Written by Sam on July 21, 2026. Posted in Blog

Can you use a hot tub during a heatwave?

Whenever the temperature climbs, we get the same question from customers across Staffordshire and Cheshire: “Should I just turn the hot tub off until it cools down?” It’s an understandable thought — nobody wants to sit in a bubbling hot bath when it’s already 28°C outside. But the truth is, a hot tub doesn’t have to sit idle all summer. Used the right way, it’s just as enjoyable in a heatwave as it is on a frosty January evening.

Here’s why the “hot tubs are just for winter” myth doesn’t hold up, and how to get the most from yours when the sun’s out.

Myth: A Hot Tub Is Only Good for Cold Weather

It’s easy to assume a hot tub is a strictly seasonal luxury, but that’s simply not how they’re designed to work. Every spa has a fully adjustable thermostat, which means you’re never locked into a piping hot soak. Turn the temperature down to a cooler, more refreshing setting and the whole experience changes — the water becomes a pleasant place to cool off rather than warm up, while you still get the benefit of the jets, the buoyancy and the general sense of relaxation a hot tub provides.

In other words, the “hot” in hot tub is a setting, not a rule.

Myth: Running It in Summer Costs More

Another common assumption is that running a hot tub through a heatwave will send energy bills soaring. Actually, the opposite tends to be true. Warmer air and stronger sunshine mean your heater has far less work to do to maintain a lower temperature, so it runs less often than it would in the depths of winter. The pump and filtration system tick along exactly as normal, keeping the water clean and ready whenever you fancy a dip.

If you know you won’t be using the tub for a stretch of hot days, dropping the temperature down further still will ease the load on the equipment even more, and it’ll come back up to your preferred setting quickly whenever you’re ready to use it again.

What You Should Keep an Eye On

Using your hot tub through a heatwave is absolutely fine, but there are a few extra things worth checking during hot, sunny spells:

• Sanitiser levels. Sunshine and warmer water both use up chlorine or bromine faster, so test a little more frequently than you would the rest of the year.
• pH balance. Heat can nudge pH upward, which reduces how effectively your sanitiser works even when levels look okay.
• Water level. Evaporation speeds up in the heat, especially with the cover off, so top up regularly to protect your pump.
• The cover. Keeping it on between uses stops the water heating up further in direct sun and helps hold your chosen temperature.

A Cooler Soak, Sensibly Done

If you’re using the tub specifically to cool down, a little common sense goes a long way. Keep soak times shorter than you might in winter, stay hydrated throughout, and try to avoid the hottest part of the day if you’re particularly sensitive to the sun. Children especially should be supervised closely and encouraged to drink plenty of water, since they overheat much faster than adults.

So, Yes — Fire It Up (Or Rather, Turn It Down)

A heatwave isn’t a reason to switch your hot tub off and wait for autumn. With the temperature adjusted, it becomes a genuinely refreshing spot to unwind on even the warmest days, and you’ll likely find it costs you less to run than usual too.

If you’d like advice on getting the temperature and water chemistry right for your particular spa, or you’re considering adding a hot tub, swim spa or sauna to your home, the team at Hot Tubs Staffordshire is always happy to help. Based in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, we’ve been supplying and supporting spas across Staffordshire and Cheshire for over 50 years.

Get in touch with our friendly team today, or visit our showroom to see our full range of hot tubs, swim spas and wellness products.

Written by Sam on July 1, 2025. Posted in Blog

Are Hot Tubs Bad For You?

Written by Sam on July 15, 2026. Posted in Blog

Hot Tubs and Heatwaves: How to Keep Enjoying Your Spa When the Temperature Soars

When the UK is basking in a rare heatwave, a steaming hot tub is probably the last thing on your mind. Between fans, paddling pools and iced drinks, your spa can start to feel like an odd fit for the weather. But here at Hot Tubs Staffordshire, we think that’s a shame — because with a few simple adjustments, your hot tub can go from a winter warmer to a summer cool-down spot, without costing you a penny extra to run.

Here’s everything you need to know about looking after your hot tub, and yourself, during a heatwave.

Turn the Temperature Down, Not Off

The instinct in hot weather is to switch your hot tub off completely, but that’s not necessarily the best move. Instead, try dialling the temperature right down to somewhere between 27°C and 30°C.

At this lower setting, the water feels refreshing rather than hot, but it’s not so cold that your body works against you. Plunging into ice-cold water actually triggers your body to try to warm itself back up — the opposite of what you’re after on a scorching afternoon. A gently cool tub, on the other hand, helps bring your core temperature down while still letting you enjoy the massage jets, buoyancy and general relaxation a spa is built for.

It’s a great way to get more use out of your investment all year round, rather than having it sit idle for the two or three weeks a year the UK actually gets properly hot.

Your Running Costs Will Actually Drop

One silver lining of a heatwave is that your energy bills for the hot tub should fall, not rise. With the sun doing a lot of the heavy lifting, your heater barely needs to kick in to hold a lower temperature, and the pump and filtration system carry on doing their job as normal — keeping the water clean, circulating and ready to use.

If you know you won’t be using the tub for a few days while you’re away or the weather is at its peak, dropping the set temperature even further (down to around 20°C) will ease the load on your equipment and save a bit more on running costs. It’ll heat back up quickly once you’re ready to use it again.

Keep an Eye on Water Chemistry

Warm weather changes the chemistry inside your tub faster than you might expect, so it’s worth paying a little extra attention during a hot spell:

• Test more often. Sanitiser (chlorine or bromine) burns off more quickly in strong sunlight and warmer water, so test every day or two rather than your usual weekly check.
• Watch your pH. Heat tends to push pH upward, which makes your sanitiser less effective even if your levels look fine on paper. Aim to keep it in the recommended range for your system.
• Shock the water regularly. Suncream, sweat and body oils build up faster when the tub is being used more often in summer, so a weekly shock treatment helps keep the water clear and your sanitiser working efficiently.
• Top up the water level. Evaporation speeds up in hot weather, particularly if the cover is left off for long periods. Keep the level topped up so your pump isn’t left running dry.

Look After Your Cover and Filter

Your cover isn’t just for keeping debris out — in summer, it also helps regulate how much heat the water picks up from direct sunlight. Popping it back on between uses will stop the water creeping above your set temperature on a baking hot day.

Your filter will also be working harder if you’re using the tub more often. A quick rinse every few days, plus a deeper clean every couple of weeks during busy periods, will keep water flow strong and prevent unnecessary strain on the pump.

A Few Safety Reminders for Hot Weather

Even with the water running cooler, a hot tub is still warmer than the air on most days, so it’s worth taking a couple of sensible precautions:

• Stay hydrated — keep a cold drink to hand and sip regularly while you soak.
• Keep soak times shorter than usual, especially in the middle of the day.
• Avoid the tub during peak UV hours if you can, and use sun protection if you are using it midday.
• Keep an eye on children, who can overheat much faster than adults.
• If you’re already feeling the effects of the heat, it’s best to cool down and rehydrate before getting in.

Don’t Forget — Hot Tubs Aren’t Just for Summer

Of course, British heatwaves never last long, and before you know it the temperature will have dropped back down again. The great thing about owning a hot tub is that it works just as hard for you in October as it does in July — offering warmth, relaxation and hydrotherapy benefits whatever the season.

If you’re thinking about adding a hot tub, swim spa or sauna to your home, or you need help getting the most from the one you already own, the team at Hot Tubs Staffordshire is on hand. Based in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, we’ve been supplying and supporting spas across Staffordshire and Cheshire for over 50 years.

Get in touch with our friendly team today, or pop into our showroom to see our full range of hot tubs, swim spas and wellness products.

Written by Sam on June 12, 2025. Posted in Chill Tubs

How To Keep Your Ice Bath or Cold Plunge Clean

Cold plunge therapy and ice baths have surged in popularity, offering incredible benefits for recovery, mental clarity, and overall well-being. However, just like hot tubs, ice baths and cold plunges require regular maintenance to remain clean, hygienic, and safe. Neglecting water purity can quickly turn your invigorating plunge into a murky, bacteria-laden dip, negating its health advantages and potentially harming your skin. At Hot Tubs Staffordshire, our extensive expertise in water control and spa maintenance means we’re perfectly placed to guide you on keeping your cold plunge sparkling clean.

Why Is Cleaning Your Cold Plunge So Important?

You might think cold water naturally stays cleaner, but that’s a common misconception. While cold slows bacterial growth, it doesn’t stop it entirely. Here’s why regular cleaning is non-negotiable:

• Bacterial Build-Up: Every time you use the plunge, you introduce organic matter (skin cells, sweat, oils, dirt). This provides food for bacteria, leading to biofilm formation on surfaces and in the water.
• Algae Growth: Even in cold temperatures, algae can begin to form, especially if the plunge is exposed to light.
• Unpleasant Odours: Bacterial and organic matter decomposition leads to stale or foul smells.
• Skin Irritation & Health Risks: Dirty water can cause skin rashes, infections, and other health issues.
• Equipment Longevity: Biofilm and scale can build up in filtration systems and chillers, reducing their efficiency and lifespan.

Key Steps to Keeping Your Ice Bath / Cold Plunge Clean

Maintaining a clean cold plunge involves a multi-faceted approach, combining mechanical filtration, water treatment, and physical cleaning.

1. Filtration: The First Line of Defence

Most dedicated cold plunges or advanced ice baths come with a filtration system. This is crucial for removing physical debris like hair, skin flakes, and environmental particles.

• Run Your Filter Regularly: Follow manufacturer recommendations. Many suggest running the filter for several hours daily, or even continuously, especially with frequent use.
• Clean/Replace Filters: Rinse your filter cartridge frequently (e.g., weekly or bi-weekly depending on use). Replace cartridges every 3-6 months, or as recommended by the manufacturer, to ensure optimal filtration.

2. Water Treatment: Sanitising for Purity

This is where the magic happens, ensuring bacteria and pathogens are killed. While chlorine/bromine are common for hot tubs, cold plunges often use different approaches due to lower temperatures and direct skin contact, or a desire for minimal chemicals:

• Hydrogen Peroxide: A popular choice for cold plunges as it’s a powerful oxidiser that breaks down organic contaminants and is non-toxic. Follow dosage instructions carefully.
• Ozone (O3) Generators: Many higher-end cold plunges integrate an ozone generator. Ozone is a potent oxidiser that helps to kill bacteria and break down contaminants, reducing the need for other chemicals.
• UV-C Light Sterilisers: Also found in advanced systems, UV-C lamps kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms as water passes through them, offering another layer of purification.
• Mineral Purifiers: Some systems use mineral cartridges (e.g., silver ions, copper) which have natural antimicrobial properties.
• **Minimal Chlorine/Bromine (Use with Caution): If you choose to use chlorine or bromine, use very small, controlled doses designed for cold water applications, and ensure proper pH balance. Consult with a water care professional for guidance.

Important: Always follow your specific ice bath or cold plunge manufacturer’s guidelines for water treatment, as methods can vary.

3. Regular Draining and Cleaning

No matter your filtration or treatment method, periodic draining and physical cleaning are essential:

• Frequency: Depending on use, drain and refill your cold plunge every 1-4 weeks. Heavy use will require more frequent draining.
• Cleaning the Surface: Once drained, wipe down all interior surfaces with a non-abrasive cleaner designed for acrylic or spa surfaces. Pay attention to the waterline where biofilm can accumulate. Rinse thoroughly before refilling.
• Line Flushing: Periodically, consider using a pipe cleaner product (designed for spas) before draining to flush out any build-up in the plumbing lines.

4. Daily Checks & Good Habits

• Shower Before Use: This is arguably the simplest and most effective step. Rinsing off sweat, oils, and lotions before plunging significantly reduces the contaminants introduced to the water.
• Cover Your Plunge: When not in use, keep your cold plunge covered to prevent debris, leaves, and sunlight (which encourages algae) from entering the water.
• Test Your Water (if using chemicals): If you are using chemical sanitisers (like hydrogen peroxide or minimal chlorine/bromine), regularly test your water’s parameters (e.g., pH, sanitiser levels) to ensure optimal balance and effectiveness.

Trust Hot Tubs Staffordshire for Water Purity Expertise

At Hot Tubs Staffordshire, our commitment to water quality extends across all types of therapeutic water experiences. While we specialise in hot tubs, our knowledge of filtration, sanitisation, and maintenance is universal to creating pristine water environments. If you have questions about keeping your ice bath or cold plunge clean, or need advice on specific water care products, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Written by Sam on July 1, 2025. Posted in Blog

The Hidden Impact of Hot Tubs on Heart Health

Have you ever considered the deeper, hidden impact these luxurious additions can have on your heart health? At Hot Tubs Staffordshire, we believe in helping you achieve holistic well-being, and understanding the science behind your soak is key.

Regular hot tub use can offer surprising cardiovascular advantages, mimicking some of the effects of light exercise, particularly beneficial for those with limited mobility. Here’s how:

• Improved Circulation: The warm water causes your blood vessels to dilate, a process known as vasodilation. This widens the blood vessels, reducing resistance and improving blood flow throughout your body. Enhanced circulation ensures more efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your cells and can reduce the workload on your heart. Studies have shown significant increases in blood flow after even short periods of immersion.
• Blood Pressure Regulation: For many, regular hot tub sessions can lead to a temporary reduction in blood pressure. As blood vessels expand, your heart doesn’t need to pump as forcefully, often resulting in lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This can be a natural and relaxing approach to blood pressure management.
• Stress Reduction: Chronic stress is a significant contributor to heart disease. Hot tubs provide an ideal environment for stress relief, promoting the release of endorphins and activating the parasympathetic nervous system – your body’s “rest and digest” state. Lowering stress levels indirectly supports cardiovascular health by reducing the strain on your heart.
• Low-Impact Cardiovascular Stimulation: While not a substitute for aerobic exercise, the heat from a hot tub can gently elevate your heart rate, akin to mild physical activity. This passive cardiovascular stimulation can be particularly advantageous for individuals who find traditional exercise challenging due to mobility issues or recovery.

Important Considerations for Heart Health