Hot Tub Safety Tips From Your Local Electrician

Dec 9, 2019 | Hire a Licensed Electrician, Hot Tub Wiring

Hot Tub Safety Tips From Your Local Electrician

It’s December 9th, 2019, and the weather here in Southeastern, PA is nothing but cold and rain. It’s actually the perfect day for a good soak in a hot tub. But before you take a dip in that hot body of water we like to call heaven on a day like today, it’s crucial for hot tub owners to know the proper safety protocol for a nice soak. Let’s take a quick look at some hot tub safety tips, and why hiring a licensed electrician for your hot tub hookup is necessary. 

 

 

Hot Tub Safety Tips: The 101

 

  1. Hire a Licensed Electrician For Installation

The first one is a no-brainer, and not because we are electricians. It’s for total safety of you and your loved ones when enjoying your time in your tub. A licensed electrician knows the NEC (National Electric Code) for safe and accurate installation of your hot tub. Electricity and water don’t mix…so it’s crucial you leave the installation/hookup part to a professional. Some examples of NEC safety for hot tubs, among others not listed:

  • The tub should always be on its own dedicated circuit. 
  • The tub should always have a manual disconnect.
  • There are specific requirements for the type of outlet needed for installation.
  • There are specific requirements for where the tub’s disconnect should be located, as well as how far from power lines the hot tub should be placed.

 

  1. Know Where Your Tub’s Panel Is Located

You should always know where a hot tub’s electric panel is located in case of an emergency. The tub’s panel contains a disconnect so if something were to go wrong and you needed to shut off power immediately, that’s where you would do it. So knowing where the panel and disconnect is for your hot tub is very very important.

 

  1. Avoid Electrical Devices Near and Around The Hot Tub

This can cause electrocution if power cords fall into the water, etc.

 

  1. Maintain Regular Water Care

Learn how to test the pH of your water, among others things, and how to treat the water with specific chemicals for clean and balanced water. 

 

  1. Keep Water At A Safe Temperature

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has found that 100-102 degrees Fahrenheit is a safe temperature for most people, with a maximum of 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Children over 5 years old should soak in a maximum temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Always consult a doctor before letting your child soak in hot tub. 

 

  1. Practice Good Hygiene Before Using

Rinse off with soap and water to keep your water as clean as possible to prevent contamination.

 

  1. Store Chemicals In A Cool And Dry Place Away From Children

This is self-explanatory. 

 

  1. Stay Hydrated While Soaking!

Try to avoid drinking alcoholic beverages before and during your soak time to avoid dehydration. With this, drink plenty of water before your soak time as well. Also, keep your soak time to a limit of 15 minutes in hotter temperatures (the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has found that 100-102°F is safe for most). If you feel dizzy or nauseous, that’s a sign of dehydration and you should exit the tub immediately.

 

  1. Talk To Your Doctor Before Dipping

If you have any medical conditions or take any mediations, always consult with your doctor first before soaking in a hot tub.