What temperature should a hot tub be? (Considerations, tips, more)

The best part of having a hot tub or spa pool is indulging in the warm bubbling water. Spa pools can be fun for the entire family. However, if you just purchased a hot tub or planning to buy one, you may not exactly know what temperature your hot tub should be.

There are a few important things to consider when setting your hot tub’s temperature. Based on our research, most spa pool owners set their hot tub’s temperature according to what they are comfortable with.

Well, there should be no harm in doing this, but there are certain occasions where different hot tub or spa pool temperatures could be ideal in terms of both safety and pleasure of people using it.

Our guide below explains why hot tub temperature matters and what temperature might be best for you.

Top points in this article:

• What’s the best hot tub temperature?
• How hot can a spa be when pregnant?
• What’s the best hot tub temperature for seniors?
• Can kids use hot tubs? What’s the recommended temperature for them?
• What temp should my hot tub be in the summer?

Disclaimer: The health information contained in this article is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or a medical professional for advice.

What’s the best hot tub temperature?

Generally, hot tub temperatures range from 32°C (90ºF) to 40°C (104ºF).

In accordance with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), water temperatures should never exceed 40°C(104 °F). For healthy adults, 37°C or 100°F is the suggested safe temperature.

According to World Health Organization, when the temperature exceeds 40°C, you may be posing risks to your health, such as heat stroke.

While this may sound alarming, hot tubs are safe to use. In fact. since ancient times, hot water has been used to relieve stress and discomfort, and boost relaxation.

So, is there a recommended temperature for setting a hot tub so that it will be as enjoyable and therapeutic as possible? Read on to learn more.

How hot can a spa be when pregnant?

Pregnant women may find it helpful to soak in a hot tub during aches and pains. Before getting in, knowing what hot tub temperature is safe for you is important.

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What’s the best hot tub temperature for seniors?

The warm water may help relieve joint and muscle pains which are common in most elderly. The ideal temperature for seniors is about 36°C or 100ºF, not exceeding 39°C or 102ºF.

Although a nice bubbling hot soak can be a great idea to help reduce pain, you should always consult your medical professional before you use a hot tub.

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Can kids use hot tubs? What’s the recommended temperature for them?

Always check with your child’s medical professional before using a spa pool. Never let a child use a hot tub without adult supervision.

The Pool & Hot tub Alliance (PHTA) recommends that young children should not be allowed in hot tubs until they can stand on the bottom and keep their heads above water.

The PHTA also recommends children who are big enough to use a hot tub must not immerse for more than five minutes at a time, especially if the hot tub temperature is at 40°C. Lowering the spa temperature to 36°C can be safer for them to stay longer - but not for more than 15 minutes at a time.

Pro tip: Look for family spa pools that feature child seats or cool-down seats. This feature allows children to safely and comfortably sit in.

You’ll also need a quality spa cover with safety locks to keep the children and pets out of the water. Always follow safety recommendations in your spa’s owner manual as well as local regulations.

Learn how to properly attach spa cover locks in our guide below.

What temperature should you keep your hot tub when not in use?

The answer to this question depends on how long you are planning to stay away. If you plan to go on a vacation for a long time, it might be better to turn your spa off and drain the water.

Why?

• You can save money on electricity costs. If you choose to reduce the temperature of your hot tub it can still impact your energy cost.
• You’ll save yourself from a thorough cleaning. Leaving the hot tub a long time without draining it will eventually form algae which can be burdensome to get rid of.
• You can prevent your hot tub’s system from being damaged. If you live in a cold environment, freezing water in your tub can cause the pipes to burst or even cause more complications.

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What temp should my hot tub be in the summer?

Hot tubs and spa pools are not only great in the winter. In fact, they can be more enjoyable in summer.

You can stay cool and refreshed by dropping the temperature to 35°C (95°F). If the climate gets warmer, you can go as low as 29°C (85°F) until you’re all nice and comfy.

Pro tip: The spa cover is not only used to prevent heat loss in cold climates but also to keep the water cool in summer. When the spa cover is securely on when not in use, it prevents the water from heating from sunlight.

Another Pro tip!: When it’s time to raise your hot tub’s temperature as summer winds down, you can slowly bring the temperature up. This can prevent havoc on your energy costs from fluctuating temperatures.

If you’re looking for more advice on hot tubs and what other benefits they offer, you can check out our other articles below.