If you were a Russian athlete or traditionalist, you might be willing to extol the virtues of taking a dip once a year in an ice-cold lake as a test of “endurance.” But in the U.S., we have a different idea of how to rejuvenate our bodies with water.
Around 5% of American households own a hot tub, and that number is only likely to grow as hot tubs become ever more affordable and begin to take on an aura of “normal home amenity” rather than “exotic luxury item.” Yet, in regard to the soothing water massage and muscle-relaxing power of hot tubs, their luxury appeal will certainly not wear off.
What are the basic benefits of owning a hot tub? You can soak in them to reduce stress, improve your sleep pattern, improve your blood circulation, lower your blood pressure, reduce joint inflammation, soothe your aches and pains, and drive away migraines.
Basic Types of Hot Tubs
Inflatable hot tubs are a relatively new design, and are a surprisingly inexpensive spa option. These tubs use an inflatable frame to provide the walls and floor for the spa. The walls are strong enough to sit on, but are filled with air! These hot tubs have various types of bubble and jet options to soothe and calm those tired muscles
Once you decide you definitely want to invest in a hot tub, the next step is to learn of the basic types of hot tubs available today (which are many). First, note that portable hot tubs can be placed anywhere, though the privacy of your backyard is the usual location. That’s a huge benefit if you decide to move the tub sometime or if you ever want to sell it and buy a newer model.
Vinyl-liner hot tubs are inflatable and easily moved. This kind is very affordable as well, while still having many of the same features. Unicast tubs will be a one-piece molded hot tub that is fitted into an attractive (often wooden) cabinet. An acrylic hot tub is another option, and the most popular one, being very durable for outdoor use.
Major Features and Factors to Consider
Besides portability and basic types of hot tubs, next you need to consider a number of very important features that will determine which one is just right for you.
1. Filtration: Salt water filtration allows you to create chlorine rather than add it, and many like the soft, silky feel of the water this produces. An “ozone system” requires you add chlorine/bromine tablets, but it gets the tub very, very clean. A UV-C water filtration system uses UV light to kill off unwanted germs in your hot tub’s water.
2. Jets: A variety of jet-types with controls may be best, but here are the basic types:
– Pressure-point jets are intense and focused at, well, pressure points for massaging.
– Relaxation-jets are big and gentle, even bubbly.
– Rotary-jets are the most basic and versatile.
3. Seating: Lounge-style seating lets you lie down in the water, looking up, supremely relaxing. Therapy seats give you massaging points and strong jet-streams at key spots. Cool down seating may be put on the edge of the hot tub. It leaves you partially in, partially out of the water.
4.Ambiance: The mood and style of your hot tub will depend on special features such as these:
– A sound system can be built into the headrest and be adjusted by wireless Bluetooth controls.
– Lights can line the top or sides of the tub, be used to light the water to create a specific “mood” or just so you can use your hot tub at night.
– Colors, contours, styles, and sizes all also add to the overall ambiance.
5. Other Factors: Besides what we already mentioned, look for special accessories that may be available with specific hot tubs. Look for remote monitoring devices that let you manage temperature and more in your hot tub before you ever get in it (from a distance). Look for a cover so you can use your hot tub frequently or infrequently as your busy schedule allows it as well as when the climate permits it. Covers will also increase the lifespan of your tub. Finally, see if you can get a “spa pillow” or find a tub where the equivalent is already built in.
Whether for therapeutic, relaxation, or recreational purposes, a hot tub can be a great addition to your home and it can enhance your lifestyle. Choosing the right hot tub for your needs and wants is critical since hot tubs require a substantial investment. Get help from online experts and reviews of real customers and carefully weigh which features are most important to you.