Hot Tub or Pool? How to Choose the Right Water Feature for Your Home

You have finally decided it’s time to upgrade your backyard and start enjoying life on the water, from the comfort of your own home, but you can’t seem to decide between installing a hot tub or an in-ground pool. There are many factors to consider when deciding which one is the best fit for you, and All Seasons Pool & Spa can help you find the perfect solution. Before you make a decision that will affect your home and leisure life for years to come, you will need to make careful considerations. So what should you consider before deciding between a pool or a spa? Let’s take a look.

Hot Tub or Pool? What to Consider

• What Is Your Budget?
  • In-ground pools are more expensive to own than hot tubs, as a general rule. The initial cost of purchasing and installing a hot tub is lower, and hot tubs also typically have lower ongoing maintenance costs.
• How Much Space Do Have?
  • Evaluate the available space in your backyard. A hot tub requires less space than a pool. If you have limited space, a hot tub might be a better fit.
• What’s the Intended Purpose?
  • Hot tubs are great for relaxation, therapy, and socializing in small groups. Pools are better suited for exercise, family recreation, and larger gatherings.
• Seasonal Considerations:
  • Illinois summers are hot but our winters can be frozen. Hot tubs can be used year-round and are especially enjoyable in colder months. Pools, however, are typically seasonal and require winterization to prepare for the winter months.
• Maintenance:
  • Hot tubs require less maintenance compared to pools. Pools involve more upkeep, including regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and potential equipment repairs.
• Health Benefits:
  • Hot tubs are known for their therapeutic benefits, such as relaxation, stress relief, and relief from muscle aches and joint pain. Pools are better for aerobic, low-impact exercise that you can’t accomplish in a hot tub.
• Aesthetics:
  • Pools can be a striking addition to a landscape, while hot tubs are generally smaller and blend in more easily. Both hot tubs and pools offer opportunities for customization in terms of design, shape, and features. Consider your aesthetic preferences and how each choice aligns with your vision for your outdoor space.
• Safety:
  • If you have small children or pets, and are concerned about their safety, you might prefer a hot tub that can close with a locking lid. If you choose a pool, you’ll want to ensure appropriate safety measures, such as fencing and alarms.
• Regulations and Permits:
  • Check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits for installing a hot tub or pool. Check with your HOA to see if there are any restrictions for your property that might impact your choice.
• Ongoing Energy Costs:
  • Because hot tubs are smaller, they require less water and electricity, fewer chemicals, and less maintenance time overall compared to swimming pools. This might have an impact on your monthly budget considerations.
• Water Usage and Conservation:
  • As mentioned above, pools require a significant amount of water to fill and maintain. If you live in an area with water scarcity concerns, a hot tub would be the more environmentally-friendly option.
• Accessibility:
  • Hot tubs are often more accessible for individuals with mobility issues due to their lower entry height compared to pools. This can be an essential factor if you have elderly family members or individuals with disabilities.
• Privacy and Screening:
  • Consider your privacy needs. Hot tubs can be more private and secluded, while pools might require additional screening or landscaping to create a private oasis.
• Maintenance Commitment:
  • Assess your willingness and ability to commit to ongoing maintenance. Pools typically demand more frequent maintenance tasks, whereas hot tubs are generally easier to maintain.
• Resale Value:
  • If you plan to sell your home in the future, consider how the addition of a hot tub or pool might impact your property’s resale value. Consult with real estate professionals in your area to gauge the market demand and potential value addition.

The Answer May Come Down to Your Personal Preference

Ultimately, your own opinion and lifestyle should play the largest role in your decision. By thinking about how you envision using the space and which option aligns better with your interests and needs, you should be able to start envisioning whether you should install a pool or spa to upgrade your lifestyle.

If you’re still stumped on picking the perfect liquid leisure solution for your property, stop by All Seasons Pools & Spas at 9135 W 135th St. in Orland Park, or give us a call at 708-349-2222. Our team of award-winning professionals is ready to help you select the right option for your home. With dozens of awards that represent our commitment to quality, workmanship, professionalism, value, and customer satisfaction, All Seasons is the ideal choice for guiding you through the process of installing the pool or spa of your dreams.