Hot tubs are one of the best ways to wind down after a long day, but the benefits of owning a hot tub extend far beyond relaxation. Hot tubs can help you get better sleep, provide you with a dedicated workout space, and can bring your entire family together without distractions. Owning a hot tub comes with many perks. But how do you know how to choose a hot tub when there are so many on the market?
With this 2023 purchasing guide, determine which hot tub will best meet your needs and what to consider when buying your hot tub this year.
Inflatable vs. Permanent Hot Tubs
There are many factors to consider when it comes to buying a new hot tub, but one of the biggest differentiators of hot tubs is inflatable versus permanent. An inflatable hot tub may be cheaper in the short term, but there are many reasons why a permanent hot tub might be the better option for you.
Heat Retention: Inflatable hot tubs don’t have much insulation, so they can take a long time to heat up and don’t hold heat as well as traditional hot tubs. This can result in much higher heating bills.
Stability: A traditional hot tub offers more stability and structure so you don’t have to worry about it popping or becoming disfigured.
Comfort: Permanent hot tubs include benches, seats, and massage jets that make for a more comfortable spa experience. Inflatables often don’t have these same features.
Longevity: Inflatable hot tubs tend to not last as long as traditional hot tubs. They can be a great short-term option if you live somewhere with a generally stable climate, but in the Minnesota winters, draining and putting away your inflatable hot tub can be tedious. With a permanent hot tub, you can simply cover it to protect it from any winter elements like snow or ice and can continue using it throughout the winter months. Inflatable hot tubs don’t offer this same flexibility and are much more prone to get ruined from winter weather.
Year-Round Use: Permanent hot tubs give you the option to experience the spa all year whereas it’s not recommended to keep your inflatable hot tub out once the temperature starts dropping.
Filtration: For both inflatable and permanent hot tubs, cleaning the filter regularly is important to keeping the water clean. Inflatable hot tubs tend to have poor filtration systems and some don’t even have a filter at all, making it impossible to keep the water clean without draining and refilling it.
Depending on your situation, an inflatable hot tub might be the way to go, but if you’re purchasing a Minnesota hot tub, permanent tends to be the way to go.
Hot Tub Placement
When choosing a hot tub, you’ll need to consider logistics like location and access to electricity. Some people prefer to locate their hot tub outside while some want theirs inside of their home. If you have the space inside, it’s a great option, but for most people, keeping the hot tub outside is the best option.
Hot tubs should be placed on a solid foundation that won’t shift or crack and damage the hot tub. In most cases, you’ll want to use a raised deck, solid concrete slab, concrete pavers, or a heavy-duty plastic spa pad, like EZ pad modules.
Once you’ve secured your foundation, you’ll need to make sure you have access to electricity and water. Hot tubs don’t require their own plumbing, so you’ll just need a hose long enough to reach the tub.
Cost Considerations
A common reason people shy away from purchasing a hot tub is the cost. Hot tubs are an investment, but the benefits usually outweigh the costs.
Hot tubs promote well-being, offer you a place to relax and unwind, provide you with a place to perform hydrotherapy or other exercises, and can even help you get better sleep, deal with anxiety, and boost your immune system.
There are countless benefits to owning a hot tub, and with proper maintenance, your hot tub will last you many years.
You’ll want to choose a hot tub made from quality materials. These hot tubs will be much more weather resistant, will function better over time, and will help you save on heating. By paying more for a high-quality hot tub upfront, you can save money over time on electrical bills.
And while finding the perfect tub is definitely an investment, there are product solutions for every price.
Choosing Covers for Minnesota Hot Tubs
Minnesota winters are no joke — and they can be extremely hard on hot tubs.
When buying a hot tub in Minnesota, you’ll want to insure that the hot tub is built to withstand the winter months and then secure a quality cover to keep it in good condition.
Protecting your hot tub investment with a proper cover is a smart move — plus the right cover will also keep your hot tub insulated and prevent it from losing heat, securing it throughout the winter months so you can continue to use it all year long.
Covers allow you to maintain the heat of your spa water, protect your spa from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, and prevent debris from entering your spa.
Cal Spas recommends the Cal Armor Spa Cover for any Minnesota hot tub because it’s highly rated for durability and weather protection. It’s the best solution for protecting against winter months and is three times stronger than other spa covers. It’s resistant to UV rays, mildew, and mold, includes exclusive child lock technology, and is 25% lighter than vinyl material.
Whatever cover you choose, make sure you’re confident that your spa will be protected year-round.
Why 2023 is Your Year to Buy a Hot Tub
Fulfill Your New Year’s Resolutions
Is improving your health and wellness part of your resolutions for 2023?
If so, a spa can help you in more ways than one. Hot tubs are the ultimate place for relaxation and can help you reduce your stress levels, but they can also be a great option for hydrotherapy and exercise.
If you could envision using your hot tub in ways that will benefit your overall health and well-being, you might want to consider a swim spa that can accommodate exercises.
Your health is extremely important — let this 2023 be the year you invest in yourself.
Break up your Work From Home Routine
Spending more time at home is a great reason to invest in the quality of your home and to make it more enjoyable and comfortable. If you’re working from home, a hot tub can help you relax and reset during the day. Taking a well-deserved relaxation break in the middle of your workday might be just what you need to regain focus. Sitting at your computer all day takes its toll on the body, so reinvigorate yourself with a hot tub this year.
Bring the Family Together
A hot tub is a great spot for family members to connect and spend time quality together. Enjoy time free from distractions like screens or phones and take advantage of being unplugged. Spas are places that any member of the family can relax in, so bring yours together with a new hot tub.
With all of these considerations in mind, hopefully, you can better weigh your options and choose the best hot tub for your lifestyle.
Cal Spas is your go-to company for Minnesota hot tubs. As your trusted local hot tub supplier, Cal Spas can help you find your perfect oasis. Reach out today to learn more!