A significant investment like a hot tub requires that you do your homework.
There are many choices out there, and you’ll have to wade through a lot of information to find the one that’s perfect for your specific needs.
The spas that are best for relaxation and entertaining are different than the ones that are good for hydrotherapy and other health issues.
Here, you’ll find some helpful information to guide you as you try to narrow down your options.
What will the main function be?
Most people buy a hot tub because they want to enjoy the rest and relaxation a nice, hot soak provides, or they want to have their own backyard oasis.
Others make the purchase for health reasons. Maybe they’re suffering from chronic pain that’s the result of fibromyalgia, arthritis or an injury.
Your reason for buying the hot tub will affect the kind you buy.
How much can you spend?
There’s no sense in falling in love with a hot tub that you can’t afford.
Have a firm budget in mind before you begin shopping.
Keep in mind, the bells and whistles add up. If entertaining is your goal, you may want to go all out.
On the other hand, those whose primary purpose for a hot tub is hydrotherapy will probably be able to pass on the higher-end options.
How big should your hot tub be?
You’ve heard the saying, “Go big, or go home,” right?
It may or may not apply when it comes to hot tubs!
If your main purpose is for hydrotherapy, a simple spa that seats two people may be just what the doctor ordered.
On the other hand, if you frequently entertain large groups of family or friends, you may indeed want to “go big.”
You should consider the added upkeep and cost that comes with a larger hot tub, but as long as you have room in your yard – and your budget – go for it!
What type of hot tub do you want?
You have a lot of options.
As we’ve mentioned, your purpose and your entertaining habits will help you make some of these choices.
For example, hot tubs that are made specifically for physical therapy can be longer and narrower in order for you to perform some common hydrotherapy exercises.
Hot tubs also come in a variety of other shapes like round, square and oval. Much of the choice is up to your own tastes and the number of people you want to accommodate.
You’ll want to consult a reputable dealer who can guide you through the decision-making process.
Have you given it a test run?
A hot tub may look like the perfect, most comfortable configuration and end up being exactly the opposite.
It’s important that you try out the spa while it has water in it, with the jets on.
You’ll have a much better feel for how much leg room everyone has, whether the seats are easy to navigate and if they’re as comfy as they look.
Pay attention to the placement of the jets, too. Do the jets reach every seat? Do you want to be able to sit in a spot that’s free of the pressure sometimes?
Do the jets hit your body in the most therapeutic spots?
It’s all up to you
The hot tub that’s right for you may not be right for your neighbor.
You have to look at your own needs, determine what you can afford and make your choice based on what function you’d like a hot tub to fulfill for you!
Do you have a good idea of what kind of hot tub would suit you and your family best?
