How Hot Should You Keep Your Hot Tub?

As most hot tub owners know, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as that moment when you step into a steamy, toasty spa at the end of a long, hard day. Hot water and steam have been used for their therapeutic properties for centuries. The ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks all used hydrotherapy to treat the body and mind. It just feels good. Although, as a new hot tub owner, it can be difficult to find the perfect water temperature. We have good news; finding the sweet spot between ice bath and molten lava is primarily a matter of personal preference. However, there are a few things that all responsible spa owners should keep in mind when it comes to safety, health, and practicality. Here are some of our guidelines for determining the ideal temperature for your hot tub.

Safety First

Finding the safest water temperature will depend greatly on the age and health of those using your spa.

Adults:

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, and industry standards, the accepted maximum temperature for adults is 104°F. Some adults will prefer their water this hot. However, the most common temperature preference will range between 100°F – 102°F.

Children:

While the American Association of Pediatrics does not provide specific guidelines for children using hot tubs, most health and spa professionals suggest that infants and toddlers should avoid hot tubs. If older children are going to be using the hot tub, it’s recommended to keep the temperature between 95°F – 100°F and should be limited to 5-10 minutes at a time. We advise checking with your child’s pediatrician if you’re unsure.

Pregnant Women:

The Mayo Clinic suggests taking the following precautions if using a hot tub while pregnant: limit soaking time to less than 10 minutes, do not submerge the upper body, and exit the hot tub if you feel any discomfort. However, it’s always recommended to consult with your physician before using a hot tub during pregnancy.

Setting the Temperature

There are several factors to consider when setting your preferred spa temperature. We recommend beginning with a temperature 100°F. Then adjust the temperature from there according to your family members’ comfort level. Building up to a temperature that everyone using the spa agrees on is the most efficient method, rather than repeatedly raising or lowering the thermostat. Keeping your hot tub set on a constant temperature will save money in the utility department as well. Consider the season of the year when determining the most comfortable spa setting. While a constant temperature is good for energy savings, it might be necessary to adjust the heat as the weather changes. Most spa users will prefer a cooler temperature in the summer months, while warmer water is desirable on those cold winter evenings. Finding the perfect water temperature for your hot tub is simply a matter of making an informed decision based on the health and comfort enjoyed by yourself and your family. Following these suggestions will have you unlocking the full health benefits of your spa in no time. If you still have questions, we would love to answer them! Contact us today at either of our locations.

Fronheiser Pools

Providing quality products for your outdoor living lifestyle since 1965.