If you want to elevate your spa experience, reduce stress, and soothe tension, we're taking…
5 Common Hot Tub Myths
When it comes to hot tubs, there are a lot of opinions out there. We’re sharing the top common hot tubs myths and why they aren’t true!
The hot tub industry is a big one. With so many options and opinions out there, it can be difficult to differentiate facts from myths. But the reality is that hot tubs aren’t as complex as everyone makes them out to be. If you’ve got the proper information, nothing can stop you from benefitting from a hot tub and letting it transform your backyard!
We’re sharing 5 common hot tub myths and why they aren’t true.
Facts About Spas: Key Insights into Hot Tubs
Before diving into the myths, let’s explore some facts about spas that highlight why hot tubs are such a popular choice for relaxation and wellness. Hot tubs have been around for thousands of years, with origins tracing back to ancient civilizations that used natural hot springs for therapeutic purposes. Today, modern hot tubs offer advanced features like customizable jets and energy-efficient designs that make them accessible for everyday use.
One of the most surprising facts about spas is their potential health benefits, from improving circulation to aiding in stress relief. Unlike common misconceptions, hot tubs can even assist with calorie burning during sessions, similar to light exercise. Additionally, the average operating costs are quite reasonable, often lower than many expect, making them a practical addition to any home.
Understanding these facts about spas helps set the stage for debunking the myths that often deter potential owners from enjoying the full advantages of owning a hot tub.
Table of Contents
Show
1. Hot Tubs Require a Lot of Maintenance
This is a popular one. Most people who set out to buy a hot tub are scared off because they’re told owning a hot tub will require much more maintenance than it’s worth. But is that true? Absolutely not!
While hot tubs do require regular maintenance, it is not overly time-consuming or expensive. In general, hot tubs are not high maintenance products. If given the proper care and attention, your hot tub will most likely not inconvenience you. If you stay on top of your hot tub’s maintenance schedule, you are likely to save thousands of dollars that you would have otherwise spent in making repairs and replacements.
Stick to a regular maintenance schedule and you won’t have to spend more than a few minutes each week maintaining your hot tub!Â
Many wonder do hot tubs require a lot of maintenance, but with simple routines like checking water balance weekly and cleaning filters monthly, the effort is minimal compared to the relaxation benefits they provide.
2. Hot Tub Water Causes Allergies
Everyone has heard this story. Someone you knew entered a hot tub and had a skin rash or eye irritation the next day. But is hot tub water the cause of such allergies? The short answer: no.
Unless a person is specifically allergic to chlorine or bromine, hot tub water shouldn’t affect them. While chlorine and bromine do have the ability to irritate eyes at high levels, the water in hot tubs does not reach these levels when properly maintained.
If you still believe chlorine is the cause of your eye irritation, check your hot tub water’s pH level. A pH level that is too high or too low can cause skin irritations.
Hot tub rash is another concern often linked to water quality, but it’s typically caused by bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa thriving in poorly sanitized water rather than the water itself. Symptoms include itchy red bumps appearing 12-48 hours after use, and it’s more common in hot tubs that aren’t regularly cleaned or have unbalanced chemicals.
To prevent hot tub rash, maintain proper chlorine or bromine levels, shower before entering, and drain the tub every three to four months. If symptoms occur, consult a doctor, but rest assured that with good care, hot tub water is safe for most users.
Who Shouldn’t Use a Hot Tub: Important Safety Guidelines
While hot tubs offer numerous benefits, there are certain individuals who shouldn’t use a hot tub to avoid potential health risks. Pregnant women, for instance, should steer clear due to the risk of overheating, which can affect fetal development. Young children under five are also advised against using hot tubs, as their bodies can’t regulate temperature as effectively, leading to possible dehydration or overheating.
People with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or diabetes should consult a doctor before soaking, as the heat can strain the cardiovascular system. Those with weakened immune systems, open wounds, or recent surgeries are at higher risk for infections and should avoid hot tubs until fully healed.
Always prioritize safety by following these guidelines, and if in doubt, seek medical advice to ensure hot tub use is appropriate for your health situation.
3. A Cheap Hot Tub Can Save You Money
When first time hot tub buyers hit the market, they can be lured into believing that a cheap hot tub is the way to go. A low up front price, what else could you ask for? The reality, however, is that a cheap hot tub is setting you up for more costs in the future rather than saving you money. When buying a hot tub, price should not be the biggest factor.
If a hot tub is cheaper or older, it most likely won’t have the best quality parts. This means you’ll spend more time in the future on repairs and replacements to make sure your hot tub is working. Investing in a better quality hot tub earlier on will save you thousands that you would have otherwise spent on repairs. So, be smart and choose wisely!
Cheaper hot tubs often attract buyers with their lower hot tub price, but they frequently use subpar insulation or pumps that drive up energy bills over time. In the long run, what seems like a bargain can turn into a costly endeavor due to frequent breakdowns.
Hot tub repair expenses for these models can add up quickly, from fixing leaks to replacing heaters, making it essential to consider long-term value rather than just the initial hot tub price when making your purchase.
4 Bleach Can Sanitize Hot Tub Water
Not only is this hot tub myth false, it can also have several negative consequences. Bleach is considered to be a common sanitizer. But while you may use it for cleaning around the house, should you add it to your hot tub? Never.
Bleach has the potential to completely off set the delicate pH balance in your hot tub. This means you will have to spend money on purchasing and adding balancing chemicals to your hot tub water. Do you really want to do that?
Bleach can also cause unnecessary wear and tear to your hot tub’s surface and internal components. Additionally, bleach is also extremely harsh for skin and hair. Ask yourself- do you really want to be submerged in bleach? Of course not. So don’t use bleach just to save the extra dollar on sanitizers. Invest responsibly!
5. Salt Systems Work Well With Hot Tubs
If you’ve had a swimming pool before, it’s most likely you’ve heard this myth. A salt system worked pretty well for your swimming pool in the past, so it should suit your hot tub too, right? False!
Swimming pools and hot tubs are vastly different. Just because a saltwater system worked for your swimming pool, this does not automatically mean you should use salt water for your hot tub.
Salt systems, in theory, can be a great way to sanitize your hot tub; however, in reality they are often burdensome and not really worth it. Due to higher costs and added maintenance, you are often better off looking at other alternatives. Their initial cost may seem low, but keeping in mind the life-long maintenance attached to such systems, you can expect to spend $600-$800 yearly on salt system maintenance. Make sure you make an informed decision to eliminate future maintenance and lifelong costs.Â
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Hot Tubs Require a Lot of Maintenance | With regular care, maintenance takes just minutes a week and saves money long-term. |
| Hot Tub Water Causes Allergies | Properly maintained water doesn’t cause issues; imbalances or bacteria are the real culprits. |
| A Cheap Hot Tub Can Save You Money | Cheaper models often lead to higher repair and energy costs over time. |
| Bleach Can Sanitize Hot Tub Water | Bleach disrupts pH and damages components; use proper sanitizers instead. |
| Salt Systems Work Well With Hot Tubs | They require more maintenance and aren’t as effective as in pools. |
| Hot tubs are expensive to run | Average monthly costs are around $20-30 with energy-efficient models. |
| Hot tubs are unhygienic | Proper sanitation keeps water clean and safe for use. |
| Hot tubs only work in warm weather | They’re enjoyable year-round, especially in winter for contrast therapy. |
The Bottom Line
When it comes to hot tub myths, you shouldn’t believe everything you hear. Do your own research and take everything with a grain of salt. Hot tubs can be a great investment for you and your family. Don’t deprive yourself of this luxury just because you’ve heard a few false hot tub myths!
If you are ready to find the perfect hot tub for your family, contact your local hot tub experts at Epic Hot Tubs. Give us a call at 888-884-3742, visit our Durham or Raleigh Hot Tub store, or fill out the form below to get in touch with a member of our team today!
About The Author:
Richard Horvath
Hot Tub & Spa Expert
Richard has been in the hot tub & spa industry for years. As a long hot tub & swim spa owner himself, Richard has a passion for helping homeowners create their dream backyard.
