Immersed in Wellness: Discover the Journey, Perks, and Upkeep of Hot Tubs
The origins of hot tubs
Hot tubs have become a symbol of relaxation and relaxation in gardens around the world. But did you know that their history goes back several centuries? The first wooden baths were inspired by Japanese ofuros, these small traditional bathtubs used for washing and relaxing since the 8th century.
It was during the 1960s that Americans discovered ofuros during their trips to Japan. They then began to import these wooden bathtubs to adapt them to their own needs, giving rise to modern hot tubs. Since then, they have continued to evolve to offer an ever more pleasant and relaxing experience.
Hot tubs vs. classic spas
If you are hesitating between a classic spa and a hot tub, it is important to know the major differences between these two types of installations:
- Materials : Unlike plastic or acrylic spas, hot tubs are made of natural wood. This not only gives them an authentic and warm appearance but also better thermal insulation.
- Ecological benefits: By opting for a wood stove rather than electric heating (we will come back to this later), you will reduce your energy consumption and therefore your carbon footprint. In addition, wood is a renewable and recyclable material, unlike plastic.
The health benefits of hot tubs
In addition to their friendly and relaxing appearance, hot tubs have several health benefits:
- Improved blood circulation: Hot water dilates blood vessels, allowing better blood circulation throughout the body. This can help prevent certain cardiovascular diseases and improve tissue oxygenation.
- Muscle relaxation: The heat of the water relaxes the muscles and relieves accumulated tension. A hot bath in a hot tub can be beneficial after a sports session or a stressful day.
Heating methods: wood stove or electric?
To heat the water in your hot tub, two main options are available to you: a wood stove or electric heating. Each has its advantages and disadvantages:
- Wood stove: It works thanks to the combustion of wood which directly heats the water circulating around the stove. The advantages are mainly ecological (lower energy consumption) and economic (fuel cost generally lower than electricity). On the other hand, it requires regular maintenance and may take longer to heat the water.
- Electric heating : It uses a resistance to heat the water. Quicker and more practical than the wood stove, it is however more expensive in terms of energy consumption. The average cost of electric heating for a hot tub is around 1 to 2 euros per day.
The principle of convection for a uniform temperature
Regardless of the heating method chosen, the hot tub works on the principle of natural convection: hot water rises towards the surface while cold water descends to the bottom of the pool. This makes it possible to maintain a uniform temperature throughout the volume of water without the need for pumps or other mechanical devices.
Simple Tips for Maintaining Your Hot Tub
To take full advantage of your hot tub and preserve its lifespan, here are some simple maintenance tips:
- Empty and clean regularly: It is recommended to completely change the water every 3 to 4 months (or after approximately 100 uses) to prevent the proliferation of bacteria and other impurities. Take the opportunity to carefully clean the walls of the pool with a soft, non-abrasive cloth.
- Treat the water: Use suitable products to maintain a good chemical balance in the water and avoid the formation of algae or limescale deposits. You can also install a filtration system for ever cleaner water.
- Protect the wood: Regularly apply a protective treatment to the exterior walls of the hot tub to preserve their appearance and resistance to bad weather.
With these tips, you are now ready to fully enjoy your hot tub while taking care of your health and the environment!