Over 90 percent of the hot tubs sold today require a 22-volt hook up due to the amount of amperage drawn by the spa’s equipment (pumps, heater, blower, etc.).

A factory-built, portable, self-contained hot tub is typically installed above ground and requires a flat, level surface that is solid and will not move over time.

Installations into a deck or patio are not uncommon, but it is recommended that these types of installations allow for easy access to hot tub components within the cabinet. It is strongly encouraged to make certain whichever hot tub of this type that you purchase meets UL-1563 standards as a fully constructed product.

An inground spa is generally a pre-plumbed shell or a gunite-formed structure that has external pump, heater and filter components. Whereas most factory-built, portable, self-contained hot tubs use an electric heater and a cartridge filter, an inground spa may use electric, gas, or solar heaters and a variety of filtration systems. This type of product requires an installation be done on site and it is recommended to use an experienced contractor.

Hot tub: A product intended for the immersion of persons in temperature controlled water circulated in a closed system, and not intended to be drained and filled with each use. A spa usually includes a filter, a heater (electric, solar, or gas), a pump or pumps, and a control, and can also include other equipment, such as lights, blowers and water sanitizing equipment. They can be “self contained” or “non self-contained.”

Another type of hot tub is designed specifically for recreational physical activities. The exercise hot tub or spa (also known as a swim spa) is designed and constructioned to include specific features and equipment to produce a water flow intended to allow recreational physical activity including, but not limited to, swimming in place. Exercise spas may include peripheral jetted seats intended for water therapy, heater, circulation and filtration system, or may be a separate distinct portion of a combination spa/exercise spa and may have separate controls. These aquatic vessels are of a design and size such that it has an unobstructed volume of water large enough to allow an adult to swim or exercise in place. Once again, they can be “self contained” or “non self-contained.”

A “self-contained exercise hot tub” (or spa) is a factory-built spa in which all control, water heating and water circulating equipment is an integral part of the product. Self-contained spas can be permanently wired or cord connected.

A “non self-contained exercise hot tub” (or spa) is a factory-built spa in which the water heating and circulating equipment is not an integral part of the product. Non self-contained spas can employ separate components such as an individual filter, pump, heater and controls, or they can employ assembled combinations of various components.

Your local dealer can assist you in determining what your specific needs and uses are in selecting which type of hot tub you desire and should purchase. For more information, visit International Hot Tub Association online at http://hottubindustry.org/.

Buying tips

The two most important first steps are making a decision as to which manufactured brand to own and which company to purchase from. 

Choosing the manufactured brand:

SAFETY STANDARDS: Make certain that the hot tub you are choosing meets the UL 1563 required safety standard as a completed factory-built hot tub. Most Asian-manufactured hot tubs and many domestic models do not meet this critical standard. Don’t be fooled by those that claim it is adequate to simply have individual components UL listed; it will not protect you if a problem arises.

COMPONENTS: Research the quality of the most critical components which will determine the longevity of your spa along with the efficiency and ease of maintenance. Components to research are: Spa Shell, Internal Frame, Exterior Cabinet Material, Heater, Pumps, Blower (if desired), Type of Filtration System, Insulation, and Cover. The Spa Shell is the most critical component since all other components can be easily replaced if they should fail.

COST OF OPERATION: Make certain the model you choose has met the industry energy standards. Most Asian-manufactured hot tubs and many domestic models do not meet these requirements. The method and type of insulation, the quality of the cover, and type of energy-saving components will assist in making your hot tubs energy efficient.

EASE OF MAINTENANCE: A hot tub designed for easy maintenance will save you time and money. Today many manufacturers make available automatic purification systems that lessen the frequency and amount of chemicals required and minimize the frequency of draining and refilling your hot tub. Make certain where you install your hot tub that there is easy access to servicing the internal components; this will save you money in the future when and if your hot tub needs to be repaired.

WARRANTY: The length of the warranty is not as important as the company that builds the hot tub and/or the company you are buying from. A good rule of thumb is to question whether these companies have been in business for at least the number of years they are providing for in the warranty.

Choosing the best company to purchase from:

LOCAL RETAILER: The benefit of buying from a local retailer is that you often can see the hot tub you are buying on display. Some retailers even make it available for you to test the hot tub before making a decision to purchase. The primary benefit of buying from a local dealer that specializes in hot tubs is they are knowledgeable in answering your questions and providing guidance on installation, usage, maintenance and service. Important questions to ask:

How long have they been in business and how long have they sold the brand you are interested in owning? Stay away from dealers that consistently change the brands they sell.

Do they provide service throughout the entire year? Winter months could pose problems that need to be resolved without having to delay.

Are they willing to come to your home to provide a site inspection?

Did they answer your questions adequately?

DIRECT FROM MANUFACTURER: The benefit of buying from the manufacturer is the assurance that they will be able to thoroughly answer questions about the product. And sometimes provide a more attractive price point. Important questions to ask:

How long have they been in business?

Is service and delivery available in your area?

Are they a trusted member in good standing with the IHTA?

MASS MERCHANT: A number of mass merchants have ventured into the hot tub industry encouraging some domestic manufacturers to develop less expensive products making pricing more attractive or to reach out to foreign manufacturers who currently build cheap products, making available less expensive price points for you. These products may not carry the same level of construction and could cause higher operating costs and more frequent service calls. Many mass merchants have a history of changing hot tub suppliers frequently making access to parts and service not as easy as working directly with the manufacturer or via a  local dealer.

INTERNET: Beware buying from the Internet, especially if it is a company that does not have a solid reputation. Any company that does not provide you with a phone number that you can easily call or an address that can be visited should not be considered for buying a product like a hot tub that may require service and customer support. For more information, visit the International Hot Tub Association at http://hottubindustry.org/.