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Above Ground Hot Tub: Elevating Outdoor Relaxation with Style and Comfort
Above Ground Hot Tub: Elevating Outdoor Relaxation with Style and Comfort
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Written by Kimberly Giraldo
Updated over 6 months ago

If you are looking for a way to enhance your backyard or patio area with style and comfort, you may want to consider an above ground hot tub. Just as its name implies, an above ground hot tub, or spa, is not built into the ground. Rather, this type of hot tub, which is also often referred to as a portable hot tub, or spa, requires minimal setup before and upon delivery and installation.

This article will reveal a wealth of information about above ground hot tubs if you are looking to elevate your backyard with an outdoor sanctuary that is relaxing, stylish, and comfortable. It will cover what you need to know before you purchase an above ground hot tub and what to look for in the best above ground hot tubs. The article will also offer some above ground hot tub ideas that will best suit your needs, reveal some benefits of above ground hot tubs, and help you determine where to find the best above ground hot tub for you.

What is an above ground hot tub?

Above ground hot tubs are typically portable hot tubs. It is important to understand that while above ground hot tubs are considered portable, they are not easily movable. It is highly recommended that any above ground hot tub be professionally delivered and installed. It is also important that an electrician prepares any necessary electrical wiring prior to, and after, delivery and installation.

An above ground hot tub is an alternative to other options such as a built-in or in-ground hot tub or an inflatable hot tub. Built-in hot tubs can be custom-designed for your backyard, but as their name suggests, they are built into the ground. This can be a rather costly option and the hydrotherapy may not be as superior as an above ground hot tub.

Another hot tub option is called an inflatable, or blow-up, hot tub. This option can be a very budget-friendly way to obtain a hot tub. However, inflatable hot tubs do not deliver true hydromassage and they cannot compare to the level of hydrotherapy that a high-performing above ground hot tub from a luxury brand can provide.

If you are looking specifically for unparalleled hydromassage, an above ground hot tub can be an excellent option to suit your needs. Because above ground hot tubs do not need to be built into the ground, they can be a great option if you want to have your hot tub placed on your patio near your home. Those that live in cold climates or areas with extreme weather may enjoy this option to help protect their above ground hot tub from the elements.

High-quality above ground hot tubs from premium brands are typically built to withstand extreme weather. The brand manufacturer may even offer a cold weather climate package that features additional insulation. For example, the Jacuzzi® Extreme Cold Weather package includes an additional factory-installed layer of insulation between the frame and siding of your hot tub which is designed to conserve heat even in the coldest of climates. It also comes with an upgraded hot tub cover designed for cold, harsh climates.

The type of cover that accommodates an above ground hot tub is meant to form to the spa itself, creating a tight seal. This is ideal for helping to retain your hot tub water’s heat, but also for keeping debris and dirt out of the water. A well-fitting hot tub cover is also important for keeping pets and little ones from getting into the hot tub without supervision.

An above ground hot tub is typically less expensive than an in-ground hot tub and installation is less complex. Above ground hot tubs can be placed pretty much anywhere in your backyard that you wish to transform into an outdoor relaxation sanctuary. You simply will want to prepare your space by ensuring it is flat and level. A foundation such as concrete, a solid sturdy deck, or a prefabricated spa pad will be necessary before installation of your above ground hot tub.

Another factor that sets above ground hot tubs apart from other types is the superior level of hydrotherapy. Above ground hot tubs from luxury brands are equipped with specialty options that can truly elevate your outdoor relaxation to new heights.

What are some above ground hot tub ideas?

If you are looking for the best available hydromassage experience, the hot tub’s jets and seating are where you’ll want to focus your attention. These are some of the most important features that can truly elevate your experience.

Beyond jets, premium above ground hot tub brands may be able to offer exclusive features that are simply not available in an inflatable or in-ground hot tub. For example, the Jacuzzi® J-LX® Collection, along with select models in the Jacuzzi® J-400™ Collection, feature first-to-market Infrared and Red Light therapy. This is where rejuvenation meets the utmost in relaxation.

The rejuvenating powers of Infrared and Red Light therapy work deep beneath your skin’s surface to relieve pain, improve your range of motion, and help you reach a state of blissful mindfulness. Founded in research, using IR and Red Light therapy can enhance your relaxation so you can achieve peace of mind.

Comfort and style converge in each of these collections. The Jacuzzi® J-LX® Collection was designed with clean, crisp, simple lines and a modern yet timeless shape that looks stylish in any setting. The Jacuzzi® J-LX® models feature a gentle waterfall that takes over your senses to help you achieve a soothing transformational experience with every soak.

The Jacuzzi® J-LX® Model features open seating for six to seven bathers. The Jacuzzi® J-LXL® Model features seating for five to six bathers and includes a lounge seat. Both models feature the FX-IR therapy seat which takes your hydromassage to the next level with jet pressure delivering varied massage through surface contact while specialized deep Red Light reaches surface tissue and cells and near Infrared is positioned to target deep tissue within the lumbar region of the lower back. Ultimately, this results in unparalleled comfort, relaxation, and rejuvenation. So after every use, you feel refreshed and reenergized.

What are the benefits of an above ground hot tub?

Beyond elevating your outdoor relaxation with style and comfort, you may seek other benefits from your above ground hot tub. You are likely seeking a hot tub for relaxation. But you can also benefit from stress relief, increase your peace of mind, and boost your connection with loved ones, family, and friends — all from simply spending much-needed downtime in your soothing hot tub.

The American Institute of Stress reports that “Job stress is more strongly associated with health complaints than financial or family problems.” The organization notes that job stress is “far and away” the major source of stress for American adults and that it has escalated progressively over the past few decades.” Unfortunately, stress can lead to some pretty significant health issues, which is why it is important to find a way to unwind and release some tension on a regular basis.

Hydrotherapy has actually been identified as a relaxation technique. “Relaxation techniques are a great way to help with stress management,” states a recent article on the Mayo Clinic. “Relaxation isn’t only about peace of mind or enjoying a hobby. It’s a process that lessens the stress effects on your mind and body.”

To help cope with everyday stress, consider a soak in your hot tub as a necessary benefit to ease your stress, increase your peace of mind, as well as improve your quality of life and your health. Another wonderful benefit of an above ground hot tub is spending quality time with family, friends, and loved ones. The connectivity you will gain by disconnecting from the distractions of the world and instead spending time in a social soak with family and friends is an invaluable added benefit of your hot tub.

Where can I find the best above ground hot tubs?

If you are looking for an above ground hot tub to elevate your outdoor relaxation, you’ll want to be sure you purchase the best model for your needs and one that will stand the test of time. It’s important to purchase your hot tub from a quality, reputable brand.

It’s also advised to purchase your hot tub directly through the brand or via an authorized dealer, rather than from a vendor at a home or outdoor expo. While buying a used hot tub may be an option, you’ll want to take caution when your purchase as you may run into unexpected or hidden problems.

Affiliations: Jacuzzi® is a registered trademark of Jacuzzi Group. All rights reserved.

Medical disclaimer: This information is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or other medical professional for advice if you have any concerns about your current health or well-being.

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