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Top tips for buying a swim spa

top-tips-for-buying-a-swim-spa

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.

Top tips for exercising with your swim spa at home

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Swim spas are an incredibly popular home spa choice due to the diversity they can provide. Swim Spas don’t only provide a tranquil place to relax, but also double up as a great exercise tool! The perfect mix of recreation and fitness. If you’re looking to use your swim spa to get in shape for summer, we’ve put together a list of some of our favourite tips and suggestions to help you get the most out of your workouts.

Make sure you warm up

Warming up your muscles and joints before exercising is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your workouts. It has been proven that spending time warming up your muscles can help enhance your mobility, flexibility, and balance.

Begin by submerging yourself in the jetted water and relaxing for a few minutes. After your body has become accustomed to being in the water, you can begin stretching. To ensure your body is completely warmed up, incorporate a variety of static and dynamic stretches.

Incorporate resistance training

When working out, you should choose a combination of cardiovascular and muscle-building exercises to form your routine. The majority of muscle-building exercises involve the use of resistance bands, dumbbells, and weights, whereas cardio-based activities can usually be performed without the use of extra equipment.

Run, Walk or Swim!

Swim spas are equipped with cutting-edge technology that control the jet system. When activated, the high-powered jet at the far end of the swim spa creates a powerful current to swim, run, or walk against. You can choose which aerobic activity is best for you based on your strength and endurance. Begin by walking or running against the current for a few minutes at a time. After that, continue to a gentle jog or immerse yourself in water and swim a few laps. You can always stop and rest if you start to feel tired or fatigued.

Consult your GP

We strongly advise that you see your doctor before beginning any exercise programme. They can advise you on the type of exercise that will benefit your health the best. If you have a pre-existing health issue, this is extremely important.

Extra tips

  • Make sure the water in your swim spa is at the temperature you want it to be before you get in.
  • Include a range of accessories, such as external lights, tables, towel stands, a radio, and a first-aid kit, to improve the safety and functionality.
  • Keep yourself hydrated.
  • Eat a well-balanced diet.

Following these tips will ensure that you’re able to reach your potential when working out in your swim spa. There’s no better time to start your fitness journey, and what better place to do it than from the comfort of your own home!

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. Explore our range or swim spas online or get in touch with a member of our award-winning team who will be able to answer any questions you may have.

How can your hot tub play a positive role in your health?

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As people are becoming increasingly overwhelmed, overworked, and juggling different responsibilities at once many people have been investing in hot tubs and incorporating daily soaks into their routines to improve their health and overall well-being.

How can a hot tub improve my wellbeing?

Chronic stress is quickly becoming one of the most serious health risks. High levels of stress have been proven to impact your immune system’s ability to work effectively, making you more prone to illness and disease. Although a hot tub can’t cure anything, it can help prevent you from becoming unwell in the first place. We’ve put together some great ways that regular hot tub use can benefit your mental and physical wellness.

Encourage you to relax

Did you know that a 20-minute soak in a hot tub has a similar effect on your nervous system as meditation? By relaxing in a hot tub, you’ll quickly notice a reduction in stress levels and anxiety, helping you to reach a state of emotional equilibrium. Take this to the next level by introducing aromatherapy to your hot tub session – pick your favourite scent and drift away into a state of utter tranquillity.

Promote a better night’s sleep

Sleep deprivation is associated with a variety of health problems such as depression, heart disease, and obesity – and can lead to irritability and a lack of focus. A nightly dip in your hot tub, preferably an hour or two before bedtime, can allow your body to recognise that it’s time to relax, leading to a deeper and more restful night’s sleep.

Relief for muscles and joints

We tend to hold stress in our bodies in the form of tense muscles and aching joints. The calming effects brought on by hot tubs from the warmth and buoyancy of the water allow the pressure that has built up in our muscles and joints to dissipate, leaving you to feel weightless and completely relaxed.

Support your mental health

From time to time, we all need to take a break to recentre and rejuvenate – and there’s no better place to do this than in a hot tub. Taking time away from the stresses of daily life, that being work or parenthood. Finding “you time” is incredibly important in the world we live in and actively supports a healthy mindset.

The Hot Tub and Swim Spa Company values are to deliver the best possible product to you, using specialist expertise and experience. Our philosophy is that through hard work and attention to detail, our customers will benefit from the finest possible therapy. Explore our range of hot tubs online or get in touch with a member of our award-winning sales team today.

How to use your sauna at home

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There are many types of saunas on the market today ranging from the traditional Finish style, which usually uses dry heat to the Turkish style which tends to have more moisture. Sauna use is great for a post-workout relaxation session or a treat whilst you’re on holiday.

How to use a sauna

If you’re attending a communal sauna, like at the gym, make sure you’re abiding by the proper etiquette. Some of these include:

  • Before you enter the sauna, make sure you take a quick post-workout shower.
  • When entering and exiting the sauna, do so quickly in order to keep the heat in.
  • Take note of the attire at the sauna.

Sauna safety tips

Whether you sauna in a public or private setting, you should follow and be aware of some of the safety precautions:

  • Avoid using a sauna if you’re taking medication that interferes with your body’s ability to regulate temperature.
  • To avoid dehydration, drink at least one full glass of water before and after using a sauna.
  • Refrain from drinking alcohol before, during, or after sauna use.
  • Never fall asleep in a sauna
  • Exit the sauna if you feel dizzy or ill.

How saunas work

The way that heat is produced in a sauna can vary. Some of the most popular methods include:

  • Infrared: Instead of heating the entire space, infrared saunas use lights that emit electromagnetic radiation to heat your body. Infrared saunas have a lower temperature than other sauna styles, usually around 140°F (60°C).
  • Wood: This traditional technique involves burning wood to create embers or heating sauna rocks. It creates dry heat with little humidity. Every 10 minutes or so, ladle water onto the rocks to impart bursts of moisture and heat to the room.
  • Electric: To heat sauna rocks to a high temperature, many health clubs and gyms employ electrical heaters. The low humidity and dry heat produced by this process are identical to those produced by wood burning.
  • Steam: Steam from boiling water is used to create wet heat and high humidity in Turkish-style saunas. Turkish bathhouses or steam rooms are other names for saunas.

Saunas offer a relaxing experience as well as many health benefits. It’s critical to use a sauna safely and adhere to certain etiquette guidelines. Saunas may help with a variety of conditions, including cardiovascular disease and depression. They aren’t suitable for everyone, though. Before attending a sauna, talk to your doctor, especially if you have a medical problem or are pregnant.

As 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. Our award-winning team will be delighted to guide you through our range of luxury products in order to help you achieve a piece of everyday happiness.