing use for a few weeks, Factory Direct Hot Tubs is here to help. From cover replacements to antifreeze prep and personalized maintenance advice, our team makes spa storage simple and stress-free. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or request service from our in-house pros.

FAQs

How to store an unused hot tub?

To store a hot tub, first drain all the water using the drain plug or a sump pump. Clean the surfaces, blow out plumbing lines, and apply RV antifreeze if storing during winter. Finally, unplug the spa and cover it securely to protect it from weather and debris.

How long can a hot tub sit unused?

A drained hot tub can sit unused for several months if cleaned and protected properly. If water is left inside, it should be circulated and tested weekly to prevent stagnation, though long-term storage with water is not recommended.

How to leave a hot tub when not in use?

If you plan to leave a hot tub unused for a short time, lower the temperature, balance the water, and cover it securely. For longer periods, drain it fully and disconnect the power. Be sure to clean and inspect it before restarting.

What is the best way to store a hot tub?

The best way to store a hot tub depends on the duration. For short-term storage, maintain chemistry and circulation. For long-term or winter storage, drain the tub, clean it, dry all components, and use RV antifreeze to protect internal plumbing.