Calculating a solution to the question “What temperature should a hot tub be?” might be easier than you think. There are no advanced math skills required, just a few quick items to consider, such as whether there will be children in the water. A safe spa temperature may vary slightly based on user age or preference, but with the tips below, you’ll be relaxing in no time.
What is a Safe Spa Temperature Range?
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has stated that a safe spa temperature is between 98 and 104 degrees. Many hot tubs now have temperature controls to prevent exceeding 104 degrees. Before setting the controls too high, make sure to consider any potential health risks of your family or guests, such as pregnancy, heat sensitivity, or heart conditions. It is always best to check with your doctor before getting in a hot tub if you have any concerns.
Keep in mind that you should always be watching for signs of overheating when using a hot tub, even when there are only healthy adults present. Make sure to stay hydrated and get out of the water immediately if you experience nausea, increased heart rate, or any other abnormal symptoms.
What is the Safest Hot Tub Temperature for Kids?
Children are at increased risk of overheating, as well as drowning. Never allow kids in or near the hot tub without adult supervision. Make sure to lower the hot tub temperature to 98 degrees before letting children get in the water, and even then, take precautions like the ones listed below.
- Take frequent breaks
- Drink plenty of water
- Never bring infants or toddlers into a hot tub
- Limit the time children are in the water to 5-20 minutes at a time
- Do not let children submerge their entire bodies in the water
- Use higher seats so children can keep most of their torso above water
- Wait until children are tall enough to stand on the bottom and keep their heads above water before allowing them to use a hot tub.
- Watch children closely for signs of overheating, including red faces and lethargy
- Do not let children put their heads underwater (hair can get caught in jets and drains)
- Always keep hot tub covered when not in use
What Temperature is Best for Relaxation?
Your best temperature for relaxation will depend on the time of year and climate you live in, as well as personal preferences. For example, a person living in Arizona in the summer will keep the temperature lower than someone living in Minnesota in the winter. A great way to find your ideal setting is to start around 98 degrees, which is near your body temperature. If this is not warm enough, get out of the hot tub and raise the temperature slightly. Experiment over several uses until you find your sweet spot, rather than turning up the heat while in use.
Conserve Energy with Lower Temperatures
Another factor to consider when setting your hot tub temperature is how much energy you will be using. Find out how much it will cost you to run your hot tub and make a plan according to your budget. Not surprisingly, lower temperatures will mean less energy is being used. Consult your spa dealer or the manual provided by the manufacturer for more information about using less energy and running your spa efficiently.
Contact Aqua Rec’s for More Info
Contact Aqua Rec’s to learn more about what temperature a hot tub should be or for information about spas, pools, and more. Or come see us today at one of our convenient locations near you in the Puget Sound area.