Spa Planning

Equipment

Controls

Either manual or electric controls are available. Manual controls have simple on-off buttons or dials, whereas electronic controls are programmable and are more accurate. Look for these convenience features:

A child proof lock on controls.

Automatic shut-off of the jet pump after a specified time (12 to 20 minutes)

water temperature adjustment

chemical water analysis

individual water jet control

automatic or programmable filtration cycle

blower cleanout

self-diagnostic controls

floor drains

Pumps and Heaters

Spas have a heater which is usually electric, but it may be gas

Some spas use a motor that runs on standard 110 volt current and can be simply plugged in. Other installations require a 220 volt circuit.

An electric pump is required to circulate the water. A two speed motor set on low keeps the water circulating for filtering. Set on high it creates the whirlpool action. Some spas offer separate circulating pumps, but look for the ones that do not run all of the time. A programmable circulating pump where you set the duration of cycles is the more efficient way to go.

Compare the gallons per minute (GPM) flow rating of each spa pump to get an accurate indication of water movement. The diameter of the plumbing hose also plays a large role in the amount of water that can be jetted into the spa. Look for plumbing of 2 to 3 inches in diameter. The cheaper spas come with 1.5 inch diameter plumbing.

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