When you want to enjoy your hot tub, unwanted pests are not on the guest list. From household pets to insects and even frogs, they are all pretty smart when it comes to getting into your hot tub if you don’t take the proper steps to keep them out.
There are many simple things you can do right now to keep pests away. Are you ready? Here are 10 ways to keep pests out of your hot tub so you can enjoy it worry-free.
10 Ways to Keep Pests Out of Your Hot Tub
- Cover Your Hot Tub
The best thing you can do to keep any type of pest out of your hot tub is to cover it. The cover not only protects your hot tub from insects falling inside, but it also keeps larger animals from falling in and even trying to drink the water.
When you put the cover on, be sure it is on securely. Critters and pests can find gaps and try to weave themselves in. You also want to protect your cover by not allowing anyone to sit on it or put any food or drinks on top.
- Install a Fence Around Your Hot Tub
Installing a fence around your hot tub is not only a good idea to keep large animals away, but can also be a good safety precaution to protect small children from drowning. If you’re putting a fence or a gate around your hot tub, be sure it is tall enough so that animals can’t jump over it and small children can’t get in by climbing.
- Inspect Your Cabinet for Cracks
Cabinet cracks are like welcome mats for bees and wasps to get into your hot tub. Inspect your cabinet for cracks or holes that bees and small rodents may be able to get into. During warm months bees and wasps look for water. If they can get near your hot tub through a crack in the cabinet, they can build a nest or hive. They’ll keep returning until you discover them.
Your hot tub cabinet can also be a popular place for mice and other rodents to build their nests. They tend to do this in the colder months when they’re looking for shelter. Once these pests get in, they typically damage the cabinet and even the wiring by chewing on it. The insulation in the cabinet also provides a bed-like atmosphere for them to make themselves warm and comfortable.
You can prevent this from happening by not only checking for cracks but also sealing the bottom of your hot tub and making repairs as soon as you notice an issue.
- Seal Gaps
Just as you would check and fix any cracks in the cabinet, you’ll want to do the same with any gaps in the exterior panels. The interior area beneath the hot tub shell is where plumbing and electrical equipment are located. This gives off heat which can attract rodents and other pests during the winter.
Small rodents can squeeze their bodies into gaps that are less than one inch, so you’ll want to carefully inspect the exterior panels for any openings. Be sure all panels are closed. If you notice any gaps, seal them. But, never use adhesives or non-porous material because you’ll need to have access to electrical and plumbing for any maintenance or repairs.
- Keep Wood Dry
Ants and termites are attracted to wood that is wet and even rotting. Keep wood around your hot tub dry to keep carpenter ants away. They are known for damaging wooden hot tub cabinets and even known for making tunnels. Carpenter ants are also attracted to spa insulation that they use as a nest.
- Keep Food Away from the Hot Tub Area
Insects and pests love when you leave food or crumbs lying around. Dropped food can attract just about every creature from ants to raccoons. Plus, if you drop any food into your hot tub, it can completely throw off the water chemistry. The best way to avoid these problems is to just keep food away from the hot tub area.
- Maintain Your Water Chemistry
When water is properly treated it can be a deterrent to reptiles and amphibians who prefer untreated water. Maintaining healthy water chemistry can help keep frogs away if you have some in your area. When your water is properly balanced and sanitized, frogs will be less likely to take refuge in your hot tub.
- Use Deterrents
Certain scents can deter pests from your hot tub area. Citronella is often a popular choice. Mint and peppermint oil are also used as deterrents. Some people soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them around their hot tub to keep pests away.
- Try Copper
Copper is another item you can use to keep pests away from your hot tub. Copper in tape form can be applied to the bottom of the hot tub. This can keep rodents away as well as snakes which can be attracted to the rodents.
- Use Your Tub Regularly
We’ve saved the best tip for last! The most fun way to keep pests out of your hot tub is to use it regularly. When you’re actively using your hot tub, it can deter some pests from getting into your space. Plus, you’re getting your money’s worth on your investment!
Do You Need Help Getting Rid of Pests Near Your Hot Tub?
Even when you try your best to keep out hot tub pests, they may still find their way in. If you need help getting rid of pests near your hot tub, call Stomp Pest Control. Our team of professionals is ready to take on your problem with one of our pest control programs. Call us today at (919) 231-3292 or fill out the contact form below to schedule a pest control appointment. Backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee, our extermination team is one you can count on for years to come.
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