How to Prepare Your Hot Tub or Swim Spa for Fall – Part 2

How to Prepare Your Hot Tub or Swim Spa for Fall: Seasonal Tips for a Smooth Transition – Part 2

As the days get shorter and the nights grow cooler, your hot tub or swim spa becomes even more of a daily retreat. But before the leaves start falling and temperatures drop, it’s smart to give your spa a little seasonal attention. Preparing your spa for fall ensures it runs efficiently, stays clean, and delivers the comfort you want all season long—whether you’re soaking under the stars or swimming through your morning routine.

Here are a few simple steps to make sure your hot tub or swim spa is ready for the season ahead:

Clean and Inspect the Spa Cover

Your spa cover is your first line of defense against falling leaves, debris, and heat loss. Give it a good cleaning with mild soap and water, then treat the exterior with a UV protectant or conditioner designed for vinyl or marine-grade materials.

Check for any signs of wear:

• Cracks or fading
• Mold or mildew buildup
• Heavy or waterlogged foam
• Loose or torn seams

If your cover isn’t sealing properly or is showing signs of damage, replacing it now can improve energy efficiency and help keep your water clean through the colder months.

Replace Any Faulty Siding, Steps, Covers, or Components

Fall is a great time to do a full inspection of your spa surroundings. Check for any damage to exterior siding, steps, handrails, or hardware. Look for loose panels, splintered wood, or rusted brackets.

Also take a moment to ensure:

• Your cover lifter functions properly
• Your steps are safe and slip-resistant
• There are no leaks, odd noises, or heating issues

Replacing worn components now helps you avoid problems mid-season when parts may be harder to find—or when it’s too cold to comfortably make repairs.

Set Your Temperature and Filtration Settings

As the nights get cooler, you may want to raise your water temperature slightly for comfort. It’s also a good time to review your filtration settings to ensure water stays clean as usage increases.

• Make sure your spa is running long enough each day to properly circulate and sanitize the water
• Check your energy usage settings if your spa has an eco or auto mode
• Confirm your insulation is performing and that your cover fits tightly to retain heat

A small adjustment now can help reduce energy costs and avoid maintenance surprises later.

Stock Up on Supplies

Don’t get caught without essentials when the weather changes. Make sure you have:

• Sanitizer (chlorine, bromine, or your preferred system)
• pH up/down and alkalinity balancing products
• Shock treatment
• Filter cleaner
• Extra test strips or digital test supplies

Having everything on hand makes it easier to stay consistent with your water care—especially when it’s colder and you’d rather not make a last-minute store run.

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