How to Cool Down Your Spa in Summer: Expert Tips for Lowering Spa Temperature

When summer arrives, your spa can become too hot to enjoy, but that doesn't mean you need to drain it or shut it down. Instead, by cooling down your spa pool, you can enjoy a refreshing and relaxing experience even during warmer weather. This guide will show you how to effectively cool your spa, so you can use it all year long, no matter the temperature outside.

In this article, we'll cover practical ways to lower your spa’s temperature, from using cold water to implementing heat pump systems that can reduce the temperature to as low as 5°C.

Key Takeaways:

• Adjust temperature settings: Lower your spa’s set temperature using the controller to the lowest available setting.
• Use a heat pump: Cool the water to as low as 5°C, turning your spa into a refreshing cold plunge.
• Add cold water or ice: Drain some water and add cold water, or use frozen containers to chill the spa.
• Remove your spa cover: Take the cover off temporarily to prevent heat buildup and release heat.
• Shade your spa: Use umbrellas or pergolas to block direct sunlight.

To learn more about these effective strategies for cooling your spa, including step-by-step tips on using heat pumps, adding cold water, and creating shade, continue reading below.

You'll find practical solutions to keep your spa at the perfect temperature all summer long.

Disclaimer: While Spa World provides this information for your convenience, always follow your spa manufacturer’s guidelines and consult a professional for any major adjustments to your spa system.

Watch: How to run a spa pool in warmer weather

Why Cool Your Spa in Summer?

A spa pool doesn’t just have to be for winter. Many spa owners enjoy cooling their spas during the summer months to create a more refreshing experience. Lowering the water temperature can help you beat the heat while still enjoying the benefits of hydrotherapy, relaxation, and quality time with family and friends. Plus, cooling your spa can reduce your energy consumption during the warmer months, as the heater won’t need to work as hard.

How to Cool Your Spa Pool in Summer: 6 Effective Tips

1. Adjust the spa temperature

The first thing you’ll want to do is adjust the temperature on your spa’s control panel. See the manual for your spa model for specific instructions. Most modern spa controllers allow you to easily reduce the water temperature by pressing the down arrow on the touchpad.

Make sure to give the water some time to adjust, as cooling it down might take a full day in hot weather. During extremely high temperatures, your spa may struggle to cool, so follow the additional steps below.

2. Add cold water to your spa to cool it down

If you’re in need of a quick fix, you can manually add cold water to your spa to lower the temperature. Simply drain some of the warm water and replace it with cold water from your hose. This is especially helpful if your spa has been in direct sunlight and has heated up more than expected.

Tip: Use this method sparingly to avoid affecting the chemical balance of your spa water. After adding fresh water, you’ll need to check and adjust the water balance to maintain ideal pH and alkalinity levels.

3. Add ice to cool down your spa or hot tub

If you prefer a more fun approach, add ice! You can either add ice directly or freeze containers like milk cartons filled with water. These giant ice packs will lower the temperature without affecting the water balance as much as ice cubes might.

4. Shade your spa for natural cooling and sun protection

Shading your spa is an excellent long-term solution for keeping the water cool. An umbrella with an adjustable canopy is a great option, as you can re-position it to block sunlight throughout the day.

Additionally, placing your spa near natural shade, such as a tree, can make a difference.

Be aware however, if you place it under trees you’re likely to have issues with leaves falling into the spa water which can cause issues with filters and water quality. That’s why at Spa World, we always recommend shading your spa with either an umbrella or pergola.

Consider using pergolas for more permanent shading solutions. They add a stylish touch to your outdoor space while protecting your spa from the sun. Check out pergolas at Spa World to provide lasting shade for your spa.

Umbrellas are also a great option, especially if you want to move it around with the sun. Explore Spa World's range of outdoor umbrellas to keep your spa shaded and cool during summer.

5. Remove the spa cover for a colder spa pool

Removing your spa cover can help release trapped heat and allow the water to cool faster.

However, keep in mind that the cover also protects your spa from debris, UV rays, and water contamination. Make sure your spa is fenced for safety if you opt to remove the cover.

Learn more about how to take care of your spa cover in this article.

6. Use a heat pump to cool the spa water

Just like reverse-cycle air conditioners, heat pumps can operate in reverse to cool your spa water. They extract heat from the water and release it into the surrounding air, offering one of the most energy-efficient methods to regulate temperature.

This is particularly useful during hot weather when maintaining a comfortable spa temperature can be challenging.

With a heat pump, you can cool your spa water to as low as 5°C, effectively transforming your spa into a cold plunge pool or ice bath.

All Vortex and Fisher™ spa pools are heat pump compatible, giving you the flexibility to enjoy cool water in summer or warm relaxation in winter.

Learn more about Spa World heat pumps and how they can enhance your spa experience year-round​.

FAQs about cooling down a spa pool

Q: Can I use my spa year-round by keeping it cool in summer?

Yes! By adjusting the water temperature or using a spa chiller, you can easily enjoy your spa year-round, even during the hot summer months. Cooling your spa can provide a relaxing alternative to traditional hot spa sessions.

Q: What should my spa pool temperature be in summer?

For most people, a comfortable spa temperature in summer ranges between 28°C and 32°C (82°F to 89°F). However, personal preference plays a big role. For those who prefer a cooler experience, setting the temperature closer to 26°C (78°F) can be more refreshing. Find out more. Read our article about spa pool temperatures.

Q: Will cooling down my spa affect its energy efficiency?

In many cases, cooling your spa can improve energy efficiency, as you won’t need to run the heater as often. Plus, if you decide to install a spa heat pump to both heat and cool your spa water, you'll end up saving mondy on energy costs in the long-term.

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can enjoy a refreshing, cool spa even during the hottest months.

From adjusting the settings to using ice or turning your spa into a cold plunge pool or ice bath with a heat pump, small adjustments can make a significant difference.

Whether you prefer a light cool down or an invigorating cold plunge, Spa World's heat pump-compatible spa pools offer the flexibility you need. Ready to upgrade your spa experience?

Visit a Spa World showroom or contact our expert team online today for personalised advice.