How to Enjoy Your Hot Tub In the Summer Months

In the summertime, there’s nothing better than lounging in the backyard while cooling off in your hot tub and letting the jets soothe you into total relaxation. Even though we typically associate hot tubs with cool evenings, many people love to lounge in the spa with the temperature turned down. If you’re planning on taking full advantage of your hot tub this summer, here are some things to remember.

  

Drain and Refill Water Before the Season Starts

Typically, you should be exchanging your water at the start of every new season. Near the end of spring, give your hot tub the TLC it deserves and prepare it for the upcoming season by draining it completely of water and giving it a good scrub. An empty hot tub is the best time to clean behind crevices, cushions, and pillows, and to check that everything is in good order. Look for cracks or tears and address these issues accordingly. Now that your hot tub is sparkling clean, refill it, and add the appropriate chemicals.

  

Keep Your Temperature Low

Depending on where you live, you could be facing extreme heat in the summer. This is not the time to crank up the temperature in the hot tub. Not only is it dangerous for your health and safety, it’s also extremely unpleasant to sit in. Luckily, hot tub temperatures can be as low as you want them to be. Just as they provide that blissful sensation of warmth in the dead of winter, so too can they cool you off in the summer. Since hot tub temperatures tend to run warmer anyway, you can release excess heat by removing the cover in the evenings or after a rain storm.

  

Don’t Forget Sun Protection

With the cool bubbles blowing all around you, it can sometimes be difficult to remember to wear sun protection. Even if you’re just jumping in the hot tub for a quick dip, always remember to put on sunscreen, especially where your body is above water, like your shoulders, back, neck, face, and ears. If the sun is shining directly on you, wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat provides added protection. The best way to avoid the heat of the sun’s glare is to install an umbrella or canopy right next to it. There’s no better sun protection than full shade. If you’re worried about sun screen turning your hot tub into a slimy, slippery mess, adding an oil– and scum-removing sponge to the water will help.

  

Check Your Levels Regularly

Because you tend to bring chemicals inside the hot tub with you in the summer, it’s important to stay on top of your water readings. Regular check-ups ensure that your hot tub is always working as efficiently as possible and that you can relax in clean, bacteria-free water. An all-in-one test strip is the most ideal, as it tests for seven important parameters for either chlorine or bromine sanitizers.

  

Of course, don’t forget to accessorize your spa to make the most out of your summer. Shop online at Pool & Hot Tub Depot today.