What could possibly be better than climbing into steaming hot water at the end of a long day and gazing over your back yard while your cares soak away? Before you peel those clothes off, there are several decisions you should consider about your hot tub.

• Decide where you would like to place the hot tub. Take privacy, accessibility and aesthetics into consideration. Don't put the tub under overhanging trees or bushes that drop a lot of leaves.
• Make sure the site can withstand the weight of the hot bub and water about 100 to 150 pounds per square foot. You'll want the strength and security of a sturdy deck or concrete slab to hold the hot tub.  Choose the size of a hot tub according to how many people will use it.
• Determine your budget. Ask for an estimate of monthly operating costs. Full insulation will save energy. Â
• Make sure the hot tub of your choice is of excellent quality for your needs.