There is a lot of information both on-line and in publications about this but it starts really with a couple of questions that you need to ask yourself.

 

·         Set your Budget – Think long term, you are unlikely to purchase another one whilst in the same property so look long term say 5 or more years ahead. Taking into account the cost of the hot tub and associated fitting costs - which may include new base-works, electric supply, landscaping. gazebo etc.

·         How many people - will need to use the spa? at any one time?. Are you looking more for a social type spa (more seats) or a family type spa, which may include a recliner seat?

·         General Specification – Look at the type not number of jets fitted, are they offering varying types of massage, look at the comfort of the seating and depth – most important if you are tall or short, don’t expect 100% comfort on all seats as spas are designed to accommodate varying heights and weights so aim for around 60% of comfort. If you are able to have an ozone generator included then this will help reduce chemical content and aid the water clarity. Unlike our competitors many of our spas offer an air blower as standard and this offers a complimentary therapy to the jetted system. If you like music systems, again many of our spas include as standard a Sony stereo system with MP3 input these additional features at no extra cost make our spas stand out from the crowd.

·         Health Benefits - Do you or any of your family have ailments or injuries that may benefit from certain jetting massage actions in which case look for spas that may have beneficial jetting to neck or calf etc in line with your particular requirements.

·         Which Manufacturer – Yes like Cars, TVS etc brand does matter – Check the pedigree of the spa manufacturer, ensure how long they have been trading for, particularly in the UK. Our most prominent brand Vita spas are part of the Maax spa group, the world’s largest manufacturer that also leads the way in many of the design and development improvements within the industry. We also sell at the top end of the spectrum Sundance spas, which are renowned across the world for making the highest quality spas. As part of the Jacuzzi group it’s easy to see why. If you have a smaller budget then we stock the fabulous value for money and durable Rotospa – these are made in the UK at a factory in Birmingham and have been producing good value spas for many years.

As with any considered purchase, you need to make sure that your supplier is credible.

There is a growing number of  internet supliers who are advertising themselves as "European Suppliers" but they are importing cheap spas from China. If the specification and price seems to good to be true then its probably Chinese. Before you commit  enter the companies details into forum searches on the internet and see what response you get before moving forward with any purchase.  A customer recently came to see us and he told us that he had parted with £8,000 on just such  a website only to be told that  he will not get the spa and also that he may have lost his money on what can only be described as bogus trading. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED...

 

To avoid upset and  disappointment you should ensure that your supplier is BISHTA registered (this is the Trade Association for the Hot Tub Industry)

 

Make sure they have a showroom and that they can offer wet testing facilities for you to try a hot tub.

 

Check their technical abilities and speak to not only the sales person but also one of the engineers and ask direct questions about servicing, aftercare etc.

 

Don’t be afraid to ask for testimonials – If they are reputable then this will not be a problem and they should actively encourage you to do so.

 

Beware the Internet – Yes it’s an excellent tool to research and some amazing offers are available but you need to consider that many internet traders do not have showrooms and offer little in the way of good aftercare and as such they are acting as sales agents. Although in some cases you may find cheaper prices initially beware of the aftercare as many will not offer any credible aftercare services and from experience we receive many calls from people who cannot get their hot tub repaired or serviced in or out of warranty. As a local company we offer Internet prices with local service and after care, which helps give you peace of mind

 

 

The main considerations are:

·         Access – How will your spa get to the desired location? Our standard delivery uses a trolley system so an early no obligation site survey will define the best method. In some cases mechanical lifting may be required. In such cases we use professional services from our local supplier. Beware of Internet kerb side deliveries as the spas are very heavy and you may easily damage it or yourself!. ( picture below shows extended Hi-ab lift)

·         Privacy and Views – Look for the best vantage point to view the gardens, try to avoid being overlooked. If you are overlooked then look at a Gazebo or planting scheme that will provide modesty screening. Consider distance from the main property for walking to and from.

·         Indoor Installations – This does throw up some other considerations for you. The building must have adequate ventilation and will probably need an expel air / de humidification system as the moisture content is much increased when indoor. Consider adequate insurance cover should the spa ever develop a leak. Modern spas are very reliable but as with all things, sometimes they can go wrong.

·         Groundwork’s - The best option is a 4” thick concrete pad that is level and flat, but you can site on slabs or decking as long as they are level and flat and capable of withstanding a spread weight of anywhere between 1 and 3 tons. If using riven faced slabs its best to lay a 1” self-levelling screed to avoid high and low spots, which may cause stress on the spas shell.

·         Water and drainage (Hosepipe) – The spa will be refilled every 3 months so a hosepipe within the area is essential. To empty the spa we recommend using a submersible pump and hose, which does the job in 10 minutes or so as opposed to over an hour if using the drain cock on the spa. Consideration must be given to emptying the spa and draining the water away safely.

·         Electricity Supply – Single pump hot tubs tend to be 13 amp supply and can plug into suitable outdoor supplies but larger multiple pump hot tubs require 32 amps (or greater). Appointing an electrician at an early stage is important as they can best advise the most suitable arrangement and cost implications. Remember Part P qualified staff must carry out all electrical installation and certification will be required.

 

We like to discuss this with you to give you the opportunity to evaluate the different types of chemical regimes whether it be Chlorine or Bromine based or one of the Chlorine free types - The for’s and against’s of each scheme are discussed and you choose the most suitable one for your lifestyle. In essence regular testing and chemical management along with thorough filter cleaning are the main aspects of your spa’s management.

 

Typically after your initial honeymoon period (Usually up to a month) then you will probably spend only 10 minutes a week on this aspect

 

Unlike most Internet Suppliers, when purchasing a spa from us we give a comprehensive training and preventative maintenance schedule to ensure longevity of your hot tub.

 

We further offer great value annual service schedules to check the spa control systems and plumbing lines – again this is important

 

Your weekly and monthly schedules are explained easily and are backed up with publications and on the phone support all FREE of charge.

If you would like to know more then come and see us at the showroom or phone. Why not book a wet test and try before you buy......