Question:

Hi Kerri, I heard that spa are good for Hydro-therpay. I'm single, with a stressful job. I live alone and hardly have any visitors. So I'm looking for something small but practical, which I guess -- 3 to 4 persons tub. I was confused between Jacuzzi, Hot Tub, Spa and Whirlpool. But I think that what I should be looking for my small backyard is a Hot Tub - Spa. I tried to check on the internet and went to few dealers in Ottawa, including Artistic, Sani-Sol (Pacific, Solarno, Aber), Mermaid Pools (Aruba, Tahiti), Hydropools (Brady's pools, Serenity Special Edition), Arctic.... Most are just trying to sell me something expensive. I'm looking for something small but practical, a combination of full hydro-therapy (for myself) and enjoyment (with a couple of lady guests, if I'm lucky). So since you're the expert, before I make this big investment / purchase, would you please tell me what basic, minimum requirements that I'm supposed to be looking for? I've heard a lot of confusing stuff.... making sure that it's at least 38" deep to cover your shoulders, a lounger is no good, get special jets for therapeutic stuff not just the ones that blow air, get at least 20 jets, get at least 4 hp motor, insulation should be full foam, fibreglass, steel, made in Canada, not USA...and so on....... Can you recommend a couple of honest dealers and a couple of good economical and well priced models? Awaiting your reply, thank you. Rolando.

Answer:

Hi Rolando, Great questions I hope I can give you some basic information to help you make your decision. The most frustrating part of the business for me is how confused people get when they are shopping. Buying a hot tub is an investment that most give great consideration, you are only going to buy a hot tub once. There are almost 200 manufacturers of hot tubs (by the way they are all hot tubs/spas, juccuzi is a brand name) and only a handful of highly reputable manufacturers in the bunch. The hydrotherapy of hot water has many heath benefits including; reducing stress, soothing arthritic pain, easing back pain, diabetic benefits, cardiovascular benefits, reducing weight (cellulite), athletic enhancement and after an evening soak will induce a more restful sleep. We are commonly asked about horsepower and maximum amount of jets. In actuality you want continuous horsepower (engineered for appropriate power in relation to the size of tub while providing a deep massage without wasting energy). In addition to the main pump a low horse powered circulating pump, is a good option, which circulates and filters the water 24 hours a day (when not in use) and draws very little power. With regard to jetting, the massage and therapeutic benefits to individual jets are more important than the number of jets. In particular, you won’t be satisfied with many jets if they are only directional (pushing water straight on in one direction). As important, make sure that the tub you select has all active seats, this means every jet (including foot massage) has the ability to run simultaneously in every seat. When selecting a lounger keep in mind you will lose some seating and the lounge shouldn’t recline too far or you will float out of it without weights. Depth of water will be an important factor when winter rolls around. Regarding efficiency, holding the heat once the water is heated make the insulation and cover very important elements. Everybody has a budget, although, most people select a tub at the limit of their budget knowing that they will own their tub for 15+ years and want to be satisfied with their choice for the duration. You can buy a “soaker tub” for about $5500., can get more comfort and therapeutic benefits in the $7500. range and if the budget allows could spent over $15K. Be careful with discounted products. The basics is selecting a manufacturer would be history (years in business), guarantee, comfort, energy efficiency, quality, design and function. A very important and not to be forgotten element is the integrity of the company you are buying from - will you get good after purchase care and support? Do you feel you are just a number or do you feel the local company cares about you personally? One thing for sure is that it will be the best thing you’ve ever bought and it will change your life. Thanks for your time, I hope I've helped and if you need further assistance don’t hesitate to call again or at the Award winning Artistic Group, 2739 Carp rd, 831-5559.

Answered By: Kerri Brooks-Richard

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