Glam Up Your Home with a Hot Tub!
Editor’s Note (Updated 2025): Hot tubs are still one of the most popular backyard upgrades for Savannah-area homeowners. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful retreat, hydrotherapy for sore muscles, or a fun spot to entertain, this guide will help you choose the right hot tub for your home.
Why a Hot Tub Might Be Right for You
Looking for a relaxing – yet exciting – way to spend time at home? Maybe you’ve suffered an injury, have a degenerative condition that could benefit from warm-water therapy, or you just love the idea of unwinding under the stars. In any of these situations, a hot tub could be just the thing.
Today’s hot tub market features more options than ever before, in almost every shape, size, and style you can imagine. While some hot tubs are installed indoors, the Savannah, GA area is often better suited to outdoor tubs. With our mild weather, outdoor use can be practically year-round, and outdoor installations typically offer better ventilation and more flexibility with placement.
Step One: Check the Rules
Before you fall in love with a particular model, check with your homeowner’s association and local zoning office to make sure you can install a hot tub on your property. Some communities don’t permit permanent hot tubs but do allow portable, inflatable models. Once you know what’s allowed, you can start narrowing down your options with confidence.
Choosing the Right Size
How large your hot tub should be depends on two main factors: how many people will typically use it and how much space you have available.
- Small tubs: Typically seat 2–3 people and fit well on compact patios or decks.
- Medium tubs: Usually seat 4–6 people and are ideal for families or small gatherings.
- Large tubs: Can seat 8–12 people depending on the layout and are better suited to larger backyards.
Remember to account for “working space” around the tub as well. You’ll need room for maintenance, access panels, and safe entry and exit. Also look at drainage and ventilation so splashing water and steam don’t damage your lawn, deck, or siding.
Budget & Ongoing Costs
Hot tub pricing can vary widely between manufacturers, sizes, and feature packages, so it’s worth doing a little homework. Be sure to compare:
- Base purchase price
- Installation costs (concrete pad, electrical work, delivery)
- Monthly energy usage
- Chemicals, filters, and routine maintenance
For a helpful overview of typical hot tub costs and what affects them, you can review this guide from ConsumerAffairs. It’s a good reality check as you set your budget.
Whatever model you choose, look for a reputable manufacturer with a solid track record and a strong warranty. A hot tub is an investment, and you want coverage that protects you for the long term.
Understanding Filtration Systems
Keeping your water clean, clear, and safe is critical. Most modern hot tubs use a combination of filtration and purification to remove debris and neutralize microorganisms. You’ll typically see three main options:
- Salt systems: Use naturally produced chlorine to sanitize the water, often resulting in a silkier, softer feel compared to traditional chlorine tablets.
- Ozone systems: Work alongside chlorine or bromine to kill germs and break down residue from soaps, lotions, and cosmetics.
- UV-C systems: Use high-intensity germicidal UV light to help neutralize bacteria and reduce the amount of chemicals needed.
Each system has its pros and cons in terms of cost, maintenance, and water feel, so ask your retailer to walk you through what they recommend for your lifestyle.
Hydrotherapy & Other “Must-Have” Features
If you’re primarily interested in hydrotherapy – easing joint pain, relaxing tight muscles, or supporting recovery – the right jets and seating are crucial. The number of jets, their placement, and the style of seating can dramatically change your experience.
For a deeper dive into hydrotherapy features and what to look for, resources like Hot Tub Digest can help you understand the difference between basic relaxation tubs and models designed specifically for therapeutic use.
Beyond hydrotherapy, you might also weigh extras such as:
- LED mood lighting in and around the tub
- Built-in Bluetooth speakers or sound systems
- Ergonomic headrests and lounge-style seating
- Handrails and easy-entry steps for added safety
- Higher-quality or fully-insulated covers for better energy efficiency
These features are usually found in mid- to upper-range models, so factor them into your budget if they’re on your wish list.
Try Before You Buy
If possible, visit a hot tub showroom that offers “wet tests” or at least dry seating tests. Being able to sit in the tub (or actually try it filled with water) can tell you more than any spec sheet. You’ll quickly learn which seating arrangements feel comfortable, whether the jets hit the right spots, and how easy it is to enter and exit the tub.
With a bit of planning and the right questions, you can choose a hot tub that fits your space, supports your budget, and becomes one of your favorite places to relax at home.
