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For a fully-foamed hot tub, freezing typically occurs when the temperature drops below 28 degrees Fahrenheit and remains at or below this level continuously for a minimum of 36 hours. If your hot tub and pumps are still operational, however, the water circulates, and this continuous movement helps prevent freezing, even in very cold conditions. This circulation, along with the insulation provided by the foam, helps maintain the water temperature and prevent it from freezing during extended cold periods. Still, if you’re not planning to run it regularly, be sure to winterize the hot tub properly to prevent damage from freezing.

It’s less expensive to leave your hot tub on all the time, though you’ll want to keep it at a reduced temperature. How much you use the hot tub is also a factor. You’ll want to keep it at a constant temperature between 80 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit for weekly or daily use, then bump it up right before you get in. If you don’t plan to use your hot tub that often, you can turn it off as long as there’s no risk of freezing.  

Most hot tub motors can last between five and 10 years; however, hot tub motors can burn out sooner if the hot tub water is not maintained or if the motors themselves are not maintained or protected from the elements. Since hot tub motors (also referred to as spa pumps) power the jets and circulate the water, they are important for the functioning of your spa. Buying a quality motor, keeping the hot tub filter clean, and keeping the wet end of the motor wet and the dry end dry can help them last longer.

Hot tub repairs cost between $200 and $500 on average. You can minimize those costs by maintaining your hot tub and keeping necessary supplies on hand. An elevated shelf in the garage is a great place to store your water care chemicals so that kids and pets will stay safe and you’ll always have them around. 

Your hot tub should be drained of existing water, cleaned, and refilled every three to four months at a minimum. Follow your tub manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning, and rinse thoroughly when finished to eliminate any residue from the cleaning products. This is also a good time to inspect your tub’s cover in good lighting for any leaks, tears, or other damage that might cause problems. 

Using your hot tub manufacturer’s suggested cleaners and methods, keep your hot tub filters clean to avoid a loss of water heat. This will help extend the filter’s useful life and efficiency. If the filter is more than two to three years old, replace it with a new one and buy a second filter to keep around as a spare.