Hot tub or spa?
For many years our industry has struggled with this same question. In the mid 70's our products were marketed as "Hot Tubs" and sometime in the late 80's the term spa was introduced. Yes, a spa is a hot tub and vise-versa.
Is plumbing required to install my hot tub?
No. All spas are self contained units and are simply filled with a garden hose. Some pool contractors install spas in ground which tend to be plumbed directly into a swimming pool equipment area.
Are spas expensive to operate?
Depending on your usage an average spa will not exceed £1.00 per day, even in the coldest winter climates. Important features which will drastically reduce the over all expense of your hot tub are as follows; an insulated locking cover with UL rating, fully foamed cabinets, and computer controls with "smart winter mode" features.
Why Full Foam?
Some manufacturers will skip the full foam feature to reduce costs to their distributor. Polyurethane foam insulation is very expensive to a manufacturer but is a must in reducing heat loss and adding structural support to your hot tub. Remember, like any major purchase, you get what you pay for!
What size filter do I need?
Size is not as important as how the filtration system operates. All swimming pools and commercial hot tubs (ie.,hotels) are required by the health authorities to have a separate in line filter. In these applications the hot tubs water is drawn through a skimmer and a bottom suction tied together to the filter, which is housed separate from the spa.
Why then do non commercial spas not require the same guidelines?
Good question! Cost is again the reason, therefore inquire as to how the filtration works in each spa. Filters in a skimmer, as the name says, only skim the top of the water, leaving the heavier debris to sink to the bottom, never reaching the filter.
What about the manufacturers warranty?
Unlike other products, spa manufacturers are not required by law to assure a quality warranty. All major spa manufacturers have a minimum five year warranty on all parts, plumbing and labor without any service call charges. Insure that you receive this coverage by reading the manufacturers warranty before you buy.
How important is horsepower to the spa?
Quite frankly, a flow rating will prove horsepower. Flow ratings are determined by the number of gallons of water produced each minute (GPM). Without a large powerful motor you may be required to purchase multiple pumps or reduce the total number of jets in your spa. The K.I.S.S. method is your friendly answer. Turn all the spa jets on and feel the power. More powerful spas are the best, without question, as you can always reduce their flow when required. Another simple visual test is viewing the size of the pipes leading into and out of the pump. The larger the pipe size, the larger the flow. For example, a three inch pipe will require a high performance pump and motor. Also check the amperage rating, printed clearly by the motor manufacturer on the pump itself and compare. Higher amperage = Higher power.
How many jets should you have?
Quantity or quality! All jets are not equal and definitely costs differ per jet. Simple mini jets and small adjustable (on/off) jets are cheap to install whereas more oversized hydrotherapy jets are more costly. Feel the performance of each jet before you make your decision, and be sure all jets will operate efficiently together on high speed! You should never have to turn some jets off to allow more power in a spa.
How much should I spend on a spa?
Like any major purchase, you get what you pay for. The hot tub industry is a new industry and therefore brand awareness is still not proven. A hot tubs price is determined by workmanship, materials, and features. Other options, like lighting packages, stereos, and remote controls will increase the overall price, but generally speaking, a consumer should shop around before making the final purchase decision.