What is the perfect pool water temperature? No matter who you ask in the family, you will probably get a different answer. How can you find the perfect pool water temperature? The swimming pool contractors from Advanced Pools, Inc. in Memphis, Tennessee say it’s a subjective question, but you can find a way to make it “perfect” for everyone who swims. Hint: They might not even notice a difference if you drop the water temp by a degree or two BUT your utility bill will certainly be better for it!
Find the perfect pool water temperature
You certaintly don’t want to have the pool water too cold — that would not be enjoyable — even if you were actively swimming laps. You also don’t want the pool water to be too warm — it won’t be refreshing and it will also feel like you’re in a bathtub. There is a happy medium that you can find that will probably suit the whole family and your guests.
Pool water that is too “hot” is water that is in the 90 degree range. That is almost bathtub temperatures and is a little lower than you might have in your family hot tub. To compare water temperatures, Olympic swimmers typically swim in water that is between 77 and 85 degrees. If the temperatures are warmer, the athlete’s body’s can perform at peak endurance. If it’s too warm it can be dangerous. Lower temperatures can lead to swollen joints and limbs.
There are those intrepid swimmers who take to the frozen waters in lakes and rivers and although you definitely burn more calories if you swim in cooler water, it is not comfortable or enjoyable for most people.
Our bodies can adapt to varying degrees of pool water temperatures, but the trick is to be able to get into water that is cool — it’s not enjoyable for that first plunge — unless, of course it’s is desert hot outside — then it might be a relief.
When you’re in the pool and not swimming laps, a warmer temperature is more enjoyable than is a cooler temperature. Start at water that is in the upper 80 degree range and see if that is comfortable for everyone. Swim around in that temperature for a few days and see how you feel about it. If it’s too cool, raise it by a degree or two. If it’s too warm, drop it a degree or two. Don’t make any drastic temperature increases or decreases or it will feel like a shock.
The “perfect” water temperature is the one that your family can all agree upon. It is the temperature that makes for refreshing swim time, but that doesn’t have you thinking you might as well just take a dip in the hot tub. Choose a temperature. Live with it for a few days, then adjust as necessary.
