Winterization Guide

Cold Creek tubs are engineered to perform in cold weather. This guide outlines how to safely operate, monitor, or winterize your tub based on outdoor temperatures. Freeze damage can occur in extreme cold, during power loss, or if water flow slows or stops while temperatures are below freezing. Protecting your tub from freeze damage is ultimately the customer’s responsibility.

Horizontal Cold Tub

Ensure Proper Water Flow (Always Required)

Your pump and circulation system are the most critical components for cold‑weather operation. Maintaining strong water flow helps prevent freezing and protects internal components. 

Monitor Outdoor Temperatures

Always keep an eye on local weather forecasts and your water temperature.

  • 30°F and above: The tub may be used normally with no changes required.
  • Below 30°F: You may continue using the tub, but taking minor precautionary steps will help prevent freezing.
  • Below 15°F for 48+ hours: Additional precautions are required to help prevent freeze damage.

30°F and above Outdoor Temperatures

If temperatures remain consistently 30°F and above:

  • Ensure water is circulating continuously
  • Keep the tub covered when not in use
  • Monitor water temperature regularly
  • Confirm power supply is reliable

Keep an eye on the temperature reading on your chiller. If the water temperature drops below 38°F, it’s time to take action by following the extreme cold weather steps outlined.

15–30°F Outdoor Temperatures

Option 1: Continue Plunging — Run the Tub Using a Bypass (Chiller Removed)

You may continue using your tub in freezing conditions without the chiller connected by installing a bypass coupling. This allows water to circulate directly through the filter while bypassing the chiller.

  • How this works: Disconnect the inlet and outlet hoses from the chiller - Connect the hoses together using a bypass coupling - This creates a closed loop allowing safe, continuous circulation
  • Recommended bypass fitting: ¾" PVC slide repair coupling (linked here)
  • Watch "How to Swap Your Chiller for a Bypass" video for guidance. 

Option 2: Pause Plunging — Drain the Tub

If you would like to pause plunging during colder temperatures, follow the steps below to drain your tub.

    Steps:

    • Drain the tub using the pump and hose (draining video). After the tub is fully drained, allow the pump to run briefly to help clear any remaining water from the plumbing.
    • Unplug from electrical outlet to power tub off. 
    • Remove the filter and empty any trapped water. Store it indoors until you’re ready to restart.
    • Disconnect and remove the chiller. Gently tip the chiller on its side to drain any internal water. Store it indoors until you’re ready to restart.

    Extended Extreme Cold  (Below 15°F for 2+ Days)

    If temperatures are expected to remain below 15°F for more than 48 hours, additional precautions are required to prevent freeze damage. 

    You have two safe options depending on whether you’d like to pause plunging or continue using your tub.

    Option 1: Pause Plunging — Drain the Tub & Protect Components

    If you plan to pause plunging until temperatures rise, follow the draining and component protection steps outlined above.

    Option 2: Continue Plunging — Move the Tub Indoors

    If you’d like to continue plunging during extended extreme cold, you can move the tub indoors.

    Steps:

    • Drain the tub completely.
    • Remove the chiller and filter, and tilt each to drain any remaining water.
    • Move the tub indoors. (The tub weighs approximately 170 lbs when dry and with the chiller removed)
    • Reinstall the chiller and filter, refill the tub with water, and resume normal use indoors.

    ⚠️ Important Safety Notes

    • Keep an eye on the temperature reading on your chiller. If the water temperature drops below 38°F, it’s time to take action by following the extreme cold weather steps outlined.
    • Continuous water circulation is essential to help prevent freezing and protect internal components
    • Freeze damage can occur during extreme cold, power loss, or if water flow slows or stops while temperatures are below freezing
    • If the tub is drained, turn the pump off/unplug your tub to prevent damage.
    • Any standing water left in the system during freezing conditions may freeze and damage components.

     

    Vertical Cold Tub

    To continue using your Vertical Tub (full setup) in freezing conditions, always keep the tub plugged in, running, and the lid on. Continuous circulation is essential to help prevent freezing and protect internal components.

    Our chiller includes built-in freeze protection to help keep your system running safely and reliably in cold weather, supported by thick insulation in the tub for added efficiency.

     

    If you are unsure whether your Horizontal or Vertical setup is adequately protected, feel free to contact us by email, text, or phone—we’re happy to help!