Swimming Pool Water Temperatures

A large number of people own swimming pools today. They love to beat the hot summer days by plunging into the cool, refreshing swimming pool water. However, seasons change and winter follows the lovely summer months. The swimming season is confined to the atmospheric temperatures. Various pool thermometers are available to measure the swimming pool water temperature. There is the hanging, floating and digital thermometers which help gauge the water temperature. However, it is quite difficult to identify the perfect pool water temperature, as each person has his or her own preferences. Moreover, the ideal pool temperature will also vary depending on the geographical location and the season.

The American Red Cross suggests that 78° F is appropriate for swimming. But, this temperature is ideal for competitive swimming and is quite chilly for regular swimming. Water at 78° F is ideal for competitive swimming as the cold water promotes heavier breathing and faster heartbeat in order to keep warm. Even for the most adventurous swimmers, 65° F is unbearably cold.

On the other hand, for regular swimming an average swimming pool temperature of 80-84° F is most suited. In cold regions, hotel and resorts maintain the outdoor pool's temperature around 84-86° F, for visitors to enjoy swimming leisurely. In case of lap swimming, the appropriate temperature in cold regions is 80-82° F (to avoid overheating). In warmer regions, the temperature of outdoor swimming pools is maintained at around 75° F for lap swimming. For regular swimmers, 80-84° F is appropriate. The temperature is not fixed, but varies according to factors like wind, etc.

For indoor swimming pools, the exact temperature will depend on the humidity inside the building. Cases where the indoor humidity is high, the temperature of the pool needs to be lower, in order to prevent overheating of the body. The temperature must be within a range of 75-85° F. As far as intense swimmers are concerned, they have to choose their own pool water temperatures on the basis of the type and intensity of training. Generally, intense swimmers maintain the water temperature at 73° F.

It is a pity to close the pools after the summer months. However, today it's possible to extend the swimming season beyond the conventional swimming season. The sun alone is not enough to keep the pool water warm during cold weather. Various pool heating devices are available in the market today which can be used for swimming pool temperature control. Swimming pool heating systems such as electric, gas or or solar powered heating devices are available. The type and size of the heating equipments will depend on the pool type and size. Solar swimming pool covers or solar blankets can be placed over the pool water to keep the water warm.

Increasing pool temperature has its effects on pool maintenance, which have to be kept in mind as well. Higher temperatures means higher rate of water evaporation. One will have to fill more water to ensure water in the skimmers. High temperatures and high evaporation rate also lead to the quicker consumption of chlorine and other sanitizing agents from the pool water. Algae also love to grow in warmer temperatures, making it necessary to vacuum and clean the pool more often.

A warm, temperature controlled pool can triple the comfort of the swimming season. With the pool heaters and covers, one can relax and enjoy pleasant swimming beyond the conventional summer months.