First Time Hot Tub Owner? Here’s What To Think About

You’ve just bought your first hot tub and had it installed. Now you want to enjoy it, especially since the weather’s getting a little warmer.

Before you get going, however, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the hot tub’s workings and consider a few things. Here’s our quick guide:

Our Hot Tub Tips

• Always read the user manual properly and get to know how your hot tub works. Your installer will probably have gone through the basics with you but it’s a good idea to check if they missed anything out.
• One key thing to keep control of is the temperature of the water with a hot tub. Especially if you have kids, maintain this at around 100 degrees Fahrenheit (about 40°C). If it’s just adults using the tub, you can let it go a little higher to suit your personal comfort level. Always test the water before you get in, however.
• The pH of the water is important too and you should follow the guidelines set out by the user manual. The ideal pH for a hot tub should be between 7.2 and 7.8. Below these values, it’s too acidic, above it’s too alkaline. Changes in pH can cause problems such as itchy eyes or skin so make sure you check this regularly.
• Filter changes need to be carried out regularly too and you should also take the time to clean them out about every week, especially if you are using your hot tub a lot. A filter that gets clogged can cause damage to the tub and this can be expensive to put fix.
• When your hot tub is not in use, you should cover it to prevent debris getting in. If the tub didn’t come with a cover, it’s a good idea to invest in one. Go for a quality model that properly covers the tub and can be secured easily. A good cover can save you on heating costs by keeping the water properly warm while it’s not in use.

It’s important to put in place a good, regular maintenance regime for your hot tub. It can be pretty costly if things go wrong and sensible maintenance is the best way to avoid this as well as lengthen the lifespan of your tub.

Using Your Hot Tub

There’s nothing better than sitting back and relaxing in a hot tub after a hard day at work.

• For purely hygiene reasons, especially if you are sharing with other people, it’s good etiquette to have a shower first so that you don’t transfer any germs or bacteria into the water.
• You shouldn’t be spending all evening in the spa as it will at some point start to wrinkle your skin. We suggest 10 to 15 minutes at a time as the norm. You can always get back in later.
• With the filters and drains, it’s a good idea to tie up any long hair to keep it out of the way. Most hot tubs are perfectly safe but it’s probably not worth taking the risk.

Finally, while it’s okay to have a couple of drinks as you relax, avoid overdoing it with the alcohol. After all, you are in water and you need to be aware of any safety issues.