Hot Tubs in New York: How to Protect Them During a Storm
A hot tub is a relaxing, stress-melting oasis from the hassles of everyday living. It’s an investment that enhances the backyard and turns that outdoor space into a spa. However, since it sits outside, it’s left exposed to the elements and may be at the mercy of the weather. Here are some ways to protect a hot tub in New York during storms and harsh conditions.
How to Protect Hot Tubs from Inclement Weather
Windy Conditions
Windy weather can come with storms – thunderstorms, rainstorms, and hurricane conditions – but a particularly blustery day can pose a potential hazard to a hot tub, as well. Hot tub covers are a shape that makes it easy for the right gust of wind to lift them off and throw them across a yard. This could damage the cover. In case of windy conditions, a basic necessity is cover clips, which will keep the cover attached to the “cabinet” (the structure that holds and encloses the tub and its working parts).
In case of extremely severe conditions, hurricane straps are available for purchase, which are a bit more heavy-duty than standard cover clips. Some cord wrapped around the entire unit will serve the same purpose in a pinch – hot tub owners just need to make sure that the cords are not too tight, or they risk damaging the vinyl or foam core of the cover.
Potential Debris from Rain, Wind, and Thunderstorms
Severe rain, wind, hail, etc. are problems on their own, but they can also cause falling debris like tree branches. This debris could potentially puncture the hot tub cover. Especially if the hot tub sits underneath a tree, the risk for falling debris is higher. Hot tub owners can protect their unit from this threat by placing a large piece of plywood on top of the hot tub cover, held in place with straps. A towel or something similar can be wedged between the plywood and the cover to prevent scuffing. With a plywood shield, the cover and thus the tub underneath will be better protected in inclement weather that may cause falling debris.
Freezing Temperatures
One of the great things about owning a hot tub is that it can be used year-round. It’s especially relaxing to sit in a hot tub when the weather is very cold. However, if hot tub owners live in a variable climate, freezing temperatures can pose a risk to their unit. Hot tubs New York cannot just be turned off indefinitely in the winter – this will cause the unit to freeze, which causes other damage that is very expensive to fix. Instead, if the hot tub needs to be off for the season, owners should “winterize” their hot tub. This means loosening the pump fittings and draining them as well as the tub. All the water needs to be out to prevent freezing.
If hot tub owners want to keep their unit in use over the winter, there’s another option. In order to prevent the unit from freezing, they need to make sure that the water remains warm enough while the hot tub isn’t running. A floating solar blanket can help with this. Additionally, a cover that is in good shape and is insulted well, along with secure cover clips, can keep the heat in the unit for a few days with the unit off. However, the hot tub should not be left off for longer than this.
The Bottom Line for Weather-Proofing Hot Tubs in New York
Hot tubs can stand up to all seasons and all kinds of weather with the right preparation. If hot tub owners know that a storm is forecasted, they can quickly protect their investment with any of the above methods. This will help keep the unit running at maximum efficiency for years to come.