| What is the spa manufacturer's track record and reputation? It is important to get a good feel for the company and its history, and how long they'll be around in the future? |
- How long have they been in business?
- How many dealers do they have?
- Has the manufacturer received any awards of excellence from professional trade organizations?
- Has the manufacturer ever had any of their spa models receive a Consumers Digest Best Buy Award?
- Is the manufacturer ISO 9001:2000 certified? Are their quality systems in accordance with the highest international standard for design and manufacturing excellence?
|
| |
| How long has the dealer been in business? How long have they carried this line and why did they decide to carry it? |
- The longer a dealer has been in business and carried that particular brand of spa, the higher your comfort level will be.
- Seek out a low pressure, reputable dealer who is willing and prepared to answer all of your buying questions.
- Is the dealer a full service facility, able to help should any problems arise?
|
| |
| What is the warranty on the spa? |
- Ask for a copy of the warranty and read it thoroughly.
- What spa parts are covered under warranty and for how long? Make sure the heater, surface/structure, components and skirt are included.
- Is labor covered under the warranty? Is the warranty prorated? Will there be a charge for shipping or delivery charges for warranty work?
- How does the warranty compare to different brands? Make sure there are no undesirable limitations of exclusions.
- Who performs the warranty service on the spa?
|
| |
| What will this spa cost me to operate monthly? |
- Is there documented information on the estimated cost of operation?
- What are the design reasons that make the spa economical to operate?
|
| |
| How was the spa constructed? |
- The quality of the construction and the materials used will determine not only how long your spa will last, but the actual long term cost to you as well.
- Are spa components tested and backed by a manufacturer's warranty?
- Make sure the spa is totally insulated, not just fully-foamed.
- Make sure the shell is made from durable material that has been tested over time and is resistant to sunlight, chemical damage and cracking.
- Is the cabinet made from an alternative wood material that is virtually maintenance free?
|
| |
| What size spa will best suit my needs? |
- Do you entertain a lot? Do you have a big family? Before you shop, try to determine how often you are likely to use your spa and how many people you'll need to fit in it along with you.
- Knowing how you plan to use the spa will help to determine the seating arrangements and style and number of seats that will be best for you.
|
| |
| What are the features of this spa and what do they do for me? |
- Sometimes the "bells and whistles" that spa manufacturers promote mean headaches for you. Ask yourself, "Does this feature add therapeutic value to my spa?"
- Check the jets to make sure they are fully adjustable and provide relaxation rather than punishment.
- Does the spa offer a variety of jets which are designed to specifically target certain areas of the body?
- Can I take a "test soak"? Do I like the feel of the jets and the overall comfort of the spa?
- How loud are the jets and the pump?
- Does the spa offer a balanced filtration system? Is the water continuously filtered 24 hours a day to ensure clean, clear water?
- Are the filters top-loaded for easy access?
- Is the heating and filtration system fully automatic with no programming required? • Is there an automatic clean-up cycle after you exit the spa?
- Are the controls user-friendly, easy to operate and adjust?
- Inquire about the heater, typically the most vulnerable component of any spa. Make sure corrosion will not occur.
- Are there multiple water care system options, including an automated water care system?
- Check the underwater lighting. Does the light illuminate the entire body or water and is it dimmable? Is multi-colored lighting an available option? Is it energy efficient?
- Is a music system available? Is it designed specifically for the spa environment?
- Can the spa's electronic functions be operated via a radio-frequency remote control?
- What are the electrical specifications of the spa? Are both 115v and 230v available?
- Are there a variety of cover removal systems available? Do they support a variety of installation applications and price points?
|
| |
| Will the dealer do an in-home site inspection? |
- Is there access to deliver the spa without damaging my or my neighbor's property?
- Will the dealer discuss ideas and options and help plan the installation?
- Does the price include delivery and set-up? Will they place the spa where it is supposed to go?
- What are the electrical requirements?
|
| |
| Can I have customer references? |
- Check with the Better Business Bureau for more information.
|