A. People buy Spas and Hot Tubs for many reasons (recreation, hydro-therapy, fitness, because their neighbor has one) you should have a good idea of what are your needs are before you go looking. The amount of space you have and the placement of the Spa or Hot Tub indoors or outdoors will also help determine the spa for you.

Portable spas require no external plumbing, excavation or electrical work. They plug directly (or can be easily adapted) into a standard 110 volt outlet. Most portables can be easily carried by a few people, so you can bring them just about anywhere fill it up and plug it in. Portable hot tubs are generally less expensive, but don’t have a lot of power, therefore they are not very therapeutic.

Self-contained spas are the most common in the marketplace. They require no plumbing. Generally self-contained spas run on 220 volt electric and need some electrical hook-up. They are available in many sizes shapes and colors. Self-contained spas are designed for many different uses, some are geared more toward recreational use, others are geared more toward hydro-therapy, and with the recent trend of swim-spas even swimming. Most self-contained spas are designed to be used outdoors, but there are some models that can fit through existing doorways. Due to the large variety of self-contained spas they range in price greatly depending upon size, quality and intended use.

In-ground spas can be set in an outside deck, sunk into a cement floor or can be free standing with a wood or tile deck built around it. In-ground spas do require some plumbing, electrical and sometimes gas work before you have the finished product. However, your dealer can arrange all these services for you as well as work with your own private contractors in the event you are also having a room built to enclose your spa. Generally an in-ground spa is initially more costly than the same model in a self-contained unit, but have greater customizing alternatives to match your individual needs.

A. Spas and Hot Tubs can weigh anywhere from 150 – 1150 lbs. Portable spas are just that they are light and easily moved. Self-contained spas can weigh up to 1150 lbs empty ( add 300 gallons of water and 4 adults and the weight could exceed 4000 lbs). However the weight is spread out over a large surface area, therefore most modern construction will support the average spa with no trouble.  If you are in doubt, it is best to consult with a structural engineer before installing your spa.

A. There are two ways commonly used to heat a spa: electricity or gas (natural or propane). Most portable and self contained spas are heated electrically. Most in-ground spas use a gas heating unit.

When purchasing an in-ground unit, your heater is a separate consideration. An in-ground spa package is custom designed to meet the needs of your spa, each piece of equipment being sized individually depending on the size of the spa shell. You can use an electric heater with an in-ground spa. Gas heaters will initially be more expensive than electric heaters, but in the long run they will be less costly to run on a monthly basis.

Most portable and self-contained spas use an electric heating system. A spa that is running on 220 volts will heat more quickly and maintain temperature more efficiently than a spa running on 110 volt electric.

It is difficult to predetermine the exact monthly operating costs of any spa. Your monthly energy bill will depend on how often you use your spa, what temperature you keep the spa, and the quality of the spa cover. The average self-contained unit, with a proper cover, usually costs approximately one dollar per day.

A. Buying a spa is a decision you shouldn't feel rushed or pressured into, so be sure to ask the dealer a lot of questions. Like shopping for anything else, knowledge is everything. Before you take the plunge into buying a spa, ask for a private "test soak" so you can feel the jets and the overall comfort of the spa.
Here is a checklist of things to consider and questions to ask.

• Learn about the spa's specific features, ease of use and maintenance.
• When the spa is not in use, does the water always remain hot and clean? 
• Do the jets and jet systems allow you to customize your hydro massage experience? 
• How loud are the jets and pump? 
• Does the spa offer a balanced filtration system to ensure clean, clear water? 
• Are the filters easily accessible? 
• Is the heating and filtration system fully automatic?
• Inquire about the heater-typically the most vulnerable component of any spa. Make sure corrosion will not occur. 
• Are the controls user-friendly, easy to operate and adjust? 
• Are there optional features to make spa ownership easier? 
• What are the electrical specifications of the spa? 
• How is the seating configured? Are you able to move about easily? 
• Learn how the spa was constructed and its energy efficiency. 
• The components should be fully tested and backed by the manufacturer's warranty. 
• Make sure the spa is totally insulated, not just fully-foamed. 
• Ask how to estimate your monthly operation costs. (Beware of some spas which can cost a lot more per month to operate). 
• Ask for a copy of the warranty and read it thoroughly. Beware of the dealer who is reluctant to provide a copy. 
• What spa parts are covered under warranty and for how long? Make sure the heater, surface/structure, components, tile and skirt are included. 
• How does the manufacturer's warranty compare with other brands? Make sure there are no undesirable limitations or exclusions. 
• Obtain information on the manufacturer and the dealer to ensure you will receive quality service both during and after your spa purchase. 
• How long has the manufacturer been in business? 
• How long has the dealer been in business? Inquire about their service policy. 
• Call the Better Business Bureau, the local Consumer Affairs Office and/or the local Chamber of Commerce to obtain any additional information about the dealer.  If available, ask for customer references.

A. Many companies are selling spas these days, and while competition is healthy for business, it can be disastrous for the uninformed consumer. Quite frankly, many firms are selling spas as a side line and are not really knowledgeable about the workings or servicing of their product.
The most important thing to consider when choosing a spa retailer is will they be there when something goes wrong. Look for a retailer who can service your spa after the purchase and initial delivery. Nowadays spas have become very technical if something does happen you want a reliable company to be able to service your spa professionally.