The idea of owning a hot tub is very appealing. After all, the ability to settle in for a nice long soak after a rough day at work is something most people would enjoy. Before you start looking at different designs and move forward with the installation, there are some things you should consider. Doing so will ensure that you make the decision that is right for you.
The Initial Cost
While there are budget priced hot tubs out there, don’t assume they offer all the perks of their more expensive counterparts. That lower price tag could mean lower quality. Before making any assumptions, spend some time investigating the product. Does a given model have a reputation for leaking? Is that model more suited for use as part of an indoor spa or would it work better as an addition to the back yard? Not all hot tubs are manufactured using the same standards, so the consumer must make sure to choose the right make and model.
New Plumbing
The installation for the new hot tub will also mean making some changes to your plumbing system. This means running lines to supply the tub with water, and a system that allows you to drain the tub for cleaning purposes. Factor that expense into the overall cost of setting up the hot tub.
Increased Utility Bills
You can look forward to higher water bills each month. This is necessary, since the tub must be drained in order to clean it from time to time. In addition, fresh water is necessary to keep the tub safe for use. Remember that you must also have an energy source to heat the water to a comfortable temperature. That means your gas or electric bill will also be higher each month.
Potential Health Issues
While a hot tub is great for some people, it does come with a health risk. If you fail to keep the tub clean, the chances of picking up some sort of infection are greatly enhanced. Since the water is very hot, that can also trigger health issues for people with sensitive skin. It’s dangerous for those with blood pressure problems to switch quickly between a pool and a hot tub and vice versa. The quick change could cause serious increases or drops in blood pressure.
Weighing the Costs against the Benefits
There is no doubt that a hot tub brings a lot to the table. The device can make it much easier to relax and ease physical and mental stress. People suffering with different types of joint pain and stiffness find that soaking in the hot water helps ease the discomfort. Even allowing for these benefits, owning and maintaining a hot tub is a lot of work. Before you choose to invest in one, make sure that you can handle the work and the cost that will appear on the back end.
