When Testing Goes Wrong: Stay Safe
Legionella
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
Purchase a Pool Tester?
Scuba3s - Smart electronic pool tester for precise, effortless pool and spa control
The Scuba3s takes the guesswork out of pool care, combining fast, reliable testing of all essential water parameters with wireless NFC and the Lovibond PoolAssistant app. Get instant results, helpful insights, and practical water-care guidance. With intuitive operation, a compact waterproof design, and smart mobile management, the Scuba3s keeps your pool water under control—quickly, confidently, and effortlessly.
Pool Testers - Fast, Accurate, and Easy to Use
The tester combines rapid-dissolving RAPID tablets with simultaneous measurement of water treatment agents and pH, delivering highly accurate results you can trust. Its intuitive design makes operation simple and straightforward, with clear instructions to guide you whenever needed. The ergonomically optimized lid ensures a secure grip for comfortable handling every time.
Tablet Refill Packs for Accurate Water Testing
Lovibond tablet refill packs are formulated to deliver fast-dissolving, highly accurate measurements you can rely on. Designed specifically for use with Lovibond testers and the Scuba3s, the tablets ensure consistent colour development for precise water quality analysis. Easy to handle and clearly labelled, they support quick testing, dependable results, and confident pool and spa water management.
