Hot Tub Holiday Mode: How to Prepare Your Hot Tub Before Going on Holiday This Winter

Heading away for a winter break? Whether you’re escaping for a long weekend or taking a full festive holiday, it’s important to prepare your hot tub properly before you leave. Cold weather, low water levels and incorrect settings can result in system damage and unnecessary repair costs, which no one wants to return home to! This guide walks you through everything you need to do to keep your hot tub safe, energy-efficient and ready to use the moment you return.  

Why Preparing Your Hot Tub Matters in Winter

In the colder months, hot tubs can require a little more attention. Sudden temperature drops can freeze pipework, cause pumps to seize, or trigger error codes. Proper preparation prevents these issues, keeps running costs down, and protects your investment while you’re away.  

Should You Turn Your Hot Tub Off Completely?

Short answer: No, not in winter unless the appropriate preparation has been done. Turning your hot tub off fully can lead to:  

• Water freezing inside pipework
• Pumps or heaters cracking
• System faults when restarted

Instead, your hot tub needs some level of heat and circulation to keep everything moving. If you’ll be away for more than a few days, use holiday mode or reduce the temperature. If you will not be using your hot tub in the winter and would prefer to turn it off, take a look at our hibernation service so that it can be done so properly and with minimal risk.  

Option 1: Use Your Hot Tub’s ‘Holiday Mode’ Setting

Many modern hot tubs have a dedicated setting for when you’re away, although the name may vary (Holiday Mode, Sleep Mode, ECO Mode, Away Mode, etc.). Holiday Mode typically:

• Lowers the water temperature automatically
• Maintains regular filtration cycles
• Keeps water circulating to prevent freezing
• Reduces energy use while keeping your spa protected

This setting is ideal if you’re away for up to 2–3 weeks.  

Option 2: Lower the Temperature Manually

If your spa doesn’t have a holiday/eco mode, simply reduce the temperature. Recommended winter holiday temperature: 26 – 30°C This keeps the water warm enough to prevent freezing while significantly lowering running costs. Make sure:

• Filtration cycles stay active
• The hot tub cover is properly closed and locked
• All air valves are turned off to retain heat

Balance Your Water Before You Go

Water chemistry is crucial when the hot tub will sit unused for a while. Before you leave:

1. Balance pH and alkalinity
2. Ensure sanitiser levels are correct
3. Shock the water 24 hours before departure
4. Clean or replace your filters
5. Remove debris from the water

And most importantly: Check the water level. Low water levels can stop the heater and pump running, which increases the risk of freezing.  

Protect Against Winter Weather

Your hot tub should be fully insulated and protected before you go. Make sure to:

• Secure the lid straps so the cover doesn’t lift in strong winds
• Add a floating thermal blanket for extra insulation
• Clear snow and ice around the cabinet
• Check the cover is in good condition and sealing properly

A well-insulated hot tub will maintain temperature more efficiently while you’re away.  

Away for More Than 3–4 Weeks?

If you’re travelling for an extended period, you have two safe options:

1. Professional Winterisation

A trained engineer will fully drain the spa, dry all pipework and protect pumps and components from freezing. This includes a full drain-down, deep filter clean, biofilm removal, shell clean and polish, cover treatment, and a full safety shut-down. This is the safest option for long absences.  

2. Drain and Refill on Your Return

This can work if temperatures are mild when you leave, but only if the tub is drained correctly (otherwise water could remain in the pipework and freeze). If you’re unsure, winterisation is the safest approach. Preparing your hot tub properly before going on holiday this winter means you can relax knowing everything is safe, protected and energy-efficient. A few simple steps now will prevent freezing damage, reduce running costs, and ensure your spa is ready for a soak the moment you get home. If you’d prefer a professional to check your hot tub before you go, Spafix offers winter servicing, cleaning, and full winterisation for complete peace of mind.