Hot Tubs - Information and Tips for a Smooth Installation

Hot tubs are the thing if you want to have the best party! Nothing loosens a crowd up more that the bubbling and swirling waters from a tub. If your tub is portable and can go indoor, then the party can go on forever. However, if you have a hottub outdoors, the winter will put your tub at rest for a few short months. When this happens, make sure that you have quality hot tub covers to protect your investment.

Before you buy a hot tub, check to see if the tub you want can go to the place you want to put it. Remember the privacy factor, both yours and your neighbors. Make sure it is easily accessible to those family members that choose to use it. Keep it away from large trees and power lines. Hot tubs look good with gazebos or near gardens and they add to the spa's enjoyment value.

For safety's sake, check the weight-bearing factor of the location you choose if the tub is going to be placed on a deck or inside. Portable spas work better indoors and have less stress placed on your floor. Don't forget to factor in the weight of people and water into the equation. A good measuring factor when examining weight load is 150 pounds per square foot. This should be more than enough for the average sized tub.

Hot Tub Installation - Preparing for your new spa

When purchasing your tub, don't forget to ask about the warranty. The warranty should last for more than 1 year on the pump and the electrical parts. A three-year warranty on these is considered the best. Also, the cabinet and inner shell should have a warranty of at least three years. If a salesman starts to back down on his promises when a warranty is mentioned, walk away.

Here are a few tips when purchasing a hot tub in a showroom:

• Wear a bathing suit underneath your street clothes. Most salesrooms will not mind you trying a tub out as for accessibility, hot water, and comfort.
• Remember your budget. Some sales people don't mind at all asking you to buy more than you can afford. Walk into the showroom with a figure in your mind and stick to it.
• Consider a portable tub. Most cost around $2,500. Buying one will probably save you big bucks, in the $3,000 to $5,000 range.
• Don't forget to ask about the cover. Many companies will throw in a good quality cover if you bargain with them. Chances are they are prepared to offer one before you ever ask.

Get your site ready for the installation:

• Consider the extra work your site will need as part of your purchase price. Does the land need to be leveled? Do you need a concrete slab poured? Does the deck need extra support added underneath? Also, the size of your tub can play a part.
• Check and see what accessories and additional parts you will need. You can find many of these products online at deep discounts.
• Get all the information you need before you purchase. Check the Internet before you make a final decision. You can probably get the same tub online cheaper and often with free shipping.
• Do you need additional electrical work done before your tub arrives? Make sure the work is inspected and done by a licensed professional.
• Comply with all local zoning laws when installing a hot tub. If you buy a portable tub, you will probably avoid the cost of a permit.

Most of all, when you make your purchase, think of the enjoyment you can have! Investing in a hot tub will add pleasure to your life and health benefits as well. Hot soothing water can relax tired muscles and add shape and tone to your body. Your skin will thank you too with a tub's ability to bring life back to it.