When you've finally decided to buy a spa, you'll need to decide what type, shape and size it should be. There are many considerations involved, especially if you've never owned one before. You probably already have in mind how you want to use it. If you want some hot water therapy for yourself and your sore muscles, you'll be looking at a very different selection of hot tubs than if you want to hang out with friends and family on chilly weekend afternoons.

Purpose
If you like to entertain, you will want to choose something that fits four or more comfortably with upright seating. Families with children will likely want seating with a variety of levels. If your main objective is to soak out the soreness in a therapeutic reclining position, look at the layout and space allowed.

Size
The size you choose depends mostly on the space you have available and how many people will be using it. If you have a chance to climb in one, do it. When you're in the initial stage of spa hunting, try out of few dry ones at the showroom. Once you're pretty sure you know what you want, you might want to take a test dip if there's a model available in the showroom. Look at the foot room available. You might find that while a square shape is less cozy, there is less legroom available in a round or oval shape, simply because everyone is putting their feet in the same spot. For a group, this can be uncomfortable. For two people, it probably won't matter.

Hot Tub Filters
The placement of hot tub filters has an impact on the available space and function of the machine itself. In most modern designs, especially in the Hot Spring Spa, filters fit into corner underneath and behind the shell. The top of the compartment is located on the ledge. It is lifted for access to the hot tub filter and other hot tub parts. As a result, a larger filter can minimize the amount of room inside the tub.

Depth
How deep the shell is and the placement of the seats have a significant impact on your spa experience. Most people prefer the water to reach well above their chests, and often just above the shoulders. Your body height plays an important role in where the water level falls. If you're tall, you may need a deeper tub, although lower seating levels are an option. For the vertically challenged, lower bench seating height may offset a shallow shell. A spa used mostly for swimming and exercise needs to be deeper.