What is the best pool water temperature? That’s like asking, who is your favorite child! The swimming pool contractors from Seahorse Pools in Fort Worth, Texas know that the “perfect” water temperature for a swimming pool is different for each and every person who uses the pool.

There are guidelines that can help a pool owner work toward that temperature that will be acceptable to anyone who uses it, but it still may be too warm for some and too cool for others. It’s a delicate balancing act.

If you’re not a member of any Polar Bear club — those who swim in frozen waters in the winter time, you will probably want the water temperature much warmer than that! At the other end of the spectrum is the water in Iceland’s Blue Lagoon where the water is at hot as 113 degrees F. Settling on a water temperature between these two extremes should be easy, right?

Keep in mind that the temperature of the water will not only impact the enjoyment you get while you’re swimming, but can also have a major impact on your body. Water that is too cold can lead to hypothermia and water that is too hot is dehydrating and can lead to health issues. Colder water is said to help you burn calories faster, if that is a concern, you may opt for cooler water temps. Water that is too warm can also lead to muscle spasms.

What is the best pool water temperature?

Pool water temperatures that are on the warmer end of the scale allow you to enjoy the water without causing shock to your system. Some pool contractors recommend starting the water temperatures at around 80 degrees F. Swim in that water for a few days to see if it feels comfortable. Is the pool water refreshing when you swim? Does it feel like you’re “sweating” while you’re swimming laps?

Swimming laps may require a cooler water temperature. If you have children in the water and if you use the pool for fun family activities rather than swimming laps or for aerobic sessions, you may want the water a bit warmer.

Choose a temperature then use the pool for a few days. Gauge how those who use the pool feel about the temperature, then adjust from there. Adjusting by only one or two degrees can have a major impact so don’t go from 80 degrees to 75 degrees all at once — gradual temperature changing is best.

What is the perfect water temperature that your family has agreed upon?