How to Use a Hot Tub Safely

With temperatures soaring and the sun shining, there’s no better time than now to remove the cover from your hot tub and put it to good use for friends and family to enjoy. Likewise, if you don’t currently have a hot tub but you are feeling inspired to take the plunge and make the purchase this summer, it’s important to ensure it is used properly to get the most out of the experience.

Following on from our recent article which looks into swimming pool safety, this month we will be covering safety and etiquette rules for an outdoor hot tub as we delve deeper into the dos and don’ts for hot tub owners.

Do

Make sure the water is clean and properly disinfected to stop any diseases from spreading.
Make sure the hot tub, filters and skimmer basket/s are cleaned and serviced regularly by an expert. Clean the filter/s weekly and replace cartridge filters at least once a year or sooner if they have become worn. We recommend you have three filters; one in the hot tub, one soaking in cleaning solution and one drying out.
Have a shower or bath before entering the hot tub to help keep the water germ-free.
Make sure children are supervised at all times so they cannot access the hot tub without you being with them (a fence or gate will help to prevent any kids looking to explore and avoid the risk of drowning).
Make sure the hot tub is set to the correct temperature – young children are unable to regulate their body temperature and can easily overheat so it is vital to turn the water temperature right down to the lowest setting if you want your children or grandchildren to use the hot tub.
If you do allow children into the hot tub, make sure you stay with them at all times, strictly limit how long they spend inside and remember that they are likely to be out of their depth in the middle section.
Make sure you know where the ‘off’ switch is located so you can turn the pumps off quickly should you need to.
Be careful getting in and out of the hot tub as the access is likely to be slippery.
Exit the hot tub immediately should you become nauseous, light-headed or dizzy.
Book an expert – such as H₂O – to carry out a full and regularly scheduled chemical treatment, as the warm and damp conditions can lower the quality of the water.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of cool water.
Use a secure, undamaged hot tub cover to help with insulation and prevent children and animals entering unsupervised.
Install a handrail or secure set of steps for safe entry and exit into and out of the hot tub.

Don’t

Use the hot tub with any open wounds as this can spread infections.
Exceed the maximum number of people your hot tub is advised to hold.
Place your head under the water as hair or jewellery can become caught in the system.
Dive in the hot tub.
Don’t exceed the immersion time recommended by the manufacturer and depending on the water temperature (usually 20 – 30 minutes).
Use your hot tub in extreme weather conditions, such as storms.
Use a hot tub if you have been drinking alcohol or are pregnant or have any medical conditions.

If used incorrectly, hot tubs can do more harm than good. Whether you currently own a hot tub or you are having one installed, the appropriate hot tub behaviour is imperative to ensure safe, enjoyable use. At H₂O Swimming Pools, we carry out a range of hot tub services, from installations to maintenance and cleaning treatments. For further information or to arrange an appointment time slot, simply contact us today – we are always happy to help with any enquiry.