What is the Ideal Hot Tub Temperature?

Setting up a temperature for a hot tub

Have you ever wondered how hot is a hot tub? It’s not so hot that you feel as though you’re being cooked from the outside in. The reality is that the hot tub temperature will vary based on what you’re comfortable with as well as what your health conditions may be.

Establish a Good Temperature

The hot tub temp that is right for you can be anywhere from 90 degrees all the way up to 104 degrees. 104 is considered the “maximum” temperature, so you’ll want to keep this in mind as you adjust the settings on your hot tub.

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that the water is best when it’s between 100 and 102 degrees.

Will that extra one or two degrees make a difference? Absolutely. While it might not seem like a lot, think about how you adjust the thermostat in your home. One degree can be the difference between comfortable and uncomfortable.

Start with a lower temperature. Sit inside of the hot tub and get acclimated to the hot tub temp for a few minutes. If it’s not warm enough, raise it by one degree. Continue to do this until you’ve reached a desirable temperature – but never above 104.

If you’re sharing the hot tub with everyone, find a temperature that works for everyone. It’s better to go with a lower number so that no one feels as though they’re getting too hot.

Remember, too, that as the temperatures get colder outside, you may find that you’ll want to increase the temperature by a degree or two.

Know the Rules

As you begin to set the temperature, it’s important to pay attention to a couple of the “rules” regarding temperatures.

  • If you’re pregnant, consult with a doctor before you get into the tub
  • Those under age 5 should not be in tubs above 95 degrees (and only remain in for 5 to 10 minutes)
  • Don’t stay in for more than 30 minutes

Additionally, to be sure you have the temperature in place that you think you have, be sure that you have a reliable thermometer. Many hot tubs will have a built-in thermometer. However, it’s a good idea to have a secondary one so that you have a check and balance in place.

When to Adjust the Temperature

So that you can enjoy the temperature of your hot tub throughout the year, and for all occasions, there are some things to consider.

If you’re using your hot tub for hydrotherapy, 100 degrees is a great starting temperature. It can help to improve blood flow, improve joint flexibility, and offer relief from arthritis pain.

If you’re looking to cool down on a hot summer day, drop the temperature to 98 degrees so that it’s less than your body temperature.

Additionally, consider lowering the temp a bit if you’re going to be stretching or doing yoga while in the tub or if you’re already overheated from a particular activity (or even an illness).

If you or anyone sharing the hot tub with you is heat-sensitive, drop the temperature. Then, work your way up until it’s comfortable for everyone.

Even on the hottest days of summer, you can still enjoy your hot tub. Just plan on setting the temperature to 95 degrees or lower.

Learn How to Maintain the Temperature

Maintaining the temperature is critical because you want to be able to get in whenever you want. If you have to wait to get the temperature to your desired setting, it can be problematic.

Most of today’s hot tubs have energy-efficient settings that allow you to maintain the temperature that you set. This allows you to have a “set it and forget it” mentality.

In order to be more energy-efficient, however, you want to do what you can to help the temperature be maintained.

  • Use a cover when the hot tub isn’t in use
  • Have your hot tub regularly serviced
  • Adjust settings based on the ambient temperature outside

When you need more help with determining the ideal temperature – or maintaining it, call us. We have technicians at Ajax Pool & Spa who can perform routine maintenance and talk to you about the ways that you can enjoy your hot tub all year long.