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(NC)-With today's spiraling cost of gasoline and stricter security procedures when traveling, relaxing in a backyard spa or hot tub is looking better than ever.
Owning a spa is no longer considered a luxury - in today's frustrating, fast-paced world - it has almost become a necessity as an estimated 455,000 spa owners in Canada can attest.
Maintaining a spa is not expensive either - with spa owners often saying that they pay less for chemicals, water and electricity than they anticipated. By using a well-fitted, insulated rigid safety cover, you can substantially reduce evaporation from a spa, which means reduced heating costs and less chemical usage, helping to keep costs down.
If you have already purchased a spa and are looking for the best place to install it, look for an area in the backyard with a scenic view. A location with an unobstructed view of a flower garden, water feature or nearby wooded area will provide a focal point for bathers in the spa and for those gazing at the hot tub from inside the house.
Make sure the location is easy to get to - the general rule of thumb is the closer to the house the better. Ask yourself the following questions - is the location private? Will you have to screen out the view of surrounding homes or nearby traffic? Where will bathers change?
For added privacy, convenience and aesthetic appeal, wooden/fabric gazebos and cabanas can be used as changerooms. Some permanent enclosed structures are even large enough to enclose an entire spa, with room to spare for dinning and food preparation areas and equipment storage rooms.
Distinctive lighting is another way to create a special mood outdoors in and around a hot tub. LED lights both underwater and around the hot tub cabinet can produce an array of colours in a gentle colour transition or in a dynamic pulsating colour display for entertaining.
Many spas also come equipped with illuminated waterfalls or 'geyser'-type fountains - giving you your own sound and light show. With a spa or hot tub, the possibilities are endless.
More information on how a spa or hot tub can turn your backyard into a retreat can be found online at www.poolcouncil.ca.
Credit: www.newscanada.com