If you have space outdoors, a hot tub makes a great addition to your home. A hot tub provides somewhere to unwind and relax at the end of the day; it can ease stress, reduce pain from muscle injuries and improve sleep (it can also be enjoyed by children as somewhere warm to splash around in). If you are looking to create a home spa environment in your garden, getting a hot tub is a great place to start. While building a home sauna or installing a home swimming pool requires intensive building work and can be very expensive, there are many types of hot tubs available on the market that tremendously vary in price. You can also choose to install a permanent hot tub or opt for a portable or an inflatable version.

Before you decide what type of hot tub is right for your home, you’ll need to consider the following five things:

Do you know how to keep it clean and in good working order?

When you are a hot tub owner, the first thing to keep in mind and one of the most important things to know is how to keep it clean and hygienic for everyone’s continued enjoyment. While a sponge and soapy water works well for a general quick clean, you’ll need to make sure that you know how to deal with algae, bacteria and debris that grows and infiltrates your hot tub. The majority of hot tubs cannot be cleaned with general household cleaners, so it is important to get in touch with hot tub maintenance services who will use their skills, experience and industry best practices to ensure your hot tub is working properly for safety and efficiency.

It's important to understand the potential need for maintenance and part replacements to ensure long-lasting performance. A key element of hot tub upkeep is understanding hot tub heater replacement, which may be necessary over time to maintain your desired water temperature efficiently.

Do you already have a level space to place a hot tub?

Hot tubs need to be placed on level ground (such as decking areas and tiled patios). They can not be placed on uneven land (such as rocky or hilly areas). If you are considering carving out a space for a hot tub, laying composite decking is a good idea. Composite decking has the natural look of traditional timber decking, but it is waterproof and does not fade or rot. The durability of Composite means that the decking will not become weak or damaged from any exposure to water from the hot tub.

Do you have an external electrical point?

You’ll need to plug in your hot tub in order for it to bubble and soothe your body. Before you purchase a hot tub, make sure you have a suitable power supply in place - especially for the larger, high-end hot tubs that require enough electricity to power them.

Is your installation location accessible?

If you choose a hot tub that comes as one large structure, think about how the delivery team will be able to access your home. Do you have wide enough gates for the hot tub to be rolled in? Or, will it require a crane to lift it into place? If you have limited access to your garden or backyard, consider purchasing an inflatable hot tub instead.

How will you elevate your hot tub once it’s in place?

If you decide to install a hot tub, how will you make the most of it? Garden cinemas and home projectors are a great way to watch films and sports from the comfort of your hot tub, while outdoor kitchens are becoming more and more popular on social media. A louvred pergola provides coverage and will allow you to use your hot tub all year round, while a fire pit in your garden provides an attractive focal point to watch from your hot tub.