What is the Best Outdoor Hot Tub?

Being in the market for your first hot tub can be both an exciting and confusing time. There are many different things to consider and a wide range of decisions that need to be made to get something that will work for your personal situation. When it comes to the question of what is the best outdoor hot tub, we’ve tried to make it a little easier for you by giving some things you should think about before making the purchase. Read on for some tips when it comes to finding the right hot tub for you.

Suitability

Before you get too excited about buying a hot tub, you should understand that there are certain people who shouldn’t be using them. Finding out you’re one of them after you paid thousands of dollars is something you want to avoid. Those who have heart problems or other serious medical conditions shouldn’t be using a hot tub. Even pregnant women are advised not to use a hot tub although that’s hardly a chronic condition. If you have any serious health problems, talk to your doctor before considering buying your own hot tub.

Size

Finding a properly sized hot tub that meets the needs of you, your family and your friends will be another one of the first things you need to consider when it comes to buying a hot tub. Is the hot tub for you and your partner, or do you have a large family and group of friends? Smaller hot tubs will obviously cost less than larger ones, both in upfront costs and regular operational expenses. But the savings you achieve if half your family has to wait for you to finish your soak before they get their chance is probably not a very good use of your money.

Comfort

Closely related to the size of the hot tub is the comfort level that it provides. If you have a body type that’s not considered typical, you’ll need to ensure that your new purchase allows you to use it comfortably. Many of today’s hot tubs have molded seating and you should make sure that your model of choice allows you to sit comfortably. Try out the various seating positions while paying attention to the ease of entry and exit. 

You’ll also want to check out the size of the footwell. If you have a lot of people in the hot tub at one time, having everyone’s feet and legs intertwined may not be the most comfortable thing if you don’t know each other very well. 

Wet testing, or trying out the hot tub when it’s full of water is highly recommended before buying a hot tub. This is the best way to ensure it’s a comfortable fit for you and your guests.Insulation and Energy Efficiency

If you plan on using your hot tub throughout the cold Canadian winter (and let’s just admit that spending time in a hot tub in subzero temperatures is a huge part of using your hot tub to its full potential,) you’ll want to make sure it’s properly insulated for such use. Energy-efficient insulation will mean you can use your hot tub all year round without having to worry about exorbitant heating bills. You’ll also want to include enough room in your budget for a good fitting, well insulated hot tub cover. Ultimately it’s much cheaper to keep the heat in the water than allowing it to escape and having to replace it on a constant basis.

Options

Hot tub options are where your final price will start to vary broadly. Current technological trends allow hot tubs to be fitted out with all the latest internet assisted gadgetry. Bluetooth enabled sound systems, phone controlled heating systems and app-based water chemistry monitors are only a few of the new add ons available. Add that to long-established options such as customized jet systems, water features or lighting systems and you have endless permutations from which to choose from.

To learn more about buying a hot tub, download a free buyer’s guide today.