Hot Tub Buying Guide

There are several benefits to owning a hot tub that may make it a worthwhile investment for you. 

From relaxing and alleviating stress to the range of health benefits they provide, Hot Tubs are a great way to improve your overall well-being. 

Of course they also provide a great venue for socializing with your family and friends (you may find that you have more than you remembered). 

Another benefit of Hot Tubs is their year round use. Even during the colder months, they can provide a warm and relaxing escape. 

Plus they can help increase your home value. Most potential homebuyers see a hot tub as an added luxury. 

Now that we've established why a Hot Tub would be a great purchase, lets looks at some considerations you'll need to make before purchasing... 

When searching for the right Hot Tub for your home, the first step is to determine where it will be located in your yard. You will need a solid surface, such as patio stones or concrete, with access to electrical.

Hot tubs come in a wide variety of sizes from 2 seaters to 7+ seaters. Prior to purchasing a hot tub, decide what the main use will be. The number of people you plan on having in your spa at once is a large factor in deciding the size that it will need to be.

Are you looking for a therapy tub or a party tub? 

Take the size of your backyard and your social life into consideration. If you plan on entertaining frequently, the largest size for your space may be the best option for you.

The average hot tub runs a little under $13,000. You need to factor in the upfront investment as well as the cost to maintain and power your hot tub year-round, which is usually around $40/month.

There are hot tubs out there for $6,000 all the way up to $28,000 and everything in between. Now, before you get too excited about this addition to your outdoor space, create a realistic budget for how much you can spend on the hot tub. 

Costs include the cost of purchasing the hot tub itself and any work required to prepare the space for its arrival (this can include installation of electrical outlets or proper flooring for the spa to sit on). 

The costs associated with regularly maintaining your hot tub are examples of the long-term expenses that you should expect to incur as a spa owner.

Like with any purchase, there’s always a risk for something to go wrong or break. Should this happen, you’ll want immediate maintenance for your hot tub. Therefore getting a good warranty is essential. 

Reputable manufacturers will carry lifetime warranties for the hot tub shell and many years of coverage for the electrical and mechanical components. Be sure that you get sufficient coverage for your hot tub choice.

Not every hot tub comes equipped with the same features. Hot tub technology is always making advances. You can purchase amazing add on features such as mood lights, waterfalls, stereos, many types of jets and more for your hot tub.

Rank quality over quantity. For example, a more efficient heater will reduce the monthly cost of maintenance and extend the spa’s life.

Of course, features align closely with the price. Warranties fall into this category, too. Know how well protected your purchase will be and for how long.

Your hot tub requires extensive structural support. Not all landscapes are level, so flattening an area is a necessary first step. But keeping the foundation strong with concrete and other materials can add to the cost of a spa. 

Position your hot tub away from other water sources like eavesdrops and irrigation systems. Although a water unit, excessive moisture can lead to mildew, rust, and other problems. If possible, keep the spa shaded as light can fade the exterior and burn the surface leather much like our own skin.

On its own, a hot tub can provide hours of enjoyment and relaxation. From kicking back alone to hosting spa parties, it’s the ultimate leisure activity. Yet many spa owners feel the tub is not enough. They prefer adding accessories to improve its ambience or make maintenance easier. So here are a few essentials to consider at the store!

Spa Steps:

Above ground spas can be hazardous to enter. For getting in and out, buy a set of steps that allow bathers to sit, twist and lean on the ledge safely.

Test Strips And Chemicals:

Hot tubs require weekly maintenance to keep the water clean and balanced. Products you will need to refill include sanitizers (i.e. bromine and chlorine); shock; ; alkalinity, calcium and pH risers; water clarifiers and more.

Covers:

Investing in a good cover can do wonders for your tub:

• It reduces energy consumption by regulating the temperature;

• It keeps debris and dirt from contaminating the water;

• It protects the interior components from unnecessary damage and weathering.

Lights:

Underwater lights can add to the allure of a spa, particularly at night. They also help bathers get in and out of the tub safely.

Water Vacuums & Nets:

Inevitably, things will fall into the water—bugs, food, leaves and more. Having a tool to quickly remove them can help you maintain water balance and improve hygiene.

Filter Cartridges And Cleaners:

Your jets and filters need replacing over time. By cleaning them regularly, you can increase their lifespan. Therefore, keep stock of both filters and cleaners for your routine checks.

Installing a hot tub takes no time at all. For most homeowners, all the work comes before its delivery. Hot tubs need sturdy foundations and easy access to electricity. 

Proper Concrete Foundation

Once filled with water, a hot tub weighs thousands of pounds. For this reason, all tubs need a concrete platform to keep level. If you plan on building a deck, it must be professionally constructed and certified to support such weight. Even still, some hot tubs are just too large for backyard decks and will need placing underneath.

The Electrical Components Of A Hot Tub

For most hot tub installations, there is no plumbing involved. That said, you will need to deal with wires and electric panels. Spas use outlets of 240 volts or more, which requires you to contact a professional electrician for this part of the installation. The high voltage involved is far too dangerous to tamper with.

After the electrician hooks up the spa, keep the power off a little while longer. You should first clean the jets and interior and open the air valves. Only once cleaned can you fill the tub with water and chemicals. Afterwards, flick the switch and wait for the water to heat!

In conclusion, purchasing a hot tub can be a great investment for your home and well-being. With the wide variety of options available, it's important to consider factors such as size, features, maintenance, and cost.

 Whether you're looking for a luxurious spa-like experience or a more practical solution for hydrotherapy, there is a hot tub out there to meet your needs. By doing your research, understanding your options, and making an informed decision, you can enjoy the many benefits that come with owning a hot tub, such as relaxation, stress relief, improved circulation, and more.

 So, take your time, explore your options, and choose the hot tub that's right for you!