Enjoying Your Softub in Winter: A Guide to Safe Soaking
There’s nothing quite like the experience of sinking into a warm Softub during the chilly winter months. It offers a delightful contrast to the biting cold outside, allowing you to unwind and relax. Just as you yearn for a refreshing swim in a cool pool during the summer heat, a Softub serves as the perfect retreat after a frosty day. While indulging in a steamy soak on a cold day is inviting, there are essential precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for you and your loved ones.
Make sure your Softub has a clear and easily accessible path during winter. Avoid placing it beneath tree branches that could ice over or near rooftops that may accumulate snow, which could potentially fall into your tub. Limit your soaking sessions to 15 minutes at a time and consider keeping the water temperature a few degrees lower than you would in the fall or summer.
Choosing the Right Location
One of the most significant advantages of a Softub over traditional hard hot tubs is its portability. Since it connects to a standard 110-Volt outlet and is light enough for one person to move, it can be positioned almost anywhere you have access to power. Consider your current setup and whether you’d prefer to relocate your Softub for different seasons. Here are several key factors to contemplate:
Indoors
Some individuals opt to bring their Softub indoors during winter for added convenience. If you have a space such as a garage or a water-resistant spare room, this can be an excellent choice. It minimizes weather-related issues, eliminating concerns about falling branches, ice on the cover, or the discomfort of braving the cold when entering or exiting the tub. However, many people still prefer the outdoor experience, enjoying the beauty of snowflakes falling as they relax in their Softub.
Distance From the House
In warmer months, you might position your Softub further away from the house, perhaps near a pool or a recreational area with horseshoes, volleyball, or a playground. However, during winter, consider moving it closer to your home. This adjustment makes for a more enjoyable experience in frigid temperatures, as it reduces the distance you must walk through the cold.
Accessibility
If you have a concrete slab right outside your back door where the Softub can fit, this could be an ideal winter location. If not, ensure there’s a clear, unobstructed path to it. Keep waterproof boots or non-slip footwear nearby to prevent slipping, as water from the tub can freeze and create hazards when exiting.
Terrain
It’s crucial to place your Softub on level, flat ground, free from rocks, sticks, and other debris that could damage its base. If there are trees nearby, select a location that isn’t directly beneath heavy branches. This is especially important in areas prone to severe winter storms, where falling limbs could cause significant damage.
Rooftop Considerations
In regions where heavy snow can accumulate on rooftops, this can pose risks. Roofs can become burdened with several inches of snow, sometimes leading to collapses during severe storms. Additionally, the snow can slide off roofs, potentially causing an avalanche effect. If your Softub is positioned where falling snow could land, it could lead to injury or damage.
Electricity Access
Ensure that you have access to a 110-Volt electrical outlet located at least 6 feet away from the Softub to comply with most municipal codes. While an outdoor plug is ideal, an indoor outlet will suffice. Avoid using extension cords while the tub is in operation, as this can void the pump’s warranty by causing it to overheat and shorten its lifespan.
Water Availability
Consider how you’ll fill your Softub in its chosen location. While it may seem obvious, being several hundred feet away from the nearest outdoor faucet can create challenges. You’ll need to account for water evaporation, splashes, and periodic changes. If necessary, invest in long hoses to ensure ease of access to water.
Weather Considerations
Weather can be unpredictable, so placing your Softub in a somewhat protected area is wise. While you can’t control the weather, you can certainly prepare for it. For instance, I live in an area where winter conditions can change dramatically, so I ensure my Softub is positioned to withstand potential storms.
Wind Protection
Cold north winds can make winter soaking uncomfortable. If possible, position your Softub near a fence or structure that blocks these winds. An area sheltered on multiple sides will enhance your comfort level, especially during extreme cold fronts.
Managing Slippery Conditions
As temperatures drop, the ground can freeze, creating hazards when entering or exiting the Softub. Keep some salt handy to sprinkle on pathways to ensure safety. Also, be aware that splashes from the tub can freeze, increasing the risk of slipping.
Water Temperature Management
The Softub can heat water up to a maximum of 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and it may even rise an additional degree or two while sitting. While these temperatures are enjoyable during summer evenings, it’s advisable to lower the water temperature slightly in winter months. Aim for a range of 99 to 102 degrees, which will feel pleasantly warm against the cold air.
Limiting Soaking Time
Regardless of the season, spending prolonged periods in a hot tub can be a health risk. I recommend limiting sessions to around 30 minutes in summer and 15 minutes in winter. Factors such as underlying medical conditions should be discussed with a physician to determine safe soaking durations. In winter, your exposed extremities may cool rapidly, leading to a quicker rise in core body temperature. If you feel dizzy or uncomfortable, exit the tub temporarily but feel free to return after a short break.
Avoiding Frozen Jets
If you choose not to use your Softub during winter, take steps to prevent damage. Keep the water in the tub and maintain a temperature of around 50 degrees to prevent freezing. This will also help keep the pump circulating to avoid algae growth. Regular checks are essential to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Indoor Storage Option
If you prefer not to run the Softub during winter, consider storing it indoors. Disconnect the hoses and roll it into a garage or small room. Do not drain it and leave it outside, as residual water could freeze and cause damage to the unit.
Final Thoughts
A Softub is designed for year-round enjoyment, and winter is no exception. With a few thoughtful considerations, you can ensure a fun and safe experience, regardless of the weather. If you decide against using it during the colder months, be sure to store it properly to avoid any damage from freezing temperatures.
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