How to Purchase a New Spa or Hottub

Vailes Brothers

Buying a spa, also know as a hot tub, is a decision you should not feel rushed or pressured into, so be sure to ask the dealer a lot of questions. Like shopping for anything else, knowledge is everything. Before you take the plunge into purchasing a spa, ask for a private “wet test” so you can feel the jets and the overall comfort of the spa.

The portable spa market has a wide range of prices based primarily on construction, warranty, energy efficiency, ease of use and optional features. The cost to purchase a new portable spa ranges from approximately $3,000 to $20,000. Portable spas are self-contained units which require no plumbing. Alicensed electrician must perform the connections in compliance with the

National Electric Code.

Nationwide, there are nearly a hundred different spa and hot tub brands available. Of course, salespeople for each brand want you to believe theirs is the best value for your money. In searching for the perfect spa, you will quickly discover that price is as much a factor of quality and features as it is size and number of jets. As with most goods and services, you tend to get what you pay for in a spa.

If there is one thing everyone wants more of today, it is a greater sense of balance between work, play, personal time and time with family and friends. A spa will help in all of these areas. Here are a few things that a new spa should provide:

Hydrotherapy. Heat, buoyancy and massage. Together, they create an experience that is both relaxing and soothing. The massaging action of a spa is created with a mixture of warm water and air through jet nozzles, relaxing tight muscles and stimulating the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers.

    Hydrotherapy performance. Make certain that the spa features jets positioned to impact your body’s major muscle groups to massage the areas where your muscles are typically most tense or fatigued.

    Comfort. The level of comfort afforded by the hot tub’s seating is extremely important. If you’re not comfortable in the spa, you will not enjoy using it no matter what other benefits the hot tub offers or how much you paid for it. Don’t consider buying any hot tub unless you have actually sat in it.

    Seating. The spa should offer seats of varying depths. Multi-level seating accommodates adults and children of varying heights.   Interior styling. Make sure that the interior of the spa is appealing to you and made of quality materials.

    Exterior appearance. If you are considering a hot tub with a synthetic wood cabinet, make sure you are satisfied with the appearance of its exterior; it will remain the same for the life of the spa.

  A place for quiet conversation. Listen to the noise level as you turn on the pumps and adjust the valves. Stress relief. Soaking in warm, swirling water leaves you feeling physically and emotionally relaxed.

  Reliability. If you are like most people, you are interested in finding a spa that will perform reliably over time with minimum down time and repair costs. Look for a hot tub that is carefully made with quality components and materials.

    Energy efficiency. Spas that perform best at preventing heat from escaping will cost the least to operate.

  Water quality. You will use chemicals and other additives recommended by your spa dealer to keep the water sanitized and chemically balanced. Ozone generators can be installed to reduce the amount of chemical sanitizers needed.

Ease of Use. Today’s premium spas feature small circulation pumps that continuously filter the water and provide the necessary flow to allow the heater to constantly maintain the set temperature, 24 hours a day.

  Safety spa covers. Make sure the spa cover features childresistant safety locks and is safety rated.

    Types of insulation matter. Full foam insulated spas will provide excellent heat retention, keeping heating costs low and locking the spa plumbing in place—avoiding leaks and helping to reduce noises.   Study the warranty before you purchase. Look beyond the large print and number of years and find out what parts are covered under warranty and for how long. Be wary of prorated warranties. Get a copy of the warranty before purchasing and compare the details to other spa brands.    Research the spa manufacturer. Know how long the company has been in business.

    Research the spa dealer. Know how long the dealer has been serving the community and if they have industry affiliations.

    Research the spa dealer’s service reputation. See if customer recommendations are available. Remember, that from a future service perspective, where you buy your spa is as important as what spa you buy.

  Once you are satisfied that a particular spa meets your needs in the categories outlined above, you may want to consider other features that can add to your enjoyment. There is, seemingly, no limit to the features that fall into this category—fancy lighting, waterfalls, aromatherapy, built-in stereos, televisions, and even internet access!

When looking at add-ons such as these, carefully consider the real benefit to be derived from them. If you feel that one or more of these will be of real value to you, and you believe that the price is fair and the quality is good, then go for it!