When you shop for a new hot tub or spa, you’re going to need to consider a few things, and all of this can become confusing for the layman. If, however, you ask the right questions, take your time, don’t rush, and test out the spa before making your decision, you’ll more than likely walk away with the right product. Here are some things you need to consider before purchasing a hot tub:
1. Where Will You Put the Hot Tub?
It’s important to consider where the hot tub is going to be positioned. Most importantly, consider whether you’ll be putting it inside or outside.
Inside – If you’re going indoors, you need to choose a tub that will fit through the doorway, so, about 30-32 inches wide and 78-82 inches high. These figures will depend on specific homes and doors, so always measure each doorway the spa will have to pass through, to make sure it will fit.
Outside – Here you won’t be so restricted, but it will still be important for you to consider the size of the patio or deck where you’ll be putting the spa.
2. Do You Need to Prepare the Site?
You’re going to need a level surface on which to place the spa. If you’re putting it outside and the ground is uneven, use a concrete slab. Wooden decks are also popular, but don’t add railings until the spa has been delivered. Also, always consider its weight.
Why are You Buying a Hot Tub?
Consider why you’re buying your tub. Is it for social reasons, for relaxation purposes, or for therapeutic purposes? Your needs will determine the type of spa you choose. For example, social tubs will be large and have lots of entertainment features, while therapeutic tubs need to be specific to the person using them for therapy.
3. What are the Electrical Requirements?
Hot tubs generally require a dedicated 240 volt line, 40-60 amp service with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFI) disconnect located between the spa and the breaker box. Homes without these requirements may want to consider portable hot tubs that can simply be plugged into the mains.
4. Insulating Your Hot Tub
You’ll also want to consider the different ways in which manufacturers insulate their tubs. These will include: fully foamed systems, warm air barrier systems, and spas with little or no insulation at all. Each of these will have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s a good idea to look into these when making your choice.
5. Hot Tub Structure
There are also a couple of different hot tub structures that you’ll do well to read up about and understand: wood frame structures and steel frame structures. Wood frames are most widely used, largely because they are better insulators. Steel frames, however, while being poor insulators, cost less and are highly rigid. In general, wood frames are the best, and most popular, option. However, your personal circumstances might point you towards steel frame spas, especially if money is a real concern.
6. Getting Your Spa Serviced
There are several ways in which your spa might be serviced should you run into an issue. Some companies and manufacturers work with factory-trained specialists, while smaller retailers that operate in a certain area generally operate in an-house service. If you buy your spa from a one-off retailer, from a fair of show, or second-hand, you’ll most likely need to find someone in the Yellow Pages or online to service your spa.
And that’s about it. If you consider all of these questions, you should have no trouble finding the perfect spa for your home. Contact Great Lakes Pool & Spa, your Milwaukee Pool and Hot Tub Dealer for more information!
