How to Winterize a Swim Spa in Canada: Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re in Canada and own a swim spa, you may be wondering: Do I need to winterize it? The answer depends on how you use it. Many Canadians use their swim spa year-round — especially models built for colder climates. But if you're planning to shut your swim spa down during the harshest winter months, winterizing is essential to protect your investment.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
- Whether you need to winterize your swim spa
- How to drain and prep your spa
- What steps to take to prevent freeze damage
- Common mistakes to avoid
- When to call in a professional
Let’s get into the details.
Do You Need to Winterize a Swim Spa in Canada?
If you plan to use your swim spa through the winter, there's no need to winterize — just make sure your cover is in good condition, your filtration system is running, and your temperature stays consistent. Hydropool’s self-cleaning and insulated swim spas, for example, are designed to run efficiently year-round.
However, if you plan to shut down your swim spa for the winter, you must winterize it to prevent freezing water from damaging internal plumbing, pumps, and the shell.
Step-by-Step: How to Winterize a Swim Spa in Canada
- Turn Off Power at the Breaker
Safety first. Cut the power completely at the GFCI breaker. - Drain the Water Completely
Open the drain valve or use a submersible pump to empty the spa. Don’t forget to remove water from the swim spa’s plumbing by loosening union fittings at the pump and heater. - Blow Out the Plumbing Lines
Use a wet/dry shop vac to blow out each jet and air line. Even small amounts of water left in the pipes can freeze and cause cracking. - Remove and Clean the Filters
Take out the filters and clean them thoroughly. Store them indoors if possible. - Clean and Dry the Shell
Wipe down the interior of the spa and remove any residual water with towels or a wet vac. - Add Antifreeze to the Plumbing (Optional)
Some people add non-toxic RV antifreeze to plumbing lines as extra protection. Be cautious and consult your owner's manual before doing this. - Cover Your Swim Spa Securely
Use a well-insulated, locking cover. A winter cover cap can add extra protection from snow and debris.
Common Winterizing Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving water in the pipes or pump
- Forgetting to disconnect the heater
- Not turning off power at the breaker
- Using automotive antifreeze (only RV antifreeze is safe!)
Should You Hire a Professional to Winterize a Swim Spa?
If this is your first time or you’re unsure about any step, it's worth hiring a professional. A certified technician will ensure your swim spa is fully protected.
How to Winterize a Swim Spa in Canada: Step-by-Step Guide
Winterizing a swim spa in Canada isn’t always necessary — but if you’re shutting it down, it’s vital. Done right, winterizing will prevent costly damage and extend the life of your spa.
Still have questions? Reach out to your local Hydropool retailer here: Find a Retailer
