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What to consider when buying a hot tub in 2023

what-to-consider-when-buying-a-hot-tub-in-2023

Buying a hot tub is a great investment, for yourself, your family and your property. With all the different options out there it can feel tricky to make a decision about the best option for you. What kind of design will work best and what kind of technology do you want to benefit from? From the most efficient designs to the features that make life easier, such as self-cleaning technology, this is everything you need to consider when buying a hot tub in 2023.

Do your research

The first place to start is looking at all your available options and comparing this to a list of wants and must haves. Think about how you’re going to use the hot tub, what you want the experience to be like and the time that you have available for maintenance. Where are you going to position your hot tub and when are you most likely to use it? The average hot tub weighs 2000 kg when filled with water so it’s important you have it in a well supported position.

Get clear on the specifics

All hot tubs offer a different combination of features so it will be useful to determine what you want your ideal hot tub to have. Here are some of the different options:

  • A robust shell. Solid construction is likely to last longer without requiring repair and will be better insulated. The more insulated the construction is, the more it will retain heat and this will make it cheaper to use in the long run.
  • Pump efficiency. This will make a big difference to how much you need to spend to use your hot tub.
  • Number and type of jets. Think about the number of jets you want in your hot tub as well as the different types, such as those that are adjustable and can deliver a customised massage.
  • The filtration system. The optimum situation is to have a hot tub that is always clean, hygienic and ready to use – and the filtration system is going to play a key role in this. Some of the most basic systems use a filter to capture anything in the water and then require purifying chemicals. If you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated then you can buy a hot tub that uses more advanced technology, such as UV-C light or systems that use ozone to break down the contaminants in the water.
  • In-tub entertainment. Not all hot tubs have a decent in-built entertainment system with features like Bluetooth for music. So, if this is important to you, make sure it’s on your must haves list.
  • A warranty. Most new hot tubs will come with a warranty but make sure you find the one that is the right length and cover for you.

Getting the size right

The first place to start with size is to look at the space that you have available for the hot tub in the location where you want to position it. Then you’ll also need to take into account how many people are likely to use the hot tub and what height the right hot tub for you will be.

If you’re considering buying a hot tub in 2023 these are some of the factors to take into account. We offer servicing and post-sales care for all of our customers to make sure that our customers get the best out of their hot tub. We are proud to have a multi-award-winning showroom located in Kent, so please come down and try out our huge range.

Are hot tubs really energy efficient?

are-hot-tubs-really-energy-efficient

The answer really depends on the type of hot tub that you invest in. The right insulation, for example, will play a big role in whether a hot tub is energy efficient and you have a choice over the type that you choose when you buy your hot tub. Some models offer insulation that is patchy at best in terms of performance while others use technology that was developed by NASA. Hydropool is one of the most energy efficient hot tubs out there thanks to the key features of its design.

What makes hot tubs energy efficient?

  • The filtration system. Some self-cleaning technology systems are incredibly energy efficient and others not so much. Hydropool’s self-cleaning technology, for example, filters 100% of the water in the hot tub every 15 minutes. This ensures that you don’t need to have the hot tub on for an extended period of time to achieve a clean, as is the case with many other models. That’s why this type of self-cleaning technology is so energy efficient.
  • The quality of the cover. The right type of hot tub cover will help to trap the heat inside the hot tub and keep the cold out. Where you don’t have a robust cover in place this can be one of the primary reasons why a hot tub requires a lot of energy to function effectively. Look for a tapered locking safety hardcover, one that is designed to lock in heat and which has key details, such as insulated baffle in the fold area.
  • The insulation. Another key part of the energy efficiency of any hot tub is the level of insulation that is built into the design. Hydropool has turned to NASA design in order to insulate its hot tubs, with triple thermal shield technology (on the pipes, cabinet and floor of the hot tub) that fulfills a number of different functions. The aluminium foil side of the thermal shield insulation reflects heat back into the hot tub, for example, while the back side absorbs heat that could escape through the pipes.
  • Heat exchange technology. Hot tubs that make use of waste heat are far more energy efficient and cost less to run. Hydropool uses heat exchange technology that takes the 1.5kw of waste heat created by each pump and reflects that heat back into the hot tub cavity thanks to the triple thermal shield blanket.
  • Low energy pumps. The pump technology in a hot tub can also make a big difference to how energy efficient it is. Look for one that can produce a high flow rate with low energy output.
  • Energy efficiency standards. When you’re choosing a hot tub and looking for impressive energy efficiency, don’t forget to look at how that model is ranked when it comes to stand by wattage and energy efficiency – Hydropool, for example, is ranked in the top three.

Energy efficiency is a key component for getting the most out of your hot tub and these are some of the features that indicate the right model to choose. We offer servicing and post-sales care for all of our customers to make sure that our customers get the best out of their hot tub. We are proud to have a multi-award-winning showroom located in Kent, so please come down and try out our huge range.

Hydropool Hot Tubs vs Other Hot Tub Brands

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Having a hot tub at home is a great life choice, as it will give you access to all the benefits of hydrotherapy and a lovely space in which to relax and enjoy life. There are so many different hot tub brands out there that it can be difficult to make the right decisions. Hydropool is one of the major players in the hot tubs industry – for good reason. But how does it stack up against the other hot tub brands?

Hydropool wins when it comes to maintenance

Although budget considerations are always going to be important when it comes to a hot tub, if low maintenance is a priority for you then cheaper isn’t necessarily better. Any hot tub needs to be safe and sanitary if you’re going to get the most out of it and this can involve a lot of work with some of the cheaper models. That’s because many of the lower priced hot tubs have a side filtration system that is only capable of filtering 50% of the water. That leaves you, the owner, responsible for ensuring that sanitiser and clarifying chemicals levels are all correct, as well as cleaning the hot tub itself. With Hydropool, the self-cleaning filtration system ensures that 100% of the water in the hot tub is cleaned every 15 minutes. It also has features such as an automated chemicals feeder and a built-in floor vacuum that make maintenance and cleaning a lot simpler.

A range of premium features

Hydropool hot tubs are designed to be at the top of their game and that’s why each one has a range of premium features that will enhance your hot tub experience. These include everything, from zoned jetting for a better massage experience to an effective and easy to remove cover.

Ongoing running costs are more manageable with Hydropool

Another factor to take into account with hot tubs is the ongoing running costs. It’s a false investment to buy a cheap hot tub that is going to run up high ongoing costs in the long term. With Hydropool hot tubs you get another level of design and efficiency that means ongoing running costs can be kept low. For example, while many hot tubs have a single layer of insulation, the ThermaShield insulation on a Hydropool hot tub means that it has two, which is vital for retaining heat. The pumps on a Hydropool hot tub are also renowned for being more efficient than those used by other brands.

A high level of personalised service

Hydropool hot tubs deliver on every aspect of design and specification and are the best way to make sure you get the most from your hot tub experience. They also often come with an exceptional, personalised service that means you’ll get support from the moment you buy right through the life of your hot tub.

There are clear benefits to choosing a Hydropool hot tub over other hot tub brands, whether your priority is design or cost. We offer servicing and post-sales care for all of our customers to make sure that our customers get the best out of their hot tub. We are proud to have a multi-award-winning showroom located in Kent, so please come down and try out our huge range.

Why you should invest in a good quality hot tub

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If you’re thinking of getting a hot tub then your first thought may not have been to make sure it’s a good investment. There are so many good reasons to buy a hot tub, from the socialising potential to the relaxation benefits, and these are much more likely to be the driving factors in decision-making. However, when it comes to the type of hot but you get, a good quality model is going to ensure that you reap the rewards of your investment for many years to come. These are some of the reasons why we think you should always choose a good quality hot tub.

  • A good quality hot tub improves quality of life. All the benefits of a hot tub are increased when you have a really good quality model. You’ll get the best possible options in terms of experience, whether that relates to comfort or jet technology. It can be a great tool for soothing physical ailments and providing some high quality hydrotherapy – or a space where you can enjoy mindful alone time that is so important at this time of year. You’re also much more likely to want to invite people into a good quality hot tub so it can also be a really sociable space. The burden of looking after your hot tub is minimised when you opt for quality so you can really get the most out of the investment you make, no matter what your reason for making it.
  • An asset to the property. When it comes to the value that a hot tub can add to your home, this really does come down to what you’re willing to invest in. A great quality hot tub that enhances that outdoor aesthetic of your property will attract buyers and help to increase the valuation price of a home. If you choose an alternative this may actually detract from property value – if the hot tub looks run down, has been poorly installed or generally seems like it would be a burden, as opposed to an asset, it can be a challenging sell.
  • A great way to attract renters. Whether you’ve got a holiday property and you’re keen to keep it full or you’re looking for longer term tenants, a good quality hot tub is a big selling point. It adds so much more to a property experience – especially for holiday lets – if you’ve got a lovely hot tub to offer, as well as a beautiful property. Most properties with hot tubs today are able to charge a premium, making the investment well worth it.
  • Longevity and durability. The better the quality of the hot tub you invest in, the longer it is likely to last. You really do get what you pay for when it comes to a hot tub so the more you’re willing to invest, the longer you’re likely to be able to enjoy this asset.

From being an asset to the property to improving your quality of life, these are some of the reasons why a good quality hot tub is such a vital choice. We offer servicing and post-sales care for all of our customers to make sure that our customers get the best out of their hot tub. We are proud to have a multi-award-winning showroom located in Kent, so please come down and try out our huge range.

Why are hydropool hot tubs and swim spas the best

why-are-hydropool-hot-tubs-and-swim-spas-the-best

Hydropool is a leading manufacturer of hot tubs and swim spas – and if you’ve ever owned a Hydropool (or experienced one) you’ll know exactly why they are so popular. No matter how you like to use a hot tub, or what seasons are your favourite for hot tub or swim spa dipping, Hydropool is the best option for innovation, reliability and overall experience. Here are some of the reasons why we think Hydropool hot tubs and swims spas are the best.

  • Innovation means the best possible experience for you. There is no doubt that Hydropool is one of the most innovative manufacturers around and is always pushing the limits of what can be done with hot tubs and swim spas. From comfort to every other area of experience you know you’ll always get the best if you have a Hydropool.
  • A wealth of experience in the industry. In fact, Hydropool has been making hot tubs and swim spas for more than a quarter of a century. Much of this has been for the Canadian market so this is a manufacturer that understands how to create durable designs, even those that can survive extreme weather.
  • State of the art design. Hydropool is a leader in hot tubs and swim spas and continuously evolving designs to ensure they are state-of-the-art.
  • Simple maintenance thanks to self-cleaning technology. Many hot tubs and swim spas have self-cleaning technology but not all live up to expectations. Hydropool self-cleaning technology is head and shoulders above the rest, producing outstanding results that will make your life much easier. The major benefit is that your hot tub or swim spa is always ready for you to use – and you won’t have to factor in a heavy maintenance burden to your lifestyle in order to get the most from your Hydropool investment.
  • A range of comfort features. Hydropool hot tubs and swim spas are ergonomically designed and accommodate a range of different seating so that everyone can find a comfortable spot to enjoy. Soft pillows provide support for the head and neck and Science of Immersion Hydrotherapy jets provide an incredible massage.
  • Pay less to heat your swim spa or hot tub. Another piece of Hydropool innovation that has incredible benefits for the brand’s customers is the Hydrowise Thermal Shield. This advanced technology helps to minimise heat loss from your hot tub or swim spa and can save you a fortune in energy costs as a result. It’s the kind of simple but effective innovation that Hydropool is known for.
  • A quality guarantee. These products are all built to last but you don’t just have to take our word for it. That’s because all Hydropool swim spas and hot tubs come with a quality guarantee to give you the peace of mind of knowing that you’re investing in the best in the market.

These are just some of the reasons why Hydropool hot tubs and swim spas are the best. We offer servicing and post-sales care for all of our customers to make sure that our customers get the best out of their hot tub. We are proud to have a multi-award-winning showroom located in Kent, so please come down and try out our huge range.

Can a hot tub really be self-cleaning?

can-a-hot-tub-really-be-self-cleaning

There are so many benefits to having a hot tub and very few disadvantages. However, something that can feel like a burden is the cleaning and maintenance of a hot tub. Obviously, it’s important to make sure your hot tub is sanitary and clean so that you can enjoy it whenever you want to. And that’s much easier to achieve when you have a hot tub design that will do most of the work itself. But what does it actually mean to have a self-cleaning hot tub?

Self-cleaning systems minimise maintenance

The short answer to whether a hot tub can really self clean is: yes. Hot tub technology today has taken away a lot of the hassle when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. Self-cleaning technology means that hot tubs that have this innovation are much easier to clean and maintain than those that don’t. Some systems can filter all the water in a hot tub in just 15 minutes, significantly reducing the time you need to dedicate to ensuring that your hot tub is in great condition and always ready to use. Although self-cleaning technology doesn’t mean that the hot tub will totally take care of itself, the maintenance burden is significantly reduced. So, how does this actually work?

Examples of self-cleaning technology

  • Optimised surface filtration. Some hot tubs come with a specifically designed shell as well as jets that will intentionally push any debris to the surface and a high flow skimmer and filter so that the water surface is always debris-free and clear.
  • Effective surface cleaning. Another key priority in the design of a self-cleaning hot tub is to ensure that both oils and floating debris can be removed efficiently from the surface of the water to prevent the pump and heater from being clogged. This is often achieved with a high flow skimmer and pre-filter.
  • Keeping the floor of the hot tub clean. It can be an arduous job to commit to repeatedly vacuuming the floor of the hot tub to keep it looking sparkling. A self-cleaning hot tub has a vacuum mechanism built in so that water care products can be effectively circulated and heavy contamination removed from the surface of the hot tub, including the floor.
  • Water cleaning filters. Micro-filtration systems make it simple to achieve clean water in a hot tub in a matter of minutes. These systems are ordourless and easy to use.
  • Water purification systems. If you’re looking for the most advanced hot tub self-cleaning technology then make sure your choice of hot tub has an advanced water purification system to remove contaminants. Look for those that use ozone and UV light, as these are highly effective and can reduce chemical dependency by 50%.
  • A self-clean indicator. Most self-cleaning hot tubs will have a panel where you can monitor how well the self-cleaning system is working for your peace of mind.

Hot tubs really can be self-cleaning and this type of model can save you a lot of time.

How to keep hot tub running costs down

how-to-keep-hot-tub-running-costs-down

With the cost of living rising, it’s useful for any household to find ways to reduce everyday expenses. If you like to enjoy using your hot tub at this time of year then it doesn’t have to significantly increase your monthly budget. There are lots of ways to get the most out of your hot tub in the winter season and still keep running costs down. Here are our tips on how to do it.

How much does it cost to run a hot tub?

The answer to this question will often depend on how often you use the hot tub as well as the type of hot tub that you have. One of the simplest ways to keep hot tub running costs down is to invest in a hot tub that will run in a way that minimises the energy you consume and is designed to be efficient. Remember that, whatever model your hot tub is, you’re going to see a small rise in the costs it generates when you fill and heat it for the first time. However, after that your costs should remain fairly consistent.

What influences hot tub running costs?

  • How often you’re using the hot tub. It’s a pretty simple equation – the more you use the hot tub, the more it will cost in terms of energy. So, if you’re keen to keep hot tub running costs down then it’s worth picking your moments to enjoy a soak.
  • A well insulated design. If your hot tub has high quality insulation around the base of the shell and the plumbing system inside the hot tub then it’s going to be much easier to preserve the heat and you will require less energy to keep the hot tub at the right temperature. Some hot tubs have just a single layer of insulation, which allows the heat to escape and tends to increase hot tub costs. Look for hot tubs with two layers of insulation instead.
  • A good cover. Investing in a hot tub cover that fits well and is designed to keep heat in can also have a big impact on reducing the amount of energy that you need to keep the hot tub warm.
  • Pump efficiency. Hot tubs that need to run their pumps 24hrs a day to keep the water clean will be much more expensive than a hot tub that can do this in 6-8 hrs. It’s also worth investing in a self-cleaning hot tub, which will require less energy than a hot tub that has to be cleaned and emptied several times a year.
  • The volume of water in the hot tub. The more water there is, the more energy will be required to heat it up so that you can enjoy the hot tub. So, make sure that your hot tub is ideally suited to the number of people who are going to use it and that you’re not heating up a large volume of water for just a couple of bathers.
  • Maintenance and repairs. If your hot tub is well maintained and kept in a good state of repair then it’s much more likely to function efficiently.

 

From the right hot tub design to the way you maintain it, these are some of the influences on hot tub running costs. We offer servicing and post-sales care for all of our customers to make sure that our customers get the best out of their hot tub. We are proud to have a multi-award-winning showroom located in Kent, so please come down and try out our huge range.

Make Your Hot Tub Party The Highlight of Your Christmas

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It’s the first Christmas in a while that hasn’t had the shadow of COVID looming over it and that makes this a great time to really celebrate the holiday season this year. A hot tub party is a unique experience and can be a really festive occasion for you and your family and friends. So, how do you make sure that your hot tub party is the highlight of your 2022 Christmas?

 

  • Start with the basics. If you’re planning a hot tub party then the first task is the most basic: cleaning. The hot tub will need to have a thorough deep clean before you use it at the party so that it’s sparkling and appealing for your guests. Remember to clean the filter and test and balance the water so that it’s just right. Clear the path to your hot tub and make sure that you’ve got contingencies for all weathers, from robes to a shelter for people getting changed.
  • Heat the area. If it’s going to be cold and you want to ensure that no one gets too chilly then turn on your patio heaters to keep things cosy.
  • Put up some Christmas sparkle. Decorations really emphasise the Christmas message so make sure you’ve made your hot tub space extra sparkly with tinsel, hanging decorations and even a big tree. Just make sure that everything is far enough from the water that it won’t fall in. Don’t forget to use the coloured lights in your hot tub if you have them – setting these to change from green to red is ideal.
  • Give guests a festive costume. You can ask people to get creative by coming in a festive swim fancy dress costume or simply hand out hats to create a more festive feel.
  • Christmas music always creates a great atmosphere. Depending on the feel you’re looking to create for the party you could opt for classic choral music, the soundtrack to The Snowman or a playlist of classic Christmas party tunes.
  • Serve plenty of festive fare (but hold the alcohol). There’s nothing better than a soak in a hot tub, listening to festive music and then enjoying hot chocolate, spiced teas, mince pies, turley, gingerbread and cinnamon-infused anything. This is a great opportunity to make your hot tub party stand out as the food and drink is a key part of Christmas. Alcohol in hot tubs is never a good idea, as it can lead to dizziness, dehydration and heat exhaustion – so save that for later. Just remember to ask guests to keep plates, glasses and food and drink out of the hot tub itself.
  • Christmas outfits for everyone. If you’re planning a small gathering then why not invest in post-soak Christmas outfits for everyone that are super festive. From snowman robes to antler beanie hats there’s no better way to sit around and enjoy that post-soak glow than in a cosy, festive outfit.

 

Make your hot tub Christmas party the highlight of the season this year with these fun tips. We offer servicing and post-sales care for all of our customers to make sure that our customers get the best out of their hot tub. We are proud to have a multi-award-winning showroom located in Kent, so please come down and try out our huge range.

Why Winter is The Best Time To Enjoy Your Hot Tub

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We’re firmly entering the territory of winter now, with Christmas ads appearing on TV and the weather taking a serious turn. This time of year can be a challenge, physically and emotionally, whether it’s the busyness of the last few months of the year or the shorter days and longer nights. Enjoying your hot tub can not only help you to get the most out of your winter experience but is also a great way to overcome some of these seasonal challenges. These are just a few reasons why winter is the best time to enjoy your hot tub.

For physical health

Winter is the time when we tend to be most vulnerable to colds and flu and most likely to feel unwell. But did you know that regular winter dips in your hot tub can actually help you to avoid the worst of the cold and flu season? Hydrotherapy has a lot of benefits for your immune system and can help to keep you healthy at this challenging time of year. For example, the warm water in the hot tub improves circulation and stimulates the production of white blood cells that are essential tools for fighting infections. If you do come down with a cold or sinus issues then the steam from your hot tub can help to relieve it, especially if you add some sinus-clearing aromatherapy too.

Step away from the stress

There is no doubt that this time of year can feel very stressful. Christmas is just around the corner and that can generate lots of pressure, whether it relates to family arrangements, work schedules or just dealing with the financial challenges of Christmas in 2022. If you tend to get easily stressed at this time of year then enjoying your hot tub on a regular basis can help to bring those stress levels down and give you more resources to cope. Treat your hot tub like an oasis of calm, somewhere to switch off and get that all-essential downtime. Take your favourite drink or book into the tub with you or use the time to practice some meditation or deep breathing to bring your calming nervous system back online.

Get warm and enjoy the season

If you find yourself feeling constantly icy during winter then immersing your body in warm water can feel like a huge relief. Enjoying your hot tub will not only warm you up but also provides a great way to get the most out of the winter months. Get out there under a full moon and do some stargazing. Or sit and watch the season change around you as nature reflects the transition from autumn to winter. Create a social environment and invite people into your hot tub to strengthen connections and engage with others. Or make it precious family time so that you have the opportunity to connect more before the end of the year.

Winter is a fantastic season to enjoy your hot tub for these reasons – and now is a great time to start. We offer servicing and post-sales care for all of our customers to make sure that our customers get the best out of their hot tub. We are proud to have a multi-award-winning showroom located in Kent, so please come down and try out our huge range.