Severe weather is bound to strike from time to time, even in temperate Las Cruces. We’re hit with wind, severe thunderstorms, hail, and even light snow every year. While we can hunker down inside and wait it out, our hot tubs are outside weathering the storm. We know you want to make sure your favorite relaxation zone (and investment) isn’t damaged by any weather pattern that blows through. We’ve put together this simple guide so you can protect your hot tub, no matter what type of severe weather approaches!

Wind

Even if trees are uprooted and lawn furniture is tossed into your neighbor’s yard, your hot tub itself can withstand high winds just fine. Your hot tub cover, on the other hand, may need some extra care. When heavy winds are expected, take the time to make sure your cover is securely in place. Because of their shape and size, hot tub covers can catch a gust of wind that could send them flying. To better handle high winds, make sure your hot tub cover is a locking one. For added security in the case of severe winds, use cover clips to ensure it stays in place.

Resist the temptation to put bricks, concrete blocks, and other heavy objects on top of your cover to hold it down. Instead of protecting your hot tub and cover, they are far more likely to cause damage.

Hail

If severe thunderstorms bring hail, your hot tub cover is there to protect your spa. When it comes to protecting the cover from hail damage, preventive maintenance is key. As part of routine maintenance, use a non-alcohol based cleaner on your cover. This will keep it soft and conditioned, which will help it stand up to hits from hail and other foreign objects. Without this step, a vinyl cover will become dry and brittle and more likely to crack if hail hits it. 

Snow

Living in southern New Mexico has its perks, one of which is the small amount of snow we see. That said, we do average a couple of inches of snowfall a year, so your hot tub is bound to encounter the white stuff at some point. When snow is in the forecast, don’t worry because your Master Spas® hot tub has a high-quality cabinet, insulation and components, so snow isn’t a problem. Your cover will provide all the protection your hot tub needs, but you will want to take one precaution to safeguard your cover. Wet snow is heavier than it appears; just 3-4 inches of it can weigh 50 pounds or more! To keep your cover from having to bear that unnecessary weight, just brush off any snow that accumulates above an inch.

Here’s the main takeaway. Your cover is your hot tub’s biggest defense against any type of severe weather. So, keep it securely in place. Stay on top of routine maintenance. Plus, make sure it’s in tip-top shape because a badly worn cover can’t do its job. Water pooling in the middle, cracks, or a bad smell are all signs your cover is in bad repair and needs replaced. 

Got more questions about caring for your hot tub? Browse our blog for more helpful articles, or contact us here!