July 29, 2012

Hot Tub Spa Buyer's Guide

Since buying a spa is not an everyday event, we've put together information to help you find the ideal hot tub for your lifestyle. Consider these factors before buying your favorite hot tub spa.

Location and Available Space

Although most spas (and every model we sell) can be used indoors or outdoors in any climate, the majority of people will choose an outdoor location for their hot tub.  And so, the size of spa that you select will be determined by two factors:  the available space, and how many persons will be using it at one time.

Seating Capacity Desired
 
Before you even begin shopping, decide how many people you would like to entertain in your new hot tub.  When relatives and friends visit, you might not want to have to ask them to take turns enjoying the spa.
On the other hand, if you have a small family unit, or prefer to enjoy your spa in solitude, a smaller spa may be ideal for your needs.

Space

Decide where you would like to put your spa.  One trick for envisioning outdoor locations is to outline the hot tub's dimensions with a rope or garden hose.  This will give you a visual perspective and help make the decision easier.

As you imagine how it will look, be sure to consider: accessibility of the users, proximity to the electrical service, privacy, and view.

Electrical Hookup

All of our SuperTub vinyl-liner and LifeCast* unicast roto-molded spas are plug-n-play 120V models which operate on standard 15 amp household outlets. (Some other brands require non-standard 20 amp circuits). Although most acrylic spas are designed to operate on hard-wired 240V power service, Belize Spas offers two models, the Oval II and Trinity that can be wired for either 120V or 240V. *LifeCast unicast spas models are convertible 120/240V

A 220 volt electrical service results in much more rapid heating and is considered to be best for permanent installations of acrylic spas.  220V systems must be wired by a qualified electrician and require a GFCI-protected circuit and spa disconnect panel for safety.

Contrary to popular belief, there is only a slight advantage in electrical efficiency with a 220 volt installation.  Again, the real advantage is reduced heating time.