Adding a hot tub to the house, be it indoor or outdoor, needs some planning and research. Not only is it a costly affair, but it also needs to be well thought out to justify its use and practicality. So it is important that homeowners take their time in selecting the right model, fit, color, and design for their hot tub so that they remain satisfied with their purchase. Here are some tips that can help. 

Picking the right type
Depending on where one wants to put the hot tub, the type of product can be discussed.

If one is planning to put one in the backyard space, some things to consider include whether they want it to be on a deck-type design or they want it to be in-ground design. The in-ground design will, of course, seamlessly become part of the backyard without any obstruction. They are also known to be easily accessible to go in and out of. However, the cost of building an in-ground hot tub is higher because it needs excavation on site, building blocks, and so on. Maintenance might also be an issue as the wiring and other components are under the ground. Above-ground hot tubs are easier to maintain, and the design can be such that it easily blends into the backyard without looking out of place. 

Getting the right size
Apart from the hot tub size, another factor to consider is that the surrounding space around the tub will also be used, which adds to the whole setup. So, one can consider if they want to add a deck or a gazebo while installing a hot tub. Also, the size will depend on the number of people that can use it. For example, how big the family is and if there are many friends who visit and like to spend some time there. If the hot tub just has a hydrotherapy purpose, then one can go for a small size that fits just one person. 

Features to consider
Hydrotherapy is slowly becoming a popular choice among some people. So, while adding the hot tub, one can consider some features that can be integrated into the hydrotherapy sessions. This includes adjustable jets that target specific areas of the body, like the neck, shoulders, legs, and back. Also, there are different types of jets that provide massaging experiences of varying intensities. For hydrotherapy, the seating should be ergonomic so that one is not uncomfortable, and the tub can be used for maximum comfort. Also, always check the temperature-controlling features. An efficient heater will ensure that the water is at a relaxing temperature, and the hot tub can then be used throughout the seasons. Making sure that the filtration system is in place is also crucial because this can affect water quality and cleanliness. 

Indoor vs. outdoor hot tubs
The indoor hot tubs usually have a whirlpool-style tub, and there is usually an additional floor support added to help distribute the weight evenly on the floor. Also, there is an added cost of adding ventilation to the area because the space around the tub will have a lot of moisture accumulated. These small factors may add to the cost. 

Outdoor hot tub installation may be less expensive and easier to maintain. One needs to lay a firm foundation on the ground to avoid any sinking mishap, so it is vital to choose the right kind of material to use for this purpose. For proper maintenance, the hot tub should be regularly cleaned, and care should be taken so that other environmental factors like too much sun exposure or rain do not spoil the components. Always ask the professionals for any tips on maintaining hot tub hygiene and structure. 

Cost of a hot tub
The cost of a hot tub usually depends on three big factors: the materials used, the size of the tub, and the type of tub used. Here’s a brief: 

Size
The larger the tub, the more expensive it will be, of course. A two-person tub might cost around $2,000, and a 10-person tub may cost around $20,000.

Some average pricing suggests that a tub for 2-3 people may cost somewhere between $2,000 to $7,000, a tub for 4-5 people will be $2,000 to $12,000, 6-7 people will be around $3,000 to $15,000 and 8-10 may cost somewhere between $5,000 to $20,000. 

Types
If the hot tubs are inflatable and portable, then they will cost less than permanent units that are fixed onto a structure or a deck. Then, added features like jets, lighting, and waterfalls are extra added costs. 

Material
There are various types of materials available for hot tubs. To give an example, synthetic wood material will cost somewhere between $2,000 to $9,000, whereas wood will cost somewhere between $3,000 to $10,000. Brick and faux stone are the most expensive categories, which are priced at an average of $5,000 to $12,000. There are some home improvement stores that have hot tubs on sale, so always check nearby stores for any sales or discounts. 

Essentially, the factors that affect the cost include above-ground or in-ground installation, the brand, electricity use, indoor vs. outdoor location, maintenance, and any upgrades or add-ons that are chosen for the hot tubs.