(Albany, NY) – Governor Kathy Hochul of New York signed AB8646 into law on November 23, creating a path for spa and hot tub owners to safely meet state barrier requirements through the use of ASTM 1346 compliant safety covers. This is the same requirement as found in the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) and the next edition of the International Property Maintenance Code.

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), the International Hot Tub Association (IHTA), and the Northeast Spa & Pool Association (NESPA) played an integral role in the passing of this law. The three associations, along with PHTA’s New York-based public affairs firm, held meetings with the staff of both Governor Hochul and previous governor Andrew Cuomo, New York Department of State regulators, and legislators on this topic. All parties agreed that a statutory change was appropriate.

“This update to New York law ensures that the state will now harmonize with the ISPSC and other state codes on the issue of spa cover requirements,” says Nathan Coelho, Chair of the IHTA Engineering Committee and Vice President of Engineering at Master Spas LLC. “This is a significant win for spa owners and the industry.”

The legislation was passed unanimously by both the New York State Assembly and New York State Senate before arriving on Governor Hochul’s desk. It went into effect immediately on November 23 after the signing.

For more information, please contact Amy Willer, PHTA’s Associate Director of Marketing and Communications, at [email protected] or 703-838-0083, ext. 121.

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About the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), a non-profit organization with more than 3,600 members from around the world, was established in 1956 to support, promote, and protect the common interests of the $36.5B pool, hot tub, and spa industry. PHTA provides education, advocacy, standards development, research, and market growth to increase our members’ professionalism, knowledge, and profitability. Additionally, PHTA facilitates the expansion of swimming, water safety, and related research and outreach activities aimed at introducing more people to swimming, making swimming environments safer, and keeping pools open to serve communities. For more information, visit www.phta.org.

A recall is in place for 23,700 hot tubs because of temperature sensors that may not accurately reflect how hot the water truly is. About 5,400 were sold in Canada and 40 sold in Mexico.

Sundance Spas 680, 780, 880, and 980 Series spas and the Jacuzzi J-200, J-300, J-400, and J-500 collection hot tubs are included in the recall, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

From July 2021 to December 2022, the hot tubs were sold via authorized Sundance Spas or Jacuzzi Hot Tubs dealers around the country.

Why A Recall of Jacuzzi and Sundance Spas?

The recall was started after receiving 185 separate reports of incorrect temperature readings. According to one owner of a Jacuzzi J-355, the hot tub’s temperature gauge read 101 degrees Fahrenheit, yet as soon as they got inside, they reported it was searing hot. The water’s real temperature was 126 degrees Fahrenheit, according to a kitchen thermometer they used.

Another Sundance Spa 780 series owner claimed that although the temperature was set at 98 degrees Fahrenheit, the water felt unbearably hot. According to tests they conducted, the water’s real temperature was actually 107 degrees Fahrenheit.

For years, the CPSC has cautioned people about the risks associated with hot tub water that is too hot. The commission stated that hot tub water temps should never go above 104 degrees Fahrenheit in a news release from 1979.

The hot tubs are currently being fixed by Sundance Spas, Inc., also known as Jacuzzi Hot Tubs. They advise owners to use an accurate external thermometer to verify the water temperature is no greater than 104 degrees before entering the hot tub in order to prevent injuries and burns until that repair can be scheduled.

The serial number and model are engraved into a silver plate in the equipment bay of the hot tubs. To identify hot tubs with the recalled sensor, people can enter their serial number into the recall links at www.sundancespas.com/en-us/recall.html or www.jacuzzi.com/en-us/recall.html. For hot tubs with the affected temperature sensor, consumers should contact an authorized dealer to schedule a free repair to replace the sensor.

From 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday, anybody with inquiries can call Sundance Spas at 800-549-1502 or send an email to [email protected] for Jacuzzi products or [email protected] for Sundance Spas brands.

If you’re looking for a way to relax and destress, aromatherapy for your hot tub or spa might be the perfect solution for you! Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to promote healing and well-being. People have been using aromatherapy for centuries to improve their health and wellbeing. There are many ways to enjoy aromatherapy, but one of our favorite methods is by using it in our hot tubs and spas! In this article, we will discuss the benefits of aromatherapy, how to use it in your spa or hot tub, and some of our favorite essential oils scents.

Aromatherapy in Your Spa

Did you realize you can detect over a trillion different scents? Certain fragrances or scents have a physiological influence on humans. They have the ability to calm, revitalize, and create a sense of well-being. Certain scents are also known to induce a sensuous or euphoric state, particularly in individuals who are already relaxing in a hot tub.

Aromatherapy has many benefits, but one of the most popular reasons people use it is to relax and destress. If you’re looking for a way to unwind after a long day, aromatherapy might be the perfect solution for you! There are many different ways to enjoy aromatherapy, but one of our favorite methods is by using it in our hot tubs and spas. In this article, we will discuss how to use essential oils in your spa or hot tub for relaxation and destress relief.

Essential Oils For Your Spa & Hot Tub

There are many different essential oils that can be used for relaxation and destress relief. To use essential oils in your spa or hot tub, simply add a few drops to the water. You can also add a few drops to a diffuser if you prefer. If you’re looking for a more potent aromatherapy experience, you can add a few drops of essential oil to your bathtub.

For those looking for an easy way to enjoy all of the benefits of aromatherapy, using essential oils for your hot tub, spa or sauna is a great option, according to Spa Huset Norway. “Certain smells can definitely improve your mood and overall wellbeing, using your spa in combination with aromatherapy has been proven to have great health benefits,” said General Manager, Monthy Pedersen.

Our favorite aromatherapy scents for Hot Tubs & Spas:

Lavender

Lavender has been used for thousands of years, ever since the Romans introduced it into their baths. It’s a well-known antiseptic that can be used to cure minor infections, including candida, but it’s primarily used to relax the mind. Lavender aromatherapy can aid with sleep issues, depression, and anxiety. It relieves muscle pain, cramps, migraines, and other head and body pain as a circulatory stimulant. Lavender is also beneficial to the skin. It promotes skin cell regeneration and is used to heal scars and stretch marks, as well as rashes, sunburns, and skin infections.

InSPAration Lavender Crystals-Epsom Salts

• Uses an aromatherapy crystal blend designed exclusively for spas, hot tubs, and jetted baths.
• Vitamins, minerals, and natural extracts have been added to this product.
• Softens the skin and revitalizes fatigued muscles.
• Masks chemical odors while not staining or harming wood, fiberglass, acrylics, or plaster.
• There are no oils in it, so it will not clog filters or change the chemistry of the water.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus leaves have long been utilized in ancient societies to relieve aches and pains and to alleviate altitude sickness. Early Incas bathed in natural hot springs loaded with eucalyptus leaves in Peru’s highlands. Eucalyptus, like peppermint, contains camphor and can be used to treat sore throats, sinus problems, illness, and fever.

Eucalyptus Fragrance – 9 oz

• Eucalyptus spa infusion oil.
• A beautiful aroma can enhance your spa experience.
• Specifically formulated for use in a hot tub.
• The water chemistry in the spa will not be affected.

Jasmine

Jasmine is a seductive and sensual floral fragrance that is rich and warm. It has a long history of being used as an aphrodisiac, and I can see why! Jasmine is a wonderfully exotic smell that is also known as ‘Mistress of the Night’ or ‘Moonlight of the Grove’ since its alluring scent is strongest at night. When you put Jasmine in a hot tub, you might be inviting your sweetheart to join you! Jasmine is sweet, delicate, and seductive.

• Safe for all acrylics, jets, pumps, and filters.
• Masks chemical odors; has no effect on pH; does not foam or bubble in water; There are no oils in this product, and it leaves no oily residue.
• It has no effect on the chemistry of water.
• Natural Aloe Vera Extract, Vitamins E and C, and RX Formula for a Therapeutic Body Experience

Mint

Mint is one of the most popular aromatic herbs, with applications ranging from food and drinks to lip balm. The British Journal of Medicine reported in 1879 that menthol fumes relieved headaches and nerve pain. It promotes alertness and concentration, and it could be ideal after a hard day to prepare for a long evening. Peppermint stimulates blood flow, alleviates itching, and relieves arthritic cramps and muscle discomfort. It’s also healthy for your skin because it stimulates natural skin oil production.

• Aromatherapy crystals for spas, hot tubs, and jetted baths
• Contains vitamins, minerals, and natural skin-softening ingredients.
• Tired muscles are revitalized, and the body is relaxed.
• Non-oily – will not clog filters or change the chemistry of water.
• Amazing scents – no more chemical odors!

Aromatherapy can help:

• Relieve stress and anxiety
• Improve mood and energy levels
• Promote better sleep
• Boost immunity
• Relieve pain and tension headaches

Getting Started With Aromatherapy & Hydrotherapy

If you’re tired, run-down, or even depressed, you’ve probably already tried a few things to lift your spirits and your overall health. Aromatherapy, with its many benefits, should not be underestimated when it comes to improving your overall well-being. Hydrotherapy (the use of warm water to treat a variety of health issues) used in conjunction with scented oils have been shown to improve health, decrease stress, increase serotonin, and improve overall well-being. Simply add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the water before you get in to enjoy therapeutic and relaxing aromatherapy in your hot tub or spa.

Step 1

Gather up everything you’ll need for your hydrotherapy session. Bring a bathing suit, a towel, a bottle of water, a book, a movie, or music, flip flops, and your favorite aromatherapy scents. Bring along a basket to store your personal items so that they can be easily moved to your hot tub area and then brought back inside. This eliminates the need to leave the hot tub for a drink or other activity if you become bored or thirsty.

Step 2

Allow your spa fragrances to dissolve and blend with the water for the appropriate amount of time. While you wait, put on your beach suit, get ready for your activity, and set any mobile devices to “do not disturb” if you want to unplug and disconnect from technology. If you don’t have your mobile device with you, notify at least one person that you will be in the hot tub for safety.

Step 3

Enter the hot tub, activate the jets, and unwind. Allow your body to acclimate to your new surroundings and simply let the stress slip away. Once you’ve felt rejuvenated and relaxed, use your activity to entertain yourself, or simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the sounds of nature or your predetermined music.

Step 4

Spend some time observing your surroundings. Enjoy the splendor of your magnificent backyard landscape, the sounds of nature, and the aromatherapy spa scents. Consider what the fragrance means to you and allow the scents and relaxing hydrotherapy to do its thing.

Step 5

Take your time exiting the spa when you’ve finished relaxing in the hot tub. Sit on the ledge for a few minutes as you dry off with your towel. Enjoy the last few minutes of aromatherapy as you acclimatize to the outside temperature. Close your spa cover and carry your belongings inside, eliminating the need to return outside—unless, of course, you want to relax on your patio furniture and enjoy a lovely evening outdoors.