A little preparation often goes a long way, and this adage is applicable to anyone using a hot tub for any purpose. Just a few simple elements of preparation will make your hot tub experience more comfortable and enjoyable, plus can improve your hygiene and even the long-term quality of the hot tub itself.
At Dolphin Pools & Spas, we’re proud to serve as licensed Bullfrog Spa dealers around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, bringing the very best custom hot tubs to clients around the state. In this two-part blog series, we’ll go over some basic pre-use tips for your hot tub that you should keep in mind, both for your own benefit and for that of your hot tub.
Be Properly Hydrated
One element that some hot tub owners forget is the importance of staying hydrated while using the hot tub. While it’s true that the warm water can feel great on sore muscles and joints, it’s also important to recognize that being submerged in high-temperature water for extended periods can cause dehydration if you’re not careful.
It’s recommended that you drink a glass of water both before and after your hot tub session – this will help keep you hydrated and prevent any potential issues. You should also avoid consuming alcohol or caffeine before using the hot tub, as these can dehydrate you even further.
Shower Beforehand
Another basic step that many people overlook is taking a shower before entering the hot tub. This helps remove any dirt, oils, or other contaminants from your body that could compromise the cleanliness of the hot tub water.
In addition, if you have any lotions, oils, or other products on your skin, these can leave a residue in the hot tub that may require additional cleaning later on. By showering beforehand and removing all these substances from your body, you’ll help keep the hot tub water cleaner for longer and reduce the need for excessive chemical treatments.
Check The Temperature and Chemistry
While you don’t necessarily have to do an extensive check before every single use, it’s a good idea to occasionally check the temperature and chemistry of your hot tub. This will ensure that the water is at a comfortable level for you and that the proper chemicals are present to keep bacteria and other contaminants at bay.
It’s recommended to keep your hot tub temperature between 100-104 degrees Fahrenheit (37-40 degrees Celsius). As for chemical levels, you should regularly test for pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels – all of these affect the cleanliness and safety of the water.
Cover When Not in Use
It’s important to always cover your hot tub when it’s not in use. This will help keep debris out of the water and maintain the temperature at a consistent level. It will also prevent any accidental falls into the hot tub and keep children or pets from entering unsupervised.
In addition, covering your hot tub will also help save on energy costs by keeping heat trapped inside the tub. This is especially important during colder months when you want to use your hot tub but don’t want to spend excess money on heating it up.
In part two of our blog series, we’ll discuss additional pre-use tips for your hot tub, including maintenance and safety measures. At Dolphin Pools & Spas, we’re dedicated to helping you make the most out of your hot tub experience. Contact us today to learn more about our custom hot tub options and services in SLC or other parts of Utah!