---
title: How to Safely Use and Care for Your Spa in Winter (and What to Do If It Stops Working)
description: Learn how to use your spa in winter, prevent freezing, and what to do if your Bullfrog Spa stops working in cold weather.
---
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1. [Customer Help Center](https://help.bullfrogspas.com/?hsLang=en)
2. [Maintenance & Cleaning](https://help.bullfrogspas.com/maintenance-cleaning?hsLang=en)
# How to Safely Use and Care for Your Spa in Winter (and What to Do If It Stops Working)
## Winter use is one of the most rewarding times to enjoy your Bullfrog® Spa, but colder temperatures require a few additional care steps. This guide explains how to safely use your spa in winter, prevent freezing issues, and what to do if your spa stops working during cold weather.
### Overview
Bullfrog Spas are designed to operate year‑round, even in cold climates. Built‑in freeze protection systems help keep water circulating and prevent freezing under normal conditions.
However, extreme cold combined with power loss or equipment issues can create risks if not handled properly. Understanding how to respond—and how to prepare—ensures your spa remains protected and ready to enjoy throughout the winter season.
### Winter Spa Use: What to Know
During normal operation in cold weather:
- Your spa automatically activates freeze protection when temperatures drop
- Pumps will run periodically to keep water moving
- Heat is maintained as long as power is connected
If the spa has power and is running, no action is needed—even in very cold temperatures. The system is built to protect itself.
### Step-by-Step: What to Do If Your Spa Stops Working in Winter
#### Step 1: Check Power and Pump Operation
Determine whether:
- The spa has power
- The pumps are running
If the spa still has power and the pumps are operating, the freeze protection system is working as intended. You can wait for service without concern.
#### Step 2: If Power Is Off or Pumps Won’t Run
If the spa is not operating, take immediate action to prevent freezing.
Do not drain the spa. Draining removes the thermal mass of warm water and allows internal temperatures to drop more quickly, increasing the risk of freeze damage.
Instead:
- Keep the cover closed to retain heat
- Place a small space heater inside the equipment compartment
- Set the heater to a low setting (around 50–55°F)
- Position the heater safely, with adequate space from plumbing and components
This approach helps maintain a safe temperature inside the equipment area and can protect the spa for several days while waiting for service.
#### Step 3: Monitor and Schedule Service
Contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas dealer as soon as possible. As long as heat is being retained and supplemental warmth is provided, you have time to address the issue before freezing becomes a risk.
#### Important Note
Freeze damage is not covered under warranty, as maintaining proper protection during freezing conditions is the responsibility of the spa owner.
### When Winterization Is Necessary
Winterization is only recommended if:
- The spa will be unused for an extended period
- Repairs cannot be completed in time during extreme cold
- Temperatures are consistently below freezing (especially below 25°F)
Winterization must be done thoroughly to prevent damage.
### Step-by-Step: How to Winterize Your Spa
#### Step 1: Prepare and Balance Water
Before draining:
- Raise sanitizer levels to 3–5 ppm
- Adjust pH to the proper range
This helps clean the plumbing system before shutdown.
#### Step 2: Drain the Spa Completely
Drain as much water as possible from the spa shell. Then use a shop vacuum to remove any remaining water from the bottom of the shell.
#### Step 3: Remove Water from Jets and Plumbing
Use a shop vacuum to:
- Suction water from each jet
- Blow air through jets to push out trapped water
This step is critical to prevent freezing inside plumbing lines.
#### Step 4: Clear Internal Components
Inside the spa:
- Remove filters and filter housings if applicable
- Vacuum water from jetpack openings and plumbing access points
Inside the equipment compartment:
- Disconnect plumbing unions at the lowest point
- Drain water from pumps and heater connections
#### Step 5: Protect the Spa from Moisture
Cover the spa securely and place a waterproof tarp over the cover. Spa covers are not fully waterproof, and snow or rain can seep through over time and cause internal freeze damage if not protected.
#### Optional Step: Use RV Antifreeze
Some technicians add RV antifreeze to plumbing as an added precaution. This is optional if the spa has been fully drained and cleared of water.
### Ongoing Winter Care Tips
To improve winter performance and protection:
- Keep the spa cover closed when not in use
- Open the cover occasionally to release trapped moisture
- Consider adding temporary insulation inside the equipment compartment during extreme cold
- If you plan to take a vacation during the winter, the spa must be checked periodically (at least twice a week) during extreme cold temperatures in case of an event or failure that prevents the spa from running properly.
- Wi-Fi is a great way to monitor the spa systems from your phone when you are away
If using insulation inside the equipment area, remove it when temperatures rise above ~50°F to prevent overheating of components.
### What to Expect with Proper Winter Care
When properly maintained:
- Your spa will operate reliably through winter conditions
- Freeze protection systems will prevent damage during normal operation
- Water temperature and performance will remain consistent
Even in colder climates, winter can be one of the most enjoyable times to use your spa.
### If the Issue Continues
If your spa is not operating and temperatures are dropping:
- Confirm power supply and breaker status
- Use supplemental heat in the equipment area
- Contact your authorized Bullfrog Spas dealer immediately
If repairs are delayed and freezing conditions persist, complete winterization may be necessary to fully protect your spa.
### Confidence in Winter Ownership
Bullfrog Spas are designed for year‑round enjoyment, including demanding winter conditions. With a few key precautions and quick action if issues arise, you can confidently protect your spa and continue enjoying it through every season.
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