Information On Hot Tubs
Below are some things to look for when purchasing a hot tub. We have also provided some manufacturer's links so that you may explore what each company has to offer.
Current
Specials
Thermospas, a factory-direct manufacturer, is offering $1,500 in savings
off the purchase of one of their hot tubs. Thermospas may be best known
for being featured as the spa of choice on Bob Vila's Home Again
show. Click here for more information and to
get a free 25-minute video explaining Thermospa's benefits.
Discount Spas features brand name Hot Tubs, Spas and Saunas serving the US & Canada as a wholesale spa distributor that specializes in 100's of spas, hot tub, chemicals, ozonator's, and custom spa covers. To see their current specials, click here.
- hot tub and spa prices
- hot tub construction
- hot tub jets
- air bubbling system
- more information on hot tubs
Hot Tub And Spa Prices
People are continually frustrated at the lack of pricing information for hot tubs on the Internet. This is mostly due to the fact that a spa is a large investment and the manufacturers are worried that listing a several thousand dollar price tag on a web page might scare away potential customers before they have a chance to think seriously about hot tub ownership. A few manufacturers, such as Thermospas, market their hot tubs like homes or automobiles by offering a base model and then allowing the customer to add additional jets and other options as they wish.
The price of a hot tub can vary greatly. Bargain-basement tubs with just a few jets can be had for a couple thousand dollars and a top-of-the-line model with at least 100 jets can cost $10,000 or more. As like most things, you usually get what you pay for.
Hot Tub Construction
Most hot tubs are made with an acrylic shell, usually in your choice of color. Look for the exterior cabinetry to be made of cedar, which can endure harsh weather. Removable cabinetry walls are also a plus, making the tub easier to service.
The real difference in construction technique is what kind of insulation is used under the shell. A poorly insulated tub will cause massive heat loss, the result being a higher electric bill! Newer technologies utilizing polypropylene insulation and foil-type blankets is preferred over the full foam method. Full foaming refers to filling the entire cavity with a foam, which then hardens. This type of insulation should be avoided (unfortunately, about 3/4 of the hot tubs manufactured today still utilize full foam insulation) because in the event of a leaking water line, the foam hides the plumbing lines, meaning the foam must be completely cut away just to find the leak! More labor equals a higher-priced repair. Full foaming also wastes the heat generated by the spa engine by being vented out and actually could create a nesting home for rodents and insects.
Hot Tub Jets
The jets make up the heart of any hot tub or spa. When looking to purchase a hot tub, make note of the number and type of jets available on a particular tub. Some manufacturers offer only a high-speed water jet and a whirlpool-type jet. Others offer eight or nine different specialty jets so that the water can do what you want it to do. An example of a specialty jet would be a massage jet, designed to massage your back as you sit in the hot tub. The next time you are at your local home warehouse-type store, if they sell hot tubs, make note of the number of jets in the tubs. Most low-priced, ready-to-purchase tubs will come with 15 to 30 jets. Higher-priced tubs may allow you to choose the number and types of jets in your tub. Many top of the line tubs have 100 or more jets.
Air Bubbling System
Although not offered by several manufacturers (but a standard feature on a few others), an air bubbling system adds a little fun to your hot tub, which is one of the reasons to purchase a hot tub in the first place. If you have children, this option should be seriously considered because kids love the bubbles! Look for a system that creates bubbles by utilizing the warm air created by the tub's motor. Avoid systems that utilize cold air brought in from the outside of the tub - this will lower your water temperature very quickly and cost you more to heat your hot tub.
More Information On Hot Tubs
Thermospas - Company which sells their hot tubs factory-direct to the consumer. Their site features a product showroom and online feature brochure. Currently, Thermospas is offering a free 25-minute video and catalog package, along with a coupon for $1,500 in savings on the purchase of a spa. Click here to request the video and hot tub catalog.
Arctic Spas - Canadian manufacturer of hot tubs and gazebos. Flash-enabled site shows spa models and warranty information.
Beachcomber Spas - Their site features general information, a dealer locator, and an online product catalog.
Baja Spas - Flash-enabled site features benefits of owning a Baja Spa. A six minute streaming video is also available to view.
Cal Spas - Manufacturer of spas, saunas, gazebos, and pool tables. Site features an online factory tour and a product catalog.
Catalina Spas - Catalina Spas has been around nearly a half century. Their site features an online product catalog.
Emerald Spa - Offers an online product catalog and a dealer locator (there are a few states which do not have a dealer). Also offers a free product catalog on CD.
Hot Spring Spas - Site features an online product catalog, along with a streaming video presentation and an article on preparing your backyard for a spa.
Coleman Spas - Their site features their spa models and a dealer locator.
Artesian
Spas - Site features an online catalog.
Master Spas
- Manufacturer of portable spas and hot tubs. Includes spas showroom and
hot tub spa buying guide.
Monarch
Spas - Australian spa manufacturer. Their site features an online
catalog.
Wind River Spas
- Colorado's only hot tub manufacturer. Features an online factory tour.