Cozy winter soaks might have been one of things that sold you on a hot tub. But when it’s 88 degrees with high humidity, the idea of sinking into warm water doesn’t always sound relaxing. Even if you know those massage jets would feel amazing, it can be hard to picture yourself getting in.
You might be wondering if it’s worth keeping your hot tub running when the temperatures climb. Can you use a hot tub in summer? What’s the best temperature setting? Is there a minimum temp for safe and comfortable soaking?
You’re not alone. These are common questions for hot tub owners.
The good news is that you don’t have to press “pause” on your spa routine just because the seasons change. With a few simple adjustments, your hot tub can be just as enjoyable and even refreshing in July as it is in January.
Using your hot tub in summer: Yes, you can
Your hot tub is more than a cold-weather retreat. It’s a place to relax, recover, and recharge, no matter the season.
If you live with stress or chronic pain, those challenges don’t take a break just because the weather warms up. And, in the summer, your hot tub can become an even more versatile part of your wellness routine. It can help you cool down after time in the sun, ease post-workout soreness, or simply give you a moment of calm on a busy day.
Setting your hot tub temperature in the summer
In the winter, 104 degrees might feel just right. But in the summer? Not so much. When the weather heats up, it makes sense to turn the temperature down.
So what’s the best hot tub temperature for summer? It depends on how you plan to use it and personal preferences. However, here are some general guidelines.
For a cooler soak: Set the water between 85 and 95 degrees. You’ll still enjoy the soothing jets, but with a more refreshing feel.
For a warm soak without overheating: Try 98 to 100 degrees. That’s just above body temperature, so you’ll still get the benefits of warm water therapy like muscle relaxation and improved circulation.
Most hot tubs can be set as low as 80 degrees, depending on the model. Just keep in mind that the outdoor temperature can affect how cool the water actually feels.
Tip: Use your hot tub’s economy or sleep mode if available. These energy-saving settings help maintain lower temps without using as much power.
Want even more control over summer soaking? You can add a heat pump to your hot tub to cool the water as well as heat it — making it easier to avoid overheating and enjoy your spa even on the hottest days. A shade sail or offset umbrella can also be helpful.
Should I turn off my hot tub in the summer?
It might seem like a smart way to save energy, but turning off your hot tub completely during the summer can actually create more work — and more potential problems.
When you shut down your spa, you’ll likely need to drain and refill it, which takes time and wastes water. Plus, leaving it empty or stagnant can lead to algae growth, unpleasant odors, or buildup in your plumbing. Restarting your spa later also means rebalancing the water chemistry, priming the pumps, and possibly troubleshooting startup issues.
Summer hot tub care
Instead, consider keeping it running — just at a lower setting. Here’s how to make summer hot tub care simple:
Lower the temperature to a comfortable level, depending on how you plan to use it.
Use your cover when the spa isn’t in use to keep out debris and minimize evaporation.
Add small water top-offs as needed to replace what’s evaporated, which helps keep your chemistry balanced and prevents scaling.
Stay on top of water care with your regular chemical routine to prevent bacteria and algae, which can grow more quickly during those hot summer months.
Saltwater hot tubs in the summer
If you have a saltwater hot tub, summer maintenance can be even more straightforward. These systems continue to generate sanitizer as long as your water is circulating properly. That’s why keeping your spa running (even at those lower summer temperatures) is so important for maintaining water quality.
One of the perks of saltwater systems during summer is their ability to adjust to your usage patterns. When you’re using your hot tub less frequently during those busy summer months, most systems naturally produce less sanitizer. This means your water stays clean without much intervention from you.
With the Master Clear Salt System, this process happens automatically. The system only creates sanitizer when needed, letting you focus on enjoying your spa rather than constantly testing and adjusting chemicals. You’ll still want to check basics like pH levels and rinse filters occasionally, but the day-to-day maintenance becomes much simpler.
Fun ways to use your hot tub in summer
If you’re wondering whether a hot tub in the summer will feel too hot to enjoy — you’re not alone. The idea of soaking when it’s already warm out can seem counterintuitive. But with a few simple adjustments, your hot tub can become a refreshing and versatile part of your summer routine.
Here’s how to use your hot tub in the summer without overheating — and why you might not want to skip it.
Turn it into a cool tub
By lowering the water temperature to between 85 and 95 degrees, your spa becomes a soothing place to cool down after a day in the sun. Some people even set their spa to the minimum temperature for a hot tub in summer to turn it into a mini plunge pool.
Boost post-workout recovery
Summer is the season for outdoor activity. From biking and hiking to gardening and yard work, there are so many ways to make the most of the warm weather. But if you spent most of the winter indoors or less active, all that extra movement can come with some post-activity soreness. Using your hot tub after exercise can help ease muscle tension, reduce soreness, and support faster recovery.
Start your day with a soak
Maybe the kids are home for summer, or it’s your first summer in retirement. Either way, this might be the season when you finally have time to ease into your day. Make the most of those slower mornings by starting with a soak in your hot tub. Grab your coffee — hot or iced, no judgment — and head out to the patio before the heat sets in. It’s a peaceful way to spend a few quiet minutes outdoors, practice a little mindful meditation, or even warm up your muscles before taking the dog for a walk.
Create a relaxing evening ritual
You dreamed about long summer nights during those cold, dark winter drives at 5 p.m. Now that they’re here, why not take advantage of them? Even if you get home late, there’s still time to slip into your spa and watch the sunset. The cooler evening air makes a soak feel especially soothing. Set the mood with string lights, soft music, and your favorite drink. Before long, your hot tub might just become your favorite way to unwind at the end of the day.
Enjoy low-key entertaining
Summer has a way of opening up space — for slower schedules, longer evenings, and more time with the people you care about. Whether it’s catching up with friends or spending time with family, this season invites you to be more present. Your hot tub can be the perfect spot to connect, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company. Keep a few extra towels and swimsuits on hand, and you’ll always be ready for impromptu get-togethers.
Don’t pack it up — just switch it up
A hot tub in the summer might not be your first instinct, but it can be one of the best ways to relax, recharge, and make the most of your backyard. Whether you’re focused on recovery, connection, or just a little “me time,” your spa can still deliver — even in the heat.
All it takes is a small tweak to your routine.
So go ahead: keep the water circulating, turn the temperature down, and enjoy a new season of hot tubbing.