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How to achieve your ideal spa temperature

When it comes to enjoying a spa or pool experience, the temperature plays a crucial role in maximizing comfort and relaxation. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the steps to achieve the perfect spa and plunge temperatures no matter where you are in the world.

From understanding the initial water temperature to exploring optimal temperatures for different activities, heating methods, and special considerations, we’ve got you covered.

1. SPA Temperature before heating the water

The water temperature of an outdoor bathtub, pool, or bath can vary significantly depending on the season and location. Several factors, including insulation, exposure to sunlight, and local climate, contribute to this variation. Without an active heater to regulate the temperature, the water will generally align with the ambient temperature.

During a cold winter day, the water temperature in an unheated spa pool can vary. In colder regions, the water temperature might be around 10-15°C or slightly cooler, reflecting the colder winter temperatures in those areas. In milder regions, the water temperature might still be relatively mild, ranging from 15-20°C or slightly higher.

On a warm summer day, the water in an unheated pool can be quite pleasant. In cooler regions, the water temperature might range from the mid-20s to the low 30s Celsius, depending on the location and the amount of sunlight the spa pool receives. In warmer areas, the water temperature can be even higher, reaching the high 20s to mid-30s Celsius or even more during heat waves.

2. recommended SPA temperatures

Different activities require varying water temperatures. For instance, during colder months, leisure swimming enthusiasts commonly prefer a pool temperature of 29-30 degrees Celsius. In contrast, warmer months entice people to seek refreshment in pool waters ranging from 26-28 degrees Celsius.

When it comes to heated spa pools, the recommended temperature range typically falls between 36-39°C. For some, this might be 36°C, while others prefer reaching 39°C. It’s important to note that exceeding 40 degrees can pose safety concerns.

Why is this the recommended spa temperature?

  1. These temperatures generally offer a comfortable and relaxing experience, providing a soothing sensation and relieving muscle tension.
  2. The warm water helps dilate blood vessels, improving circulation and relieving joint stiffness.
  3. Additionally, the elevated temperature can induce a sense of calm and relaxation, aiding in stress relief.

However, it’s important to consider personal preferences and consult with a healthcare professional if needed, as certain medical conditions or individual sensitivities may require adjustments to the recommended temperature.

Woman using stoked stainless round spa pool 1.9m diameter with steps hessian colour to enjoy and relax perfect spa temperature blackheath cabin blue mountains

3. How do you heat the water in a spa?

Spas typically use electric heating systems with heating elements to warm the water as it circulates through the plumbing. A thermostat controls the heating process, allowing you to set and maintain your desired temperature. These systems offer efficiency, precise temperature control, and reliable performance.

Modern spa heating systems often feature programmable thermostats for scheduling temperature settings, while some spas incorporate smart thermostats for remote control. Energy-efficient components and insulation minimize heat loss, optimizing energy consumption and maintaining water temperature. In summary, electric heating systems in spas offer reliable, efficient, and customizable water heating, ensuring a comfortable experience.

All Stoked Stainless spa pools offer smart, programmable thermostats that offer both scheduling temperature settings and remote control.

4. How long does it take for a spa to heat water?

The time it takes to heat a spa depends on several factors, including the initial water temperature, the desired temperature, and the heating capacity of your spa.

On average, spas heat up at a rate of approximately 1-2 degrees Celsius per hour when starting from cold. However, this rate may vary depending on external temperatures and the size of your spa.

5. Heating a spa by 2 degrees Celsius per hour

If you are looking into getting a spa pool, it’s important to consider the heating capacity of your system. Larger spas and plunge pools typically require more powerful heating systems to heat the water efficiently, which impacts how quickly your spa heats up.

At Stoked, we have carefully selected specific heaters for each of our spa pools and electric baths. This ensures that our products consistently strive for the optimal 2 degrees per hour heating rate, delivering efficient and reliable performance across our entire range.

Our Round Spa ⌀ 1.6m and Electric Baths are equipped with energy-efficient 1.5kw/hour heaters, while our larger spas feature robust 3.0kw/hour heaters.

stoked stainless round spa pool 1.9m diameter mountain views lindis new zealand

6. HEAT RETENTION OF A SPA

The choice of materials in spa pool construction can significantly impact heat retention. Wooden spas have less effective heat retention due to the thermal conductivity of wood. Plastic spas offer slightly better heat retention but may not match the efficiency of stainless steel.

Stainless steel spas, especially when combined with quality insulation materials, excel in heat retention, thanks to their excellent thermal conductivity. Investing in a stainless steel spa with carefully chosen insulation ensures optimal heat retention for a consistently warm and enjoyable spa experience.

7. Embracing the Chill: The Rise of coldwater plunge pools

Coldwater plunge pools have surged in popularity among athletes, health enthusiasts, and rehabilitation experts. With temperatures as low as 10 degrees Celsius, these pools offer invigorating benefits and refreshing experiences.

Many individuals incorporate coldwater immersion, like the Wim Hof Method or the Nordic Cycle, sometimes referred to as “Viking Bath,” into their routines to improve mental and physical well-being, boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, enhance circulation, and aid in muscle recovery.

8. The Stoked Plunge Pool – a spa and plunge pool combined

The Stoked Plunge Pool, also known as the Stoked Plunge Spa Pool, offers the versatility of both a spa and a plunge pool. With temperature control ranging from 10 to 40 degrees Celsius, you can enjoy a cooling plunge or a warm soak, tailored to your preferences and needs. This innovative solution provides the ultimate aquatic oasis for relaxation, rejuvenation, and year-round enjoyment.

women enjoying stainless stoked stainless steel plunge pool also known as plunge spa pool experiencing relaxation and enjoyment

conclusion

The water temperature of a spa varies depending on the season and location. In colder months, unheated spa pools in some regions can range from 10-15°C, while in milder regions, temperatures can be milder at 15-20°C. On warm summer days, unheated pools can reach the mid-20s to low 30s Celsius in cooler regions, while in warmer areas, temperatures can be even higher, reaching the high 20s to mid-30s Celsius or more.

Hot spas typically have a recommended temperature of 36-39°C, providing a comfortable and relaxing experience with benefits such as muscle tension relief, improved circulation, and stress relief. Spas use electric heating systems controlled by a thermostat to warm the water, and the time it takes to heat a spa depends on factors such as initial water temperature, desired temperature, and spa size.

The average temperature of the water in a spa before it is heated is about 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). The recommended temperature for a spa is about 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit). If a spa heats one degree per hour, you would need about 18 hours to heat the spa. The Stoked spas would reduce the time needed to heat from 20 degrees to 38 degrees, from about 18 hours (on average) to about 9 hours.

Stoked SPa Pools & plunge pools

At Stoked, we offer a wide range of spas in different shapes and sizes, with carefully selected heaters that deliver efficient and reliable performance. Whether it’s a 2-person Electrical Bathtub or an 8-person Round Spa Pool, our products are designed to meet your needs and provide an exceptional spa experience.

The Stoked Plunge Pool provides the versatility of both a spa and a plunge pool. With temperature control ranging from invigoratingly cool at 10 degrees Celsius to luxuriously warm at 40 degrees Celsius, it offers a stainless steel alternative to small swimming pools. Experience the ultimate aquatic oasis with the Stoked Plunge Pool, designed for relaxation, rejuvenation, and year-round enjoyment.

Author:
Joost Kinnaer