There is much more to buying a spa than selecting the spa with the best jets or the longest list of features. You have to make sure that the spa you are interested in is the right size for your space, usage, and willingness to maintain.
With a little thoughtfulness and the right upgrades, your backyard can become a relaxing place to spend time, time with family, or time exercising. Before purchasing, take into account the practical information that will help you decide if your spa is right for your household and lifestyle.
Start With Your Space
Measure the space that the spa will occupy before examining models. Take into account the length and width, but don’t overlook height, clearance, gates, landscaping, and overhead structures. The majority of outdoor hot tubs are pretty big, and what you find easy to see in the showroom can be completely different in a smaller yard.
Consider the access for maintenance as well. Appropriate spacing around the spa can aid in easier future servicing.
Match It to Your Routine
An ideal spa is one that you’ll use. The first step is to determine why you want one to begin with. If relaxing is a priority, choose relaxed seating and arrange the hydrotherapy jets to provide a relaxing effect.
When it’s a space you’ll be using for events often, opt for open seating and an appropriate amount of space for your typical crowd. If one is interested in exercise, it might be better to consider a swim spa rather than a hot tub.
Swim spas are water that flows over a swimming pool, combined with heated water, and can offer fitness or relaxation even in one backyard setup.
Think About Seating
Test out various seats before settling on a choice. Things like height, preferred sitting position, and preferred jet placement should all be taken into account.
To determine if the jets are in the right place for therapeutic application, professionals recommend that you sit in the models you’re considering to ensure you’re getting the jets into the parts of your body you want hydrotherapy.
Consider Energy Use
A spa is an investment that is going to last a long time, so it is just important to consider the running costs of the spa as well as the price. If the system is not insulated properly, the outdoor unit can cause increased energy costs, and if fully foamed, it can provide support for plumbing and improve energy efficiency.
Compare prices prior to asking about insulation, energy efficiency, heating systems, and operating requirements.
Think Beyond the Purchase
Inquire about water care, filtration, routine maintenance, warranty and replacement parts, and local service. Keep a spa that is easy to clean, and it will be a part of your daily routine rather than just a costly backyard fixture.
Determine the size, decide how to use it, test the seats, know its installation needs, and factor in the cost to own it. With a bit of planning ahead, you can select a spa that fits seamlessly into your backyard, rather than getting in the way.
