If your spa will not be used for an extended period in a location where there is a likelihood of below freezing temperatures, the spa should be "winterized" to reduce the chances of damage caused by freezing.


Please ensure that you have contacted us before following these instructions below.

We also offer winterization services. Book one with us! This is recommended 


For more information, please click HERE to watch our Winterization instructional video, for additional details see below:


Note: If the spa is equipped with the AO3P control box unit (Ozone), you may disconnect the feeding hoses to allow any remaining water in the compartment to drain. However, If performed correctly; the water should automatically have exited through the built-in drain valve and no water should be leaking out when disconnecting the hoses.


Tools Needed:
  • Lineman’s pliers
  • Channel-lock pliers
  • Screwdriver
  • C-Clamp oil wrench
  • Drill
  • Wet/Dry vacuum
Pump Steps
  1. After draining your spa, open the cabinet and locate all pumps (one to four, depending on your spa or swim spa).
  2. Start with the suction side of the pump. Use the C-clamp oil wrench to loosen the union. This prevents water from spilling onto the AC part of the motor. Let the water drain, and use the Wet/Dry vac to remove any remaining water inside the cabinet.
  3. Remove the O-rings and zip-tie or store them safely so they’re not lost.
  4. Loosen the second union on the discharge side of the pump and remove the gasket/O-ring.
  5. On the front side of the pump, locate the small drain plug at the lowest point. Use lineman’s pliers to slightly loosen it, then remove the plug so any remaining water can drain. Leave this plug off for the winter to allow any water that may get in to drain out.
Winter Prep for AO3P Unit (Ozone & UV System)
  1. Disconnect the connector and carefully remove the UV bulb. Place it in a small cardboard box and take it indoors to protect it over the winter.
  2. Inside the AO3P unit is a quartz sleeve that separates the bulb from the water. Since this area sits at a low point, water can get trapped. Use a wrench to carefully loosen the cap. Once it’s loose, unthread it fully.
  3. Remove the cap, O-ring, and quartz sleeve. Store the quartz sleeve together with the bulb (placing the bulb inside the sleeve is recommended) to keep them safe.
Removal of All Jets
  1. Turn each jet to the off position. Apply light pressure and twist to remove.
    • Some jets are threaded: simply unthread them.
    • Some are “pop-in” style: you’ll feel a click before they release.
  2. Remove all jets and soak them if there’s chemical buildup.
  3. Use the Wet/Dry vac over each jet opening to blow air through the lines, pushing water down toward the pumps. Start at the top jets, moving around and then down to the lower ones. You’ll notice water pooling in the footwell — this is expected.
Remove Filters and Dials
  1. Remove all filters from the filter housing.
  2. Remove the dials:
    • Start with the waterfall dial. It may feel tight but can be lifted off with firm finger pressure.
    • Remove the threaded cap underneath.
  3. Use the Wet/Dry vac to blow air through these openings to push remaining water down into the pumps. You’ll see water coming out of the pumps as well.
  4. Once dry, reinstall the dials by hand-tightening only (do not over-tighten). Align and press the cap back on.
(If unsure which dials your spa has, call us for guidance.)
Important – Take These Parts Indoors for Winter
  1. Pump O-rings
  2. Small bottom drain plugs from the pumps
  3. AO3P system’s UV bulb (stored inside the quartz sleeve, in a box)