Category: Hot Tubs & Spas

Hot Tubs & Spas

Q&A: Shapes, Design Options, and Benefits of a Custom Spa

Posted on 4/17/2013 11:30 AM By Debra Maurer

Spa Design: Best Features and Design Options for Custom Spas and hot tubs

Diamond Spas flower-shaped custom spa

For those looking for a hot tub or spa, custom-designed spas allow you to get the exact look, size, and features you want. We spoke to Charlie Snider, PMP, AFO, vice president of pool and spa sales at Diamond Spas, to learn about hot tub and spa design, including the materials, shapes, options, and advantages of owning a custom spa.

PoolSpaOutdoor.com: What are some the most requested features on a custom spa and hot tub? How do they enhance the user’s experience?

Charlie Snider, Diamond Spas: The most common customizations are seating options designed specifically for the primary users. We arrange the jets and seating options to suit special requests. We create loungers and arm rests, unique curves, decorative coping on the exterior, and work with the customers to place the jets exactly where they want them to be.

Automatic covers are also popular. Another common request is integrating our controls with a home automation system for convenient and multiple points of control. We provide any type of heating system, offer choices for high efficiency VFD drive pumps, and a variety of sanitation systems to meet any special requirements.

For more custom hot tub and spa design photos, check out Diamond Spas photo gallery >>

PSO: What are the benefits of a custom spa made of stainless steel and copper? How does it compare to a concrete spa (typically built in conjunction with a swimming pool) and a portable hot tub, which usually has an acrylic shell?

CS: The purpose of using copper and stainless steel materials is they don't require faux or add-on finishes. They’re a natural, recycled, and beautiful material that can be shaped to suit custom applications of high-end clients. Additionally, they both are highly durable.

The metals produce a smooth, comfortable finish surface demanding very little maintenance, never has to be replaced, and maintains its natural beauty for the life of the spa.

We build the spa shells entirely of copper or stainless steel. Sometimes we’ll provide copper trim on a stainless steel spa to combine the elements for stunning look and pronounced wow factor.

Copper does patina. It is a true "living metal.” The natural protective patina coating protects the copper from corrosion. Typically this is a dark brown coloration. We use a 316L grade, low carbon content stainless steel produced for marine environments. It’s extremely durable. We produce a unique, hand-buffed finish to tone down shiny reflections and provide a surface that can be cleaned without affecting the finish.

In addition, we eliminate corrosive chemical treatments that don’t work well for either metals or humans in order to deliver a rich and comfortable experience.

PSO: What types of hydrotherapy jets are available on custom hot tubs and spas? How can jets be configured to suit each customer’s needs?

CS: We use a custom manufactured jet to meet our specification of durability and standardized installation for quality control. There are a few options for discerning customers. The primary desire for most spa customers is location, strength of jet, and options for how to control the jets.

PSO: Users may want the ability to adjust the intensity of the hot tub jets. Does Diamond Spas offer jets that can be adjusted individually?

CS: We do provide this availability using programmable VFD drive pumps and control systems to operate multiple speeds.

PSO: What are some of the uniquely-shaped hot tubs and spas Diamond Spas has built? Even with unique options available, are squares and rectangles still the most popular?

CS: Most often unique shapes are defined by available space, efficiency, aesthetics, and functionality. We work with designers, builders, and owners to create the best user experience for each project. This includes a variety of curves, ellipses, trapezoids, triangles, circles, ovals, squares, and rectangles.

The most popular spa shapes are the most efficient in terms of seating capacity and budget. Since there’s no functional purpose to build a spa greater than 7 feet across, most customers elect square, rectangle, and elliptical shapes to provide efficiency within their available space. There truly is no commonality.

We have to search hard through years of designs to find an example that any particular customer might request as something typical, standard, or simple. While the initial request often begins here, the end product morphs to something quite unique by the time the final design is approved.

See more custom hot tub and spa photos and videos from Diamond Spas >>

Photo courtesy of Diamond Spas

4 Spa Shopping Tips

Posted on 9/4/2012 10:00 AM By Kimberlee Courtney

How to Buy a Hot Tub

Follow these 4 spa shopping tips to make sure your hot tub purchase goes smoothly.

1. Test it out. The best way to ensure that you buy the perfect hot tub is to try it out. Many retailers have hot tubs set up in a separate area of the showroom so customers can experience a particular model before they buy. During your test soak, pay attention to the comfort and depth of the spa's seats, placement and pressure of the jets, and the footwell space. Also try out all of the options so you can easily choose which ones you really want.

2. Take control—remotely. Having to get up to adjust the settings of your spa can make your hot tub experience less than enjoyable. Consider whether the convenience of a remote control system will enhance your soak. A floating remote control lets you adjust the pumps, water temperature, and any accessories (TV, radio, etc.) from any seat within the spa. An in-home control panel allows you to monitor and adjust the spa settings from inside your home, so you can have a nice warm tub waiting for you.

3. Select a cover. If the hot tub model you buy doesn’t come with a cover, make sure you purchase one. A cover is essential for safe and efficient hot tub operation. The best covers are made of marine-grade Naugahyde,® resistant to mildew growth, and meet ASTM International (American Society for Testing Materials) standards, which ensures that they not only retain heat but guarantee their use as a safety cover.

4. Ask about upkeep. Maintenance is an important and necessary part of hot tub ownership. Ask your dealer if the model you’re looking to buy includes features that will help make upkeep easier. Many hot tub manufacturers offer automatic sanitizers and dosing systems that reduce the time, effort, and amount of chemicals it takes to maintain your hot tub.

Visit our Hot Tubs & Spas Buyers' Guide for a list of leading hot tub companies and product information.

Photo courtesy of Hot Spring Spas, Watkins Manufacturing

10 Benefits of a Swim Spa

Posted on 8/10/2012 10:15 AM By Debra Maurer

By Debra Maurer

Swim spa Diamond Spas indoor pool fitness tile decor

Swim spas are a combination of a hot tub and a swimming pool, which means—like most 2-for-1 items—they provide twice the bang for your buck. So what do these aquatic hybrids have to offer? Here are 10 benefits:

1. Compact size. Bigger than a hot tub, and smaller than a pool, swim spas are perfect for small yards.

2. Year-round swimming. By programming a set water temperature and keeping the cover on when not in use, you can use your swim spa hot tub all year long.

3. No flipturns necessary. Swim laps without interruption or reaching for the wall.

4. Forget sharing a lane. No need to wait around for a lane to open up when you have your own private swim lane at home.

5. Challenge muscles. Water’s resistance makes for more challenging movements.

6. Low-impact. Thanks to water’s buoyancy, swimming is a low-impact activity with little risk of injury.

7. Replaces your gym membership. Exercise using an underwater bike or treadmill, resistance bands, and rowing system—all in a swim spa.

8. Smaller carbon footprint. Swim spas use much less water than a pool, meaning they require fewer chemicals and less energy to run, which also reduces your cost.

9. Unique options. Some manufacturers offer swim spas with deep water wells. This means the floor of the swim spa opens up to provide another 1 – 2 feet of depth, perfect for deep-water running.

10. Hydrotherapy. Enjoy the pulsating jets of a swim spa hot tub before or after your workout, or during a relaxing weekend.

Bonus: Did you know swim spas are great training tools for competitive swimmers? Learn how Michael Phelps used a swim spa to train for the London Olympics.

For a list of recommended swim spa manufacturers, visit our Swim Spas Buyers' Guide.

Photo courtesy of Diamond Spas; Photography by Cameron Neilson

Marquis Launches Round Hot Tub Model

Posted on 1/16/2012 10:59 AM By Debra Maurer

Marquis round model 524 hot tub With the launch of the new 524^TM spa, Marquis’ e-Series Hot Tubs is going retro with a modern spin on the classic round hot tub. But while this tub may have a classic shape, it’s nothing like your father’s hot tub.

“With the 524, we’ve taken the nostalgia that comes with the circular shape and married it with a new look and modern conveniences,” said John Schrenk, Marquis’ President. “It’s the best of both worlds, merging old hot tub tradition with today’s technology and features.”

The 524 comfortably seats five people with its therapy seats in multiple heights. The 24 jets provide plenty of action for all users, plus its footwell jets benefit everyone in the hot tub. In addition to five therapy seats, the 524 also has a cool down seat that doubles as an entry step.

The easy-to-operate controls face the inside of the hot tub for ultimate convenience. The exterior of this new spa measures 76 inches round and 34 inches high. A spin around the surface reveals soft, rounded lines. The 524 has a dazzling waterfall feature and consumers can enhance the mood with the Twilight colored light show.

About Marquis

Marquis, an Oregon-based employee-owned company, has been manufacturing premium portable hot tubs and for over 30 years. The company distributes its products in the U.S., Canada and Europe via its extensive distributor and dealer network. For more information please call (800) 275-0888 or visit www.marquisspas.com.

Guide to Winter Hot Tub & Spa Use

Posted on 1/12/2012 10:43 AM By Kimberlee Courtney

Hot Tub Spa in Winter Many people enjoy using their outdoor hot tub or spa during the cold winter months. There’s nothing like soaking in a warm hot tub as you sip hot cocoa and watch the snow fall around you. If you live in a cold climate, follow these six tips to ensure proper operation and efficiency of your hot tub all winter long.

1. Stock up on Supplies – Make sure you have an extra filter cartridge and enough sanitizer, chemicals, test strips, and other spa supplies to last you through the winter. The weather can be unpredictable and you don’t want to take the chance of having to go out and purchase these items when the roads are icy or unmanaged.

2. Protect Your Pipes – One of the major risks of operating a hot tub in the winter is that water can freeze in the pipes. Check that your spa’s freeze protection system is activated, which will help maintain a constant water temperature even when you’re not using the spa. If your hot tub doesn’t have freeze protection, set your timer switch to cycle on for 15 – 20 minutes every hour to keep warm water circulating through the pipes.

3. Keep it Covered – A good insulated cover is essential for reducing the energy requirements of your hot tub during the winter. It is also recommended to use an inexpensive thermal blanket under your regular hot tub cover to help keep the heat in, reduce chemical use, and decrease moisture build-up on the cover. Be sure to spray the vinyl cover with a quality protectant to safeguard against harsh weather conditions and also remove snow before it accumulates on the cover.

4. Watch the Water Level – Check your hot tub’s water level regularly, especially if you do not use your spa every day. If the water in your spa gets too low, the pumps and heater may stop working which will cause the water to freeze.

5. Maintain the Water Temperature –The colder it gets, the longer it takes for your spa to heat up. It is less expensive and more efficient to maintain the water temperature of your hot tub on a daily basis than it is to let it get extremely cold and then reheat it when you want to use the spa. It also keeps water from freezing in the pipes and reduces chemical use.

6. Turn off Air Jets – Running the air jets in the winter uses a great amount of energy because they inject cold air into the spa water. If you do use your jets, make sure you turn them off after every use.

For a list of recommended hot tub manufacturers, visit our Hot Tubs Buyers’ Guide.

Photo courtesy of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP)

New AquaChek 6-in-1 Test Strip for Hot Tubs & Spas

Posted on 1/5/2012 10:30 AM By Debra Maurer

AquaChek 6-in-1 Spa Test Strip Hach Company/ETS, the manufacturer of AquaChek® Pool & Spa Test Strips, is pleased to announce the introduction of AquaChek Spa, a 6-in-1 test strip developed specifically for testing in the hot tub environment. AquaChek Spa provides spa/hot tub owners an efficient and comprehensive means of testing the water.

The new 15-second, dip and read AquaChek Spa test strip includes tests for six chemistries: Total Chlorine, Total Bromine, Free Chlorine, Total Alkalinity, pH, and Total Hardness.

Spas and hot tubs present unique challenges to manage healthy, balanced water. The higher temperatures and lower water volume can cause faster chemical reactions and increased evaporation rates. Maintaining ideal levels of active and total sanitizer (Bromine or Chlorine), pH, Total Alkalinity, and Hardness will help ensure that the water is clean and healthy. In addition, it will protect the spa/hot tub against damage from fluctuations in pH, and a build-up of scale formation.

“Owners should test their water before and after each use, and treat the water regularly,” advises Joe Sweazy, Technical Sales and Service Manager for AquaChek. “We recommend tracking results each time the water is tested,” he adds.

AquaChek Spa 6-in-1 test strips are fast, accurate, and easy to use. Simply dip the test strip into the spa/hot tub, compare using the color chart comparator on the bottle, and adjust chemical levels that are not within the acceptable range by following chemical manufacturer’s recommendations. Each bottle includes 50 test strips with instructions in English, French, Spanish, and German.

For more info, visit www.AquaChek.com or call 888-278-2243.

Watkins Manufacturing Acquires American Hydrotherapy Systems

Posted on 12/20/2011 11:29 AM By Debra Maurer

Watkins Manufacturing, a leading maker of hot tubs worldwide, announces the acquisition of the assets of American Hydrotherapy Systems (AHS), manufacturer of Freeflow Spas® and a leader in the rotationally molded spa and business category. With the purchase of Ontario, California-based AHS, Watkins adds roto-molded Freeflow Spas to its portfolio of premium Watkins spa brands, which include Caldera® Spas and Hot Spring® Spas.

“The addition of Freeflow Spas to our family of quality hot tub brands fits perfectly with our consumer strategy to deliver the right products to the right markets at the right prices,” says Steve Hammock, President of Watkins Manufacturing. “We want our Watkins-brand retailers, whenever possible, to be a one-stop-shop in fulfilling the hot water relaxation needs of today’s discriminating consumer. Integrating this quality selection of Freeflow Spas products into our retail offering will allow shoppers to get the hot tub they want from us, whether they choose an entry level model or the most premium spa.”

“Our business was not ‘overtly for sale’ but Watkins presented us with an interesting opportunity we simply had to consider,” explains Bob Gawlik, general manager, American Hydrotherapy Systems. “Over the years, many other companies have approached us. But Watkins, an icon in our industry, was the first suitor that we believed would perpetuate what we have worked so hard to build in a manner we think will honor the company’s values.”

“Over the years, we’ve been very impressed with the product offering developed by, and the integrity of, the AHS team,” says Hammock. Over the next several quarters, the AHS business will transition to Watkins worldwide headquarters in Vista, California. “Watkins celebrated the manufacture of our one-millionth hot tub in September 2011, and together with this strategic acquisition of AHS we believe we are positioned for continued growth in the future,” adds Hammock.

About Watkins Manufacturing Corporation

Watkins Manufacturing was established in 1977, in Vista, California. The company is a leading manufacturer of hot tubs worldwide, including Hot Spring® Spas, Limelight® Hot Tubs, Hot Spot® Spas and Caldera® Spas. The Watkins Dealer network extends into all 50 states and over 60 countries. Watkins is a division of Masco Corporation, a Fortune 500 company whose products include Delta® Faucets, KraftMaid® Cabinets, and Behr® paint.

Watkins’ One Millionth Spa Raises Money for Fallen Firefighters

Posted on 11/14/2011 2:52 PM By Debra Maurer

Watkins Presents Donation to Fallen Firefighters Assoc Thirty-four years in the making, Watkins Manufacturing has earned the reputation as a global leader in the hot tub industry. In October 2011, the company reached the significant milestone of producing its 1 millionth spa and held an online auction among Hot Spring Spas retailers worldwide for the chance to own it. Watkins pledged to match the winning bid and donate 100 percent of the proceeds to an important charity, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

As a result of the competitive bidding that took place during the week of the auction, Bruno Woodtli owner of Hewoo AG, a Hot Spring Spas dealership in Switzerland, won the one millionth spa (an Aria model) with a final bid of $17,200. As planned, Watkins Manufacturing is matching the winning bid, providing a total donation amount $34,400 to support the families of fallen firefighters across the United States.

“We would like to extend a special thank you to Hewoo AG, and to all the dealers nationally and worldwide who rallied to the call and participated in the auction—we sincerely appreciate such generous support,” said Steve Hammock, president of Watkins Manufacturing. “We look forward to partnering with our retailers in the future to continue the good work of donating to causes like the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.”

“This generous gift from Watkins Manufacturing will help support the Foundation‘s mission to provide services and assistance to the families of firefighters who died in the line of duty,” said Ronald J. Siarnicki, executive director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. “We recently honored 89 fallen firefighters, including four from California, at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial and we appreciate Watkins Manufacturing‘s commitment to our efforts.”

About Watkins Manufacturing Corporation

Watkins Manufacturing was established in 1977, in Vista, California. They are the world‘s largest manufacturer of hot tubs, including Hot Spring® Spas, Limelight® Hot Tubs, Hot Spot® Spas and Caldera® Spas. The Watkins Dealer network extends into all 50 states and over 60 countries. Watkins is a division of Masco Corporation, a Fortune 500 company whose products include Delta® Faucets, KraftMaid® Cabinets, and Behr® paint.

Pictured right to left: Mike Dunn, Executive VP, Watkins; Steve Hammock, President, Watkins; Roger Lamberson, VP, Operations, Watkins; Chris Peavey, VP, Finance, Watkins; Matt Kennedy, Engineer, Vista Fire Dept.; Mark Standifird, Captain, Vista Fire Dept.; Mike Romeo, Firefighter, Vista Fire Dept.; Wanda Gilbert, Rep for NFFF; Leo Hamacher, VP, Int‘l Sales & Mktg, Watkins; Mark Bettner, Director, Customer Service, Watkins; Harry Sundblad, VP, Corp. Bus Dev, Watkins; Ryan Sessler, VP, Sales & Mktg, Watkins; Robin French, VP, Engineering, Watkins

Photo courtesy of Watkins Mfg.

Caldera® Spas Introduces New Value-Priced Hot Tub

Posted on 8/24/2011 9:00 AM By Debra Maurer

Caldera Spas Vantro Hot Tub Caldera^® Spas, a leading hot tub manufacturer, has introduced the Vanto™ hot tub to its Vacanza™ series. The Vanto offers a fresh approach to the value-priced category, delivering a distinctly stylish spa experience.

The Vanto is a generous 84-inch square, comfortably seating seven adults. This model features 35 jets, trimmed in a sleek stainless steel, plus the highly functional foot pod with four Euro jets. The jet patterns in each seat provide the signature Caldera Spas Hot Tub Circuit Therapy^®. This system directs powerful jets at all of the body’s major muscle groups for a satisfying full-body massage.

"Value conscious shoppers appreciate the option of this open-seated, non-lounge spa,” said Shelly Roberts, Caldera Spas Brand Manager.

LED lighting placed around the spa and above the waterline creates a visually stunning appearance. The Acquarella^® waterfall provides a soothing backdrop of sound and color. An optional Integrated MP3 sound system can add to your hot tub enjoyment.

The Vanto spa uses the SPA FROG^® water care system, which continually doses the spa water with bromine, providing carefree maintenance and using up to 50 percent fewer chemicals than traditional water care. The optional Monarch CD Ozone system is also available.

Full-foam insulation and a custom spa cover with an installed hinge-seal help ensure the Vanto is CEC-compliant.

About Caldera® Spas

Established in 1976, Caldera Spas is one of the world's most trusted hot tub brands, and is part of Watkins Manufacturing, an industry leader in the production of premium spas. Watkins is a division of Masco Corp., a Fortune 500 company, whose fine home products include Delta^® faucets, Merillat^® cabinets, Behr^® paints, and many others. Caldera hot tubs are widely distributed throughout the United States, Canada and abroad. More information and Caldera spa dealer locations are available online at www.calderaspas.com.

Photo courtesy of Caldera Spas

Sundance Spas Introduces Energy-Efficient Hot Tub Line

Posted on 4/25/2011 1:06 PM By Debra Maurer

Sundance Spas, an internationally recognized leader in the hot tub industry, has introduced its Elite Series, a new line of luxury spas that reduce energy consumption and deliver high-end hydro-massage features.

Designed from the ground up by the Sundance Spas’ engineering and product development team, the new Elite Series consists of the Constance™ and Victoria™ models that include exclusive improvements, such as impressive energy efficiency, a high-performance spa cover upgrade and a distinctive matching step for easy access.

“According to consumer research, energy efficiency is an important consideration for hot tub owners and for those in the market,” said Larry Ovalle, senior manager of product marketing at Sundance Spas. “For this reason, Sundance Spas is introducing the most energy-efficient spa designs in its class with these models. The insulating system builds upon the prestigious Sundance RigidBond™ construction and full foam insulation by adding an additional thermal layer.”

“We took the spa design one step further with premium features and sophisticated aesthetics such as a finished cabinetry look on the exterior of the units. We’re also offering an optional matching step and other amenities that perfect the spa experience,” said Ovalle. A new SunStrong™ hot tub cover further increases efficiency through the use of ultra-high-density foam while also delivering superior performance with an exterior made of highly durable Sunbrella^® brand material.

Unique to both models is an optional VersaStep™, heavy-duty, color-coordinated steps with a handrail for easy spa access that also serve as a towel holder and built-in storage for towels, sunscreens and other accessories. Additionally, the Elite Series offers superior hydrotherapy with patented Fluidix™ jet technology; SMT™ leg jets in the lounge for a targeted calf and hamstring massage; a new cool down seat for easier access, safety and comfort; a low-profile foot dome with up to eight jets; and exterior lighting.

Constance™ and Victoria™ models are available in seven acrylic tub colors; two available cabinet colors; and two SunStrong™ insulated spa cover options.