The daffodils and tulips have been in bloom for a while and the supermarkets are full of Easter eggs. Sure signs that Spring is on the way!
We’re receiving lots of calls from customers to service their hot tub as the weather warms up. We’ve also had quite a few questions about hot tub safety, particularly in relation to children and grandchildren.
Let’s perhaps start with who we look to for industry standards and advice – BISHTA: The British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association. Hydrocare Leisure is a member of BISHTA and we work to their Code of Ethics and BISHTA Standards. Find out more information about BISHTA.
Here are a few general tips from your friendly experts at Hydrocare Leisure Limited. Please get in touch if you have any questions about your hot tub or would like to book a service appointment.
The spa experience
In case you’re wondering, we generally refer to spas that are installed at home and for personal use as ‘hot tubs’. Spas and ‘spa days’ typically refer to commercial installations found in exclusive hotels and private health clubs. That said, there’s no reason why you cannot enjoy the professional spa experience in the comfort of your own home.
We provide a range of spa gift sets for use in your home hot tub and these can be purchased in our Sheffield Park shop. You can even use them in your bath. Why not pamper yourself and bring along a glass of bubbly too.
Preparing hot tub for first use of the season
When preparing your hot tub ready for use, there are a few essential things you need to do to ensure it’s in tip top condition:
- Check your hot tub for signs of damage or wear and tear. Also, check connections, fittings and power. Make sure the suction fittings or skimmers are clear of any debris or mould.
- Carefully clean in and around your hot tub using a cleaner specifically designed for and recommended by the manufacturer or professional hot tub servicing company. Never use general household cleaning products. Hydrocare ONLY uses approved high quality hot tub chemicals and cleaning products.
- If you notice any damage or if the power is not working, then do not attempt to carry out repairs yourself. Hot tubs are highly specialised products and must be maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Failure to do so can create a serious risk to personal safety and may invalidate your warranty. Always call an expert such as Hydrocare leisure Limited who will be happy to help.
- Test the water using a water testing kit. The hot tub water needs to be changed regularly and treated using approved chemical solutions, to BISHTA standards.
Alternatively you can call Hydrocare and we’ll fully service your hot tub ready for the start of the new season. We can also service it throughout the year, as recommended by the manufacturer. This is a low cost and stress free way to maintain your hot tub.
Can children go in hot tubs?
Your hot tub is now clean and ready for use. Whether you’ve had a hot tub for years, or one has just been installed, there’s no doubt your children and grandchildren will want to use it. You may be wondering if it’s safe for kids as well as adults.
Hot tubs are primarily designed to be used by adults of all ages. However, older children and teenagers can use them, but should be supervised at all times. Advice on what is a ‘safe’ age varies, with some manufacturers suggesting no children under eight years old and others suggesting no one under ten or even twelve years old.
Commercial spas usually have a minimum age of 12 years and over and for very good reasons too. The minimum age is not regulated in the UK, so some common sense is required.
One thing all manufacturers and BISHTA agree on is that pets, babies and small children under five years old should NEVER be allowed in a hot tub. Very young children are unable to regulate their body temperature as well as adults. They can quickly overheat and may become severely dehydrated. This is a very serious health risk that may require hospital treatment.
Also young children have more sensitive skin that can react badly with the harsh chemicals used to keep the hot tub clean. This can lead to irritation and a nasty rash. There is of course the risk that ‘toilet accidents’ may happen with very young children, which would certainly spoil the fun for all concerned.
Hot tub health and safety tips for children
A few simple rules will help keep children safe in your hot tub:
- Adult supervision is required at all time
- Only adults are to set or change the controls
- Spas are usually heated up to 40c. Decrease the temperature to 30-35c whenever children are in the spa
- Keep spa ‘sessions’ to around 10-15 mins
- Make sure that children have plenty of cool drinks to stay hydrated
- Allow only plastic or paper drinks holders in or near the hot tub. No glass or glass bottles at any time
- Use a water-proof sunscreen, even on cloudy days
- No jumping into the hot tub and never allow anyone to place their head below water
- Make sure the hot tub is well lit if being used at night
- Cover and lock the lid of the spa when not in use
Relaxing in your hot tub
Well now it’s time for the adults to relax in the hot tub. Fortunately, most adults of all ages can enjoy a hot tub.
An alcoholic drink sounds perfect, and in moderation it can be very enjoyable. Never use a hot tub when under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as this can increase the risks of accidents.
Book a hot tub service
The information offered in this article is not exhaustive and is meant for guidance only. Check out your hot tub manufacturer’s recommendations and the BISHTA website for detailed guidance and advice on how to stay safe in your hot tub.
If you’d like to get your hot tub ready for summer, give us a call on 01444 236578 and we’ll arrange a convenient time to clean and service your hot tub.
