Hot tubs are a large investment for most people. You’re investing in something you’ll be using for years, even decades to come. This isn’t a decision you want to make lightly, and you likely are trying to find out all you can before committing. Well, we’re to help you with these 6 things to know before buying a hot tub.
So you know that pools and hot tubs are different in that they have different features. Pools are larger with cooler water and no jets; hot tubs are smaller with hot water and jets. You use a pool for exercise and fun, and a hot tub for rest and relaxation.
So, they’re pretty different. But what about the chemicals you put in them? They both run on chlorinated water and a filtration system, so pool and hot tub chemicals can’t be that different, right?
It’s true; pool and hot tub care follows the same basic principles. You have to keep the water at a certain pH level, alkalinity level, chlorine level, etc. And you clean and replace filters on a similar schedule, depending on usage. But, the chemicals are not the same.
Okay, they’re generally the same chemicals, but the concentrations are different. Pool chemicals are made for a much larger body of water than hot tub chemicals. And pool chemicals are made to work in cooler water, while hot tub chemicals are made to work in hot water. So even though they’re similar, you can’t use the same chemicals for both.
When it comes to relaxation, you may think of aromatherapy. This can be great when you’re taking a bath, getting a massage, or just going throughout your day. So, you may be wondering how this works with a hot tub. Hot tubs are for relaxation after all.
Aromatherapy is a great feature for hot tubs. However, you can’t use essential oils or epsom salts in your hot tub. Your hot tub is not designed to filter these, and the essential oils could even damage the surface of your hot tub. Plus, think of the amount of essential oils or epsom salt you need to fill a diffuser or bathtub. Now imagine how much you would need for all of the water in your hot tub. It’s just not the way to go.
Instead, if you want aromatherapy benefits for your hot tub, MicroSilk® is a great option. It’s safe for your hot tub and safe for you.
One of the most important decisions to make when getting a hot tub is where to put it. You may have a spot in your backyard that it would just look great in, but it may not be practical.
We typically recommend putting your hot tub near your home, although you can place it anywhere with a solid foundation. Placing your hot tub near your home usually guarantees three things:
Your hot tub needs both electricity and water to operate. If you place your hot tub too far from your home, you may have to pay extra for the electrician to run electricity out to it. And, you may not be able to reach it with your hose to fill it up. You could get an extra long hose, but let’s be real. Who wants to deal with that?
Instead, if your hot tub is near your home, you don’t have to worry as much about the electricity and water. Plus, when it starts getting cooler outside, you don’t have to walk very far to get to your hot tub. There’s nothing worse than wanting to take a soak in the middle of winter and trekking through your backyard in the snow to get there.
If your hot tub is next to your home, will you get any privacy? After all, your family is right there. You may have to set some boundaries with your family, but you can definitely create privacy with your hot tub.
Get creative with hot tub landscaping. Plant some hot tub-friendly plants around your hot tub to block out the neighbors. Hang some curtains (not really landscaping but it will get the job done). Put on some music with some waterproof headphones. Close your eyes and let the world fade away. The options for privacy are endless, and your hot tub can truly be your own personal oasis.
Like we said, hot tubs are a big investment, which is why we’re sharing these 6 things to know before buying a hot tub.
With a hot tub, your investment won’t be in vain. A Marquis® spa can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. This means as long as you take care of your hot tub correctly, keep the cover on, and keep your dog out of your hot tub, your investment could last two decades. That’s like from 2000 to now. That’s quite a long time.
Part of making your hot tub last long, though, is proper maintenance. Sometimes your hot tub will need service. If you don’t get your hot tub serviced when it needs it, your hot tub may not last 20 years.
Often you’ll be able to tell if your hot tub needs service. If something seems really off, it’s best to get it checked out. And if everything seems fine, you should still get it professionally serviced once a year. This will help catch any issues before they become serious.
Out of our 6 things to know before buying a hot tub, knowing where to buy one may be the most important. If you’re in Idaho, Mastercraft Pool and Spa in Pocatello is your place. We can help you with picking a hot tub, servicing your hot tub, and getting all the spa supplies you need.
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