How to Prepare Your Wood-Fired Hot Tub for Winter When It Will Not Be Used

If you do not plan to use your hot tub during the winter season, it is very important to prepare it properly. Freezing temperatures can cause serious damage to pipes, valves, filters, and the heater if water is left insi the system.

Snow-covered round wood-fired hot tub with an external stainless steel heater, surrounded by fresh snow and footprints in a winter garden.

Why water must be completely drained when temperatures drop below 4°C

When temperatures drop below 4°C, water stops contracting and begins to expand as it cools further. This expansion is the main reason why no water must be left inside any pipes, hoses, or systems. Even small amounts of trapped wateran expand when freezing and cause cracks, leaks, or permanent damage to components.

Hot tub circulation pump control unit with adjustable flow dial and temperature markings.

Wood-Fired Hot tubs with a 3kW electric heater – fewer problems and significantly less winter maintenance

If you own a Gardenvity hot tub equipped with a 3kW electric heater, winter use is generally easy and convenient, as the heater can maintain a stable water temperature even in cold conditions. However, if you are leaving your property for a longer period of time, you may still choose to drain the water completely and avoid using the electric temperature maintenance function during your absence.

Essential steps before winter storage

Below you will find the essential steps to safely prepare your hot tub for winter when it will not be in use.

Hot tub water drain outlet with stainless steel connection at the base of the tub.

1. Drain all water from the hot tub – the most important step

Drain all water from the tub completely and leave every drain valve open.

All Gardenvity hot tubs include a drain valve below the chimney. Some models also have an additional drain valve located on the right side of the heater — make sure to open both drain valves.

Leaving the valves open ensures that no residual water remains inside the system, reducing the risk of freezing damage.

2. Drain the air and hydromassage systems completely

Residual water trapped in these systems can freeze and damage internal components.

Make sure to drain all water from:

Air jet system
Hydromassage (hydro jet) system

Once the tub is fully drained, briefly switch on the air and hydromassage systems for a few seconds to help push out any remaining water from hoses and internal lines.

Hot tub sand filtration system with pump, pre-filter, and bottom drain valve highlighted.

3. Drain and remove the water filter for indoor storage

Drain all water from the filter tank and the pump
Remove the filter cartridge if applicable
Store the filter in a warm, dry room during winter

Never leave the filter tank, pump, or filter cartridge filled with water outdoors during freezing temperatures.

4. Drain the external heater (if your wood-fired hot tub is equipped with one)

Completely drain all water from the external heater.

If your hot tub has an external heater, make sure to:

Open the heater drain valve and the drain screw located at the back of the heater.
Allow all water to flow out completely
Slightly lift the front of the external heater (approx. 5–10 cm) to help any remaining water escape from internal channels

This step is critical, as external heaters are one of the most vulnerable components to frost damage.

Securing strap for hot tub insulated cover attached to wooden tub exterior in winter conditions.

5. Cover the wood-fired hot tub

Once the hot tub is fully drained:

Cover the tub with a protective cover
Make sure the cover is properly secured

This helps protect the interior from snow, rain, debris, and moisture.

6. Remove the chimney or the entire chimney system

To avoid damage caused by strong winds or winter storms:

Remove the top flue of the chimney or fully disassemble the chimney system if very strong winds are expected
Store all chimney parts safely until the hot tub is used again

Removing the full chimney eliminates the risk of wind damage during long periods of non-use.

Important model-specific notes

Depending on the Gardenvity hot tub model you have purchased, there may be additional or slightly different steps required for proper winter preparation.

Please always follow the model-specific manual included with your hot tub. If you have any questions or are unsure about any step, feel free to contact us — our team will be happy to assist you.

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