Winter Won’t Freeze Your Fun When You’re Prepared and Protected.
Stay warm, safe, and ready for the season with Aqua‑Tech.
A frozen hot tub isn’t just a bummer and an inconvenience — it can lead to expensive repairs, safety risks, and weeks without your favourite way to unwind. The good news? With a few smart steps and the right backup plan, you can keep your spa running smoothly all winter long. Here’s how to stay ahead of the freeze with tips from Aqua‑Tech, Winnipeg’s hot tub service professionals.
Why Manitoba Hot Tubs Need Extra Winter Protection
Living in Manitoba means we’re no strangers to extreme cold, wild wind chills, and sudden cold snaps. With Winnipeg sitting in the heart of the southern Prairies — and right next to our famously windy neighbour, Saskatchewan — our winters can be especially harsh on outdoor equipment.
Those deep freezes can cause:
- Power outages across the province
- Sudden temperature drops that stress your hot tub’s components
- Increased risk of freezing in plumbing, pumps, and equipment
That’s why having a plan before the cold hits is so important.
Why a Working Heater Is Critical in Winter
In freezing temperatures, your hot tub’s heater does more than keep the water comfortable — it helps prevent your spa from turning into a block of ice.
To reduce the risk of freezing:
- Run your jets daily to help keep water moving through the lines.
- Monitor your display and heat settings regularly, especially during cold snaps.
- If the heater isn’t functioning correctly in below‑freezing conditions, the tub can begin to freeze — and so can the circulation pump.
A frozen circulation pump can quickly turn into a no‑heat, no‑flow situation that requires major repairs. Catching heater issues early is always cheaper than fixing a frozen spa.
Don’t Forget Your Spa Cover
Your hot tub cover is your first line of defence against heat loss.
Check your cover regularly for:
- Cracks, rips, or waterlogging
- Broken or loose straps and hardware
- Areas where the cover no longer sits flat or “snug” on the tub
A cover that doesn’t close tightly will allow heat to escape and cold air to sneak in — and you may even notice icicles forming around the edges. If your cover looks tired, heavy, or warped, it may be time to replace it before winter really sets in.
Signs Your Hot Tub Needs Urgent Winter Service
Call for service right away if you notice any of the following:
- Water not heating to the set temperature: The water feels cooler than normal, and the heating icon or light is no longer visible on the display. This usually means the spa isn’t heating.
- Visible ice around the equipment cabinet or plumbing: If you suspect the tub hasn’t been warming properly, carefully check the equipment area. Early ice formation is a warning sign — catching it early can prevent major damage.
- Strange, loud, or unusual sounds: Grinding, squealing, or other odd noises from your spa should always be taken seriously. They may indicate freezing, restricted water flow, or a mechanical problem that needs prompt attention.
If something feels “off,” it’s always better to call sooner rather than later in winter.
Emergency? Here’s What to Do
If you suspect a serious issue:
- Don’t panic. Safety first.
- If you see smoke or sparks, immediately shut off the spa by flipping off the breaker outside. This ensures the electricity is fully disconnected.
- Call Aqua‑Tech’s emergency line for fast, local help from technicians you know and trust.
- Keep the cover on to preserve as much heat as possible until our team arrives.
The sooner we’re involved, the better your chances of avoiding major damage.
Extra Tips to Help Prevent Freezing
A few more simple habits can go a long way:
- Use “Freeze Protection” mode (if available): Many spas include a freeze protection or “winter” mode that automatically circulates water when temperatures drop. Every brand is different, so check your owner’s manual to see if your model has this feature and how to activate it.
- Inspect your cover after storms or heavy snowfalls: Clear off excess snow and look for new damage. If possible, keep about four inches of space around all sides of your hot tub free of snow and ice. This helps airflow, access, and can reduce stress on the cabinet and cover.
- Watch for any loss of power or heat: If your tub loses power or you notice the temperature dropping, keeping the area clear and the cover on will help it stay warmer for longer until help arrives.
- Schedule a winter check‑up: If you notice anything out of the ordinary — even a small concern — a quick winter service call can address issues early and help you avoid more costly repairs later.
Stay Toasty All Season Long…Don’t wait for a mid‑January crisis to find out something isn’t working. Regular service calls, a healthy spa cover, and a WinterSafe Backup Heat System can keep your hot tub running smoothly, no matter what Manitoba’s winter throws at it.
Book your winter service call with Aqua‑Tech today at 204-233-8822; service@aqua-tech.ca or www.aqua-tech.ca and keep your staycation destination warm, safe, and ready all season long.
