I Have No Power Will My Hot Tub Freeze
Suppose you live in the North Eastern US like me. Losing power and having your hot tub freeze solid is not a good day. After all, a hot tub is a significant investment, and the last thing you want is a block of ice in your backyard if you should lose power during the winter.
First of all, don’t panic. Most hot tubs can go several days without power in sub-zero temperatures. Here are some tips to help you survive a prolonged power outage.
As You Read Through, I Will Answer These Essential Questions About Hot Tub Freezing
- How long does it take for a hot tub to freeze without power?
- Will My Hot Tub Freeze Overnight?
- What to do with hot tub if power goes out in winter?
- Can I put a tarp over my hot tub?
- Can I run my hot tub off a generator?
- How long can a hot tub stay hot without power?
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Keep it hot
Do Not Take off the Cover. You want to keep the cold like a refrigerator during a power outage. Your hot tub is the same way. You want to keep the HEAT IN.
Make sure your cover is on tight. If you experience high wind in your area, invest in wind straps. These go entirely over your cover from side to side. Check the bottom of this article for all my cold-weather product suggestions.
delay temperature loss
If you know bad weather is coming. Turn up the temperature of your hot tub as high as it will go. This will buy you a little more time until your power comes back. Check if your hot tub has an extended temperature setting beyond the standard high of 104 degrees. A wireless thermometer is a good way to keep track of the water temperature.
Invest in a thermal blanket. This is a solar cover used in a swimming pool. You may not find one already cut to the size and shape of your hot tub. These are relatively easy to cut and will add an extra layer to prevent heat loss.
when the power goes out
Do not Drain your hot tub. If you drain your hot tub, you are putting the plumbing at risk. The plumbing lines and equipment will freeze unless you can power a shop vac to remove any remaining water in the bottom of the hot tub. The likely damage to the hot tub will put it beyond economical repair.
Wrap the equipment compartment. Even the best insulated hot tub has an Achilles Heel. Most equipment compartments let heat escape to prevent the pump from overheating. Conversely, it will let cold air in when the power has gone out. The best way to protect this area from freezing is to use old blankets or towels and wrap them around the pumps and heater. Caution: be sure to turn the hot tub breaker off. You don’t want the power coming back on and causing a fire.
Hot Water. If your power outage is expected to last 3-5 days, consider draining half the water after the water has gotten cold. Then replace it with hot water. Do not allow hot water to contact the exposed shell, as it will probably be cold and can cause shell damage.
Antifreeze. Most pool, hardware, and boat stores carry a non-toxic antifreeze. Pour what would be equal to 10% of your water volume into your tub and try to mix the water manually. This is not my favorite method after the power returns. Drain the hot tub and refill it.
If you have a generator
Generator. Some hot tubs have two breakers at the sub-panel. One runs the jet pumps. The other runs the heater and a circulation pump. This is only recommended for hot tubs that have this setup. Consult with a qualified electrician to connect this circuit to your generator. For most hot tubs. I recommend a whole-house generator system for this purpose.
Direct Heat. You can use a Small ceramic heater or incandescent trouble light to warm the equipment compartment. Click to watch a video for placement.
Submersible Pump. Use a small submersible pump, place it at the bottom of your hot tub, and run it 24/7. Moving water takes longer to freeze. The friction of the water moving through the pump will also add a small amount of heat. See product suggestions.
Bucket Heater. This is a small submersible heater that you would place in the hot tub in a bucket so it won’t come into contact with the shell. See product suggestions.
One last thought. If you have the time and enough warning of a potential storm, drain and winterize your hot tub. I put this last as attempting in such cold conditions requires some work.
Please use caution and common sense when using any of these suggestions. Do not attempt if you are not sure how to proceed.
In conclusion
Generator. Some hot tubs have two breakers at the sub-panel. One runs the jet pumps. The other runs the heater and a circulation pump. This is only recommended for hot tubs that have this setup. Consult with a qualified electrician to connect this circuit to your generator. For most hot tubs. I recommend a whole-house generator system for this purpose.
Direct Heat. You can use a Small ceramic heater or incandescent trouble light to warm the equipment compartment. Click to see a video about placement.
Submersible Pump. Use a small submersible pump, place it at the bottom of your hot tub, and run it 24/7. Moving water takes longer to freeze. The friction of the water moving through the pump will also add a small amount of heat. See product suggestions.
Bucket Heater. This is a small submersible heater that you would place in the hot tub in a bucket so it won’t come into contact with the shell. See product suggestions.
One last thought. If you have the time and enough warning of a potential storm, drain and winterize your hot tub. I put this last as attempting in such cold conditions requires some work.
Next Steps
Prepare your hot tub for winter power outages and ensure it stays free from freezing. Don’t let a sudden loss of power turn your hot tub into a block of ice. Remember, caution and common sense are key. If unsure, seek professional advice. Ensure you’re well-equipped to handle unexpected winter challenges with your hot tub.
By taking action now, you’re safeguarding your investment and ensuring uninterrupted enjoyment of your hot tub year-round. Implement these strategies today, and be prepared for whatever winter throws your way. Your hot tub deserves the best care, even during power outages. Take charge, stay informed, and keep your hot tub experience worry-free. Your relaxation oasis depends on it.