Keep Testing – Keep Control – Keep Safe
Keep Testing – Keep Control – Keep Safe
Don’t let the dream turn in a nightmare!
Don’t let the dream turn in a nightmare!
Question: How can owning a Hot Tub turn into a nightmare? Answer: Legionella
Question: What is the Nightmare? Answer: Headlines like this
Three killed after catching Legionnaires' disease from garden centre's display HOT TUB which hadn't been cleaned properly
Three killed after catching Legionnaires' disease from garden centre's display HOT TUB which hadn't been cleaned properly
Although we don’t like to talk about it there is a risk of catching Legionella from a hot tub. The risk is elevated if the hot tub is not looked after correctly, the water tested correctly, filters kept clean and pipework flushed through regularly.
What is Legionella? Legionella is a genus of pathogenic bacteria that includes the species L. pneumophila, causing legionellosis including a pneumonia-type illness called Legionnaires' disease.
What are the Symptoms? They are very similar to a flu but can be very severe and in some cases could be fatal. Symptoms include:
- High temperature, feverishness and chills
- Cough
- Muscle pains
- Headache; and leading on to
- Pneumonia, very occasionally
- Diarrhoea and signs of mental confusion
How do you become infected?
You can catch Legionnaires' disease if you breathe in tiny droplets of water containing bacteria. This is why Hot Tubs are a risk. Most tubs feature jets and sprays that produce water droplets or aerosols, which can be ‘breathed’ in. Most tubs also contain a lot of pipework, which means there is a chance of stagnant water. Legionella loves warm, stagnant water to live in. The bacteria multiplies you then turn on the jets and ‘whose’ a nice blast of the legionella bug right at head height.
Scary Stuff! However, you must remember the risk is minimal if you look after the water correctly. This starts with correct treatment and testing. If you maintain the disinfectant levels and have the correct pH then the Legionella bug doesn’t stand a chance as it will be zapped straight away. Cut corners on treatment and testing then the risk increases. Also flushing the pipework through regularly rather than leaving for long periods stops the legionella forming biofilm colonies.
Hot Tub Rash
Hot Tub rash is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and can occur if your skin is in contact with contaminated water. Sometime it is referred to as Pseudomonas folliculitis. It can occur a few days after you have used the hot tub, can affect people of any age and symptoms include an itchy red bumpy rash and perhaps blisters round the hair follicles. The infection can be very unpleasant and the blisters can be ‘pussy’. Mild cases can clear up quickly but more severe infections can need medical attention.
Pseudomonas can thrive in poorly maintained water so reduce the risk the following precautions should be taken:
- Test the water correctly using a DPD and Phenol Red based test kit
- Make sure the disinfectant is working efficiently (i.e. correct free chlorine and pH levels)
- If the free chlorine or PH is incorrect correct and retest before using the pool or hot tub
- Shower before and after use
- Wash swimming costumes immediately after use
Take the hassle out of getting your test kit or refill packs. Order online and get them delivered directly to your home.
Would you prefer to head down to your local pool or hot tub shop? If so we've listed some of our preferred suppliers for you. Take a look and see if there is a shop local to you.
The Lovibond® Compact Pool Test Kit enables you to measure accurately the key parameters of chlorine, pH and bromine easily and accurately ensuring your water is safe for all users. Suitable for all pool and hot tubs.
The Scuba II takes testing to the next level as the meter gives a digital readout taking away the need to compare colours. This handheld unit is easy to use and will measure chlorine (free and total), bromine, pH plus total alkalinity and cyanuric acid making it a must for all pool and hot tub users.
A firm favourite with pool users for many years the Lovibond® Pooltester gives accurate readings for chlorine and pH. The large blocks means colour matching is easier for enhanced user confidence.
If you are running low on tablets then our re-fill packs will be just what you need. Available for all of our test kits these handy packs will ensure you can keep on top of your water testing.
