It’s getting chilly outside, and the pool is all closed down and wrapped up for the season, but that doesn’t mean all your activities have to be moved indoors just yet. A hot tub can be a great way to entertain using your patio or deck in off-season weather.
What’s what? 
A hot tub is portable and self-contained, a spa is an in-ground hot tub, a Jacuzzi is a brand of hot tub, and a whirl pool is more what you are likely to find in your master bathroom – a bathtub with jets.
Figure out why you want a hot tub first. Do you want it for relaxation, exercise, massage therapy or parties? This decision will help you choose what size and type of hot tub you want and where you should put it.
Location is also a pivotal thing when it comes to your hot tub. The placement of the hot tub should not impede traffic, not be difficult to get in and out of and that it’s not too far away from the back door – as toasty as it is inside the hot tub, you’re going to want the walk through that cold winter air to be short.
It’s not overly weird to request a test drive of a hot tub model – it is actually quite common, and can help you get a feel for the hot tub you’ll be spending quite a bit of time in. Many hot tub stores have private areas for clients to do just this.
Regular maintenance is what will keep your hot tub functioning and clean. Cleanliness is especially important with hot tubs. The warm and moist areas surrounding a hot tub can be havens for bacteria and hot tubs must be sanitized as per the directions, and showering before entering the hot tub is recommended.
If you do choose to make your outdoors a little more fun, ensure it’s safe. Always use a locked safety cover when the hot tub is not in use, and make sure all drains and drain covers are up to current safety standards.
