What You Should Know Before Buying a Hot Tub

By: Chloe Robertson

Ah, the joys of having a hot tub! Imagine soaking in the warm water of the hot tub after a long, busy day at work. Hot tubs, especially those with different massage settings, are perfect in loosening sore and tight muscles reaped from a tiring day. Hot tubs are also a favorite of jet setters. A dip in the hot tub is a surefire way to alleviate jet lag. People get hot tubs because of the minimal space they require, as compared with getting a swimming pool, ease of maintenance and the healing and relaxing benefits.

If you wish to buy a hot tub, which people also refer to as spa, there are things you have to learn so you are assured that you make the right decisions:

1. Location
As with the real estate business, location is the key. Hot tubs may be placed indoors or outdoors. People love the natural feeling of lounging in hot tubs outdoors, under the sky and amongst the greens. If you wish to install your hot tub outdoors, make sure that it is away from trees and from the eyes of your neighbors. You may not mind the stares, but they might mind the sight.

2. Foundation
Make sure that you have a solid and sturdy foundation for your hot tub, whether putting it indoors or outdoors. Foundation sites for hot tubs must be able to hold at least 100 pounds per square foot.

3. Costing
Determine how many people will use the hot tub – solo, with a partner or with friends and family. Cost of hot tubs is dependent on the make and the size. Modern hot tubs now have special features, such as an entertainment dock for your DVD and mp3 player. Different lighting effects and massage effects also add to the price of hot tubs. Your expenses start the moment you get a hot tub and go on for as long as you operate it. Costs cover water, electricity and maintenance. Ask your hot tub dealer for an estimated operations cost, so that you know if it fits your lifestyle budget. Also ask about cost-efficient measures, such as full insulation.

4. Safety
Hot tubs are considered a luxury item that it is no surprise that a hot tub may be stolen from time to time. Locking cover and alarm systems are available to protect your hot tub from robbers. Locking covers also keep your children away for their safety. Acquaint yourselves with each knob and switch in your hot tub – safety switch, temperature control and automatic shut-off.

5. Installation
Leave the installation of hot tubs to the experts. Hot tubs require electricity and a plumbing system. If you’re going to have the hot tub installed outdoors, a haul in your plumbing might be in order. Check with experts first if you have a feasible location for your hot tub before you make your purchase. The last thing you’d want is to excite yourself over a hot tub that turns out impossible to install.