Shopping for a new hot tub should be a fun and rewarding experience. After all, a bubbly spa at home is a smart complement to a healthy lifestyle offering years of improved health, relaxation and entertainment it has to be great. But modern spas are available in a wide range of different shapes and sizes with all kinds of amazing features. As a first time buyer, it s easy to get overwhelmed. The good news is, choosing the perfect accompaniment to your home doesn t have to be confusing. The right spa is out there you simply need to know how to find it. We ve created this guide for people just like you conscientious shoppers who want to organize their thoughts before buying to make an informed decision in a quality spa that performs as expected. Like anyone considering a large investment, having answers to key questions beforehand can help guide your purchase experience. You ll find strategies for choosing the right size hot tub, tips on choosing a quality water maintenance system, must-have accessories and more. Refer to this guide often as you pursue your hot tub dream retreat. Shop with confidence and get peace of mind that you will find the perfect spa to fit your needs, lifestyle and budget. Ready to get started? How Do I Choose the Right Size Hot Tub? One of the biggest challenges consumers face when buying a hot tub is deciding on the right size. Luckily, there are many options and modern hot tubs are available in small, compact models, oversized party tubs and everything in between. Of course, the right size is one that fits the budget, but with so many choices at every price point, it s tricky to buy on budget alone. Why is it important to choose the right size hot tub? Aside from ensuring space for guests, selecting the right size spa is an important part of minimizing operating costs 2 This guide provided by: Hot Spring Spas - www.hotspringspasnm.com
and maximizing the experience. Top hot tub brands prioritize energy use and even party tubs utilize energy efficient components. Low operating costs are a top priority of some of the best brands today. But in addition to cost, the right size tub maximizes hydrotherapy options, seating arrangements etc. In other words, a tub that s too small is just as wrong as one that s too large. How do you choose the right size hot tub without buying too much or too little? Here are a few things to keep in mind. Be Realistic About Who Will Be Using the Tub - Think about who will actually be using the hot tub and buy accordingly. If you live alone or share a small space with your spouse, it probably makes sense to look at small models. Opting for a compact model can free up more of the budget for fun accessories and extras. However, if a large extended family is likely to visit, it might be worth looking at larger models that can accommodate more people at one time. Think About Your Goals with Ownership - How do you see yourself using the tub? With many great opportunities pain relief, relaxation, entertainment, even exercise, the perfectly sized hot tub will maximize health, recreation and fitness, while the wrong one will frustrate. Think about your goals with ownership. If exercise is a priority, look at hot tubs with enough space to stand easily with room to stretch. If hydrotherapy is the goal, a smaller model may be more appropriate, with performance seating that optimizes 3 This guide provided by: Hot Spring Spas - www.hotspringspasnm.com
muscle relieving jet clusters. Think through the unique purpose behind your purchase and it will be much easier to narrow your choices to those models that best fit your needs. What Do I Look for in Terms of Overall Design? No question, shopping for a new hot tub is exciting. A short stroll across the showroom floor is all it takes to open your eyes to the wonderful world of amazing spas. Innovative features, cutting edge design, creature comforts and entertainment options make browsing for a new spa an adventure all of its own. But after oohing and ahhing over the latest and greatest hot tub display models, how do you get serious about exactly what you should be looking for in a new hot tub? The easiest way to think about hot tub design is to break the hot tub into three components: jets, seats and technology. Jet Number and Placement - It s not uncommon for people to assess hot tubs by looking at how many jets are visible inside the shell. It seems logical more jets should equal a better hot tub experience, right? The truth is surprising, because at least in the world of hot tubs, more does not always mean better. To be clear, the right combination and placement of jets is the key to an exceptional hot tub experience. However, it pays to understand a little about what you are looking for and why. Quality jet clusters target specific muscle groups with powerful streams of water for an invigorating, rejuvenating hot tub massage. 4 This guide provided by: Hot Spring Spas - www.hotspringspasnm.com
Inquire about taking a test soak, also called a wet test in store to get a feel for how jets align to your body. Remember to look for hot tub models with jets that can be adjusted easily for a fully customized massage. Seating Options - The great news is that seating arrangements vary considerably in hot tubs. With lounge style seats, benches, ergonomic, sculpted seats and more, there s something for every taste. Choosing the perfect seating arrangement is easy if you think about what you plan to do in the tub. Are you purchasing a hot tub for improved health and fitness? Will you be entertaining often? Revisit your goals with hot tub ownership to help identify the most appropriate seating style to fit with those objectives. If entertaining friends and family is a priority, a high performance lounge style seat with space for one may not be the best choice. Think through seating options carefully to narrow your choices when looking at the various design options. Ease of Use - As fantastic as your hot tub is, if it s not easy to use, it s never going to meet your expectations. Too often, first time buyers focus on the bells and whistles attached to exciting hot tubs, forgetting to consider the most important feature of all ease of use. At the very least, look for models that prioritize user-friendly controls, remote access and anything that makes enjoying the tub easy and convenient. Can you adjust jets and water temperature from your seat? Do you have access to a sound system or lighting while in the tub? Think about the kinds of features you re likely to need while soaking and judge each model accordingly. 5 This guide provided by: Hot Spring Spas - www.hotspringspasnm.com
How Important Is the Water Management System and The Right Energy Efficient Features? Hot tub enthusiasts agree that an exceptional hot tub experience is dependent on maintaining clean, clear, healthy water. With that in mind, how important is a quality water management system? In simple terms, it s everything. Luckily, innovative water management solutions are available many of them automated and easy to use. Salt Water and Oxidizing Water Solutions - Salt water systems are popular among hot tub owners as chlorine and other cleaners are generated automatically, making it easier than ever to keep clean, healthy water. Many people report experiencing less dry skin and eye irritation as a result of salt water sanitizing. Another option is chlorine free oxidizers -- an exciting water care management system that utilizes non-chlorine oxidizers and silver ion to maintain clean water. Ozone systems reduce the need for chlorine, while offering continuous cleaning for safely sanitized spa water. Smart Features That Keep Operating Costs Low - Hot tub jets are the cornerstone of an enjoyable, invigorating massage. But some brands are better at employing technology that decreases energy use, even with powerful jets running. Innovative jet systems reduce energy costs by using only as much power as you need and that saves you money. 100% no bypass filtration is another feature to look for that can reduce operating costs long term. Water that is 100% filtered (even when jets are running) stays clean longer, and requires less maintenance. In addition, continuous circulating pumps, energy efficient heaters, pumps that maximize heat retention and quality insulation in the cover and shell can reduce operating costs. 6 This guide provided by: Hot Spring Spas - www.hotspringspasnm.com
Hot Tub Shell Cabinet Color and Style Options Don t forget to think about aesthetics, because modern hot tubs have come far from traditional brown boxes with benches. In fact, with a wide range of color and design options, there s a match for virtually all styles and tastes. Whether you re accenting a back yard or patio, a hot tub is an easy way to complement décor, creating an exciting new focal point for friends and family. Here are just a few of the exciting cabinet colors and style options available. Complementary Cabinet Colors and Styles - With faux brick in greys and Earth tones and real wood in contemporary colors, the possibilities for designing a stylish, one-of a kind hot tub retreat are endless. But that s just the beginning, because modern hot tubs are available in a variety of color themes for the interior shell too. White, grey and platinum showcase the hot tub perfectly, adding instant richness to an outdoor patio or deck. The Perfect Design - Comfortable seating, stylish details and adequate space along the top of the spa should be at the top of your list in searching for the perfect spa. In addition, remember to think about lighting, and how zone lighting can create a fantastic ambiance both inside and outside the spa. The perfect design also includes user-friendly controls, such as an LCD control panel with intuitive menus and wireless control for convenience and easy relaxation. 7 This guide provided by: Hot Spring Spas - www.hotspringspasnm.com
Which Accessories Should You Consider Adding? After finding the perfect hot tub, you ll definitely want to think through a few practical accessories to optimize your spa experience. While there are all kinds of amazing add-on s, here are a few of the best must have accessories that hot tub enthusiasts say they can t live without. Side Enhancements - Thoughtful spa enhancements add tremendous value by increasing relaxation and enhancing the experience. Lighting is a must-have when ambiance is the goal. Gorgeous lights can be placed on the hot tub cabinet, steps, even on a walkway leading to the spa. Side umbrellas, pillows, towel trees and handrails add easy convenience for minimal cost. Entertainment Systems - Wireless entertainment is a reality with Bluetooth technology. Stream music, or choose something from your own music library directly from your very own Bluetooth enabled device. Or, use an in-home wireless dock to connect to a variety of audio sources ipod or iphone, Mp3 Player, CD or DVD player, even satellite radio. Hot Tub Steps and Cover Lifters - With safety and convenience in mind, a sleek set of spa steps is a practical and stylish accessory. Make it easy to get in and out of your spa with natural wood or faux stone steps that complement your spa color and design. The right cover lifter is a must-have accessory for serious spa enthusiasts. Quick and easy to use, a cover lifter extends the life of your cover by reducing wear and tear. 8 This guide provided by: Hot Spring Spas - www.hotspringspasnm.com
In Conclusion Shopping for a hot tub is an exciting experience, but one that can easily become overwhelming without the right guidance and advice. The right spa can provide years of improved health and happiness, furthering a luxurious lifestyle defined by relaxation, entertainment and well being. While it s refreshing to know that the modern hot tub industry is listening to consumers by engineering models that prioritize energy efficiency, user-friendly features and innovative water care, the responsibility of choosing the perfect spa is yours. With practical, common sense answers to some of the most pressing hot tub buying questions, our goal was to provide the tools for you to become prepared, informed and capable of finding the one best hot tub to complement you as you make the journey toward a healthy, satisfied and luxurious lifestyle. 9 This guide provided by: Hot Spring Spas - www.hotspringspasnm.com
About Us Our Albuquerque and Santa Fe showrooms are proud to offer you only the highest quality hot tubs, spas, swim spas, stoves, pool tables, exercise equipment, sauna and accessories in America! Our hot tubs provide stress-relief, true hydrotherapy performance, energy efficiency, outstanding warranties, and long-term reliability. Whether it's a Hot Spring Spa or one of the many other hot tubs and spa brands we carry, we have hot tubs and spas of all sizes, prices, and therapy options. Visit our Albuquerque and Santa Fe showrooms today! 6301 Menaul NE Albuquerque, NM 87110 505-889-0222 3985 Cerrillos Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87507 505-438-0099 10 This guide provided by: Hot Spring Spas - www.hotspringspasnm.com