How to Choose Hot Tubs?

By: Phill Monroe

Outdoor living has never been the same again ever since the introduction of hot tubs. Though “hot tubs” have been around for centuries, it was not until a few decades back that the use of hot tubs became an almost mandatory “appliance” in suburban backyards. In its truest sense, a hot tub is a wooden tub filled with hot water used for soaking and relaxation. Some innovations came out and the spa, made of acrylic or fibreglass, also became popular. The spa has contoured seats whilst the tub has none. Jacuzzi is a brand name of company that makes whirlpool baths and spas.

A hot tub is almost always located outdoors. An added convenience is a gazebo. Think of how you would get in and out the tub sans a gazebo during the colder months. You should also take note that the gazebo has a few feet to spare for you to be able to move around and about.

There are probably hundreds of hot tub brands and thousands of models of all sizes, shapes and features for you to choose from. Picking the right hot tub for you and your family need not be a daunting task if you keep in mind some of the major things to consider.

First and foremost is the location of the hot tub. Where will you locate the hot tub? The location does not really matter as it is the area allotted for the tub that matters most. You can choose to sit your tub on the porch so long as the hot tub will fit. You can set it up amidst the garden and no one will mind as long as the garden can accommodate the tub. Round, square, rectangular, oblong. The shape does not really matter as long as it will fit in the allotted space and can fit in the number of persons you expect to use it all at the same time.

The next thing to consider is the features that you want included in the tub. Do you want a hot tub that has jets or whirls of water? Do you want a tub that is fitted in with waterproof radio or TV, speakers, with lights, cushions and cover, a massager and more? List down your priority features and then set forth the process of elimination.

Consider your budget. The more features your tub has the more expensive it becomes. If you have friends and families who have hot tubs, maybe you can wring out an invitation and “test” their tubs on for size. Make sure that you include in our budget the cost of chemicals to maintain the water in the tub.

Make sure that you know the proper maintenance of the hot tub that you prefer. If the cleaning and maintenance are too tedious, you might end up not cleaning the tub in the long run. Consider all the above tips and you will probably end up with a hot tub that you would enjoy.