• Steve Jost – July 30, 2024

Buying a hot tub is an exciting venture, but it also comes with questions and considerations. Here are the top five questions hot tub shoppers commonly ask, along with detailed answers to help you make an informed decision.

1. What Size Hot Tub Should I Get?

Answer:

The size of the hot tub you choose depends on a few key factors:

  • Space Availability: Measure the area where you plan to place the hot tub. Ensure there’s enough room for the hot tub and for people to move around it comfortably. Consider room for accessories such as a step and room for the cover to set when off the tub.
  • Number of Users: Consider how many people will regularly use the hot tub. Hot tubs range from cozy, 2-3 person models to large, 6 or more person models.
  • Usage Purpose: If you plan to use the hot tub for entertainment, a larger model might be ideal. For therapeutic purposes, a smaller, more focused on your specific needs may be sufficient.

2. How do I maintain the Hot Tub?

Answer:

Maintenance is easier than most people realize, with the right chemical systems. At Dover Pools, we specialize in after-market care with expert advice from our Team Members.

  • Water Chemistry: Most tubs, even with moderate to heavy use, should have the water checked once a week to make small adjustments to the pH and alkalinity. This can be easily done with test strips or by bringing a water sample to Dover Pools for a free water test.
  • Sanitization: Dover Pools carries several easy-to-use chemical systems. The most popular and easiest to use is a low chlorine mineral system, Frog @Ease, combined with O-Care Weekly, a mineral salt additive providing the benefits of salt water without the corrosiveness.
  • Filter Cleaning: Clean the filters once a month by simply rinsing it off with a garden hose. Every three months, treat the filters with cleaner. This will keep the water clear and prolong the life of your filters.

Dover Pools carries all the chemicals and accessories needed to maintain crystal-clear hot tub water. Free water testing and friendly expert advice are always available.

3. What Are the Electrical Requirements?

Answer:

Hot Tubs are available in 110-volt plug-and-play models and 220-volt models requiring a licensed electrician.

  • 110 Volt Plug & Play Hot Tubs:  These tubs offer the convenience of plugging right into a standard outdoor GFCI outlet. These tubs reduce the cost of site preparation for an electrician may not be needed to start soaking in your new hot tub.
  • 220 Volt Hot Tubs: Tubs requiring 220 volts will offer multiple pumps, more power, and additional features and upgrades. These tubs will require a 40-to-60-amp breaker. It’s recommended to have a licensed electrician handle the installation to ensure it meets local building codes and safety standards.

Dover Pools can assist with providing the electrical requirements for all the brands we carry to help plan for any necessary upgrades.

4. How long does it take to have my Hot Tub delivered?

Answer:

Your new hot tub can be ready to schedule delivery within a few days or a few weeks. Some new Hot Tub owners are ready for delivery right away, while others need some time to prepare their space.

  • In-Stock Hot Tubs: Dover Pools has five convenient locations with plenty of inventory of popular hot tubs ready to be delivered.
  • Special Order Tubs: If the perfect tub, color combinations, or features are not in stock, tubs can be custom ordered. A special-order tub just takes a few weeks to be built and shipped to Dover Pools. The top brands Dover Pools offers are made in America and will be ready to be delivered in a few weeks.

5. What Features Should I Look for in a Hot Tub?

Answer:

When choosing a hot tub, consider the following features:

  • Jets and Hydrotherapy: Look at the number and placement of jets to ensure they target key muscle groups. Adjustable jets can provide a customized massage experience. American Whirlpool Hot Tubs seats and jet placement are designed by physicians to provide the ultimate hydrotherapy.
  • Comfort and Seating: Test the seats for comfort and ergonomic support. Every tub has seats designed for both taller and shorter people. Some tubs offer adjustable headrests so everyone can comfortably enjoy a relaxing soak. Lounger seats and varied seating depths can enhance relaxation.
  • Energy Efficiency: Insulated covers, energy-efficient pumps, and heaters can significantly reduce operational costs. Dover Pools offers Hot Tubs with upgraded covers and features to increase energy efficiency, reducing electric costs.
  • Durability and Warranty: High-quality materials and a solid warranty provide peace of mind and long-term value. Not all Hot Tubs are built alike. Dover Pools chooses brands that are the most reliable and serviceable to provide years of customer satisfaction and enjoyment. Just like when you buy a car, you look under the hood. Our top models offer lifetime warranties on the frame and extended warranties on plumbing and equipment compared to other Hot Tubs.

Buying a hot tub is a significant investment, but asking the right questions ensures you choose a model that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Whether it’s understanding maintenance requirements, electrical needs, or the best features to look for, Dover Pools is here to help you enjoy your hot tub for years to come.

About Dover Pools

Since 1976, Dover Pools has been Delmarva’s largest pool, hot tub, and swim spa dealer. Dover Pools has five locations conveniently serving Delmarva from Salisbury Maryland, Seaford, Milford and two locations in Dover. Dover Pools offers exceptional customer service, expert advice, free water testing, and quality chemicals, supplies, accessories, games, and toys for your backyard pool and hot tub. Whether you already have your own backyard oasis of are looking for a new above ground pools, hot tubs, or power pool swims spas; Dover Pools is here to help.