Winter Swim Spa Use: Maintenance & Tips for Cold-Weather Upkeep

It’s a commonly held misconception: swim spas and even hot tubs are a warm-weather amenity, not a winter one. But with the right preparations, you can enjoy the therapeutic and fitness benefits of your swim spa all year round. And once you do, you’ll find there’s nothing quite as relaxing as a cold winter’s night spent in the warm waters of your swim spa. 

Winter Swim Spa Use Tips

At Wellis, we’ve been leading the industry in top-of-the-line swim spas for years, so we know a thing or two about getting the most out of yours no matter the weather. Let’s take a closer look at some of our favorite tips for winter swim spa use. 

1. Maintain Water Temperature

One of the most important considerations for enjoying your winter swim spa use is maintaining the water temperature. Most swim spas are equipped with efficient heating systems that allow you to adjust the water temperature to your comfort level, all while conserving energy.

• Energy Efficiency: While it's tempting to crank up the heat, doing so can significantly increase your energy bills. Find a balance between comfort and cost by setting the water temperature slightly lower than usual.
• Pre-Heating: If you plan to use your swim spa during the colder months, consider pre-heating it a few hours before your session. This ensures the water is at your desired temperature when you're ready to take the plunge.

Keep in mind that both in terms of convenience and long-term cost, keeping your winter swim spa at steady temperature throughout the season is a better bet than turning it off or letting it dip way below your desired temp. 

2. Dress for the Occasion

Cold weather and comfortable winter swim spa sessions call for appropriate attire and the right amenities. 

Before stepping into your swim spa, invest in thermal swimwear or a wetsuit to keep your body insulated. Don't forget to wear a swim cap to retain heat and reduce heat loss through your head.

Keep a robe and some slip-on shoes or slippers nearby, so that when you step out of the swim spa you’re sure to stay warm until you get back inside. Some winter swim spa users even add a towel heater to their outdoor space so they can wrap themselves up in something cozy on their way back. 

3. Timing is Key

The time of day you choose can greatly affect your experience when it comes to winter swim spa use. Aim for daylight hours when the sun is out, as this can make your swim more enjoyable. If you prefer evening soaks, consider outdoor lighting or a nearby heat source like a patio heater to create a cozy atmosphere.

Tips for Winter Swim Spa Maintenance 

Proper winter maintenance is essential to protect your investment and extend the lifespan of your swim spa. Let’s delve into essential maintenance practices that will keep your swim spa functioning smoothly during the winter season.

1. Water Chemistry Control

Maintaining proper water chemistry is a year-round necessity, but it becomes even more critical for winter swim spa maintenance. Cold temperatures can cause chemical imbalances to occur more rapidly. Regularly test and adjust the water's pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels, following the manufacturer's recommendations.

2. Water Temperature Management

Adjust the water temperature carefully. While it's tempting to keep your swim spa warmer during the winter, it can lead to higher energy costs. Find a balance between comfort and cost efficiency by lowering the temperature slightly, ensuring it remains within the optimal operating range.

3. Routine Filtration and Cleaning

Your swim spa's filtration system is the backbone of water quality. Clean or replace the filter cartridge as needed. In the winter, debris from nearby trees, snow, and ice can accumulate in the water more quickly. Be diligent about skimming the surface and vacuuming the swim spa regularly to prevent debris buildup.

4. Winterize Your Equipment

Protect the essential components of your swim spa from freezing temperatures. If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider adding antifreeze to the plumbing lines or using a freeze protector device if your swim spa has one. Ensure that the heater and pumps are functioning correctly and have no leaks. It's a good practice to have a professional technician inspect and winterize your equipment as part of your annual maintenance routine.

5. Spa Cover Care

Invest in a high-quality spa cover designed for winter use. Regularly remove snow, ice, and debris from the cover to prevent damage and maintain its insulating properties. Ensure the cover fits snugly to minimize heat loss and keep unwanted debris out of your swim spa.

6. Snow and Ice Removal

Depending on your location, snow and ice can accumulate around and on your swim spa. Clear snow from the spa cover and surrounding areas to prevent excess weight on the cover. Additionally, keep pathways to the swim spa clear and safe for access.

7. Professional Maintenance Checkup

Consider scheduling a professional maintenance checkup before winter sets in. A trained technician can inspect your swim spa, identify any issues, and provide guidance on winterizing your specific model. This proactive approach can help prevent costly repairs and ensure your swim spa is ready for the colder months.

Benefits of Winter Swim Spa Usage

When winter blankets the world in a layer of snow and the air turns brisk, many might think it's time to pack away their swimwear and swim spa until spring. However, using a swim spa during the winter months offers a unique and invigorating experience with numerous health and wellness benefits. 

Therapeutic Warmth for Aching Muscles

One of the most compelling benefits of using a swim spa in winter is the therapeutic warmth it provides. The warm water helps soothe sore muscles and joints, making it an ideal environment for relaxation and pain relief. After a day of shoveling snow or winter sports, a soak in the swim spa can work wonders to ease tension and improve overall well-being.

Year-Round Exercise Opportunities

For those committed to fitness and regular exercise, winter can pose challenges. The swim spa offers a unique solution. Its compact size and adjustable current allow for a full-body workout, whether you're swimming, jogging, or doing water aerobics. Exercising in warm water during the colder months is not only enjoyable but also helps maintain your fitness routine without braving the elements.

Improved Mental Wellness

The winter months can sometimes lead to feelings of melancholy or seasonal affective disorder (SAD) due to reduced exposure to sunlight. A winter swim spa session can act as a mood-enhancing therapy. The combination of warm water, gentle exercise, and fresh air can lift your spirits and help combat the winter blues, promoting overall mental wellness.

Outdoor Enjoyment in Cozy Comfort

Winter swim spa use allows you to enjoy the beauty of the season without discomfort. You can relax in the warm water while appreciating the snow-covered landscape, glistening stars, or the serene quiet of a winter night. Create a cozy atmosphere around your swim spa with outdoor lighting, heated seating, or a hot beverage station to enhance your winter experience.

Improved Circulation and Immunity

The contrast between the warm water and the cold air in winter stimulates improved circulation. This can help boost your immune system and increase blood flow to extremities, reducing the risk of frostbite and enhancing your body's ability to combat illnesses.

This is especially helpful in the colder months, as studies have found that lower temperatures increase the chances of getting sick. This is because the body struggles more to fight off a virus when cold air enters the nose and upper airways, and illnesses spread more easily. Adding some swim spa soaking time to your healthcare routine in the winter might just help combat some of that risk by boosting immunity. 

Reduce Stress and Promote Sleep

Regular use of a swim spa, especially in the evening, can help reduce stress and promote better sleep. The warm water relaxes your muscles, while the soothing environment creates an ideal setting for winding down after a long day.

Final Word: Winter Swim Spa Usage 

Embracing the chill and using a swim spa during the winter season is more than just a bold venture; it's a way to improve physical and mental wellness. The warm water therapy, year-round exercise opportunities, mood-enhancing effects, and the chance to savor the winter outdoors in comfort are compelling reasons to keep your swim spa operational throughout the colder months. With the right maintenance and care, you can unlock the benefits of winter swim spa usage, transforming the season of snow and ice into a season of relaxation, rejuvenation, and wellness.

When shopping for a swim spa, it's important to choose one from a trusted swim spa brand.

Ready to find the perfect swim spa for sale? You can also use our swim spa dealer locator, shop online, or contact Wellis® Spa at  844-4-WELLIS for one-on-one help finding luxury hot tubs and swim spas near you.

You can even schedule a test swim in one of our spas at participating swim spa stores!