When you live in a harsh winter climate - especially after a day of skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, or even just clearing the driveway of snow or getting home from work - there is nothing quite as wonderful as stepping into a warm, relaxing hot tub.
Close your eyes and imagine the jets easing the muscles in you back, legs, and feet, as you dim the lights, lean your head back, and settle into your favorite tunes.
Hot tubs or spas are one of those little luxuries in life that pay off by improving your overall quality of life.
Several factors are worthy of consideration when purchasing a spa.
This article will give an overview of factors that contribute to higher levels of satisfaction when you invest in a hot tub.

• Recognize that not all spa brands are constructed the same.
  When you live in a cold northern climate or at higher elevations, the ways in which a spa is insulated is very important to consider.
  Hot tubs that contain sprayed insulation on all the perimeter walls surrounding the tub will help to retain heat while allowing full access to the motor and other equipment used to run the spa.
  Spas packed with insulation can actually be less heat efficient and require longer service times due to limited access to the motor unit
• The most costly factor in owning a hot tub is maintaining the heat level.
  For higher efficiency, some hot tubs actually recapture excess heat vented from the spa and reuse it in heating the water.
  Similar to a hybrid car, Arctic Spas, for example, are highly efficient because they capture what would otherwise be wasted energy and use it to keep the water warm, thereby reducing heating costs.
  
• Another factor highly correlated with heat retention is the spa cover.
  A Castcore Cover®, while optional, combines very dense foam and a metal C-shaped bar so it can withstand up to 2000 pounds of weight.
  Along with being vacuum-sealed and covered in a specially manufactured bag, this cover will save you a great deal of money over time from heat loss while protecting your tub from the weight of snow (and kids).
  
• When you buy a car, you may want a fully loaded model with all the bells and whistles.
  On the other hand, you may not need or want all available options but would rather choose add-ons for your hot tub.
  When you select your hot tub, make sure you are aware of available options such as the number and placement of jets, lighting options, and sound systems.
  Depending on the hot tub you purchase, you may want to consider a tactile transducer sound system which actually transforms the spa shell, cabinet and water into the speaker system in such as way that the sound literally passes through you for the ultimate in music and water therapy combined!
• To maximize flexibility and customization, other options include the type of water purification system you have installed, the ability to add-on features such as a water chiller for warm months, wireless control to adjust temperature, lighting and other features through your smartphone, and even aromatherapy.
  
• Finally, when selecting a spa you will want to consider the ease of accessing replacement parts and supplies such as chemicals and filters.
  Whether you live in the city or far from a retail outlet, you should consider a model that provides online access to order supplies and support if questions come up.
  

The purchase of a hot tub is an exciting venture and pay off in many lasting memories for you, your family and your friends.
The best way to enjoy your new hot tub is be being an informed consumer.
So do your research, ask questions, and take the plunge!