Hot Tub Basics for the Uninitiated
Families That Love the Outdoors (Photo: Bullfrog Spas)
It doesn’t take much more than a love of the outdoors to own a hot tub. However, for the newbie — or the uninitiated — there are some basics that will help you as you take the plunge.
First. There are some things you need to do periodically to keep the water clean, and a few safety tips to learn. But there are many easy tutorials about how to use hot tub chemicals, plus any local hot tub dealer such as Best Hot Tubs will be available to answer questions, help you choose a model, install it properly, and even come to check on your hot tub if you require.
Some Hot Tub Basics
Bullfrog STIL model (Photo: Bullfrog Spas)
Spas (a.k.a. hot tubs) are similar in many ways to pools, but with delicious differences. Spas have hydro jets of gentle or powerful streams of water emanating from the sides of the unit to calm the rawest nerves or aching muscles. Pool water temperature is maintained about 78 to 82 degrees F., but the spa gets tuned up to higher temperatures to warm body and soul.
Certain spa manufacturers offer hot tubs in many sizes and configurations, and some can accommodate up to eight people. There is a wide selection of spa interior colors and exterior finishes. Many can be installed almost anywhere, can sit on a surface such as a deck or patio, recessed in a deck, or installed flush level on a patio. Of course, they can also be installed inside.
Try a Wet Test
Take a Wet Test a la Mariah Carey
Just as you need to road test a new car to see if you like it before you buy it, it is the same with the spa. The spa needs to be experienced firsthand.
Of course, you don’t have to follow Mariah Carey to Colorado (pictured here) to test the waters; you can simply stop by one of our hot tub showrooms (Farmingdale, Westbury, Windham, NY) where we have working spa models that you can try before you buy. (Oh and do be prepared like Mariah Carey and bring a bathing suit and towel with you.)
Portable Spas are Also Called “Above-ground” spas.
Best Hot Tubs specializes in above-ground spas (Bullfrog Spas to be exact) which offer literally a world of choices including size, shape, seating, number of hydro jets, heating system and more.
Portable “Above-ground” Spas (Photo: Best Hot Tubs)
While the above-ground portable spa arrives as a complete unit for easy placement, it is typically not a plug and play appliance, although some units are. The manufacturer we specialize in makes spas with up to 90% less plumbing and fewer holes underneath the spa than traditional spas.
While many enjoy the aesthetics of a custom in-ground spa, which is often done in conjunction with a swimming pool, there are many reasons for choosing a portable above-ground hot tub. Such hot tubs tend to have more jets (JetPaks) and comfortable seats, not to mention they are used separately from a pool, so they can be enjoyed year-round.
And Bullfrog Spas, in particular, have up to 90% less plumbing and fewer holes underneath the spa than traditional spas. Even if a JetPak happened to develop a leak, which is extremely rare, the water will stay inside the spa rather than escaping. JetPaks are so efficient that they have the portable hot tub industry’s strongest warranty. And you can always give a portable spa the built-in look with a little landscaping creativity.
Above-ground Hot Tubs (Photo: Best Hot Tubs)
At Best Hot Tubs, like many reputable dealers, we make it very easy for customers to set up the space in their yard for their new spa through the use of a deck or patio. Some can even help you add the right landscaping to pull the whole outdoor scene together — from additional water features such as ponds and waterfalls and stone steps and paths to simple colorful plantings. It is always wise, however, to do due diligence on the exact expertise of the dealership.
Attractive Hot Tub Casings (Photo: Best Hot Tubs)
Local hot tub dealerships such as Best Hot Tubs can help you choose the ideal hot tub case to blend with your patio furniture or deck.
Ideal Setting for Hot Tubs (Photo: Best Hot Tubs)
Best Hot Tubs works closely with landscape experts who can help you position your hot tub to maximize property views and size.
Hot Tub Patio (Photo: Best Hot Tubs)
A hot tub can be set into a patio for a built-in look while allowing the hot tub’s plumbing to be easily accessible. (Note: the owner of Best Hot Tubs owned a landscaping firm for over 30 years and he and his team are expert at designing whatever the client wants for their hot tub placement.)
