6 “Don’ts” of Hot Tub Use

6 “Don’ts” of Hot Tub Use

 

Be good to your hot tub, and it will be good to you. That means taking care not to add products that can damage your hot tub or cause it to be less efficient. Here are six important “don’t’s” to follow. Proper maintenance can ensure the longevity of your hot tub.

  1. Don’t Neglect Maintenance

Maintaining your hot tub is a multi-step process that includes testing the water, adding the appropriate chemicals, circulating the water, cleaning the filters, and changing the water every few months. Neglecting any of these steps could compromise the quality of the water and even damage your hot tub. Be on a regular schedule of your maintenance, which can take less than 10 minutes per week, and you’ll keep your hot tub looking good and operating well.

  1. Don’t Be Dirty

You’ve been working in the yard all day, and you’re a bit grimy and dirty. While you think it might be easier to grab your swim attire and rinse yourself in the hot tub, think again. Bringing dirt and grime into your hot tub is a no-no. In order to keep your hot tub pristine, head to the shower first. Then enjoy the hot tub as a way to soothe your tired, achy muscles.

  1. Don’t Get Bubbly

Bubble bath plus hot tub jets equal a foamy, frothy mess. Keep bubble suds, bath lotions, soaps, shampoos, detergents, and other foam-causing concoctions out of your hot tub. It’s also best to use a non-foaming algaecide to keep frothy conditions to a minimum.

  1. Don’t Pool Your Resources

If you have a pool as well as a hot tub, you may think it’s OK to use the same chemicals for both. Not so fast. Pool chemicals are similar to those used in a hot tub, but there are differences due to the higher water temperature and smaller amount of water used in a hot tub. Using pool chemical swill also cause the pH level in your hot tub to get dramatically out of balance. Not only can this cause damage to the hot tub, but physical problems, such as eye or skin irritations, as well.

  1. Don’t Freeze Up

Letting the water in your hot tub freeze can cause irreparable damage. That’s why it’s so important to be mindful of hot tub maintenance in the winter. If you keep your hot tub full of water, continue to run the power as you have done all year long. If you decide to winterize your hot tub by draining the water, make sure you do so correctly (or have a spa professional do it for you), as a poorly winterized hot tub is also subject to damage.

  1. Don’t Waste Your Hard Work

One last “don’t” for hot tub owners: Don’t let all your hard work go to waste. If you’ve done everything right in maintaining your hot tub year-round, don’t wait another minute before immersing yourself in the perfectly maintained and heated water.

Follow these water care and maintenance tips to keep your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub operating like new.

Pre-Soak Precautions

Before indulging in a relaxing soak in your hot tub, it’s essential to take some pre-soak precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Check the temperature: Make sure the water temperature is just right. The ideal range for a hot tub is between 100°F and 104°F (38°C to 40°C). Too hot or too cold can spoil the experience and even pose health risks.

  2. Clean the hot tub: Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent the buildup of dirt, soap scum, and other contaminants. A clean hot tub not only looks inviting but also ensures a healthier soak.

  3. Check the jets: Ensure that the hot tub jets are clean and free of debris. Clogged jets can reduce the effectiveness of your hot tub and may even cause damage to the motor.

  4. Use the right products: Stick to bath products specifically designed for hot tubs, such as bath salts or essential oils. Avoid using bubble bath, dish soap, or other harsh chemicals that can damage the hot tub or its components.

  5. Be mindful of your health: If you have any medical conditions or concerns, consult with your doctor before using a hot tub. Certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart problems, may require special precautions when using a hot tub.

Avoiding Bubble Bath in Hot Tubs

Bubble bath may seem like a fun and relaxing addition to your hot tub experience, but it’s generally not recommended. Here’s why:

  1. Clogs the jets: Bubble bath can clog the hot tub jets, reducing their effectiveness and potentially causing damage.

  2. Damages the motor: The chemicals in bubble bath can be harsh on the hot tub motor and other components, leading to costly repairs.

  3. Creates excess foam: Bubble bath can create an overwhelming amount of foam that’s difficult to remove, often requiring you to empty and refill the hot tub.

  4. Affects the pH levels: Bubble bath can disrupt the pH balance of the hot tub water, leading to skin irritation and other issues.

Safety First

Safety should always be your top priority when using a hot tub. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  1. Electrical safety: Ensure that the hot tub is installed and maintained properly to prevent electrical shock or other hazards.

  2. Slip-resistant surfaces: Install slip-resistant surfaces around the hot tub to prevent slips and falls.

  3. Grab bars: Install grab bars near the hot tub to provide support and stability when entering or exiting the tub.

  4. Supervise children: Always supervise children when they are using the hot tub, and ensure that they understand the safety rules.

  5. Follow manufacturer instructions: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the hot tub and its components, including the recommended maintenance and cleaning schedule.

Electrical Safety Around Hot Tubs

Electrical safety is a critical concern when it comes to hot tubs. Here are some tips to ensure electrical safety around your hot tub:

  1. Install a GFCI: Install a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) near the hot tub to prevent electrical shock.

  2. Keep electrical components away from water: Keep electrical components, such as the hot tub motor and control panel, away from water to prevent electrical shock.

  3. Use a hot tub cover: Use a hot tub cover to prevent accidental electrical shock or other hazards when the hot tub is not in use.

  4. Regularly inspect the electrical components: Regularly inspect the electrical components of the hot tub to ensure that they are in good working condition.

  5. Hire a professional: If you’re unsure about the electrical safety of your hot tub, hire a professional to inspect and maintain the electrical components.

Follow these water care and maintenance tips to keep your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub operating like new.