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Writer's pictureAqua Warehouse

What Temperature Should a Hot Tub Be?

Updated: Nov 11, 2023


Hot tubs offer a sense of comfort and calming feeling after a long tiring day, and it's no surprise why most people want one.


However, problems may arise when you don't know how to set the perfect temperature for your hot tub. To avoid learning from experience the hard way, it's time you discover what temperature is best, so you can enjoy maximum relief.


The majority of users prefer to unwind in a hot tub temperature range of 36-38°C (97-100°F). And while that might be a good thing, it doesn't apply to all people.

Personal preference, health risks, disease control, and safety reasons are factors that affect your tub temperature.


Ideally, if you intend to have a perfect hot tub temperature to burn off the stress of the day, set it at 40℃ (104°F). It's not advisable to go higher than that because it may be dangerous.

But, you can decide to have fun and test out the point at which your enjoyment of the tub is optimal. You can do this by tweaking the hot tub's temperature until you find a comfortable temperature for you and your family members.


So, we recommend experimenting until you figure out the perfect temperature without the risk of overheating.


Why is hot tub temperature important?


To enjoy your hot tub experience, you need to get it right, and that's why the majority of hot tub owners tweak their spa temperature to a few degrees depending on the time of the year.

Hot tub temperatures are important for people with underlying health conditions, as they can quickly develop heat stroke.


Most hot tubs come with the option of a temperature limit. It means you can't exceed a particular set temperature.

Those with health conditions should speak to a medical professional before using a hot tub or overly heated water.


What are heat-related health risks?


Different temperatures for different folks, yes, we agree on that. However, if your body temperature exceeds 39℃ (102°F), you have no business relaxing in hot water until your body temperature drops.

Understandably, you might want to use it to ease muscle aches or pains, so our advice is to do that at a lower temperature. Set the water temperature of your hot tub as low as 26℃ (79°F), and enjoy.

Almost all modern hot tubs come with low temperatures, so it's best to consider this before making a purchase from your local dealer, to enjoy maximum benefit.

Some of the health risks associated with not using the right temperature for your hot tub, especially when you are unwell or have heart conditions, include:

  • Heat stroke

  • Heat exhaustion

  • Dehydration

  • Heat rash and cramps

However, even as a healthy adult, you should be conscious of water temperatures because it's essential if you don't want to develop any health complications.


What is the ideal temperature for a hot tub?


There is no authorised ideal temperature for a hot tub. It depends on what you prefer, potential health risks, and your natural body temperature. Do you have a naturally high body temperature above 37℃ (99°F)? If so, it might be best to reduce the temperature of your hot tub. Set it to a low-temperature setting.


The highest temperature you should set your hot tub to is 40℃ (104°F), just one degree above natural body temperature.

However, after buying your first hot tub, take full advantage of your hot tub and experiment with a few degrees to discover what works best for you.


Many spa owners living in cold climates want to stay warm and turn up their hot tub water temperature during winter. Those that live in hot climates tend to reduce their hot tub temperature. They save money and more energy this way.


What is the maximum temperature for a hot tub?


Staying safe while enjoying outdoor living in your hot tub is important. The essence of a swim spa is to relax and enjoy the benefits of soaking yourself in heated water. However, the maximum temperature shouldn't exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104°F).


Is 110 degrees too hot for a hot tub?


For those who live in a cold climate surrounded by cold air, the maximum you can set your hot tub to is 41°C (106°F), and anything above that can cause heat stroke.

You to stay hydrated regardless of how freezing the atmosphere may be. So be conscious of hot temperatures when using a hot tub.


Is 110 degrees too hot for a hot tub?


For those who live in a cold climate and are surrounded by cold air, the maximum degree you can set your hot tub to is 106 degrees, and anything above that can cause heat stroke.

Regardless of how freezing the atmosphere may be, to stay hydrated, you need to be conscious of hot temperatures when using a hot tub.


What is the minimum temperature for a hot tub?


When your hot tub is too cool you might miss out on the soothing feeling it gives, and that's why a specific temperature is recommended.

To maintain balance, the lowest you can set your hot tub at is 37°C (98°F) to ensure it still gives a relaxing sensation and, of course, provide relief.

However, you need to know that lowering the temperature of your hot tub doesn't drastically reduce heating costs or chemical consumption. Using a hot tub regularly and having to reheat it all the time will increase your energy costs.

But, you can save money on energy bills by lowering the temperature of your hot tub if you're planning to be away from home for a long time.


Is 90 degrees too cold for a hot tub?


Spa pools shouldn't have a temperature of below 37°C (98°F), so yes, 32°C (90°F) is definitely too low.

At 35-36°C (95-98°F) you still have refreshing warm water bubbling in your hot tub. Depending on the ambient temperature, you can switch off the heater, turn on the water jets, and wait for the water to cool off.


Ideal hot tub temperature according to different conditions, gender, and ages?


The question "what temperature should a hot tub be?" has no specific answer. The ideal water temperature varies based on preference, age and health factors.


What is the safe hot tub temperature for pregnant women?


Generally, all pregnant women need approval from a doctor before swimming or relaxing in a hot tub. To stay safe during pregnancy, you need to set the temperature of your hot tub at 38 degrees Celsius or 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and don't stay too long in the water.


Occasionally using a hot tub for hydrotherapy isn't bad, but consult your doctor before doing so. A prolonged stay in a heated hot tub might be harmful to the developing baby.


Is it safe to use hot tubs if you have a history of cardiovascular issues?


Do you have underlying medical conditions? Then you need to speak with your physician first. You must be aware if heated hot tubs are designed for you or not.

Depending on your health issues, steam may have an adverse effect, so warmer water might be better. Contact your doctor to get advice and tips from a medical professional.


What is the safe hot tub temperature for children?


Typically, children aren't meant to stay in a hot tub without being supervised. The ideal temperature for children 6 years and above is 35°C or 95°F, and they shouldn't be there for more than 10 minutes.


Kids have bodies that are less tolerant of heat. In a few minutes, they can easily overheat, so adults need to monitor their time in the hot tub regardless of the weather.

Ideally, our advice for kids below the age of 5 years is not to relax in a hot tub or have a soak for hours.


What is the best temperature for men?


Most men usually have more muscle mass, and as such, it's common that they'll naturally prefer to use a warm soak against a hotter water temperature. Men can set their hot tub water to 37℃ to enjoy their quality time.


What is the best temperature for women?


Women who engage in early morning runs or exercises love the idea of soaking in a hot tub. It helps ease sore muscles and leaves their body and nervous system energised.

The best temperature for women is 39 degrees Celsius (102°Fahrenheit).


Hot Tub Temperature During Different Seasons


This isn't essential, as many hot tub owners set their hot tub's temperature to a regulated degree all year round. However, if you want the best experience in your hot tub, take into account the ideal hot tub temperature, depending on the weather.


What is the ideal hot tub temperature during winter?


Winter is usually cold, and one of the concerns anyone will have is how to remain warm.

During this period, you can raise the temperature of your hot tub to 36-40°C (97 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit). Setting a lower temperature in winter can even cause freezing of the water in the tub.


What temperature should a hot tub be set at in the summer?


During summer, it's best to set your hot tub to 36-37°C (97 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit) to prevent overheating.


What temperature should I keep my hot tub at when not in use?


Depending on how long you plan to stay away, you can turn off your hot tub or reduce the water temperature. For those going away for a short while, it's best to leave hot tubs at 10°C (50°F).

This will not only help maintain a safe and warm temperature, but it also won't spike up your electricity bills.

However, if you are going away for a long time and you live in a cold environment, it's best to fully drain your tub of hot water and turn it off. Doing this will prevent it from freezing and ruining your pipes. Think about it; fixing pipes in hot tubs costs more in comparison to a few bucks you'll splash on electricity costs.


What temperature should I leave my hot tub on overnight?


Hot tubs shouldn't be switched off every night because you'll have to reheat to an operational temperature in the morning.

Generally, the majority of hot tub owners do this intending to save costs on their swim spa when, in reality, it's the opposite.

Most hot tubs have a heating element that ensures efficient regulation of heat. So, turning the heater on and off will only cause it to use more energy.


How to adjust hot tub temperature?


Hot tubs come with different operating systems, and there's no set way to adjust the temperature. However, you can ask your local dealer to explain the manufacturer's manual to understand the best way to tweak hot tubs.


Remember that your safety comes first. Regardless of ambient temperature, you should set the temperature accordingly, especially for vulnerable pregnant women, the elderly, and those with health complications.


How long does a hot tub take to heat up?


Heating a hot tub to an operational temperature of 38°C (100°F) will take around 4 hours because water takes about an hour to heat up to 5 degrees.

We have a resource for more specific information on how long a hot tub takes to heat.


Conclusion


So the quick answer to the question "how hot should a hot tub be?" is 37-40°C (98-104°F). When choosing a temperature, you need to consider family members and friends who might come to visit and spend vacations.

You can get luxury hot tubs from Aqua Warehouse. We offer a wide diverse range of hot tubs for sale for those who are professionals and who just want to make a purchase for the first time.


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AUTHOR

Jess Court

I'm Aqua Warehouse Groups Marketing Officer - overseeing all things news worthy in the hot tub industry, with tips and tricks that are bound to make a splash.

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