Stress is an inevitable part of our lives and we all know that. However, one of the best ways to relieve it is by immersing our bodies in hot water. Studies have shown that hot water has the ability to calm down our nervous system, much like meditation does for our “body and mind”.
And how can we bring this spa bliss into our homes? Simple and easy – buy hot tubs for you and your family and enjoy the plethora of benefits these fixtures offer. Ok, maybe the buying process is not that simple since you do need to look out for specific features to ensure you’re investing in the right product. But that can be managed by learning about important factors to consider when selecting your spa bliss.
Choosing the Right Hot Tub for You: What to Consider
Relaxation and unwinding from the day are essential to keep ourselves together. Although there is no magical pill which will make all of our problems vanish, enjoying a simple spa treatment can help us relax and rejuvenate. Beyond being a luxurious addition to any home, a hot tub can help us experience the benefits of spa therapy and soothe our nervous system. Exploring the myriad available options for hot tubs, there are essential considerations that will help you choose a spa bliss tailored to your needs.
Size and Seating Capacity
The first thing to decide is how large the hot tub you want it to be. This will depend on how much room space you’ve got and how many people you typically expect to use it at once. Measure the dimensions of the space where you plan to place the tub, to ensure that it can fit comfortably and leave enough room for free movement around the tub.
Spa pools come in various sizes and seating capacities ranging from 2 to 11 seats. The 2 and 3-seaters are great for couples and limited spaces such as balconies and patios, 4 and 5-seaters are ideal for small families and couples with guests, and then anything above 6 seats is considered large tubs ideal for large families and people who often host higher numbers of guests.
Material and Insulation
If you want to save on electricity bills, look for a spa pool that has solid insulation. Any tub that has 5 or more layers of insulation will minimise heat loss and thus, reduce energy consumption. Such insulation systems can help maintain water temperature and lower heating costs. Also, many tubs come with power saver controllers which also contribute to the the lower running costs.
When it comes to the material, they are typically made from acrylic, fibreglass or roto-moulded plastic. Acrylic, practically American shell acrylic is a strong plastic that offers good insulation, is highly durable and very easy to clean and maintain.
Features: LED Lighting, Hydrotherapy Jets and Other Water Features
Having a pool spa with LED lighting will certainly enhance the ambience and create a soothing atmosphere. LED lights help set the mood and tone for a tranquil soak, whether you’re enjoying a solo spa session or entertaining guests.
If you really want to maximise the spa experience, look for tubs with hydrotherapy jets. They target specific muscle groups, providing therapeutic massage and relaxation. Depending on the tubs, some may come with adjustable massage programs and you can tailor the hydrotherapy to your needs for greater enjoyment.
There are also other features that can enhance the overall relaxation and help create a calm oasis retreat such as waterfalls, fountains or even cascading spouts for added visual appeal and sensory stimulation.
Are Hot Tubs Costly to Run?
The operating costs can depend on several factors, such as the size of the pool and spa, insulation layers, frequency of use and temperature settings. Although they tend to consume a lot more energy to run properly, you can minimise the expenses by opting for a tub that has five or more layers of insulation or power-saving settings.
Are Hot Tubs Healthy?
Hot spa pools offer numerous health benefits such as muscle relaxation, stress relief, improved sleep quality, pain relief and enhanced circulation. Of course, as long as you use them safely and responsibly, maintain proper water chemistry, monitor water temperature levels and not sit for too long inside the tub.
How Long Can You Sit in a Hot Tub?
For safety concerns, it’s recommended that an average adult spends about 15 to 30 minutes maximum in a tub. However, the time spent in the hot water will also depend on the temperature levels. If the water temperature is 40°C, the time spent in the tub should be limited to 15 minutes. If the water temperature is below 40°C, you can stay for 30 minutes inside the tub.