IHTA stands for International Hot Tub Association. The International Hot Tub Association consists of hot tub manufacturers, suppliers and retailers along with associated companies whose products or services relate to the hot tub industry.

It is the mission of the IHTA to protect the industry and to promote the benefits of hot tubs in order to increase awareness and sales throughout the world. Manufacturers will seek to only sell products that meet safety and energy standards, suppliers will assure that the products they provide are free of harmful substances, and retailers will provide their customers the support and service necessary to promote the goodwill of the industry.

The cost of membership depends on which category your business is in. See the list below:

The term "Hot Tub" originally referred to the wooden, barrel-shaped tubs, which became popular in the late 1960s. Early hot tubs were fairly simple devices, which basically held hot water and had enough room for one or two bathers at a time. When the industry began building tubs of molded fiberglass or with thermoplastic shells, they were given the tag "spa" to differentiate them from their wooden cousins.

Each location has its pros and cons. Outside installations may compromise some of your privacy, but you can add screens, shrubbery, or fencing to minimize peering eyes. The outside weather can be a deterring factor, although many people absolutely love the experience of lounging in bubbling hot water while a light rain or snowflakes are falling! It can be exhilarating. Awnings can be built to shelter the effects of weather. It should be noted for those of you who have not experienced it, hot water raises your body's core temperature, so you will normally not feel cold even when exiting a hot tub outdoors in the dead of winter. Inside installations will add humidity to the air in your home. It is imperative that proper ventilation be maintained to control this moisture and to prevent mildew and other damage. If you decide on an inside installation, be sure to take into account the draining and filling of the unit. There are two other important questions: will it fit through your doorway, and is your flooring strength adequate? Keep in mind that a typical 3-person spa weighs about 2500 pounds filled with water. On the plus side, you will have privacy and convenience. Your unit and cover will also be fully protected from the weather.