Why to Buy a Hot Tub
81Soothing, fun, and it's deductible!
A few years ago, I started having a lot of pain in my neck that radiated into my shoulder and down my left arm. I also had pain in my lower back that radiated down my right leg. I went to a couple of doctors and had two MRIs.
My doctors discovered that I had degenerative disc disease, two impinged nerves, and foraminal stenosis in both my cervical and lumbar spine. I was prescribed pain medications, including some pretty heavy-duty drugs, and was forced to take early retirement.
I’ve never been a big fan of drugs. I’ve seen what getting dependent on prescription drugs can do to people. On the other hand, I’m not really into pain, either, so I began to explore ways in which I could get some relief without the use of drugs.
It’s deductable!
I had always wanted a hot tub, but I had no idea how much a hot tub or spa tub cost. When a friend and co-worker decided to sell his practically new 6 person hot tub, I wanted it. I discussed it with my doctor, and he said I could take the cost of the hot tub off my income taxes because its deductible as a tax write off. Wow - who knew? This made me want the spa tub even more! I bought it, and my husband and some pals set it up on my deck. And sure enough, I took the tax deduction for the hot tub. All I had to do was get my physician to write me a prescription for it, which was no problem.
You wouldn’t believe how much better the hot tub makes me feel! I have my favorite seat, of course, and it’s right in front of two jets that massage my upper and lower back at the same time with pulsating jets of hot water. I can literally feel the pain and tension begin to melt away. If I could, I think I’d live in my hot tub! It's especially effective for easing muscle spasms, which I frequently encounter.
I still have to take pain meds occasionally, but I take them sparingly. When I’ve having a bad day, I always try to get in the jetted tub, and I stay for quite a while. Sometimes I have to force myself to leave the comfort of the massaging water.
Our hot tub also functions as a family fun area. The grandkids love it, and so do my adult children. Even though it’s a 6 person hot tub, we’ve put more folks than that in it – little kids don’t take up much room! We use the hot tub all year, too. It’s just a few steps from the pool, so in the summer, we might spend the day in the pool and part of the evening in the hot tub.
Indoor or outdoor hot tubs and spas?
I've been lucky enough to have both indoor and outdoor hot tubs and spas, and I much prefer the outdoor hot tubs and spas. They give you a chance to enjoy time in the great outdoors, even in the dead of winter. No matter how cold it gets here, if your water is nice and toasty, you'll stay comfortable. It might be a bit chilly when you get out of the tub, but it won't be as bad as you think because your body will be so warm from the hot water.
Above ground or inground hot tubs and inground spas?
Most hot tub models are above ground types, but some are inground hot tubs or inground spas. Generally speaking, inground hot tubs and inground spas are more expensive and require professional installation. Of course, it's fairly easy to make standard models inground hot tubs by sinking them into a raised deck. These provide the easy accessibility of inground hot tubs and inground spas without all the cost and labor involved of actual built-in models.
Why to buy a hot tub
If you want to buy a hot tub for a medical condition, remember – its deductable as a tax write off if you itemize and get a prescription from your doctor. If you want to buy a hot tub for personal relaxation, there are all kinds of spa tubs available, including round hot tubs, 2 person hot tubs, and 2 person spas. A 3 person hot tub will give you plenty of room to stretch out. Some spas are inflatable, too! Even a small hot tub will give you years of pleasure.
If you want to buy a hot tub for fun and a way to enjoy time with family and friends, you’ll undoubtedly want a larger version. These are available in a 4 person hot tub, in a 5 person hot tub, in 6 person hot tubs, and in even larger models. 8-12 person hot tubs are huge! Many of these are round hot tubs.
Imagine coming home from a hard day at work and slipping into your own personal spa and enjoying a nice glass of wine as you soak…ah, just thinking about it makes me want to go hop in mine!
I’ve also discovered that it’s the perfect place to enjoy viewing a meteor shower. I just turn off all the outside house lights before getting into the tub. I find my favorite spot, lean back, and enjoy the celestial show.
I also use our hot tub for stretching and mild exercise. Since it's a 6 person hot tub, I have plenty of room for this when I'm in it alone.
You can even enjoy aromatherapy while spending time in your hot tub, which adds even more relaxation. Just buy hot tub scents from a pool and spa supply store and add a bit to the water. Heck, they even sell it at Walmart!
Most hot tubs are also equipped with colored underwater lights that turn the water a beautiful shade. For example, I love our blue light that makes the water a gorgeous turquoise color.
Buying a hot tub is a great home improvement that will add lots of fun and improved health to your life!
Inflatable hot tub
Okay, you're convinced that you'd totally enjoy having a hot tub, but you can't afford one. Here's the solution: an inflatable hot tub! Inflatable hot tubs are super affordable, and they're just as relaxing as their full-size cousins. They're also a lot lighter in weight, so they can be placed almost anywhere.
An inflatable hot tub is almost instant gratification. Most inflatable hot tubs inflate with just the push of a button. Once inflated, fill the inflatable hot tub with water and plug it in to a regular outlet. While the water heats up, go make yourself a margarita. Then luxuriate in the wonderful warm water!
Does an inflatable hot tub have jets? You betcha! Is an inflatable hot tub durable? Yep! Most inflatable hot tubs are very well made and will last for years. Is an inflatable hot tub economical to use? Yes. Because inflatable hot tubs are generally smaller than regular hot tubs, they use less water and much less electricity.
Is an inflatable hot tub comfy? Many people find the inflatable hot tub more comfortable than a regular hot tub because of the soft sides of the inflatable hot tub.
How affordable is an inflatable hot tub? Very. Check out the prices below for inflatable hot tubs. You could be enjoying your inflatable hot tub in just a few days!
More home improvement ideas:
- Hydrotherapy Benefits and Hot Tubs
Historically, man has always been drawn to water. Im not talking about the fact that water is required for survival in the form of drinking water and water for crops and food animals. Im talking about... - Bathroom Remodeling: Corner Bathtubs
I honestly cant think of a single person who doesnt feel better after a warm bath. Being immersed in the caressing water soothes sore muscles, relieves stress, and rejuvenates the spirit. If youre... - Latest Trends: Shower Steamer
If youve ever enjoyed a steam bath or a steam shower, chances are that it was at a spa, club, gym, or another commercial steam room of some sort. You had to pay for membership or either pay a... - All About Toilet Parts
One of mans most wonderful inventions just has to be the modern toilet! Lets face it this is something all of us use several times a day, but we really never give it a thought until it fails to... - Different Types of Fireplace Mantels
Just about everyone who has a fireplace in their home has a fireplace mantel. Fireplace mantels make fireplaces and adjacent hearths look complete. They also provide a nice place to display artwork,... - Homeowners' Liability: Dangers Around the Home, with Informative Videos
Most homeowners realize if someone is injured on their property, a lawsuit might well follow. You can be sued and found liable, even if the person was not an invited guest. Many homeowners, however, are under... - Latest Trends: Under Counter Refrigerator
Your refrigerator is probably the most used appliance in your home. Think about it its in use 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Its always on duty, storing your food safely and keeping your beverages... - Fireplace Grates: An Overview
Most homeowners love having a cozy fireplace in their home, and they might spend weeks deciding on the perfect size, the perfect mantel, and the perfect surround for their fireplace. What isnt usually... - Wireless Security Home System
If you watch or read the news, I dont have to tell you about crime. Home burglaries are on the rise, most likely due to the depressed economy. Many people are desperate for money, so theyre trying their... - All About Toxic Black Mold, with How-To Videos
Youve seen mold, also referred to as mildew, before. Leave a damp article of clothing wadded up so that its not exposed to sunlight or other drying conditions, and in a few days, youll have a nice... - Latest Trends: Frameless Shower Doors
Bathrooms are no longer just an afterthought for modern homeowners. Todays bathrooms are often beautiful, with user-friendly sinks, bathtubs, and showers. Outdated and obsolete bathroom fixtures are being... - Latest Trends: Copper Sinks
Many of todays bathrooms and kitchens are absolutely stunning. Once just thought of as functional and necessary rooms, modern homeowners are placing more emphasis on the design and artistic appeal of these... - An Overview of Fireplace Tools
Most people who have a fireplace in their home also have a set of tools, usually placed on the hearth. The fireplace tools arent just functional; theyre also very attractive and give the fireplace an... - Latest Trends: Small Bathtubs, with Pics
Small bathtubs are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners. Just about everyone enjoys a relaxing soak in a warm bath, but space requirements for a tradition tub often limit choices. A standard bathtub... - Proper Ductwork Maintenance
Most homeowners dont spend a lot of time thinking about the internal workings of their home at least not until something goes wrong. By that time, extended damage could have already been done, and... - Choosing the Right Shower Tray
Nowadays, homeowners and prospective homeowners usually place much emphasis on their bathrooms. They often spend much thought and a lot of money on things like frameless shower doors, quarried tile, vessel... - Flooring Options: Pros and Cons of Each
If youre building a new home or remodeling an existing one, or just some home repairs or home improvement, youll be faced with numerous decisions. One area of mind-boggling decisions youll have to... - The Commercial Fridge: An Overview
Businesses like restaurants, grocery stores, and bars have special refrigeration needs. Because of this, many different types of coolers, chillers, and refrigerators are available for business owners....
CommentsLoading...
I have the same problem, degenerated disc disease, so I know the pain. The hot tub sounds wonderful. I'm going to hope for one.
I love the fact that it's deductible if it's for a medical condition. Can I come over? :)
bath man great
Hot tubs are wonderful. We have one and it suddenly needs a small repair and I can't wait to get it repaired as it really helps joint pain. Good hub
This is my dream and hopefully one day...
Sounds wonderful. I have an in-ground pool that I enjoy, but I should have put a spa in it.
I had no idea hot tubs were tax deductible. I just may have to look into buying one!
I want one now! Dang it, I just paid my taxes. Oh well, next year!
I need a hot tub,so I can keep warm for a while up here.
One of the best possible ways to relax and relieve stress!
Interesting - I guess my physical therapist writing for it probably would not suffice - it would have to be the doctor - I think we have the same bodies - this is like nuts! I have so much trouble thanks to my 35+ years as a medical transcriptionist (not to mention all those graceful things I do with my dogs) that the jacuzzi saves me - and the multiple braces and occasional bouts of PT. I am like you - no one is cutting on me unless it is absolutely necessary - I'm trying to think of where I could put an outside hot tub and not have at least ONE malamute swimming in it!
Sounds wonderful to me. Must give it some thought for the future. Thanks for the info.
Hi Habee,
I really enjoyed your hub. Actually, it's always good decision if you install a hot tub in your house or backyard, it's good for your health and relaxation. But before you buying a hot tub you need to compare it to get the best hot tub that fit your needs. Thanks for sharing this hub.
habee , thank u and very useful info
Whatever type of spa or hot tub you decide on, makes sure you get a cover for it.
You're right, hot tub covers are a must. Otherwise you end up with a dirty hot tub, and nobody likes that!
You didn't mention why you prefer an outdoor hot tub. Could you share? I saw a home for sale recently that included an indoor hot tub, but I'm not sure it's a good idea... I'm assuming a home inspector could tell me if it's done right, but I'd still be a little nervous.
What I meant to ask is, what are the reasons you don't like indoor hot tubs? Thanks.
I agree with habee, outdoor hot tubs are much more my style as well. Fresh air, the stars, and not to mention they are generally bigger because you have more room outside.
Have to agree with you habee relaxing in a hot tub after a hard days work.
habee,
I had the very same neck injury - only my right arm - oh, so painful.
When we moved my husband wanted to leave or sell the hot tub. I politely negotiated I would be happy to IF he never had another massage. I am not a massage type person but the hot tub I use throughout the year.
My neck is much better but I do baby it with the use of the warm water.
I love exercising, working in the garden and then rewarding myself with the hot tub.
I could give up caffeine and my technology before giving up my hot tub.
I am so happy with the emergence of the swim spas - what a fantastic invention - best of both worlds and bringing the swimming pool within a families' financial reach.




























daisyjae Level 2 Commenter 2 years ago
Hot tubs are great! I wish I had the space and money for one.