Does Size Really Matter?

Yes, the size of your hot tub does matter. Consider two primary issues when sizing your spa. The first is the physical size of the tub's exterior. It will need to fit into your outdoor space. Not only will it need to fit into the area you've allotted for the hot tub, but it should also leave enough extra space to comfortably and easily get in and out of the spa.

If you have to turn sideways to walk to the hot tub, jump over hedges, or wiggle around the exterior of your home, the spa is too large for the space. You will also need to check with local building codes or, if you have one, a homeowner's association (HOA) rule/regulation list.

Some codes or rules won't allow homeowners to place hot tubs against the exterior wall of a home or within a set number of feet from their neighbor's home/property line. These codes and regulations will impact the placement and could affect the size you choose.

Capacity is the second sizing factor to consider when you select a hot tub or spa. Some tubs are made to comfortably seat one couple, while others can fit an entire party of guests. The available outdoor space on your property will directly affect the capacity limit options. Long spas that hold six or more adults won't fit into a tiny corner of your yard.

Does Weight Matter in the Selection Process?

Yes, weight does matter. Hot tubs are heavy pieces of equipment as-is. Add water, and the spa can't sit on just any surface. An empty two- to three-person hot tub could weigh up to 500 pounds. A six-plus person tub may weigh up to 1,000 pounds.

Failure to choose the right hot tub or create the right base for the spa could cause serious structural problems. The weight of the tub could crush the base underneath it. If this is a patio or deck, the issue could pose a serious safety hazard.

A base that isn't solid or isn't made to support the combined weight of the hot tub and the water could also cause problems with the spa — even if it's set onto seemingly strong concrete. Without the right base-tub match, the weight of the spa and water could cause uneven settling. This can cause the weight inside of the hot tub to shift and result in uneven distribution. Left untreated, this can warp and crack the hot tub's shell.

How Can You Choose the Best Size Hot Tub?

There's no magical formula to tell you the exact size and weight of a hot tub to choose. Instead, you will need to consider a few factors. Again, these include the size of the outdoor space, the local building codes or HOA regulations, and the available structural base versus the overall weight of the spa and the water inside of it.

If you don't have the square footage, weight, or rule-related restrictions that could change your choice, consider:

1. Your family size. Are you single, a couple, or a family of three-plus people? The more people in your household, the larger size of a hot tub that you will need. A two- to three-person hot tub won't accommodate a family of five.
2. The expected use. Will you use the hot tub for entertainment purposes or is it simply a spa-like space for you to relax alone? If you will invite guests to your home for a soak, you will need a larger hot tub.
3. The aesthetics of your yard. A hot tub is more than just a functional appliance. It's also a noticeable part of your home's exterior. This makes it important to choose a size that fits the scale of the yard/outdoor area and blends into the exterior design plan.
4. The size of the people who will use the hot tub. A two-person tub may not fit two tall adults comfortably. Some adults may feel cramped with one seat to themselves. If you want the room to stretch out and relax, choose a larger hot tub.

It isn't always easy to imagine how the tub will feel. If you're struggling to size the spa, ask the dealer to try out a model. You don't need to get into a water-filled tub to test the fit. Sit in an empty model, stretch your arms and legs out, and get a better feel for what you can expect.

Are you ready to explore your hot tub options? Contact Marquis Hot Tubs for more information.