Is buying a hot tub as labor and thought and planning intensive as buying a swimming pool? Maybe not, but it still is not a project to be undertaken lightly. What to think about when buying a hot tub is something the swimming pool and hot tub contractors from Tipton Pools in Knoxville, TN talk with their pool customers about regularly.
The first thing you want to consider with your hot tub is will you want it incorporated into your swimming pool or do you want it to be a stand alone structure — perhaps in a different part of the yard entirely?
When buying a hot tub or spa investigate your options, just as you did when you had your swimming pool constructed. One of the many decisions you will make will be the placement of the hot tub.
What to think about when buying a hot tub
A budget is the first thing to have in place before you talk with your swimming pool contractor about your project. The budget will help you fit the hot tub of your dreams into the budget you’ve set aside. A hot tub can cost anywhere from $5,000 on up — depending on size, amenities, placement and much more. If you opt for an above ground hot tub you will need to have a slab poured. If you want an inground hot tub, you are looking at excavation just as you did with your pool project. On average you will see an increase in your utility bills by about $25 when you’re running the hot tub.
- Once the budget is in place, research hot tub styles, designs, manufacturers and manufacturer’s warranties as well as warranties your hot tub contractor may offer.
- Where will you place it? Poolside? In the house? In a different area of the yard, away from the pool? On a deck next to the house? Placement will be a factor in pricing — keep that in mind. Note: The country you live in may be a determining factor in hot tub placement. Do you want to use it in the winter? Will it be easily accessible? There is nothing better on a snowy evening than to slip into the soothing, bubbling water and watching the snow melt on the surface.
- Talk with your swimming pool builder about utilities needed. Water, electricity, plumbing will all need to be in place for the hot tub.
- How many people will usually be in the hot tub? This will be a determining factor in the size hot tub you invest in.
- Don’t forget to think about the cover and a cover lifter. Hot tub covers are not light and a hot tub cover lifter will make it easier for you to put on and take off the cover
Don’t buy a hot tub without sitting in one in the showroom — yes in the showroom! You will want to try out seat heights, seat widths, placement and type of jets. Do you want therapeutic jets or simple jets or both?
Talk with us if you want a hot tub this season. We might even be able to get started soon!