Do’s And Don’ts Of Owning A Hot Tub

If you’re lucky enough to own a hot tub or spa, then you probably know all the things you should and shouldn’t do in and around the tub, like issues of safety, care and maintenance. Or do you? How long can you soak in a hot tub? Is it OK to have two glasses of wine, but no more? A little sand tracked into the tub won’t hurt, right? Will kids be fine in the hot tub as long as an adult is somewhere around? Better read up, then post this list of Hot Tub Do’s on the fridge. Do consult your physician first.

People with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions should consult their physicians before using a spa.

Do’s

Do Ventilate Your Spa

If your spa is indoors and inadequately ventilated, some users may experience slight throat and eye irritation. Ventilate it naturally or mechanically with an exhaust fan. Find another place besides the spa’s equipment compartment to store chemicals. .

Do Take a Shower

Always shower first with soap and water to reduce the likelihood of contaminating the spa water and minimizing health risks. .

Do Limit Your Soak

TimeLimit your soak time to no more than 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Cool off, then re-enter if you like..

Do Limit Alcohol Use

Never drink alcoholic beverages before or during spa use. Alcohol can make you drowsy and lead to drowning. Anyone taking medication should consult their physician before using a hot tub.. Do Consult Your Doctor if You’re Pregnant

Women who are pregnant should consult their physician before using a spa. .

Do Tie Up Your Long Hair

People with long hair must tie it up to prevent the hair from being caught or pulled into the filter or drain. .

Do Install and Use Handrails

Handrails and non-slip surfaces will help to minimize the risk of slipping and falling. Remember that wet surfaces can be slippery. Take care when entering and exiting the spa. Only enter via the spa steps. Do not step or climb on spa edges or filter lids. .

Do Install an Anti-Entrapment Drain Cover

You’ve read about the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act on this site and elsewhere, and you know your pool, spa or hot tub should be equipped with an anti-entrapment drain cover. It will prevent a tragedy.

Do Use the Cover

Use the thermal cover when the spa is not in use, empty or full.

Do Test the Water Before Entering

Test the water with your hand before entering the spa to be sure it is comfortable and not too hot.

Do Make Sure the Spa is Connected to a GFCI

Make sure the spa is connected to a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected circuit. This GFCI is required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) and must be installed by a licensed electrician. Test the GFCI monthly.

Do Remove Contact Lenses

Remove you contact lenses before swimming or entering a hot tub.

Don’ts

Don’t Let Sand or Dirt Get Into the Hot Tub

It could mess up the filter, among other things. Do, however, take steps to prevent the intrusion of sand and dirt into the spa.

Don’t Enter if You Have an Open Sore

Persons with open sores or any type of infection should not use the spa. The hot water is an ideal environment for spreading infection, especially if sanitizer levels are not properly maintained. .

Don’t Raise Your Water Temperature Above 104°

Keep your spa water temperature no higher than 104°F. Higher temperatures can place undue strain on the cardiovascular system. Be sure to accurately monitor the temperature.

Don’t Let Children Use the Hot Tub Alone

Children must not be permitted to use the spa without

Don’t Open the Electrical Box

There are no user serviceable parts inside.

Don’t Jump or Dive Into a Hot Tub

Regardless of its size, never jump or dive into a spa or hot tub. Climb in carefully; do not allow any horseplay.

Don’t Use a Spa or Hot Tub That Doesn’t Have a Compliant Drain Cover

You may have or have not read much about anti-entrapment drain covers, which every public swimming pool, spa and hot tub in the United States is supposed to have been equipped with by December 20, 2008, and every residential pool, spa or hot tub should have installed. Familizarize yourself with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, compliant drain covers, and ongoing issues.

Don’t Use the Hot Tub During Severe Storms

Never use your spa during sever weather conditions (i.e. electrical storms, tornadoes, etc.)

 

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