Hot tubs use jets to shoot out water and create a relaxing hydrotherapy experience. Jets might shoot directly at you or swirl around your body, massaging the skin. Before you purchase and install a hot tub, make sure you have a large enough area to accommodate the structure with the correct electrical connections available.
Types of Jets
Most hot tub models have several types of jets. A volcano jet sits at the base of the hot tub and shoots water directly up from the bottom. An ozone jet exposes the water to ozone to sanitize the hot tub. With an ozone jet, a part called an ozonator is installed on the spa's filtration system. When the filter kicks on, ozone is released into the tub. Neck jets are situated near the hot tub's top to stimulate the neck and shoulders. The power massage jet contains seven nozzles to focus water on the back.
Choosing a Spot
When choosing a spot for your hot tub, look for a level area with a solid foundation. A filled tub is very heavy, so you need to place it on either a concrete slab, pressure-treated wood or concrete steppingstones. Level out the area before installation.
Electrical Requirements
According to the Spa Depot website, you should have 220-volt electrical service available for optimal heating and energy efficiency. Smaller hot tubs with plug-and-play capabilities use 110 volts and can operate through a 15-amp household outlet.
Size
Hot tubs hold anywhere from two to 12 people or more. Small one- or two-person hot tubs may hold only 150 gallons of water or less, while larger tubs that can seat 10 to 12 can contain more than 1200 gallons of water. Tubs commonly come in diameters from 4 to 8 feet and heights of 36 to 42 inches. Depending on the tub's size, it might take several hours to fill up and heat for the first time. The air valve on the hot tub needs to be opened and the tub's drain shut before you add water from your garden hose.
Accessories
Extra hot tub features include accent lights, misters, aromatherapy capabilities, audio hookups, gazebos and head pillows. Accessories you might want to consider as part of installing your hot tub are cover lifts, steps and an ozone generator. Cover lifts are installed with hardware adapted to the structure of the hot tub to easily lift on and off between uses. Steps allow for easier climbing into the tub, and an ozone generator is a filtration system to reduce the amount of chemicals needed to operate the hot tub.
Materials
Hot tubs are constructed of wood, acrylic, fiberglass and vinyl materials. Because acrylic hot tubs are durable and come in a variety of styles, they are a popular choice, according to the Home Institute.
Member Comments