When summer temperatures climb in the Treasure Valley—Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, Eagle, Emmett, and surrounding areas—many hot tub owners wonder how to get the most out of their investment. At Love’s Hot Tubs, we know your spa can be more than just a winter retreat. With a few smart adjustments, your hot tub can become your family’s favorite summer plunge pool! Here’s how you can enjoy cool, refreshing dips all summer long—without compromising your hot tub’s performance or lifespan.
Why Use Your Hot Tub as a Plunge Pool?
A plunge pool is a small, deep pool designed for quick, invigorating dips. It’s a wonderful way to beat the heat, energize your body, and add a new dimension to your backyard oasis. If you already own a hot tub, especially one from our premium lines like Artesian or Nordic, you’re just a few steps away from having your own backyard plunge pool—no construction required!
Benefits of a Summer Plunge Pool
- Instant Relief from the Heat: Cool water immersion is a fantastic way to lower your body temperature and refresh your senses on a hot day.
- Post-Workout Recovery: Cold plunge therapy can help reduce muscle inflammation and aid recovery after exercise or outdoor activities.
- Year-Round Enjoyment: Transforming your hot tub for summer use means you get value from your investment every season.
- Fun for All Ages: Kids and adults alike love the novelty and excitement of a cool tub in the heat of summer.
How to Safely Use Your Hot Tub as a Plunge Pool
Turning your hot tub into a plunge pool isn’t complicated, but it does require a few adjustments to ensure you don’t damage your spa or compromise water quality. Here are our top tips:
1. Turn Down the Temperature
Most hot tubs allow you to set the water temperature as low as 60°F (16°C). For a true plunge pool experience, aim for water temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. Lowering the set temperature is as simple as adjusting the controls on your Artesian or Nordic model. If your hot tub can’t go this low, simply turn off the heater and let the water cool naturally, topping up with cold water as needed.
2. Keep Water Circulating
Even when using your spa as a plunge pool, it’s important to keep the water circulating. This prevents stagnation, maintains clarity, and ensures your chemicals stay evenly distributed. Set your circulation pump to run at least a few hours each day.
3. Maintain Proper Chemical Balance
Warm weather, increased use, and sunlight can all impact your spa’s water chemistry. Continue to test and adjust your chemical levels regularly—Love’s Hot Tubs offers complete chemical kits and expert advice to help. Be sure to:
- Check chlorine or bromine levels at least twice a week
- Monitor pH and alkalinity to prevent scaling or corrosion
- Shock the water after heavy use or high temperatures
Pro tip: If you plan to use your hot tub as a plunge pool for several weeks, consider draining and refilling with fresh water to start the season off right.
4. Protect Your Spa From the Sun
Extended sun exposure can degrade your hot tub cover and increase evaporation. Always cover your spa when not in use, and consider using a UV-resistant cover if yours is showing signs of wear. Love’s Hot Tubs has high-quality covers and lifters to make this easy and convenient.
5. Clean and Rinse Regularly
With more frequent summer use, oils, lotions, and sweat can build up faster. Rinse off before entering, and clean your filter at least once a week. If you see cloudy water or notice a slick surface, it’s time for a quick clean and chemical shock.
6. Add a Splash of Style
Make your plunge pool experience even more enjoyable with fun accessories:
- Floating drink holders
- LED underwater lights
- Waterproof Bluetooth speakers
- Cooling towels and comfy steps
Ask us about our range of spa accessories to transform your backyard into a summer paradise!
FAQs: Summer Use & Hot Tub Health
- Will cold water damage my hot tub? No! All the hot tubs we sell at Love’s Hot Tubs—whether from Artesian or Nordic—are engineered to handle a wide range of temperatures. Just keep your water circulating and balanced.
- Can I leave my hot tub unheated all summer? Absolutely. Turning off the heater saves energy and keeps your tub cool for plunge sessions. Just remember to maintain chemical levels and circulation.
- Is it safe for kids? Yes, supervised children can safely enjoy a cool hot tub. Make sure the cover is always secure when not in use, and keep an eye on young swimmers at all times.
Why Choose Love's Hot Tubs?
As a family-owned business with deep roots in the Treasure Valley, Love’s Hot Tubs is here to help you get the most joy from your hot tub—no matter the season. With our extensive selection of Artesian and Nordic hot tubs, all-inclusive pricing, and expert service, we make it easy to upgrade your backyard and enjoy summer to the fullest. We also offer financing options to fit your budget!
Ready to Dive In?
If you’re looking to upgrade, service, or accessorize your hot tub for summer, Love’s Hot Tubs is your go-to source in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, Eagle, Emmett, and the surrounding Treasure Valley area. Visit us year-round at 2370 Mill RD, Emmett, ID 83617 (Mon-Fri: By Appointment Only; Sat: 10AM–5PM) or call (208) 353-2170.
Let’s make this Idaho summer your coolest one yet—literally!
Love’s Hot Tubs – Your Local Hot Tub Experts
Serving Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, Eagle, Emmett, and the entire Treasure Valley!
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