What To Do with Hot Tub in Summer
A hot tub is a great way to relax and unwind in colder climates, but what about summer? There are plenty of creative ways to use your hot tub during the warmer months. If you’re not planning to use it, you can also store it properly for the next season. Here are some fun ideas and tips for making the most of your hot tub in summer.
Fun Summer Activities with a Hot Tub
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Throw a Hot Tub Party
Turn off the heater and use the bubble feature to create a fun atmosphere. A hot tub party is the perfect way to gather friends and enjoy an evening together. -
Relax After a Long Day
After a tiring day, cool off in your hot tub. Keep the jets on for a refreshing experience that soothes aches and pains while revitalizing your mind. -
Rejuvenate After Activities
Summer activities can leave you feeling drained. A soak in cool water with bubble jets can provide relaxation, rejuvenation, and even a soothing massage for tired muscles.
How to Store Your Hot Tub for Summer
If you don’t plan to use your hot tub during the summer, follow these steps to store it properly:
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Dry the Hot Tub
Drain all the water and ensure there’s no moisture left in the pipes or valves. Let the hot tub air-dry completely before moving to the next step. -
Unplug Connections
Disconnect the hot tub from electricity, water, and the pump to ensure safety and prevent damage. -
Deflate the Hot Tub
For inflatable hot tubs, deflate them and check for any remaining water. Use a towel to dry out any damp areas. -
Fold the Hot Tub
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to fold the hot tub. Proper folding ensures it takes up minimal space during storage. -
Store Safely
Place the hot tub in a clean, dry, and shaded location free from moisture. For fixed hot tubs, use a cover to protect against dust and moisture.
Turn Your Spa Into a Summer Plunge Pool
You don’t have to drain your hot tub every June just because air temperatures climb past 85°F. Adjusting a few settings turns your acrylic or inflatable spa into a refreshing backyard cool-off tub:
| Summer Strategy | Target Water Temp | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Evening Hydrotherapy Mode | 97°F – 99°F | Muscle relief after sunset without overheating |
| Cool Soak Plunge Mode | 80°F – 88°F (heater set to minimum) | Afternoon patio cool-downs & kids’ supervision |
| Full Summer Shutdown | Drained & dried completely | Long vacations or 100°F+ climates with zero evening use |
Solving Summer Heat Creep & Sanitizer Loss
- Stop Pump Friction Overheating: Even if you dial your thermostat down to 80°F, circulation pumps generate waste heat inside insulated spa cabinets. Shorten daily filter cycles to 2–3 hours during cool early mornings or nights, and crack the cover edge with a small foam block overnight to vent heat.
- Protect Chlorine From UV Sunlight: Uncovered daylight burns off unstabilized free chlorine rapidly. Always latch the insulated spa cover when finished, and test sanitizer every 2–3 days with test strips to prevent summer algae or warm-water cloudiness.
- Avoid Leaving Stagnant Water Uncovered Under Shutoff: If you turn the breaker off for several weeks without draining, still water turns green and grows bacteria quickly—either maintain active filtration and sanitizer or drain, blow out plumbing lines with a shop vac, and store cleanly.
Conclusion
A hot tub isn’t just for winter. With a little creativity, you can use it to beat the summer heat, relax after a busy day, or host a memorable party. If you decide to take a break from using it, proper storage will keep it in great condition for the next season.