If you want your home to be at the center of family gatherings and a place where friends and family gather, having a hot tub is a great start. Hot tubs bring families together and provide the perfect excuse for a little family time. If you are thinking about purchasing a hot tub or you already have one, you may be wondering how you can make your hot tub as safe as possible so you and your family can enjoy many hours of soaking without worrying. We have tips on everything from keeping the tub clean and sanitary to making sure everyone from kids to older individuals can safely soak.
How to Keep the Water Clean
Keeping your water clean is foundational to owning a hot tub. It’s the first thing any new hot tub owner should learn so bathers can be protected from skin irritation or illness due to dirty water. Every hot tub is different with regards to maintenance. Chemical hot tubs rely on chemicals to keep the tub free from bacteria and other pathogens. This means adding the appropriate amount of chemicals and keeping a close eye on the levels present in the water.
If you have a chemical free tub from Wind River Spas, your process is going to be a little different. A lot of the hard work is done for you with the help of the ozonator which keeps the water pure and clean without chemicals. The filtration system will also help to remove unwanted materials from the water. After each soak, you will simply need to shock the tub.
You can refresh your water every three or four months by draining and then refilling your hot tub. You will also want to regularly clean your filters and you can periodically purge the biofilm from plumbing and jets using a gel cleaner during a water change.
Keep an Eye on the pH
The pH refers to how acidic or basic your water is. Water that is too acidic could cause damage to your plumbing while water that is too basic could cause a buildup of minerals in your tub. You can keep your tub in good condition by regularly checking pH and adjusting as needed.
Preventing Slips and Falls
The combination of water and slippery surfaces can lead to slips and falls. If children are using the tub, make sure to establish a “no running” policy to prevent slips. The hot tub itself often has a non-slip surface on the inside to help people keep their footing. Consider installing slip-free materials on the stairs and other surrounding areas. You can also install handrails for safety while entering or exiting the tub.
Set Safe Temperature Limits
The temperature of the tub is an important consideration, and may change depending on the season and who is using it. As a general rule, the tub should not be set above 104℉ to avoid overheating. For children and elderly, set the tub between 98℉ and 100℉. Adjustments can be made within this range based on the weather and personal preference.
When using the hot tub, it is recommended to keep the soak time at around 15-20 minutes at a time. This can help you avoid overheating while still being able to enjoy all of the benefits of the tub.
Keep a First Aid Kit Nearby
You should always be prepared for any accidents by keeping a first aid kit near the hot tub. This kit can include essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and adhesive tape, along with over-the-counter pain relievers. You can also keep it stocked with instant cold ice packs for bumps and bruises and a pair of latex gloves.
Avoid Bringing Glass Into the Pool
Glass can easily break in the pool or pool area and create a hazardous situation with sharp shards that are hard to see in the water. Opt for unbreakable drinkware made from plastic or stainless steel. This way, you can stay hydrated or enjoy your favorite drinks while you soak while keeping everyone safer.
Health Considerations for Hot Tub Use
While hot tubs offer many therapeutic benefits and are safe for most people, there may be certain individuals who should avoid hot tubs. It might not be the right activity for patients with health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or low blood pressure. Pregnant women should check with their doctor before using the tub. If you or someone else experiences any dizziness, nausea, or any other discomfort, make sure to exit the tub and seek medical care if needed.
Practice Safe Electrical Habits
Water and electricity can be a dangerous combination, so it’s important to keep this in mind as you soak. Use ground-fault-circuit interrupters in the area in lieu of regular outlets, and keep all electrical appliances away from the tub. Keep guests out of the tub if there is a lightning storm nearby.
Designate a Water Watcher
If there are children using the hot tub, designate an individual to watch the tub at all times to make sure the children are safe while using the tub. In a large gathering, you can trade off on this duty to keep everyone safe while also allowing everyone to enjoy the get-together.
Invest in a Good Spa Cover
A good spa cover can keep the tub secure from children while not in use. It can also help to keep the hot tub clean in between uses. Invest in a hot tub cover replacement if your current spa cover is insufficient, finding one that is safe and secure. The right cover will be secure and easy to get on and off.
Enjoy Safe Family Fun in Your Hot Tub!
There is nothing more fun than a fun gathering in the backyard with a hot tub, some delicious food, and some good company. Follow all of these tips to keep your family safe this season. For more information on maintaining and enjoying your hot tub, get in touch with us at Wind River Spas! You can call at 303-789-7450 or contact us online.