Last year brought bumper sales for pools and hot tubs across the world. Trade soared by 25% as families sought ways to keep themselves entertained while hunkered down at home.
Are you ready to jump on the bandwagon? This is how to buy a hot tub that ticks all the boxes for you.
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How to Buy a Hot Tub That Fits Your Space
Many homeowners make the mistake of buying the first hot tub that catches their eye. For maximum enjoyment, it’s important to choose the perfect spot for your hot tub.
You need a structurally sound and level surface comprised of concrete, brick, pavers, or crushed rock. Whichever surface you choose, it needs to withstand the weight of a hot tub filled with water as well as the maximum number of occupants.
You can place your hot tub on a deck, as long as you reinforce it beforehand.
Remember, a hot tub needs a power source too. So make sure there’s a control panel with a 50-amp breaker and the ability to run 240-volts of power nearby. Most households run on 110-volt power, so there’s a good chance you might need an electrician’s help with this part.
When you’ve found a suitable spot, make a note of its dimensions, so you know how big a hot tub you can buy.
Size Considerations When Buying a Hot Tub
Most square hot tubs are between six and eight feet long. You’ll also need space to accommodate steps, a cover, and equipment to run the hot tub.
The number of seats you choose depends on how many people will use the hot tub at a time. It’s always better to over cater since you never know when unexpected guests will arrive for a dip.
If you want a lounge seat that allows you to recline, this option takes up the space of two ordinary seats.
Types of Hot Tubs
There are two main types of hot tubs – inground and above-ground tubs. Most homeowners prefer above ground hot tubs because they’re portable and easier to install.
Above-ground spas also offer more options when it comes to hydrotherapeutic features. They’re easy to maintain and the hard exterior shell’s durable and available in a range of attractive finishes.
These types of spas can accommodate up to 10 people.
If you decide on an inground hot tub, you’ll need to hire a contractor to help you install it and you can’t take it with you when you move.
You can also buy an inflatable hot tub from some retailers. These are a low-cost temporary option and could suit those who’re renting their home. You can use it either indoors or out and it’s easily transportable.
Naturally, these types of hot tubs have a short lifespan but they’re a fun option for those who haven’t laid down their roots yet.
You’ll find a variety of hot tubs for sale at furniture stores like watson.com, northeastfactorydirect.com, or homedepot.com as well as specialized spa retailers.
The Finer Details of Hot Tubs
One of the major benefits of owning a hot tub is its therapeutic qualities. These depend on how many jets you have in your hot tub.
High-powered jets that mix air and water give the best massages. The more jets you add, the lower the more your water pressure decreases, so you’ll have to add extra motors if you want to run a hot tub with many vigorous jets.
If you’re hoping for a deep tissue massage, consider whether you want the jets to focus on your shoulders, lower back, or feet.
These types of hot tubs will run up your energy bills considerably, so you’ll need to weigh up your options concerning affordability vs luxury.
Other luxurious extras available for spas include sound systems, lights, water features, and bubblers.
Your Options for Water Purification and Filtration
Stagnant water’s far from hygienic or relaxing, so keeping your spa clean and sanitized is a top priority. You’ll need a combination of chemicals and mechanical devices to pull this off.
The bigger your hot tub, the bigger the pump and filter system you’ll need. Bromine and chlorine work well to sanitize spas although chorine has a strong smell that’s off-putting for some.
There are a few other systems, like ozonation and specialized filters, that can help reduce the number of chemicals you need to keep your hot tub clean.
Microbe resistant filters are a good option since they’re easy to clean, don’t smell, and work more efficiently. Most hot tubs have one or two filters, but some may use up to five filters.
You should change your hot tub filter every year for the best results.
Keeping the Water Warm
Insulation’s an important aspect of any hot tub. Most hot tubs have a hollow shell that’s filled with insulating material designed to reduce energy consumption by reducing heat loss.
These foam-filled spas aren’t as efficient as modern roto-molded spas and are difficult to repair when necessary. Roto-molded spas feature insulated cabinets filled with air that captures heat from the pump motors.
A spa cover’s essential to keep your hot tub water warm when you’re not using it.
Now’s the Best Time to Buy a Hot Tub
Hopefully, this article answers most of your questions about how to buy a hot tub that meets your needs. Now that the frenzy’s died down a bit, you might even find a few sales and discounts available on last season’s hot tubs.
While you’re shopping around, never hesitate to ask the relevant hot tub suppliers for extra advice and information.
Keep browsing our blog for more ways to add a little luxury to your environment.