Are you familiar with the spa manufacturer? Are they well-known? Have they been in business for several years? How many spas do they build and sell each year?
Are you familiar with the local spa dealer? Can you get positive references from friends or family members? How long has the dealer been in business? Does he have trained technicians on staff to service your spa?
The shell of your new spa provides shape, structure, and ultimate comfort. There are several ways to manufacture spa shells, and several materials used. While some manufacturers may use plastic or fiberglass to build spa shells, our experience has taught us that vacuum molding allows for the creation of finely molded contours, comfortable seating, and intricacy of design that surpasses any other process.
Of course, the strength of your spa's shell is also important. Once a sheet of acrylic is formed, layers of support material can be added to the acrylic to provide density and support. A three-layer shell construction procedure allows for shells that are artfully designed and formed, and among the strongest in the industry. Thermoplastic surfaces are generally used for less refined designs and seating configurations.
Take a look at the spa's shell. Does it have attractive contours and intricate styling? Do you like the way the spa looks?
Sit in the spa. Are the seats comfortable? Is the acrylic molded to the contours of your body? Are there places for your arms and feet to rest? Can you move from seat to seat without barriers?
How is the spa's acrylic shell manufactured? Is there a layer of acrylic and additional layers of support material to ensure strength and longevity?
The frame of your spa supports 600 - 800 pounds of equipment, and depending on size, about 4,000 pounds of water ! It's important for that frame to be soundly built, both horizontally and vertically. Some spa manufacturers build basic frames that attach at the top and bottom in the corners only. A unitized frame - one that has horizontal support structures along the top and bottom as well as vertical supports along the sides of the spa - is better for three reasons.
- A full vertical and horizontal frame provides more uniform support for the acrylic shell and the water it holds.
- Vertical supports along the sides of the spa allow for better fit of the spa's outside panels.
- Vertical supports along the sides of the spa allow for easier servicing, as panels can be removed and replaced in sections.
Does the spa have a unitized frame, with horizontal supports along top and bottom, and vertical supports along the sides of the frame? Are the side panels attached in pieces for simpler servicing later on?
We discuss cabinetry in greater detail in our Design Center section of this site. However, you'll want to make sure that your spa's cabinet is built from materials that withstand the elements, and that it's design is pleasing to you.
Is the spa's cabinet made from redwood or cedar or a specially formulated acrylic to withstand the elements?
Is the cabinet attractive? Does it fit into your back-yard setting? Do you like the way it looks?
If you've been following our checkpoints, then you've investigated nearly every aspect of the spa you're about to buy. Have you considered the warranty? This is an often over-looked but critically important element in a spa purchase. After all, a hot tub is a major investment. You should make certain that your investment is well protected during its lifetime.
Spa warranties often look the same. You'll generally find the following categories in each warranty:
- Shell or Vessel Warranty - protects against structural damage or cracks that cause water loss.
- Exterior Shell Surface Warranty - protects the shell surface against blistering, peeling, cracking, fading, or delaminating.
- Plumbing Warranty - protects against leaks in plumbing components.
- Equipment Warranty - protects the equipment and controls in the spa.
As we said, most spa warranties will include the categories listed above. But further inspections should be made - be sure to read the fine print. Many warranties have a list of excluded parts or components. Additionally, many warranties are prorated. This means that components are protected for the full warranty term, but as the years progress, you pay more for repairs. For instance, plumbing components may be fully covered for the first year. But during the second year, you may pay a portion of labor and parts. The third year, your portion may be even higher. Some warranties have a deductible that applies to service after the first year. This will add to the operational costs. Also remember that a warranty is only as good as the company's ability to stand behind it.
Does the spa have a comprehensive warranty that covers all structural areas and components? Does the warranty extend for an acceptable period of time?
Does the warranty have particular exclusions? Is it pro-rated? Will you be fully covered by the warranty as time progresses? Is there a deductible?
Is the company that built the spa financially sound? Can they stand behind their warranty? Does the local dealer have a service relationship with the factory? Will the dealer stand behind your spa, and provide technical support for repairs?
