Summertime is the season of sunshine, backyard bbq’s, and late nights spent with family and friends. And what would make the summer experience even better? Spending time with those same friends and family while lounging in your pool or spa. Here’s what you need to know about finding the perfect temperature for swimming this summer.
What is the ‘Perfect’ Water Temperature?
As you may have guessed, the ideal water temperature will differ from person to person. What might feel like a comfortable 78 degrees to one person could be too hot for another. So really, it all comes down to perspective and preference.
The ideal temperature will also vary depending on the activity. Will you use the pool or spa for fun and enjoyment? Are you going to just lounge around? Will you swim laps for exercise? If you plan on swimming laps, a cooler temperature might be better suited for you. The cool water will help keep your body temperature down and prevent you from overheating. On the other hand, if your main goal is to relax, you might want the water to be a little warmer so you can enjoy it without feeling chilly.
When you’re going to use the pool or spa will also affect what the perfect temperature for you will be. Taking a morning dip? You might want the water to be a little on the cooler side so you can start your day refreshed. Planning an evening swim? A warmer temperature setting will help you relax after a long day.
Setting the Temperature Depending On Who’s Using the Water
If you live in a household with multiple people, it can be tricky to find a happy medium between everyone’s ideal temperatures. If you have kids, they might want the water to be on the warmer side at about 84 degrees or higher, so they can enjoy it for longer. Adults, on the other hand, might prefer a cooler setting. For the elderly, you might want to set the temperature to as high as 88 degrees, as they can be more sensitive to the cold.
Other Factors That Can Affect Your Pool Or Spa’s Temperature
Aside from who’s using the pool and when, there are a few other things that can affect your pool’s temperature. The time of day, the weather, and even the location of your pool can all play a role in how warm or cool your water will be.
The Sun – One big factor is the sun. During the day, the sun will cause the water to heat up, so you might want to set your pool to a cooler temperature so it doesn’t get too hot. At night, however, the water will start to cool down, so you might need to raise the temperature a bit so it’s comfortable to swim in.
The Weather – Obviously, warmer weather will cause your water to heat up quicker than cooler weather will. If it’s a particularly hot day, you might need to lower the temperature of your pool or spa so it doesn’t get too warm. On cooler days, you might want to raise the temperature so you can enjoy the water without feeling chilly. You may also want to note that rainwater will not only affect the temperature of your pool or spa, but can also alter the pH balance of the water. Just make sure that you’re regularly testing the water to ensure that healthy levels are maintained. If you need help in keeping your water balanced and what chemicals you need at home, you can consult a spa dealer near you.
Location – The location of your pool or spa can also affect its temperature. If it’s in direct sunlight, it will heat up quicker than if it’s in the shade. If your pool or spa is located in a windy area, the water might cool down faster than usual. Keep these things in mind when setting the perfect temperature for your water this season.
Top Ways to Effectively Heat the Water
Getting the most ideal temperature for your pool or spa is easier when you have other methods of keeping the heat. Here are some of the options:
- Solar Cover/Blanket
- Electric Pool Heat Pump
- Gas Heater
- Solar Panels
It’s important to note that some of the methods above are pricier than the other options, such as the electric or gas heaters. However, they’re worth the cost since they also tend to be the most consistent and reliable. What you can do is combine them with other options such as solar panels or solar covers for additional support.
If you need help choosing the perfect spa for your home, download our free buyer’s guide today.