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How to use your sauna properly

how-to-use-your-sauna-properly

Using a sauna is easy, but are you truly making the most out of the possible health benefits that relaxing in a sauna can provide? We’ve put together a comprehensive guide that will detail how you can best benefit from sauna use and answer some of the most frequently asked questions that we get from our clients.

The correct way to use a sauna

  • Shower and dry yourself before entering the sauna. This is because dry skin sweats more quickly than moist skin.
  • If this is your first time using a sauna, we’d recommend spending roughly 8 to 10 minutes relaxing
  • Once you’re in the sauna, use an underlay towel to keep your body from touching the wood. The higher you sit in the sauna, the hotter it becomes, so if it’s your first time using a sauna, you might want to start with a middle or lower bench.
  • Each heating session in the sauna is followed by a cooling session. The best way to improve circulation is to gently lead the cold castings from the ankles upwards towards the heart. Make sure you use cold water to make the most of the Kneipp effect, helping to support your circulation.
  • You should wait rest for around 30-45 minutes between sauna sessions.

Why should you take a cold shower after using a sauna?

When the skin is cooled by a cold stimulus such as a shower, your blood pressure rises causing your body to work harder and training your cardiovascular system. This is a great exercise for those with naturally low blood pressure, however you need to ensure that the cooling is severe enough to make the most out of the effect.

Have you considered sauna infusions?

During infusion, the levels of humidity quickly rise and for a few minutes the heat becomes even more intense. The infusion should be started after the second sauna session. Essential oils should only be used sparingly and should be diluted to prevent a causing a fire hazard. The soothing effects are intensified by the fragrances.

With a range of traditional and soft sauna options available, such as a modular sauna that allow you to customise the shape, size and design of your sauna and a large variety of ready-made saunas we are sure that we can find the right model for you. Get in contact with a member of the team today to explore our range of products

How a swim spa can affect your health?

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Why own a swim spa? The benefits of your own personal swimming pool and home spa go beyond relaxation but complement an exercise regime in ways you might not have thought. 

Why is swimming so popular? 

Firstly, unlike other forms of exercise, swimming is a good choice for people regardless of their age and physical ability because of the low impact it has on muscles and joints. However, this doesn’t come at the detriment of the results you can expect, swimming has a host of benefits for muscular endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.

The immediate advantage of having your own swim spa is the convenience. Making it much easier to swim regularly because your private swimming area is at the back door. This means you don’t have to commute to a leisure centre and use communal changing areas and showers which has its’ obvious downsides.

Swimming is a full-body workout 

For this reason, swimming is one of the best forms of cardio exercise that exists. Swimming is one of the only workouts that engage every major muscle group in your body, whilst keeping the risk of injury very low. But you can still target certain muscle groups depending on the stroke that is used. Swimming also improves posture because it strengthens core stability, especially in the back and shoulders. This is a benefit for many as desk work is incredibly common and it is a cause of postural problems and back pain.

Improved mental health 

The benefits of swimming go beyond physical health it has shown to have a positive effect on mental health too. By releasing endorphins, the natural feel-good hormone swimming lowers both
anxiety and depression. Just half an hour is enough to feel a greater sense of happiness and well-being.

A swim spa or hot tub is also a great way to socialise with friends and family. It can be used at any time or as the perfect occasion for people to gather. Socialising also improves mental health, drastically. A strong social life has been shown to go as far as increasing life expectancy and reducing overall health problems.

Greatly improved overall health 

Swimming can reduce a whole host of diseases. When you swim regularly the chance of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and strokes are all reduced according to the NHS.

People with pre-existing health conditions can swim regularly due to its low impact nature. Helping people manage their sugar and insulin levels, reducing joint pain, and improving symptoms in people with multiple sclerosis. These benefits are particularly useful for people in their older years who might be limited to what exercise they can take part in.

Why choose a swim spa in a snapshot 

By using a hot tub, you can boost both your health and mental health dramatically. By soaking in a hot tub, you can feel the benefits of hydrotherapy. Swimming gives you an emotional boost, reducing stress and improving sleep quality. Allowing you to have a deeper, more restful, and continuous sleep.

Using a hot tub for an hour can burn a similar number of calories as a 30-minute walk. Whilst boosting recovery rates after exercise and reducing fatigue. Also, in as little as 10 minutes blood pressure is lowered, resulting in better cardiovascular health.
Hydrotherapy reduces pain, tension, and joint tenderness. Which of course can benefit most people, but in particular people with arthritis and Fibromyalgia.

In short, apart from being a pleasurable pastime, swim spa has therapeutic and physical benefits, particularly for those who have existing health conditions. 

As a family operated business encompassing two generations, we have over 50 years combined experience selling and servicing hot tubs, swim spas, pools, saunas, gazebos and steam rooms. We love what we do because we love the lifestyle that comes with owning a luxurious hot tub or swim spa. Get in contact with a member of the team today to explore our range of fantastic products.
 

What’s the optimal temperature for a hot tub?

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When our customers visit us in our award-winning showroom at Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, we often get asked what is the optimal temperature for a hot tub? The answer can be pretty straightforward, however there are other elements to consider, including the hot tub temperature range, body temperature, weather conditions and health risks.

Hot tub temperature range

Most hot tubs have a minimum temperature of 26°C and a maximum temperature of 40°C for safety reasons. The only time you might contemplate going as low as 26 degrees is if you want to chill off in the hot tub during the summer. On the other hand, 40 degrees is quite hot and uncomfortable for some individuals. The short answer to the question “How hot should my hot tub be?” is between 37°C and 40°C to get the most out of the benefits of hot water.

Body temperature and hot tub temperatures

Your body temperature is usually around 37 degrees Celsius. This can have a significant impact on your hot tub experience. You may feel a mild chill if the water temperature is below 37 degrees. When you wish to cool off in hot weather, this might be a pleasant sensation. Alternatively, if the ambient temperature is cooler in the winter, you may wish to add a few degrees above 37°C. This is because the hot tub cools slowly with the cover off, so if you plan on soaking longer, you will stay toasty for longer!

The key to finding the perfect hot tub temperature

Put it to the test! Finding the perfect hot tub temperature for you may involve some trial and error. As long as you’re aware of the health considerations, try out our range of temperatures. You may discover that different temperatures suit you better depending on the season.     

Health Risks

  • If you’re pregnant, make sure you consult your doctor before jumping into a hot tub
  • Children under 5 should not be getting into a hot tub that is over 35°C and should only be in the tub for between 5-10 minutes at a time.
  • When enjoying a hot tub, make sure you stay hydrated.

Questions our customers ask us

  • How long does a hot tub take to heat?

This varies based on the heater’s capacity, flow, hot tub size, ambient temperature, and insulation quality. In general, a hot tub warms up at a rate of 1 degree each hour.

  • What happens to my hot tub when I go away?

It’s worth lowering the hot tub temperature to save money on heating and possibly reduce chemical usage. Because most hot tubs include freeze protection, there is a low risk of freezing in the winter.

  • What should I do if the temperature of my hot tub does not drop?

In the summer heat, the outdoor temperature can make it difficult to lower the hot tub temperature. To lower the temperature, either partially drain and add cool fresh water or remove the cover for a period of time.

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company specialise in providing hot tubs, swim spas, pools and gazebos and have experience of over 50 years in this industry. We also offer servicing and post-sales care for all of our customers to make sure that our customers get the best out of their hot tub. We are proud to have a multi award-winning showroom located in Kent, so please come down and try out our huge range.

 

Top tips for buying a swim spa

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If you choose to invest in a swim spa, you are not only investing in an amazing place to work out, but you’re also able to reap all the same benefits as a hot tub, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind after a stressful day. When it comes to enjoying the various benefits of spas, having this excellent two-in-one water feature may suits the needs of the entire family.

The main thing to bear in mind when exploring your home spa options is the quality of the product. The best way to look at it is an investment, and to make your investment worthwhile you won’t want to compromise on the functionality or longevity of your spa.

High up on your list of requirements for your new home spa should be comfort. Opting for ergonomically designed seating will ensure the highest level of comfort. Making sure that you’re able to let your body completely relax whilst unwinding in your swim spa is so important.

When it comes to the pressure of the jets, everybody has their own preference. With this in mind, you’ll want to explore swim spas that have the ability and functionality to allow you to regulate and manipulate the jet pressure to your preferred comfort level.

Insulation is one of the most critical factors to look into when investing in a swim spa. A high-quality swim spa will be energy efficient and bring down the cost of heating. Most swim spas are insulated with foam; however, we recommend opting for a swim spa with the double thermal shield insulation system for maximum insulation.

Once your swim spa is installed and ready to go, you’ll want to spend as much time as possible enjoying it while minimising the time spent maintaining and cleaning it. If you decide to opt for a self-cleaning model, this aspect will be taken care of for you with the water being replaced every 15 minutes.

You should spend some time learning about the different features of the swim spa you’re considering. You want it to be able to cater to all of your family’s requirements. Some family members might be looking for a spa for aquatic exercise, others may be curious about the hot tub capabilities.

Investing in a swim spa will be a decision you will not come to regret, providing you with countless memories for many years to come.

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company specialise in providing hot tubs, swim spas, pools and gazebos and have experience of over 50 years in this industry. We also offer servicing and post-sales care for all of our customers to make sure that our customers get the best out of their hot tub.

Does a hot tub add value to your home?

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Your home is your personal sanctuary. A place where you can relax and destress from the trials and tribulations of the day. If you’re looking for a new way to relax at home, investing in a hot tub is a good way to go. But, if you’re planning on selling your property, is a hot tub worth investing in?

How a hot tub can add value to a home

If you’re the type of person who plans for the future, investing in a hot tub may be an excellent way to increase the value of your home. In general, hot tubs will increase the resale value of your home when it is well-integrated within the exterior landscape. This could involve a hot tub surrounded by complementary hardscaping such as a stone pathway or gazebo.

By incorporating your hot tub into your exterior space well, you’ll be more likely to appeal to potential buyers rather than installing a freestanding hot tub that looks out of place.

Perhaps most significantly, at the time of sale, the hot tub should be in perfect working condition. Few buyers will want to take on the burden of the upkeep of a mismanaged hot tub due to the costs of repairs or removal.

Many hot tub models are portable and may be readily transported to a new location or residence. As a result, portable hot tubs may not increase the value of our home, particularly if potential buyers expect the homeowner to take it with them when they move. Permanent or in-ground hot tubs, as well as built-in portable types, may add significant value to your home.

To determine a ballpark estimate of the overall value a hot tub can add, we advise consulting a professional home appraiser. Estate agents have extensive knowledge of property value trends in different neighbourhoods and are likely to be aware of the local market and how your property compares to others that come with amenities such as hot tubs or swim spas.

You don’t need to use your imagination to envision how relaxing bating in your own hot tub can be. A hot tub can be used for relaxation, entertainment, and even physical therapy. When properly installed and maintained, it is an investment that will pay off for many years.

As a family-operated business encompassing two generations, we have over 50 years combined experience selling and servicing hot tubs, swim spas, pools, saunas, gazebos and steam rooms. We combine genuine creativity, planning rigour and excellence in execution. Our can-do pragmatic approach means we take all the stress out of your project. Get in touch with a member of our expert team to explore our range in more detail.

Our guide to hot tub temperatures

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Too hot? Too cold? Or just right? No one wants to get into a hot tub that isn’t the right temperature. The majority of hot tub users will opt for a temperature of between 36°C and 38°C. However, the perfect temperature is determined by a number of factors from body temperature to weather conditions.

How to find the ideal hot tub temperature

The main factor that determines the perfect hot tub temperature – personal preference. It’s widely regarded that 40°C is the highest acceptable hot tub temperature and the industry-accepted maximum, with anything above that considered dangerous and should be avoided.

When it comes to the temperature of your hot tub, a good place to start is with your body temperature. The standard settings for most hot tubs will be around 38°C (slightly above the average body temperature). This tends to be the most comfortable temperature for users as it also allows room for the temperature to drop, which occurs naturally when individuals enter the water.

Why hot tub temperature is important

Ensuring that your hot tub is operating at an optimal temperature is crucial to avoid potential health hazards.

  • Safe hot tub temperatures during pregnancy

It goes without saying that you should be cautious when using your hot tub during your pregnancy. Even a 10-minute soak can raise your body temperature above 38°C. The general advice is to avoid hot tub use when pregnant, especially during the first 12 weeks, due to the risk of overheating and dehydration.

If you want to use a hot tub while pregnant, consult your doctor or midwife in advance about the safest way to do so. Some medical professionals may advise that you keep the temperature below 35°C and keep the duration under 10 minutes.

 

  • Safe hot tub temperatures for kids

 

Hot tubs are not recommended for children under the age of 5. If your child is over the age of 5, we recommend a slightly lower temperature of 35°C as children are less able to regulate their body temperature.

 

It’s incredibly important to supervise children at all times when using a hot tub & ensure that they are regularly drinking water to avoid dehydration.

 

  • Health risks associated with heat

 

Hot tubs are a great way to soothe aches and pains associated with arthritis, back pain and fibromyalgia. Using your hot tub when ill can lead to problems such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke and heat rashes. Prolonged exposure to heat can aggravate pre-existing chronic conditions.

Hot tubs and the weather

Being able to alter the temperature of your hot tub is a great way to get the most out of your spa throughout the year. In the summer, lowering the temperature will provide a cool, refreshing boost, while in the winter, you can sink into the warm water while watching the steam rise into the crisp air.

  • Hot tub temperatures during the winter

The majority of people will use their hot tub during the winter months. We usually recommend maintaining a temperature of 38°C in your hot tub – this temperature will keep you comfortable and will assist in protecting your hot tub during the colder months.

  • Hot tub temperatures during the summer

Hot tubs aren’t just for the winter; they may also be used to cool off throughout the summer. We recommend experimenting with temperatures between 29 and 35°C to discover the most comfortable temperature for you, depending on how cool you want the water to be.

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company specialises in providing hot tubs, swim spas, pools, and gazebos with over 50 years’ experience. Our mission is to deliver the best possible lifestyle products and services, now and in the years to come. With an extensive range of hot tubs available, we’re sure that we’ll be able to provide you with the perfect home spa for you.

5 reasons to get a hot tub for your home

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Are you toying with the idea of purchasing a hot tub for your home? There are a host of reasons why you should get one, from socialising to the health benefits it provides or to boost the value of your property. Let us take you through the top 5 reasons as to why our customers decide to buy a hot tub for their homes.

Socialising

One of the most common things we hear our customers talking about when starting their purchasing journey is the great benefits hot tubs can bring to their social lives. What better way to get the kids away from their iPads and video games than a hot tub?

Owning a hot tub is a terrific way to spend more time with the people you love and care about, whether it’s with family or friends. Getting together once a week for a hot tub party is a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with friends. A great way to set the atmosphere is with a built-in entertainment system, allowing you to play your favourite tunes whilst having a drink and a laugh with friends.

Health and wellbeing

The health benefits are another common incentive for clients to purchase one of our spas. A 20-minute dip in a hot tub has been shown in studies to increase circulation, relieve tired muscles, improve sleep, and even improve sex life!

Increase the value of your home

The majority of our customers choose to buy a home spa for the social factor; however, many also want to improve the aesthetic of their garden and increase the value of their home before selling. Property developers are often keen to boost the value of their properties to make them more attractive to buyers, and installing a hot tub is a great way to do this. Some people have been able to increase the value of their homes by £10,000!

Post-workout recovery

Hydrotherapy is used by marathon runners, footballers, and other top athletes to improve their recovery times. If you’re a gym rat or simply enjoy going for a run to stay in shape, investing in a hot tub can add genuine value to your fitness regimen.

After your workout, take a short shower to clear the sweat and then relax in a spa for 10-15 minutes to get the complete benefit. Your circulation will improve significantly, your body temperature will remain elevated, increasing your metabolism, and your sore muscles and joints will quickly return to normal, ready for the next session.

Transform your outdoor space

Adding a stunning, opulent oasis of relaxation to your garden is a terrific way to make it stand out. We’ve seen a variety of customers revamp their gardens and construct a separate chill out zone for their hot tub.

Some customers, on the other hand, want to build their own little piece of heaven and want more seclusion, which is where charming cabins and pergolas come in handy, and they don’t have to be expensive. Then you can add some additional mood lighting or perhaps a television!

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company specialises in providing hot tubs, swim spas, pools, and gazebos with over 50 years’ experience. Our mission is to deliver the best possible lifestyle products and services, now and in the years to come. With an extensive range of hot tubs available, we’re sure that we’ll be able to provide you with the perfect home spa for you. 

Why spring is the best time for using your hot tub

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Regardless of the season, hot tubs and swim spas are great additions to your home, and what’s even better is that they’re fun to use all year round! With saying this, we have to confess, spring is one of our favourite seasons to soak in a hot tub. The air is fresh, spring greenery is in bloom and the night sky is clear and full of stars.

Restful nights

Soaking in a hot tub promotes a restful night’s sleep and relaxes sore muscles that may have been subject to a new year’s workout routine. Regular hot tub sessions can help relieve back and knee pain as well as chronic conditions such as arthritis (which can often be intensified during the winter months). Submerging yourself in hot water also lowers stress by stimulating the body’s natural endorphins.

New Beginnings

Spring is a time for new beginnings – so it’s the perfect time to renew your new year’s resolutions and get your workout programme back on track. Regularly using a hot tub as part of a healthy lifestyle promotes overall health and wellness. This is ideal if you’re looking to get that beach body in time for summer. There are some great exercises that you can do from your hot tub from cardiovascular exercises such as jogging or swimming on the spot, to resistance workouts designed to build your strength and muscle mass.

Renovate your outdoor space

Spring is the ideal time to purchase your hot tub or swim spa – give your garden a spring clean and renovate your outdoor space. By incorporating a hot tub into your garden space, you’ll have a dedicated space to spend with your family and friends. Why not go the extra mile and select a hot tub model that comes with built-in entertainment systems or LED lights, allowing you to create a paradisiacal oasis?  

Later Evenings

With the days getting longer and the evenings becoming lighter, spring is the ideal season to take advantage of your home spa. If you have a lack of outdoor lighting, the lighter spring nights are ideal for those after work soaks or weekend parties with friends. As the weather gets warmer and the nights become longer you’ve got much more freedom to use your hot tub throughout the week.

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company specialises in providing hot tubs, swim spas, pools, and gazebos with over 50 years’ experience. Our mission is to deliver the best possible lifestyle products and services, now and in the years to come. With an extensive range of hot tubs available, we’re sure that we’ll be able to provide you with the perfect home spa for you.  

Our guide to using your hot tub

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You’ve secured your perfect hot tub, installed it, and now you’re ready to relax and unwind with your own piece of everyday happiness. However, don’t forget to keep up to date with the maintenance of your hot tub. By ensuring that you don’t neglect your hot tub is the best way to make sure your investment stands the test of time. At The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company, we’ve put together an expert guide that covers how much a hot tub costs to run, the chemicals you’ll need to keep it sanitary, and how to avoid leaks and cracks.

How much does it cost to run a hot tub?

The cost of running a hot tub varies based on a number of factors, including the model, size, and frequency of use. As a result, it’s impossible to give a precise estimate of how much you’ll end up spending. Remember that there are continuing costs for water, maintenance, and cleaning supplies in addition to the extra energy you’ll use. Costs will vary depending on the tub, filtration system, and items you choose. Some tips to help to reduce your hot tub running costs include; choosing a model that’s well-insulated, use a well-fitted cover, and turn off the air valves.

How do I keep the water in my hot tub sanitary?

It’s vital to keep the chemicals in your hot tub topped up and monitored. The two most important chemicals needed to ensure that your hot tub is safe to use are the pH levellers and a sanitiser, such as chlorine. You should also be measuring the total alkalinity of your hot tub water and balance the pH levels when you add and test the sanitiser. You should apply a shock treatment once a week in addition to your sanitiser to break down debris that can’t be filtered.    

Hot tub repairs

A well-maintained, high-quality hot tub should last for at least 10 years. Low-quality, or poorly constructed hot tubs often do not stand the test of time. Having the know-how to do minor repairs, such as mending hairline cracks, is a great way to increase the lifespan of your hot tub.  

How to mend hairline cracks in a hot tub:

  • Drain and turn off your hot tub
  • With a cloth, clean the affected area
  • Use an acrylic repair kit to seal the crack, following the instructions
  • Let it dry
  • Sand down and buff the area.
  • Refill your hot tub. If it continues to leak, repeat the process.

Ensuring you know how to manage your hot tub is essential to get the most out of your purchase. Neglect is one of the main reasons why a hot tub ends up needing major maintenance work, so if you care for your spa, it will pay dividends in the long run.

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company is The UK’s number 1 wellness expert, providing exceptional self cleaning hot tubs, swim spas, saunas and steam rooms, backed by 35 years of outstanding customer service. Get in touch with a member of our award-winning sales team to discuss and queries.