Choose a new hot tub that reaches R-25 on the insulation and R-21 on the cover for energy efficiency
For relaxation and a soothing backyard staycation getaway, homeowners consistently choose installation of a new hot tub. But are they prepared for the maintenance, repairs and possible unreliability of that tub?
Here’s how to get in the know before you get into a tub.
All new hot tubs are not created equally. Yvonne Stollings of Advanced Spa Repair in Charleston, OH, says that her company sells Royal Spas because they “make the highest quality hot tubs possible and they’re made in America by Americans.”
A spa that speaks to your patriotism is definitely a bonus. But hot tub spas need to be more than just made on our home soil. They need to be reliable.
Energy Efficiency in Outdoor Hot Tubs
There will be some big surprises if using your spa hikes your utility bill. So look for a hot tub that is designed with the latest energy efficient technology. The insulation, the cover and the bottom of the tub need to be highly rated and sealed. Check the R-value and choose a new hot tub that reaches R-25 on the insulation and R-21 on the cover.
Make sure the circulation and air pump on the tub are low wattage. Buy the hot tub that will deliver the most comfort with the least amount of energy used.
Hot Tub Repair is Inevitable
A hot tub is like any other appliance in your home. It’s destined to break down and need repair. At the very least, hot tubs will need regular maintenance. To make those repairs and maintenance as pain free as possible, choose a model that has easy and simple access for the repair company.
Stollings says the Royal Spa hits the mark on that point as well. In her extensive experience with selling and servicing hot tubs and spas, Stollings has found that the construction and design of Royal Spa makes them the “least expensive hot tub to repair on the market.”
Add that to the shopping list: A brand that won’t break the bank when repairs become necessary.
It’s Not About Jets and Seats
You want the best features in your tub, right? So you look for jets that spray everywhere or seats with comfy profiles. But have you looked at the quality of the construction? By all means get the jets and seats, but make sure they are built carefully with top quality materials. And be prepared to pay more for that quality. Otherwise you will pay later when the trouble appears.
For a trouble-free hot tub no matter what the jet and seat configuration, choose the better built model. Something slapped together fast with substandard materials and a low sticker price will only deliver problems. Stollings reminds shoppers that “the real differences are the materials and methods of manufacturing.”
Choose a Dealer That Stands Behind the Product
The best spa is the one that comes with the best warranty from a company that will back it up. Look for a contractor who can service your spa and knows something about the hot tub chemicals and maintenance involved – not just how to dig a hole, plop the tub in and fill it with water.
Just because you pay a lot for a hot tub doesn’t mean you won’t be left high and dry with a short, limited or nearly non-existent warranty. Demand a substantial warranty from a dealer you can trust and do your homework on the company. In today’s world of easy complaining online, you should find it fairly simple to see if your dealer has had issues with service or warranty claims.
Less Trouble Means More Relaxing
You want a hot tub for relaxing in and melting the cares of the day away. So use this 4-step checklist:
- Don’t purchase a tub that will bring you more headaches than its worth.
- Follow the advice of pros like Advanced Spa Repair – buy well built, energy efficient and easily repaired models that are backed by a solid warranty.
- Buy that tub from a dealer who will service you from installation and beyond.
- Do your homework.
And then get in that outdoor hot tub and start relaxing.
Originally posted 2010-02-27 09:00:57. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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