Monday, AUGUST 11, 2025 |
Photo – Hobo Hot Pools – Courtesy Town of Saratoga
Saratoga officials address water temperature issues at the Hobo Hot Springs and public swimming pool.
Heated by underground geothermal activity, Saratoga’s Hobo Hot Springs consist of three separate bodies of water: the main pool, the not-so-hot pool, and the Lobster Pot, which is consistently much warmer than the rest of the site.
Recently, the not-so-hot pool, which, as the name suggests, is typically cooler than the main pool, has been measuring roughly four degrees warmer than usual, with temperatures regularly reaching up to 110 degrees.
During the August 5th Saratoga Town Council meeting, Public Works Director Emery Penner explained that the town uses geothermally heated water to fill its outdoor public swimming pool. When that water is pumped back into the system, it raises the temperature of the not-so-hot pool. Penner said the town will attempt to use less underground water to fill the swimming pool next year.
Public Works Director Penner was hired in August of 2023. Since that time, Penner said he has developed a greater familiarity with the Hobo Hot Springs plumbing system. With that knowledge, the Public Works Director said he plans to determine the best method to fill the swimming pool without causing temperature fluctuations at the hot springs.
Mayor Chuck Davis moved onto the topic of the public swimming pool, saying that water aerobics attendees have reported the water is too cold during morning sessions. Mayor David suggested installing an insulated cover to prevent the pool from losing heat overnight.
Public Works Director Penner agreed that an insulated cover is the most effective way to retain the pool’s warmth overnight. Penner said he will prepare a cost estimate for a pool cover and present it at a future Town Council meeting.
