Hot tub and spa features

Hot tub and spa models range from very basic to luxurious. The model that’s right for your home depends on how you plan to use the tub—and how often.

It may help to ask yourself: Are you looking for quiet relaxation or a focus for socializing? If your goal is an occasional getaway in the backyard, you may not need to spend thousands of extra dollars on a fancy model. Instead, you can focus on the essential features for comfort and efficiency.

If you have a large family or plan to spend a lot of time in your spa, a high-end model may be worth the investment. High-end hot tubs may have digital lighting and sound systems, or even flat-screen TVs and DVD players, in addition to all the standard features you’d find in traditional spas.

Jets
Jets are one of the most popular features of hot tubs. They force powerful streams of water throughout the tub to create a massaging effect. Manufacturers can equip their tubs with a wide variety of different jets—swirl, whirlpool, moving, adjustable, and many more—all of which provide different types of water flow.

Since each individual will have his own preferences—and, in fact, one person will often prefer different types of jets at different times or on different body parts—a wide variety of jets is usually your best bet. Some hot tubs even feature interchangeable jets, making it easy to swap in alternate jets to change the experience.

Don’t be wowed by tubs that feature an extremely high number of jets. Most users find that a smaller number of powerful jets is much more relaxing than dozens of tiny, less powerful ones.

Pumps
While the jets shape the water flow as it enters the tub, the real power behind them comes from the pumps inside your hot tub. Smaller tubs may have only one pump, but the popular 6'–7' models usually have two pumps in the 3–5 horsepower range; larger tubs can have even more pumps.

Power isn’t everything, though. More pumps at higher power means increased energy costs, potentially more noise, and a higher purchase price. Striking a balance is important, so watch out for dealers who stress power over other features.

Covers
Designed for when the hot tub or spa is not being used, covers help keep the tub free of debris, prevent children or pets from falling in, and improve energy efficiency by trapping heat.

For safety, look for covers that are listed with ASTM (the American Society of Testing and Materials) and UL (Underwriters Laboratories). For insulation, covers are rated by thickness and often include two measurements of thickness at the middle and sides. "Four to two inch" covers are generally good insulators, sloping from 4" thick in the middle to 2" thick at the edges.

Covers can be heavy and awkward to move, so many larger covers include built-in lifters that help you move them.

Additional features

• Lights: Used to illuminate the interior and exterior of the tub for nighttime use. LED lights use less electricity and some types let you choose different colors.
• Digital control panels: Used to control heaters, jets, lighting, and sound and entertainment systems. Some manufacturers provide a second, remote control panel that lets you heat up the tub from inside your house.
• Lounge seats: Most mid-sized to large hot tubs include at least one lounge seat that lets the bather lie back and relax. These seats are designed for comfort and hydrotherapy, but some buyers prefer a hot tub where all the seats are upright, facing each other. On the other hand, you may want a tub that includes two lounge seats so multiple people can enjoy the relaxation they provide.
• Cup holders/coolers: Not surprisingly, many people like to enjoy cold beverages while using their hot tubs. Built-in cup holders provide a place to rest your drink; coolers let you keep more refreshments cold. Simple extras like these can really help you enjoy your purchase that much more.