As the air cools and the leaves start to fall, there’s nothing better than sinking into a warm, bubbling spa. But if you want your hot tub to stay in peak shape through the colder months—and beyond—fall is the perfect time to give it some TLC.
Think of it like this: your spa works harder in cooler weather. It’s heating more, you’re probably using it more often, and if it’s not maintained properly, minor issues can turn into major repairs. The good news? Fall maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few key steps can keep your spa running smoothly, cleanly, and efficiently all year long.
1. Drain and Refill the Water
Fall is a great time to drain and replace your spa water. If it’s been a few months since your last water change, go ahead and give your spa a fresh start. Old water can hold onto body oils, sweat, lotions, and leftover chemicals, which eventually throws off your water balance.
When draining, take the time to:
- Wipe down the shell with a non-abrasive spa cleaner
- Rinse and clean your filters
- Refill with fresh water and rebalance your chemicals
Doing this in the fall sets you up for clean, clear water all winter long.
2. Check and Clean Your Filters
Your filters are your spa’s first line of defense against dirt and debris. Over time, they can get clogged with oils, hair, and other gunk—especially if the spa sees a lot of use.
In the fall, remove the filters and:
- Rinse them thoroughly with a hose
- Soak them in a filter cleaner if they’re extra dirty
- Let them dry completely before reinstalling
If the filters are over a year old or starting to show wear, this is a great time to replace them. Clean filters help your water stay balanced and take pressure off your pump and heater.
3. Balance Water Chemistry
Cooler temperatures can make water chemistry a little trickier. You want to make sure everything is balanced before the cold weather hits, so your spa is ready when you are.
Test for:
- pH (ideal range: 7.4–7.6)
- Alkalinity (80–120 ppm)
- Sanitizer levels (chlorine, bromine, or other system)
- Calcium hardness (150–250 ppm)
Balanced water not only feels better on your skin, it also helps protect your spa equipment from scale buildup or corrosion.
4. Inspect the Cover
Fall leaves, rain, and eventually snow can put extra weight and stress on your spa cover. If it’s sagging, waterlogged, or has cracks in the vinyl, it won’t do a good job of keeping heat in and debris out.
Check that:
- The cover fits snugly and locks securely
- The outer layer is free of rips, mold, or heavy water absorption
- The underside is clean and dry
Give the whole thing a wipe-down with a gentle cleaner and treat it with a UV protectant to prevent sun damage. A well-maintained cover saves energy and keeps your water cleaner longer.
5. Clear Out Leaves and Debris
It sounds simple, but regularly clearing away leaves, pine needles, and dirt from around your spa can prevent bigger issues. Debris can clog filters, stain the shell, and create a slippery mess around the spa area.
Sweep or vacuum around the base, and if you have steps or a deck nearby, give those a quick clean too. If your spa is under trees, consider using a small canopy or spa cover cap to protect it from constant leaf drop.
6. Check for Leaks or Weird Noises
Fall is your last chance before freezing temps to catch small issues early. If you hear unusual humming, buzzing, or notice any wet spots around the base, take a closer look.
Look for:
- Cracks in the shell
- Damp spots under the cabinet
- Signs of rust or corrosion
- GFCI trips or odd electrical behavior
If something seems off, don’t wait until it’s freezing outside to get it fixed. Spa issues in winter can be a real hassle—and way more expensive.
7. Schedule a Pro Check-Up (Optional, but Smart)
If you’re not sure when your last full inspection was—or if you just want peace of mind—fall is a great time to bring in a spa technician. They’ll check the electrical system, pump, heater, jets, and plumbing, and make sure everything is winter-ready.
A little expert attention now can help you avoid downtime when you really want to use your spa—like on a crisp fall evening or snowy winter night.
Enjoy Your Spa with Confidence
Taking time for fall spa maintenance means fewer surprises down the road. You’ll enjoy cleaner water, lower energy bills, and a hot tub that’s always ready when you are.
If you’d rather not handle it all yourself, Westrock Pools offers expert spa maintenance services, including cleanings, water balancing, inspections, and seasonal prep. Whether you’re closing things down or keeping them running through the winter, their team can help keep your spa in perfect shape, year-round.