All of the information you need to select, buy and care for the perfect hot tub for you and your lifestyle!

Hot Tub Questions

1. Are there any health benefits associated with using a spa?
It has been proven that with regular usage, spas provide a multitude of medical and health benefits. The National Sleep Foundation promotes spas in relieving insomnia. The Arthritis Foundation recognizes spa use to alleviate arthritic pain. The New England Journal of Medicine recently announced that spas have been discovered to help lower the blood sugar levels of those with type 2 diabetes. In addition, the same study showed that spa use actually reduces weight! These are just a few examples of the many different benefits that can be derived from regular spa use.

2. What type of spa should I buy (in-ground or portable)?
The majority of hot tubs sold today are categorized as portable. As opposed to in-ground spas, portable hot tubs usually do not require building permits or raise taxes. Additionally, in-ground spas can be both time consuming and expensive to build. Today's portable hot tubs are completely self-contained units that only require a simple electrical connection to the home, and are designed to simulate the look of a permanent fixture. Portable spas also offer many advantages, such they can be installed either outdoors or indoors, and can be taken with you if you move.

3. What is the difference between a hot tub and a spa?
There is no real difference between a hot tub and a spa. This confusion stems from the fact that in the 1970s, the National Pool and Spa Institute (NSPI) made a decision to change the product's nomenclature from hot tub to spa, intending for a wider audience appeal. However, most consumers became confused by the two names, and in the 1990s, the NSPI decided to revert to the original name of hot tub. Today, the two words are interchangeable.

4. How much does the average hot tub cost to purchase?
Hot tubs can vary in price anywhere from $2,500 to $17,000. The cost depends on the quality of construction, as well as the number of features and options on the spa, which can vary greatly. The average quality hot tub usually costs between $4,500 and $7,000. As a benefit, some manufacturers now sell hot tubs directly to the public, which can provide consumers with additional savings. Also, some manufacturers make available the option to customize hot tubs, similar to the way Dell™ allows consumers to build their own computer systems. Customization allows you to choose a hot tub to fit your own tastes and budget, rather than buy one "off the shelf" with expensive features that you possibly may not want or need.

5. What equipment would you recommend I install on my spa?
There are a long list of features and equipment available today. The most popular features tend to be the ones that make hot tub use easier, and reduces the amount of maintenance required. Cover lifters, automatic water purification systems, chemical storage cabinets, and even towel warmer compartments that help keep your towels warm and dry are some of the most popular of these items. Another item to look into is an air bubbling system, whether it is an added or included feature. While traditional water jets provide the primary method of therapy in hot tubs, air bubbling systems provide entertainment and stress relief. Be sure to look for air bubbling systems that utilize regulator valves that allow you to adjust the intensity of the bubbles.

6. How long does a hot tub last?
The duration of how long a hot tub will last depends solely on the quality of a hot tub and its materials. Lesser quality, less expensive hot tubs tend to last only four to five years. Higher quality hot tubs can last from ten to twenty years with minimal service or repair. Hot tub parts, however, are a different story. The first item that needs to be replaced is usually the cover, so be sure to look for one that is of high quality. The second item to be replaced is the heating element, usually due to well water or water with a high mineral content. To avoid the corrosion that these types of water can bring, look into titanium heaters.

7. What types of warranties are offered on spas?
Almost all manufacturers provide different types of warranty coverage for the different parts and elements of their hot tubs. Keep in mind that the length of coverage is usually determined by dividing in half the time that the manufacturer perceives the part to last. Since hot tub covers are usually the first item to need replacing, look for at least a 3 year warranty. Heating elements are usually the second item to need replacing, so look for at least a 5 year warranty on those, preferably a 10 year warranty. Because hot tubs are usually installed outdoors, they are susceptible to the elements, specifically damage from storms and lightning that can destroy the internal electrical system. No Fault electrical warranties ensure that you are covered from electrical storms and acts of God, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in repairs. We also highly recommend looking for extended warranties that ensure the customer won't have to pay a cent for labor or parts for a period of at least five years. Lastly, it is important to read your manufacturer's warranties carefully for acts that can invalidate your warranty. For example, some manufacturers include clauses that can be potentially unfair to the consumer, such as exposing your hot tub shell to the sun. Also be sure that the cost of freight is included in case your hot tub ever has to be shipped back to the manufacturer for repairs.

8. Where's the best place to install my hot tub (indoors vs. outdoors)?
The decision on where to install your hot tub is a highly personal one. You should choose a location that suits your needs. We strongly recommend that you have a trained technician visit your home before purchase in order to assess the best location for your hot tub. Often times, the location of your hot tub is dependent on electrical concerns, safety issues, and floor load capacities. These are the issues that a trained technician will address for you. However, most people tend to install their hot tub outdoors for the added scenery. Outdoor hot tubs also tend to have a higher rate of usage. If you do install it outdoors, make sure to have easy access to either a family room or bedroom door. And if you install your spa indoors, make sure that it is installed in a well ventilated room with a non-carpeted, non-porous floor.

9. How much does a hot tub cost to operate?
The cost is highly dependent on your location, the average outdoor temperature, the cost of electricity in your area, and the amount of usage. The cost of operation also depends on the quality of the hot tub; namely the insulation, cover, and energy saving features. The good news is that a high quality hot tub is generally inexpensive to operate. Imagine two hot tubs identical in size, holding the same amount of water, located in the same backyard, used identically, but that have dramatically different operating costs. How could one of these hot tubs cost $15 per month to operate and the other cost $120 per month to operate? The difference between the two spas is based on its quality. In addition, expect to pay an average of $100 a year on chemicals and maintenance products.

10. How much time should I allocate to maintain my spa?
Realistically, you should only have to allocate an average of 15 minutes per week in order to clean your filters and maintain your water chemistry. In addition, you will have to drain and refill your hot tub once every 3 to 4 months, which on average takes about one hour. However, there are many options available on today's spas that can make them virtually maintenance free. For example, synthetic cabinetry can eliminate the need to stain your wood every 4 months. Also look into automatic water purification systems that can greatly reduce the amount of chemicals needed to maintain your water.

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