Your Shopping Guide For Hot Tubs & Home Spas, Covers, Heaters and Accessories

Hot Tubs and Home Spas Offer Relaxation, Massage Therapy and Family Fun

The health benefits of modern hot tubs and home spas have been known for centuries. Thermal spas have been used by various cultures throughout the ages. The Romans and Greeks built public baths by diverting water from hot springs while private baths were built only by the wealthy. Today, modern acrylic spas and portable hottubs make it possible for anyone to enjoy warm water therapy at home.

Hot Tub Benefits

From family bonding to hydrotherapy, the benefits of owning a hot tub are numerous. Hottubs provide a great environment in which to re-connect with family and friends. They offer a romantic retreat to spend time with someone close to you. Portable spas offer relaxation, massage therapy and fun. Doctors recommend them to reduce stress, relieve pain and promote healing. Good things happen when you soak in the soothing water of your own home spa and let go of life’s stress and tension.

Differences between Hot Tubs, Spas, Jacuzzis® & Whirlpools

  • Hot Tubs & Home Spas - The terms “tub” and “spa” originallyHot Tubs and Home Spas referred to two different designs. The original design was a wooden container made out of redwood or cedar. They became very popular in the early 70s. Wooden hottubs evolved to include jets, seating, pumps and filters found in modern spas. Wooden tubs have lost some of their popularity with the advent of acrylic portable spas which are easier to maintain. The words “hot tubs” and “home spas” are now used interchangeably and can be used to refer to both the wooden and acrylic models.

  • Jacuzzis® - Jacuzzi® is the brand that started the industry in the 70s. Jacuzzi® is a brand name and although often used as a generic reference to “home spas and hottubs”, it refers only to that particular brand.

  • Whirlpool Bath - Whirlpools are usually installed where your regular bathtub would be. A pump forces water out of jets built into the sides of the tub to get the bubbles going. Since the water is drained after use no chemicals/filters are required.

Buying Hot Tubs Online

Although it’s hard to “test soak” when buying a hot tub or portable home spa online, there are the advantages of comparing the features and prices of the models best suited to your needs and preferences.

  • Cost - The initial investment in a hot tub can be quite high, depending on the size, construction and features desired. Consider the ongoing operating costs such as chemicals, replacing the filters, repairs and upkeep of your portable or in-ground home spa.

  • Size and Features – Home spas come in sizes to seat 4-6, 6-8 and 8-10 persons. You can choose between lounge, bench and therapy seats. Jet options include power, circulation, therapy, foot and adjustable jets. Modern portable hot tubs come with pneumatic or electronic controls and options in water purification and filtration systems. Advanced features include ozonator systems, automatic spa covers, fountains and stereo systems.

  • Maintenance & Warranty – Make sure your portable hot tub or home spa has an adequate water filtration/purification system for its size and anticipated usage. Heaters and pumps will require repairs at some point in time. Make sure the model you purchase is covered by a comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty that includes parts, labor and materials.

Arming yourself with knowledge is important whether shopping for hottubs online or at a brick-and-mortar store. Do your research and compare features and prices to find a portable home spa or hot tub that will give you and your family years of enjoyment.


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