Spa pools and hot tubs are more popular than ever - perfect for those looking for the ultimate relaxation. But they aren't all luxury. Unfortunately, spa pool and hot tub legionella is more common than you'd think. Legionella thrives in warm environments, like hot tubs and can lead to legionnaires' disease. The symptoms usually include fever, chills and other flu-like symptoms, as well as pneumonia. It can be life threatening, particularly in those who are more vulnerable. Those who manage spa pools and similar facilities are responsible for the health and wellbeing of those using them. So, it’s worth reading up on the advice and guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Why does Legionella thrive in hot tubs and spa pools?

Legionella is found naturally in water and can be harmless, as long as the quantity is low. Certain temperatures allow legionella to grow and multiply, between 20 and 45 degrees, making hot tubs a natural breeding ground for the bacteria. The water in these types of pools usually forms a lot of water droplets as it is jetted around for a ‘massaging’ effect, making it easier for people to inhale the bacteria being spread around.

Another issue is that dead skin cells and other bacteria act as a food source for legionella, further creating the perfect environment for the bacteria to thrive. Usually, the water in hot tubs is not changed after each use, as you would with a bath. Again, this means that the water is more likely to start harbouring higher levels of legionella.

How to test for Legionella?

To ensure the safety of people using your facilities, it’s important to understand how to test hot tubs for legionella. You should test your pool or tub regularly to monitor the bacteria levels and confirm it’s safe to use.

Hot tub legionella testing is made easier with our Water Testing Kit. It can be ordered online and sent directly to your home, so you no longer have to waste your time going in store. Your testing kit only consists of two steps:

1. Collect water samples with the supplied bottles

2. Send them to our lab for free

Our scientists will do the rest!

You can email us or book a collection with our free courier service to send your samples over to us. We also provide a freepost bag that can be dropped off at your local post office. Once your samples are back in our lab, the samples are cultured for 10 days. Our laboratory is registered with the UK Accreditation Service and follows strict guidelines set by the HSE.

You’ll receive your verified results around 14 days after the collection of your samples. If the tests are clear, you’ll receive a certificate stating your spa or hot tub is safe for use. If they’re not, we can pass your results to water treatment specialists who can provide advice and assist you with getting your hot tub free of infection.

Protection from Legionella

When it comes to protection and preventing legionnaires’ disease, there are several things you can do. This applies whether you're a commercial owner of a spa pool or hot tub, or you have one in your home.

Our top tips:

1. If hot tubs aren’t flushed out after every use, we recommend keeping a lid on the tub. This reduces the chance of debris and dirt getting into the water when not in use.

2. Maintain the right amount of disinfectant and correct pH levels.

3. Organise regular sample testing. This will help you adjust the dosage of chemicals in your pool to keep your facilities safe. Our Legionella Control Scheme Pack is useful for this.

Expert Legionella Testing

If you'd like to learn more about Legionella Testing, contact our team.

Full discretion is assured, whatever the test results show, and although we only provide a test and report service, we do work with water treatment specialists. With your permission, we can forward your test results to them for their advice and recommendations.

Get in touch with our team and ensure your spa facilities stay safe and healthy.