Hot tubs, also known as spas, are a wonderful luxury that is becoming more affordable every year. As more people decide to purchase a spa, most simply want to know what the best spa is for their budget.
This is a difficult question to answer, much like the best vehicle for the budget. A large cargo van may be right for a contractor, but a hybrid is probably better for a suburban commuter.
Unlike vehicles, however, most of us looking to buy a hot tub or spa aren't even aware of the differences available. Ultimately a prospective buyer needs to determine which aspects of a spa are desirable, and find the spa within their budget that has the most of those features.
Every salesman will extol the benefits of the spa they are selling, but ultimately the decision is up to you. There are literally hundreds of spa manufacturers out there, each developing many models, so a point by point spa rating would require narrowing down the categories.
This guide will cover some of the major differences between spas that should be considered when making that decision.
Number and Type of Jets
A salesman selling a model with a large number of powerful jets will try to impress upon you that this makes his spa one of the best. The truth is that some of us may prefer a milder spa. Determine whether you would like an aggressive massage, a gentle movement, or calmer heated water and choose a spa with the appropriate number and type of jets.
The more jets, the more aggressive the massage will be. There are many different types of jets, but the differences boil down mostly to spray pattern and PSI. A higher PSI achieves a more aggressive massage. Spray pattern is largely a question of personal preference.
Adjustability is one feature of jets that is a bonus for almost all buyers. Higher end models are often equipped with jets that can be adjusted as to the PSI, the number of jets on, and sometimes the spray pattern.
Positioning of the Jets
Spa manufacturers attempt to position the jets in the most effective position possible, but there are many different sizes and shapes of people. The only way to know if a spa's jets are positioned correctly for you is to sit in it. You are looking for a spa with jets that direct the spray towards frequently sore muscles, and not the spine or tailbone. Once again, the adjustability of jet direction is always a plus.
Ergonomic SeatingThe contour of seating is another difference that is dependent on the size and shape of the user. Sit in the tub and make sure it is comfortable before you buy.
Size and Number of Seats
Your needs in this area are entirely dependent upon the space you have available and the actual use you will get out of the tub. Measure the space you have before shopping. The apparent size of a tube in a showroom can be deceiving. Also, make a realistic assessment of the number of seats you will need. A retired couple may think a two seater is enough, but if you have five married children with kids of their own a larger tub may be nice when they visit.
Maintenance
This is frequently neglected. Buyers of new spas tend not to think about when the equipment will breakdown, but any piece of equipment with moving parts will eventually need servicing.
Access to pumps, motors, and pipes vary greatly between models. The simpler it is to reach these components, the simpler it will be to service your tub. This is an especially important factor for DIY homeowners that will service the equipment themselves.
Response To Climate
Most tubs are made of acrylic or fiberglass, but the decorative finish can be constructed out of a wide variety of materials. If your tub will be outdoors, you are looking for a tub that will withstand the local weather as well as look good.
Energy Efficiency
If you are purchasing a tub for a vacation home that won't get consistent use, you probably don't need to consider efficiency as much, but efficiency can lower the energy cost of a new spa and, in turn, lower the true cost of ownership. The most important part of shopping for a hot tub or spa is to look at as many different models as possible.
Salesmen may spin the facts about their model, but most won't lie about the features. Evaluate the true benefits of each model, and choose the one that best fits your specific needs.
Related Topics: bath towels, bathroom curtains