Hot tub spas come in all kinds of shapes and sizes, from small ones for just a couple of people at a time, to very large ones that accommodate several people at a time. But no matter which model you choose, any hot tub or spa is designed to help you relax in comfort.

There are actually several common names used for hot tubs and spas today.. In fact, the term hot tub and spa actually mean essentially the same thing to most people. But other commonly used names are whirlpool and jacuzzi. However, Jacuzzi is actually the name of a company that builds spas and whirlpool baths. But for general use, any of those terms mean essentially the same thing, either an in ground or above ground, jetted, heated, water filled tub.

Perhaps the first question to ask if you are considering buying a spa is whether to get one that is in ground or above ground. Of course, the price difference will be considerable, since the in ground units require an awful lot more expensive construction methods. However, their big advantage is that they can add quite a bit of value to your home when it comes time to sell.

The advantage of having a portable spa is that you can take it with you when you move. Essentially self-contained spas require nothing more than an electrical outlet to be able to function on their own. Many people build specialized decks and surroundings for their portable spa, and others just simply carry them inside and outside whenever needed. As you can see, that makes a portable spa very flexible and easy to use.

When you choose a spa, there are a lot of features that are available. You can get contoured seats, built in radios and CD players, and plenty of other luxury choices too. But perhaps the most important feature to pay attention to is the water heater itself. In a portable spa, the heater most often runs on electricity and can range from 1.5 KW up to 11.5 KW, the difference being that the more power the heater has, the faster it can heat up the spa.

In a permanent or in ground spa the heater can be either electric or gas, but most often you'll probably find that it runs on LP gas. Electrical heaters can be cheaper to buy initially, but over the long haul LP gas heaters are much less expensive to run from day-to-day.

Actual average monthly operating costs are hard to nail down though, since much will depend on where you live, how much you use your spa, and at what temperature you had the water set.

Usually its best to buy a hot tub or spa from a company that specializes specifically in selling them, and not as a sideline. And be wary of very cheap deals, as you often get what you pay for in this kind of consumer product.

Hopefully the information above has help you understand more about hot tubs and spas and what options are available for them. If you take your time, remain patient, and use good sense as you shop, you should be able to find a good deal on the spa that will fit you best.

Thad Pickering writes on many consumer related topics including home improvement. You can find out more about swimming pool designs and swimming pool safety covers by visiting our Home Improvement website.