A hot tub is a major purchase. But, hydrotherapy having many benefits , it is an investment that can be wise for your health. How do you know which type of spa to choose? With the many options available on the market, it can be difficult to make your choice without feeling lost… Fortunately, iopool is here to help you see more clearly!
What is a hot tub?
A spa (also called a bubble bath or jacuzzi), is like a regular tub that can accommodate two or more people. Bubble baths have features like massage jets, used for relaxation.
Hot tubs also have an outer frame, which contains the tub shell. The shell is the inner part of spas that retains water. Hot tubs also have pumps that circulate water in and out of the tub.
Due to their small size, hot tubs are sometimes placed outdoors, usually on a deck or patio. So, before you think about investing in a hot tub, consider the space you have.
Hot tubs can be above ground or in ground, with above ground being the more affordable option.
Owning a spa makes your outdoor space a haven of peace. But the benefits don’t stop there. Indeed, taking a dip in a hot spa has many benefits for your body .
Stress relief
Sitting in a hot tub after a long day can help ease tension. The soothing effect of warm water and massage jets helps relieve physical, emotional and mental stress.
Muscle relaxation
The action of the hot water and the massage jet increases blood circulation and relaxes tense muscles.
Improved sleep
According to this research , relaxing in a bubble bath can help you sleep better. For example, one study found that a hot tub for 90 minutes before bed can promote a peaceful night’s sleep.
Another study looked at the effects of hydrotherapy on sleep quality in people with fibromyalgia. Researchers have found that hydrotherapy from hot spas not only improves sleep, but also helps reduce symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Joint pain relief
If you suffer from arthritis or joint pain, the heat and massage jets can relieve the stiffness and inflammation that is causing the pain. How ? Because hot water relieves your joints, which helps improve flexibility and range of motion.
Better cardiovascular health
Relaxing in a hot tub can increase your heart rate, which lowers your blood pressure . Additionally, the study found that soaking in hot water for 10 minutes can lower blood pressure.
When choosing a spa, it is essential to consider the type of material it is made of.
Acrylic spa shells are considered one of the most durable on the market. But they’re heavy, which means it’s not easy to reposition them. Installing an acrylic shell is therefore a huge commitment.
Vinyl is another common material used in inflatable hot tubs. This material is more affordable than others but is not as durable. And vinyl does not retain heat well, which increases the consumption of your heat pump. Not to mention that excessive exposure to the sun could fade the color.
This gives you more options for where it can be placed in your garden. A huge appeal for this type is that many rotomolded plastic hot tubs are “plug and play”. So you don’t need an electrician: all you have to do is fill it with water and plug it in. The reduced size is that it doesn’t retain heat well, so you may have to pay more for electricity over time.
Wooden hot tubs offer a unique and elegant aesthetic. The best wooden hot tubs are made from high quality wood, which guarantees their longevity. However, one of the big disadvantages of wooden hot tubs is their maintenance. Wood is prone to rapid rotting and fungal growth with water, especially if not maintained properly. Without water, wood can crack and leak when exposed to the elements.
Like acrylic, fiberglass is a smooth, non-porous material. It is also highly stain and fade resistant. But a significant drawback is that it is not durable and can be prone to chipping and cracking.