What Is The Highest Temperature Your Hot Tub Can Reach?

Hot isn’t what defines a hot tub! A perfect hot tub is just warm enough to relax your muscles and ease your worries away. So you must know how to set the temperature on your hot tub before you get in for a good long soak. But what is the right temperature that makes a hot tub perfect, and what’s the highest temperature your hot tub can reach? 

Most hot tubs can reach a maximum temperature of 104 F (40 Celsius). However, going any hotter is not recommended for several reasons, including overheating and dehydration. So, hot tubs have an automatic shut-off that turns off the heater when the water reaches 104 degrees.

To get the whole experience out of your hot tub, you’ll want the water to be around 100-102 degrees Fahrenheit. This is hot enough to loosen your muscles but not so hot you’ll start to feel uncomfortable. So let’s learn more about the perfect hot tub temperature and how to be safe while enjoying your tub.

What is the Maximum Temperature of Hot Tubs?

Redheaded woman in a hot tub bath controlling the water temperature

The highest temperature most hot tubs can reach is 104℉ (40 Celcius). While it may not seem like much, the ideal hot tub temperature for most people is between 98-102°F (37-39°C), which is nice and warm without being too hot.

Anything above 104 degrees can be uncomfortably hot and cause adverse health effects. Some groups, such as pregnant women, young children, the elderly, and those with chronic medical conditions, are vulnerable to even lower temperatures.

For these safety hazards associated with high temperatures, spas are equipped with temperature sensors that always keep an eye on the water. If it reaches the maximum temperature, the sensors automatically shut off the heating element to prevent further increases. And that’s how your tub never gets too hot.

And remember – if you don’t have one already you might need a simple hot tub thermometer like this one (on Amazon) to actually monitor the temperature and figure out what works best for you.

How Long is it Safe to Stay in a Hot Tub?

Generally, it’s recommended that you don’t stay in a hot tub any longer than 45 minutes at a time. Keep your soak even shorter if the water is above 100°F (37.7°C), and stay hydrated by drinking water before and after your session.

If you want to enjoy your hot tub for longer periods, take multiple short sessions of 20 minutes maximum. This allows your body to cool down and avoids potential health risks. But if you start to feel dizzy, nauseous, or have any other symptoms, exit the tub immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.

When to Keep the Tub at a Lower Temperature?

Hot tubs are great for relaxing, but it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks of overheating. Some groups need extra care when using a hot tub and should keep the temperature lower.

If you’re among any of the following groups, it’s best to keep your tub between 98℉ and 100℉ and take shorter dips.

  • Children: Kids can’t regulate their body temperature as well as adults, so they’re more susceptible to getting too hot. If you’ve kids in the tub, ensure their torso is always out of the water and that they don’t stay in for more than 15 minutes.
  • Older adults: As we age, our bodies become less efficient at regulating temperature. This can make it harder for older people to stay cool in a hot tub. They must take breaks often and drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
  • Pregnant women: Pregnant women should be extra careful in hot tubs. It’s best to avoid hot tubs in the first trimester, and after that, limit yourself to no more than 10 minutes in a tub with a temperature below 99℉. Beware that staying in temperatures above 102.2 can cause birth defects.
  • People with chronic medical conditions: Anyone with diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure should check with their doctor before using a hot tub. They may need to avoid hot tubs altogether or take special precautions when using one.

Other Safety Tips for Soaking in the Tub

Happy woman relaxing in hot tub

Now that you know how hot is too hot, here are a few other tips to help you stay safe and enjoy your soak:

  • Always look for overheating symptoms, such as dizziness, headache, nausea, or lightheadedness. If you start to feel any of these, get out of the tub immediately and cool down.
  • Don’t drink alcohol before or during your soak. Alcohol can cause dehydration and make it harder for your body to regulate its temperature, leading to extreme dizziness or even passing out.
  • Hot tubs cause sweating, so drink lots of water before you soak or even while in the tub. This will help you stay hydrated and avoid any adverse effects of dehydration.
  • Gradually increase the temperature of your hot tub over time. Sudden changes in temperature, especially from very cold to very hot, cause shock and make you feel faint or dizzy. Start around 95 F (35 celsius) and slowly increase it to find what’s most comfortable for you.
  • If you’re using your hot tub in summer, keep the temperature on the lower side (95-98 F) as the ambient temperature is already high.
  • Take frequent breaks, drink lots of water, and listen to your body. If you feel any negative effects, exit the tub immediately and cool down. Following these tips, you can safely enjoy your hot tub without any problems. 

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