HOT TUB SPA BUYING TIPS AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Below you'll find answers to questions we're most frequently asked.
What is the difference between a Hot Tub and a Spa?
Since the eighties the terms hot tub and spas now mean the same product, but the original term “hot tub” derived from barrel shaped tubs constructed from wood which became popular in the USA during the sixties. These original wooden hot tubs were very basic, in that they were just an outdoor vessel capable of holding hot water for a few bathers to soak in.
Due to their popularity in the USA, construction materials, methods and designs improved during the seventies, resulting in moulded fiberglass hot tubs with pumps to provide additional hydrotherapy benefits.In order to differentiate the modern high tech hot tubs from their wooden predecessors , they were described as Spas.
But similar features such as pumps, jets, water filters and electronic controls were incorporated into the original wooden tubs, so you can see why the two terms became interchangeable.
What is the safest maximum water temperature?
It is recommended that your spa temperature does not exceed 40°C.
Can it be installed inside or outside?
A hot tub spa can be installed indoors or outdoors, although 90%, including those in cold weather climates, are usually installed outdoors. The two main considerations for installing a spa indoors are: will it fit through the door, and is the structural strength of the flooring adequate. Hot tubs spas typically weigh approximately 4,500 lbs when filled ( over 2 metric Ton) if the hot tub spa is to be installed indoors its imperative that proper ventilation is provided in order to avoid any potential humidity damage such as mildew.
Do I need to have any additional plumbing installed?
No, all hot tubs suppllied by us are self contained units just require filling with a garden hose.
How often do I clean the spa?
Most manufacturers recommend draining and cleaning your spa no more than three or four times a year depending on how frequently you use it and how well you maintain your water.
What type of base does the spa need to be placed on?
The spa must be placed on a firm level surface. We recommend a 4" thick concrete slab or a decent firm patio. A wood deck rated for the weight of the spa, water and people would also be a suitable surface. We recommend speaking to a certified contractor to determine if the deck will handle the load.
Do I need a cover for my hot tub?
Yes we certainly recommend a cover, not only does it protect your hot tub and keep the water clean, it also has a significant insulation properties.
What should I look for in my cover?
Covers can vary hugely in quality, so always ensure that they are constructed from marine grade vinyl with mildew and UV inhibitors. In addition to this ensure the quality of the structural reinforcement inside and that it has reinforced double hinges.
Then we have the insulative properties of the cover to consider, which is of particular importance with the rising energy costs in the UK. A good quality cover will also have adequate locking fasteners with zippers.
Is there an easier way to remove my spa cover?
Although covers are relatively light, they do require two people to remove without damaging them. A cover lifter makes it so easy, allowing easier removal and storage, there are the basic mechanical versions which work fine but strut assisted ones are just so smooth requiring very little effort to remove the cover.
How much will my Hot Tub cost to operate?
Typically hot tubs consume an average of 300Kw a month ( About £30 - £35 per month depending an your electricity tariff) in an average family home, if you turn down the temperature when not in use and have an insulating cover then it will be less.
Are hot tubs only used in warmer months of the year ?
No hot tubs are actually most popular in colder countries such as Canada and Finland, where the outside air temperature is significantly lower than the UK.
It is well known that athletes use the therapeutic effects of combining very cold water then hot water baths.
What is the Spa Crest Hot Tub warranty?
10 Year Structure, 5-Year Surface, 2-Year Equipment & Plumbing; this includes parts and labour. The Spa Crest Hot Tub warranty is not pro-rated.
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