Step-by-Step: Hot Tubs
- People want hot tubs for a variety of reasons. Some have physical problems that hot, moving water allays. Some enjoy the social element of a hot tub. This home addition requires an investment and might also require permits. Some living conditions, such has having the upper level of a duplex, might preclude hot tub ownership just as it does water beds because of weight. So the first step in determining whether to move forward with purchasing a hot tub is acquiring a list of restrictions in your region. Some areas require gates, fences and lights for outdoor hot tubs. Smaller, single hot tubs fit tidily in a bathroom. Larger ones require a level surface on which to put them with access on all sides for servicing. Then too, there’s the question of safety. Families with young children will need to get locks and other safeguards to keep curious kids from getting hurt. All of these details go into the planning phase of hot tub ownership.
- Determine whether you want an indoor hot tub space or an outdoor one. Smaller, inflatable hot tubs could conceivably fit in a cellar. Larger hot tubs might slide through the window of a sun porch, or perhaps you want to build a whole room for your relaxing moments. The advantage of an indoor space for those living in four-season environments is staying warm while it’s snowing outside. An indoor space extends the useful period of your hot tub to year-round, private enjoyment. Indoor hot tubs also last longer because they’re not exposed to the elements. Just be aware that any indoor tub needs ventilation. By comparison, outdoor hot tubs cost less but require higher upkeep. Like a pool, you cannot locate a hot tub beneath power lines.
- Think about how much time you want to spend in the spa, and with whom. One easy way to test for size is to sit down in show room models and see how comfortable you are. It’s nice to fully stretch out your legs. Obviously the amount of room you have in and around your home plays heavily into this equation too. If space is no issue, remember that small hot tubs generally offer fewer features than large ones, but they also cost less too.
- Alongside size, the next stage in this process is looking closely at the features of the hot tubs you’re considering. Some excellent options that decrease maintenance include automated water care, no-bypass filtration, and continuous water filtering. Other leisure features you may enjoy include a hot tub that features a stereo or TV, one that has massaging jets with directional controls, one with quiet jets or one that has underwater lighting. Just like automobiles, high-end models and low-end models are suited to your needs and budget.
- Once you finally get your hot tub into place, it’s critical that you maintain it. Test your water weekly and adjust it according to the manufacturer’s recommended pH, chlorine or bromine levels. Periodically add shock treatments. This keeps your water healthy and bacteria- and fungus-free, as does keeping the filter running. Many spas have a panel that shows when you need to make changes, such as getting a new filter. Watch for those messages and keep up with them. This gives your hot tub system the best chance at running for many years to come.