Spring Start-Up: Getting Your Hot Tub Ready After Winter

With warmer weather finally on the way, many homeowners across London and Southwestern Ontario are thinking about firing up their hot tubs again. At The Hot Tub Mechanic, spring is one of our busiest seasons — and for good reason. A proper start-up after winter can save you from costly repairs down the road.

Here’s what goes into a professional spring start-up and why it matters:

💧 Inspect for Winter Damage

Even with a proper winterization, freezing temperatures can take a toll. We check for cracked PVC fittings, damaged unions, and compromised seals before adding any water. A small crack that went unnoticed can turn into a major leak once the tub is filled and pressurized.

🔋 Electrical System Check

Before powering anything on, we inspect the control board, wiring connections, and GFCI breaker. Rodents love to nest in hot tub cabinets over winter, and chewed wires are more common than you’d think. We make sure everything is safe and up to code before flipping the switch.

🚰 Fill, Prime, and Test

We fill the tub using a hose filter to reduce mineral content from the start. Then we prime the pumps — air locks are one of the most common issues after a long sit. Once water is circulating, we test the heater, jets, blower, and lights to confirm everything is working properly.

🧪 Water Chemistry Balance

Fresh water needs to be properly balanced before you soak. We test and adjust pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and sanitizer levels. Getting this right from day one protects your equipment, extends the life of your spa, and keeps your skin happy.

🛡️ Filter and Cover Inspection

We inspect your filter cartridge — if it’s more than a year old or showing wear, we recommend replacing it. We also check the spa cover for waterlogging, tears, or broken straps. A heavy, waterlogged cover is a sign it’s lost its insulating ability and is costing you money on every hydro bill.

Why Not DIY?

You can do a spring start-up yourself, but the risk is missing something small that turns into something expensive. We’ve seen homeowners fill and heat a tub only to discover a cracked fitting that flooded their deck — or a pump that seized because it wasn’t primed properly.

A professional start-up from The Hot Tub Mechanic gives you peace of mind and gets you soaking sooner. Book your spring start-up today — spots fill up fast once the weather turns.