Common Questions relating to Hot Tubs…
At Hot Tub World we know there are many questions to ask when you consider purchasing your own hot tub. Our customers often ask questions regarding planning for a hot tub, owning a tub, and maintaining a hot tub so in response to this we would like to take some time to answer some of the more frequently asked questions.
Do you need planning permission for a hot tub?
In short, No. As hot tubs are portable they are considered a temporary or relocatable fixture and therefore do not require planning permission. However, in certain cases it is always advisable to seek the advice of your local planning commission, for example if you live in a conservation area or an area of outstanding natural beauty such as a national park.
How should we prepare for a hot tub?
First of all, it is important when considering a hot tub to make sure you have adequate room in your garden or home and room to get it into place once you have made your choice. At Hot Tub World, we recommend a 1 metre gap around the side of your home, which is clear of fences, trees, gates and taps. We also offer a site survey service (free of charge) if you are unsure of the best possible route to get your tub into place.
Of course if access is limited, it is possible to crane or high-ab a hot tub into the desired place. One thing is for certain, we’ve not been beaten yet!
Next, be sure you have a strong and flat level base on which to place your new tub. This can be made of stone, 10 centimetre concrete or well constructed and reinforced decking for example. At Hot Tub World we strongly recommend that you DO NOT place a hot tub on grass or soil as it will most likely sink and become uneven.
Finally, to provide power to your tub a Part P certified electrician is required. A 32 amp supply to an outside isolator situated 2 metres from the hot tub is a must, along with a tail from the isolator allowing four metres of cable at the hot tub.
At Hot Tub World our prices include delivery, installation and commission. Also the customer will receive a chemical starter pack, full chemical training and cover!
What are the running costs of an average hot tub?
Hot tubs are designed to be kept hot 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Because of this a lot of people are put off owning a hot tub because of the implied costs of running it daily. However the costs are far less than you think!
The least expensive designs will cost roughly £5 a week compared to more expensive and much larger tubs which can cost up to £30 a week. Of course, factors such as colder climate and energy costs in your area may affect this.
To combat high energy costs, Hot Tub World provides each spa with a dense foam insulated cover of the highest quality. This prevents heat loss from the tub and effectively recycles the hot air back into your spa water.
Is it better to turn your hot tub off after each usage?
At Hot Tub World we provide the highest quality spas with a guarantee of efficiency and excellent quality. Therefore, if your use pattern is fairly regular, it is recommended to keep your hot tub switched on as the insulation within the cover and the shell itself will keep running costs low but allow for frequent use.
If your usage is less often it is recommended that you turn your spa off between each use, however this will also involve draining your spa as well.
Health & Safety?
How long should you stay in your tub?
There is no strict limit on how long you should stay in your hot tub. Many of our customers find that they stay in them for hours on end after a stressful week of work.
It is important to maintain a good level of hydration when using a hot tub and to maintain your sanitation levels, as prolonged bathing will affect the levels of your sanitiser.
Are hot tubs safe for children?
In younger children, particularly babies and toddlers, body temperature is regulated differently than in adults. As a result of this it is important to get the temperature right. Once this is achieved it is no different than the child taking a bath. Baby floats and water toys can also be used to heighten their fun!
Of course it is always important to never leave your children alone in a body of water and limit the time they spend in a tub to an average bath time. Keep children hydrated and ensure they are accompanied by a responsible adult.
I have an existing medical problem, should I get a hot tub?
Depending on the nature of your problem a hot tub could be very beneficial, however it is always recommended that you consult a doctor before using a hot tub.
Hot tubs are a great way to relieve stress and anxiety, they also help with insomnia, arthritis and circulatory problems. It is not advised to use a spa if you have or have had a heart condition.
Sexually Transmitted Infections?
Sexually Transmitted diseases run rampant in today’s society, and it’s right to be cautious when using a hot tub with potential carriers of an infection. It is highly unlikely, but not impossible that the warm and wet conditions of a hot tub can allow infectious bacteria to grow and spread to other users.
However, maintaining the right level of sanitizer (5 ppm of chlorine) and regular cleaning of your hot tub and filters will prevent this from happening.
