Convenient Controls
When spending time in your spa, you want to adjust everything from the temperature to the music exactly as you want it. Whether you're exercising or enjoying an invigorating massage - or just preparing to - the controls should be at your finger tips. Learn how remote controls keep spa ownership and maintenance practically hassle-free.
What types are available?
Dave Andersen, Arctic Spas: There are basically three types of remote controls: in-spa, in-home and remote monitoring. Their cost ranges from about $150 - $1,500.
• An in-spa remote is an infrared transmitter that allows you to control your spa while sitting inside or beside it. Most types allow you full control of both your spa and any accessories provided with your spa, such as a stereo or TV. With this remote, you don't need to sit near the topside control to turn on the pump, but you do need a clear line of sight for this type of remote to work.
• An in-home remote usually uses radio frequency and allows you to monitor and adjust the spa settings from inside your home. These will work through walls from almost anyplace in the home, up to a specific range.
• A remote monitor allows you to supervise your spa over the Internet, whether you're at the office or away on vacation, but the spa has to be in a location where a broadband connection is available. This technology is fairly new, so it's important to talk to your dealer about the latest developments.
Bill Wells, Marquis Spas: The in-spa remotes are usually floating remotes and are very similar to TV remotes. They are becoming more popular with consumers and prevalent in higher-end spas.
The in-home remotes are less prominent and found only in high-end spas, due to the cost. Evolving from the inground pool industry, in-home remotes allow an owner to monitor the spa's operation, temperature, lighting, etc., without physically traveling to the hot tub. It's a great benefit during cold weather or before heading outside for a nighttime soak.
What's New & What to Ask
What advances are being made to improve the performance of remote controls for spas?
Bill Wells: Manufacturers are integrating just about any function you can imagine to operate a spa into a remote control, but the most important advancements are to develop a unit that will last and not be susceptible to damage from water intrusion, moisture, heat and chemicals.
Dave Andersen: The possibilities for remote monitoring are endless. Soon retailers will be able to supervise hot tubs for the consumer, gathering data such as what changes occurred in the spa before an error occurred. Manufacturers will be able to update spa software automatically, just like your home computer does today. This technology allows the industry to change and adapt far quicker than in the past.
Robert M. Markiton: Spa controls continue to become more and more advanced, so it just goes to reason that remotes would follow suit. Remotes are not only controlling more functions of the spa, but also the surrounding environment, including lighting, radios, TVs and DVD players. Soon you'll be able to control items in your home with your spa remote.
What questions should consumers ask when choosing a remote control system?
Dave Andersen: They should determine the system's importance to them - is it for added convenience or an absolute necessity?
Bill Wells: They should ensure that it's a quality product backed by an adequate warranty. Many are considered disposable units.
Robert M. Markiton: Make sure it's waterproof!
Experts' Bios
Dave Andersen
Research and Development Manager, Arctic Spas
Right out of high school, Dave Andersen started in Arctic Spas' production department, and within three months, he was area supervisor. After one year with the company, Mr. Andersen transferred to the research and design department, and in 2005, he was promoted to manager. Mr. Andersen was recently honored by Alberta Venture magazine.
Bill Wells
Vice President of Retail, Marquis Spas
Bill Wells has been in the hot tub and spa industry for a number of years and has been honored on numerous occasions as salesman of the year-including two awards from Marquis Spas. With the company for 10 years, Mr. Wells has held a variety of positions in the sales department, ultimately being promoted to vice president.
Robert M. Markiton
Vice President, Sunbelt Spas
Robert M. Markiton started at Sunbelt Spas as a youth, painting cabinets. Since 1993, he has worked with the company fulltime. Mr. Markiton has operated the retail store, helped in plant production and has run shell and plant production in the factory. Currently, Mr. Markiton manages product development and purchasing.