The Top 10 Things to Look for When Buying a Hot Tub Spa?

After you buy a hot tub spa is the wrong time to find out what makes one great and another disappointing.

First of all let’s answer the question about the difference between a spa and a hot tub. There is not much. Although some consider a spa to be more associated with resorts, messages and mudpacks the terms are really interchangeable. It has more to do with product branding than product differences.

Don’t overlook the do-it-yourself option. If you are even somewhat handy, with some guidance you can save yourself thousands of dollars, get exactly what you want and have the satisfaction that goes along with creating a project like this. For a complete guide check out CUSTOM BUILT SPAS

• The most important factor is how many people you expect to have in your hot tub. There should be enough seats for everybody.
• How much room do you have where you plan to locate your hot tub? Check outside dimensions of the unit before ordering.
  
  
  COMFORT

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• Check the comfort and depth of the seats compared to the water level.
• Is the footwell big enough to be comfortable?
  
  
  JETS

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• Are there enough jets for you? Are they located in appropriate places? Do they have enough power and are they adjustable?
  
  
  AIR BUBBLER SYSTEM

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• Many people enjoy having a bubbler that fills the spa with softer bubbling water. Does your unit have one?
  
  
  
  APPEARANCE

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• You want to be proud to show off your hot tub not have to hide it with landscaping.
  
  
  MAINTENANCE

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• How easy will maintenance be on your unit?
• What is involved with water quality maintenance?
• How easy is it to keep the filters clean?
• How much work will it take to keep the exterior looking good?
  
  
  RELIABILITY

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• Will your hot tub be up and running most of the time or down for repairs?
• Check the warranty for time and coverage.
• Be sure it is UL or ETL listed.

  
  
  
  

  ENERGY EFFICIENCY

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• Energy is money, spend it wisely.
• A good insulated tub cover is the main factor that determines heat loss when not in operation.
  
  
  PRICE

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• Prices range greatly. Often you get what you pay for but not always. Check around and compare. It could make a big difference.
• You can save multiple thousands by doing it yourself. See Custom Built Spas
  
  
  YOUR DEALER

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• Problems do happens even with the best of spas. Check the reputation of your dealer to find out how difficult getting problems resolved could be. Ask for references.
  
  Anthony & Sylvan Pools is a reputable dealer that has loads of design and instalation tips available in a brochure and/or CD that they will send you free if you request it.
  
  
  
  
                  
                  
  
  
  These hot tub spas were all built by their owners following the excelent Custom Built Spas method. This is a great way to get exactly the hot tub that is right for you and save money in the process. Check it out at this link: CUSTOM BUILT SPAS

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  For more information about buying a spa see these articles:
  
  
  

  A Quick Overview of Outdoor Hot Tubs by Garry John
  
  How to Buy the Right Hot Tub the First Time: Key Questions to Consider to As You
  
  What You Should Know Before You Buy A Hot Tub Spa by Jim Johnson
  
  Return to Spas and Hot Tubs
  
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