September 10, 2025

How to Prepare Your Hot Tub or Swim Spa for Fall: Seasonal Tips for a Smooth Transition

As the days get shorter and the nights grow cooler, your hot tub or swim spa becomes even more of a daily retreat. But before the leaves start falling and temperatures drop, it’s smart to give your spa a little seasonal attention. Preparing your spa for fall ensures it runs efficiently, stays clean, and delivers the comfort you want all season long—whether you’re soaking under the stars or swimming through your morning routine.

Here are a few simple steps to make sure your hot tub or swim spa is ready for the season ahead:

1. Clean the Spa Interior

Fall is an ideal time to drain your spa and start with a fresh fill. Begin by powering down your system, draining the water completely, and giving the interior a thorough clean. Wipe down the shell, seats, jets, and waterline with a spa-safe, non-abrasive cleaner.

Rinse everything thoroughly before refilling to avoid soap residue or buildup. This refresh helps prevent issues as you move into colder months with more frequent spa use.

2. Replace or Clean the Filter

Your filter plays a key role in keeping water clean and balanced. After a full summer of use, it may be time to clean or replace it entirely. A fresh filter improves water flow, reduces sanitizer demand, and increases overall spa efficiency.

Inspect the cartridge for signs of wear or clogging. If it’s older than 12–18 months, replacing it now can save you time and maintenance headaches later.

3. Check and Balance Water Chemistry

Once refilled, test and balance your water chemistry. Check the pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and sanitizer levels. Cooler temperatures can affect chemical balance, so it’s important to start fall off with properly treated water.

Keeping water chemistry in check helps:

  • Prevent scale or cloudiness

  • Reduce wear on internal components

  • Maintain a comfortable soak experience

4. Clean and Inspect the Spa Cover

Your spa cover is your first line of defense against falling leaves, debris, and heat loss. Give it a good cleaning with mild soap and water, then treat the exterior with a UV protectant or conditioner designed for vinyl or marine-grade materials.

Check for any signs of wear:

  • Cracks or fading

  • Mold or mildew buildup

  • Heavy or waterlogged foam

  • Loose or torn seams

If your cover isn’t sealing properly or is showing signs of damage, replacing it now can improve energy efficiency and help keep your water clean through the colder months.

5. Replace Any Faulty Siding, Steps, Covers, or Components

Fall is a great time to do a full inspection of your spa surroundings. Check for any damage to exterior siding, steps, handrails, or hardware. Look for loose panels, splintered wood, or rusted brackets.

Also take a moment to ensure:

  • Your cover lifter functions properly

  • Your steps are safe and slip-resistant

  • There are no leaks, odd noises, or heating issues

Replacing worn components now helps you avoid problems mid-season when parts may be harder to find—or when it’s too cold to comfortably make repairs.

6. Set Your Temperature and Filtration Settings

As the nights get cooler, you may want to raise your water temperature slightly for comfort. It’s also a good time to review your filtration settings to ensure water stays clean as usage increases.

  • Make sure your spa is running long enough each day to properly circulate and sanitize the water

  • Check your energy usage settings if your spa has an eco or auto mode

  • Confirm your insulation is performing and that your cover fits tightly to retain heat

A small adjustment now can help reduce energy costs and avoid maintenance surprises later.

7. Stock Up on Supplies

Don’t get caught without essentials when the weather changes. Make sure you have:

  • Sanitizer (chlorine, bromine, or your preferred system)

  • pH up/down and alkalinity balancing products

  • Shock treatment

  • Filter cleaner

  • Extra test strips or digital test supplies

Having everything on hand makes it easier to stay consistent with your water care—especially when it’s colder and you’d rather not make a last-minute store run.

Ready for Fall Soaks and Recovery Sessions?

Whether you're relaxing after work or keeping up with your fitness goals, fall is one of the best times to enjoy your hot tub or swim spa. With a little seasonal maintenance now, you can extend your spa’s lifespan, avoid cold-weather problems, and make the most of every soak.

At PDC Spas, we’re here to help you enjoy your spa year-round. Visit pdcspas.com or connect with your local authorized dealer for more care tips, accessories, or to explore our collection of premium hot tubs and swim spas.