When is it Warm Enough to Swim?

When is the water warm enough to swim in? According to the National Oceanographic Data Center, 70-78 degrees is where most people feel comfortable swimming. I have found that a water temperature of 70-78 degrees is a bit cold for most of us north Texans. Most prefer somewhere between 80-84 degrees, but it really depends on the individual and what type of swimming is being done.

Competitive swimming

Most competitive swimmers like the water to be fairly cold, somewhere in the low to mid 70’s, depending on the intensity of the training. At these temperatures, the water will feel cold initially but once training begins, the body will heat up.

Lap swimming for exercise

Most lap swimmers like the water temperature to be somewhere between 75-80 degrees. Being active by swimming laps will cause the body to heat up fairly quickly.

Casual swimming

Most casual swimming pool users like the water in the 84-86 degree range. Hotels and resorts typically try to maintain their pool water temperature in this range.

Warm water swimming

There are some people that like the water to be in the low 90’s before they are real comfortable in the water. Many pools in the north Texas area, especially pools without shade, reach the low 90’s in July and August. Occasionally we will have a summer where the water temperature of unshaded swimming pools reaches the mid 90’s-which is very warm. This warm water can cause some problems-as warm water is also more prone to chemical imbalances, and require more maintenance and upkeep than water that is colder. Chlorine in colder water lasts longer than in warm water.

Of course, for those who heat their pools this time of year, comfortable swimming is already occurring, especially on warm days. Heaters (in the north Texas area) can stretch the swim season from 5-6 months per year to 8-9 months per year, meaning that you can swim from March/April thru October/November. Gas pool heaters have always dominated the market, but in more recent years, electric heat pumps have increased in popularity. There are pros and cons of each of these two types of heaters. If you think you might be interested in learning more, please let us know and we will be glad to consult with you about your particular situation.