WhatSpa? Magazine - Issue 14

Contents

Advice

30

About WhatSpa? Why we are the UK’s most trusted consumer hot tub guide

34  Spa Buyer’s Guide Professional and independent pre-purchase advice

40  Spa Masterclass Our jargon-busting guide to hot tub equipment

62  Lounger v All-Seater The two main hot tub seating styles compared

66  Net Dangers The perils of buying a hot tub from online bandits

Lifestyle

12  Health + Wellness Create your health and wellness haven at home

20  Spa-rty Time! Our step-by-step guide to arranging the ultimate hot tub party

26  Stress Buster The capabilities of hot tubs to relieve and prevent stress

46  Sleep Matters Why poor sleep is bad for you and how a hot tub can help

52  Stars in their Spas We turn the spotlight on celebrity hot tub enthusiasts

56  Digital Detox How to reunite your family in a tech-free zone

74  Back Trouble How a regular soothing soak can ease chronic back pain

Installation

78 Grand Designs Get the taste for in-spa-rational hot tub installations

88  Hot Projects A step-by-step rundown of two eye-catching spa projects

100 Pre-Delivery Guide How-to-guide to planning for delivery day

106 Under Cover The latest automatic covers and garden buildings uncovered

Products

8  Hot Products The latest UK o erings of outdoor products and spa accessories

114 2020 Best Buy Awards Our verdicts on the best 50 hot tubs in the UK market

Editor’s Letter

Our aim is to provide you with an independent and comprehensive guide to enable you to make an informed and stress-free choice while selecting the hot tub of your dreams. Now that a new government has been elected with a landslide majority to deliver Brexit, the hot tub market is braced for extra demand from first time buyers who are being forced to turn their backs on foreign travel and to enhance their ‘staycation’ home surroundings due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) health scare.

As physical and mental wellness have become hot topics in the mainstream media, hundreds of thousands of UK homeowners have discovered to their delight that installing a good quality hot tub in the comfort of their home surroundings can deliver enhanced health benefits including improved Sleep Quality (page 46), Stress Relief (page 26), and much needed hydrotherapy treatment for chronic Back Pain (page 74). This is especially important now that households are being put on ‘lockdown’ and families will need to break out into their own back garden space for their own sanity and to get some welcome fresh air, in the safely-sanitised water of their quality hot tub. Television campaigns are also highlighting the concerns of leading health experts that we all need to take regular breaks from technology. One of the additional benefits of hot tub ownership is that regular use encourages face-to-face communication with family and friends and is the ideal solution as part of a Digital Detox (page 56).

If you are new to hot tubs then the advice and extensive professional guidance in this issue will ensure you overcome other pitfalls of hot tub purchasing with the vital knowledge that over 250,000 readers have gained from WhatSpa? during the past 14 years. By taking our Spa Buyer’s Guide advice from page 34, you will be able to confidently visit your local WhatSpa? Approved hot tub showrooms to consult with professional dealers before purchasing the most suitable model for your individual preferences and circumstances.

Now you are committed to taking the first steps into hot tub ownership, or if you are a seasoned soaker wanting to upgrade your hot tub, you should check out our jargonbusting Spa Masterclass on page 40, while additional practical advice is outlined in our Pre-Delivery Guide section on page 100. To give readers the ‘in-spa-ration’ to transform their gardens into hot tub Grand Designs we feature examples from page 78. Finally, from page 114, we reveal our coveted Best Buy Awards, which highlight the very best 50 hot tubs in every price category from £3,499 to £15,000+. Our 2020 Best Buy Awards acknowledge the hot tub models that stand out from the crowd within a range of criteria, including design, hydrotherapy, and value-for-money. So be sure to include them in your list of showroom viewings.

Once you have enhanced your hot tub knowledge and expertise it’s time to throw your bathing costumes in the car and get test soaking at your local hot tub dealerships!

We hope you enjoy this issue and look forward to receiving your emails and photos of your fabulous new hot tub installations. Happy hot tubbing!

Editor-in-Chief

Nick Clamp nick@whatspa.com

Editor

Andrew Slater andyslater71@gmail.com

Production Manager

Karen Clamp info@whatspa.com

Contributors

Amy Williams

Andrew Wroot

Charlotte Anthony

Chris Anthony

Chris Brady

Dr Je rey S. McQuillen

Dr Tanya Byron

Jane Veysey

Kimberley Morrison

Louis Smith

Martin Cross

Mike Robinson

Sally Gunnell

Warwick Davis

Photography

Front Cover: AquaVia

Kimberley Morrison / Jacuzzi

Warwick Davis / HotSpring

Louis Smith / Cal Spas UK

Sally Gunnell / Euphoria Lifestyle / Jacuzzi

Amy Williams / Jacuzzi

Designer

Matt Dettmar www.freelancemagazinedesign.co.uk

Printer

Manson Group Advertising Sales

Karen Clamp info@whatspa.com

Nick Clamp Editor-in-Chief

WhatSpa?

©WhatSpa? magazine. All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in WhatSpa? magazine do not necessarily represent the views of the advertisers, authors, contributors or publishers. Neither the company nor its agents accept any liability for loss or damage. While we make every e ort possible to ensure that everything we print in WhatSpa? is factually correct, we cannot be held responsible if factual errors occur. Please check any quoted hardware specifications with your supplier before purchase.

Hot Products

Epic footage

If you want epic 4K video processing power to capture your ‘spa-rty’ events and also achieve mind blowing smartphone capability with 4 metres water resistance, then you should take the plunge to splash out on the Apple iPhone 11 Pro, which incorporates Apple’s transformative triple-camera system. This unique system provides new Ultra Wide camera functionality and allows you to shoot the highest quality video ever in a smartphone even when you are enjoying a hot tub occasion during the early evening in lower light conditions.

www.apple.com

Fresh orange

If your desire is to look stylish in and around your hot tub then you will not be ‘short changed’ with these contemporary Orange Side-Print Men’s Swimming Shorts by s.Oliver. This popular style in a fresh orange tone, featuring a logo print on the side, has been crafted with 100 per cent washable polyester, an elastic waistband, slit pockets at the side and the inner briefs have a micro pocket to store locker keys and loose change.

www.swimwear365.co.uk

Smart tunes

Horizon view

Ultra-security and maximum user-friendly automatic ‘four poster’ hot tub cover systems by Covana, which are proclaimed to be the ‘world’s best’, have been joined by an innovative ‘two poster’ Covana Horizon model providing flexibility to gain extra shade from the sun and admire the scenery of your garden surroundings with the capability to tilt the cover while it is in the raised position for optimum views of the horizon from your hot tub.

www.covana.co.uk

These Bragi The Dash Pro earphones, which have been proclaimed as the world’s first true wireless ‘Intelligent Earphones’ are a smart way to listen to your favourite tunes in your hot tub, while swimming, or on the run. They allow you to stream music from your Apple, Android or Windows devices or upload up to a thousand of your top song choices. Advanced functionality enables you to change songs with head gestures and even take hands-free phone calls.

www.bragi.com

Chilled out

What better way to guarantee your drinks ‘chills are multiplying’ to perfection for your ‘spa-rty’ with this stylish Black Acrylic Drinks Pail/Cooler. It is large enough to accommodate multiple drinks bottles that can be kept cool with plenty of ice. The twin sided handles of this design also ensure it is ideal for transporting a fully loaded pail to quench the thirsts of your guests.

www.dentonscatering.com

Handy accessory

Make waves on the safety front around your hot tub and create enhanced accessibility by taking the plunge to purchase this SmartRail from Leisure Concepts. It is designed to handily fit most hot tub configurations and then ensures you and your hot tub guests can enter and exit much safer. A single, corrosion-free rotating mounting bracket accommodates recessed spas as well as freestanding units and can be easily fitted as part of a ten-minute installation process.

www.leisureconcepts.com

Inspired motivation

Combining water resistance to 50 metres with up to five days of battery life, the Fitbit Inspire HR is the perfect addition to the wrists of those wanting to gain fitness motivation and track all the elements of their wellness lifestyle. Along with the advanced calorie burn and sleep tracking capability, this feature-rich gadget also provides you with inspiration to become active with ‘handy’ reminders to get on the move.

www.fitbit.com

Brill grills

All those ‘spa-rty’ hosts who want less smoke from alfresco cooking should put a Quan Wood Burning Grill on the menu. Brilliant for outdoor catering without taking up too much space, this high quality Quan Line wood fired grill in either Corten or Carbon finishes provides an ingenious way of cooking over a log fire with a large outer tempered steel plate. There is also the benefit of creating additional warmth for any guests outside the hot tub while they are complimenting your culinary skills.

www.guangarden.art

‘Soak-cess’ toast

When you want the extra peace of mind of ensuring there is no broken glass to shatter the enjoyment of your favourite fizz by cutting short your ‘spa-rty’ events then the procurement of dedicated drinksware is a must around the hot tub. These awardwinning Govino 237ml Flutes are a stylish way to safely toast the ‘soak-cess’ of your new hot tub installation and then retain for regular use without worrying about any breakages in your garden or dishwasher.

www.govino.eu

Cordless cleaning

When you want to prepare your hot tub for your latest ‘spa-rty’ event the Elek Spa 50 from AquaJack Cleaners takes all the hassle out of cleaning. The very light design and battery operation provides you with e ortless cordless cleaning to eliminate dust and small debris and the telescopic pole ensures you can reach deep into your hot tub to ensure your guests are impressed with you as a spotless hot tub host.

www.aquajackcleaners.com

Bright investment

A remote control Pro Secursol Solar Wall Light with PIR is a bright investment to put the shine on hot tub hydrotherapy safety and extra security at night. Along with multiple flood light and wall wash functions, the PIR motion sensor has a detection range of up to eight metres with a 120 degree beam angle for optimum eco-friendly lighting capability from the LEDs. Four light modes include motion trigger functionality, a constant light, a wall wash from dusk, as well as standard on and o capability from previous memory.

www.lumenalights.com

‘Spa-rty’ wrap

To make stylish waves and stand out from the crowd at your hot tub ‘spa-rty’ then take the plunge with this Blue Ombre Wrap E ect Swimsuit by LASCANA. With a dynamic wrap style, which is exaggerated by the print that fades out to a glorious turquoise shade, this vibrant blue swimsuit has a shapewear insert, adjustable straps, an elasticated under bust seam at the front, and is washable after every hot tub soak.

www.swimwear365.co.uk

❝Dedicated drinksware is a must around the hot tub.❞

Health

WELLNESS

Taking a regular dip in a quality hot tub can unlock the combined benefits of a healthy mind and body. Andy Slater investigates the latest health research.

Gone are the days when hot tubs were basic boxes of hot water to splash around in for fun and socialising; especially now that leading manufacturers are utilising the latest technology to transform the physical and mental well-being of their customers with form-fitting moulded seating and modern hydrotherapy jets that replicate traditional massage techniques.

As long as humans have been roaming the earth there has been a strong association with the health benefits and healing powers of being submerged in warm water. Now there is a futuristic method of utilising advanced hot tub hydrotherapy, which is providing an

escape from the stresses and strains of modern life for millions of Britons across all corners of the UK.

Unlock wellness

Now, as a way of preventing our minds and bodies from being frazzled by physically and mentally demanding jobs, many UK owners have discovered that their hot tubs can provide a convenient wellness sanctuary away from the turmoil of daily life; either as a solo soak or as part of quality social interaction with family and friends.

After you take ownership of a hot tub you can immediately acquire improved health and unlock the many benefits of a whole new world of enhanced physical and mental wellness in the comfort of your own

garden or home surroundings, without having the cost, hassle and inconvenience of having to make the journey to your local gym to enjoy the down-time offered by commercial spa facilities.

Along with proven health benefits, such as improved sleep patterns, which we highlight in our Sleep Matters feature on page 46, owning a quality hot tub at home can provide natural relief from Chronic Stress (page 26), pain and illness; which a growing proportion of UK homeowners have latched onto in the last 15 years, as hot tub ownership has gone through the roof.

Back trouble

For those in the know, an evening regimen of muscle-soothing massage in the bubbling warm water of their own hot

Photo © Master Spas

Photo © Marquis

tubs has become a routine daily ‘must-have’ for an army of Britons that are working in physically demanding jobs; including many working in the building trades and nurses, teachers, care workers, those in the armed forces, and police staff, that are constantly on the move and working in physically demanding environments.

Sitting at a desk for up to eight hours a day is also taking its toll on a growing proportion of the UK workforce and is said to be the new ‘silent killer’ with British office workers spending up to 75 per cent of their waking hours sitting down, according to a new study by the British Journal of Sports Medicine

Chronic back pain caused by poor posture and the strain and pressure of sitting for long periods in front of

computer screens affects people in all age groups but the over-50’s are worst hit, according to newly-released figures by the UK Statistics Authority that reveal the shocking extent of the nation’s back pain problem.

“Many people are completely unaware that staying in the same seated position can cause unnecessary strain on the back and neck. Whether at your desk, on your tablet or sitting watching TV, it’s really important to take regular breaks to relieve the build-up of tension in your lower back; sitting causes up to twice as much pressure on discs on the spine as standing so, as a nation, we’re vulnerable,” says Tim Hutchful, a British Chiropractic Association (BCA) chiropractor. (See Back Trouble on page 74).

Submerged joy

Whilst organisations like the Arthritis Foundation recognises the benefits of hydrotherapy massage and warm water exercise to help relieve arthritis pain, clinicians are now agreed that a whole host of other ailments, including chronic back pain, can be mitigated or avoided altogether by incorporating regular hydrotherapy massage into people’s busy lifestyles.

When you are totally submerged in warm water, as in a hot tub, you will begin to benefit from the life-enriching power of weightlessness. Immersing your whole body in a hot tub reduces body weight by approximately 90 per cent, relieving pressure on joints and muscles, especially the spine which bears the brunt of modern living. ➧

Just 20 minutes immersed in warm water at around 37oC also dilates blood vessels and improves circulation, which helps move inflammatory substances away from the joints, muscles and tendons. Hydrotherapy massage also allows muscles to become relaxed, stimulating the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkiller.

This explains why hydrotherapy is becoming a major treatment for athletes, allowing them to gain improved recovery rates following strenuous training sessions. This is due to the fact that warm water helps to raise body temperature and allows our pores to naturally eliminate toxins as the body perspires. They are promoting hot tubs as a way of recovering from the daily strain of training; which is also a blessing for millions of amateur sports enthusiasts, from runners, to cyclists and triathletes.

Fast living

Leading medical professionals and health experts have stated that we are at risk from our constantly ‘switched on’ culture and the fact that it is virtually impossible to escape from the daily grind of heavy workloads, electronic stimulation, domestic chores and constant doom and gloom in the media, within our fast-paced 24/7 life routine.

To combat our modern lifestyles and the constant strain on our physical and mental health it is important to find suitable ways to recharge our batteries and reconnect with loved ones after a busy day. This will help to prevent burn out and most importantly, becoming emotionally and physically rundown, which can have a devastating effect on our general overall wellness and positive health.

An area of biggest concern is the effect of technology and social media on children and teens, as they are progressively becoming disconnected and isolated from their physical surroundings and family members (see our Digital Detox feature on page 56). Since water and tech gadgets generally make unhappy bed-fellows, a regular family session in the hot tub has become the new ‘Sunday lunch’ for many families, and a welcome chance to reconnect without disruption from ‘beeping’ and ‘pinging’ smartphone alerts and story updates.

Modern indulgence

Visits to a health spa for a pick-me-up and massage session from time to time are often used as a stop-gap treatment to gain

a boost for our bodies but they are usually too few and far between to make a real impact and do not address the important issue of how we maintain daily wellness. That is why hot tubs have become so popular for securing a wellness future for many age groups, including young and old, by putting a myriad of physical and emotional therapies at their disposal to enjoy whenever they choose.

Thanks to the hydrotherapy ‘treatments’ provided by modern hot tubs, we can tackle a whole range of ailments and illnesses, as well as prevent toxins from accumulating in the body that, if unchecked, can lead to inflammation and joint pain.

Massage treatment

Once you purchase a top-quality hot tub your health will be enhanced with the capacity to benefit from ‘full body’ hydrotherapy. This guarantee of an effective head-to-toe massage whenever you need it also has the extra advantage of eliminating the commute to a treatment room. For those that do take regular spa treatments then regular sessions in a hot tub can ensure the improved efficacy of the therapy.

Conventional massages generally involve a combination of different strokes to relieve the build-up of tension – particularly across the neck, shoulders and the back –while promoting lymphatic drainage and circulation. While a therapist will adjust their hand position and pressure to provide various benefits, there are different types of hot tub jets that are adopted in the

design to produce an array of massages to target muscles throughout the body.

Your hot tub hydrotherapy, as with therapeutic massage, will help to relax muscles, increase circulation, decrease muscle spasm, relieve musculoskeletal pain and, most importantly, create a sense of holistic wellness. Here we have highlighted some of the benefits produced by hot tub jets and how they compare to health spa therapies and physical massage therapies.

Back, neck and shoulder massage

Sufferers of stress are already aware that the back, shoulders and neck are all areas of our body where stress symptoms create negative reactions such as soreness and tightness in our muscles that never seem to subside, even with over-the-counter pain relief. It usually requires the expertise of a therapist to apply various amounts of pressure levels to alleviate these ‘stress knots’ by using different parts of the hand and professional techniques that can relax muscles and ease tension.

Professional techniques are the deep and penetrating Petrissage strokes (kneading, knuckling and wringing) that invigorate tired muscles and also assist our bodies to reduce lactic acid. The Effleurage strokes (gentle, long flowing strokes, which are usually a source of treatment with the whole palm of the hand and fingers), meanwhile create an overwhelming sense of relaxation, which provides a physical as well as mental health tonic and improves our immune systems.

Photo © Vita Spa

Modern swirling jets of a hot tub that move the water around in a circular motion massage a wider area in a similar way to E eurage. Traditionally installed in the back of a hot tub’s lounge seat they relieve tension in the neck and back by targeting the muscles of these two body areas. The moving massage jets in a hot tub, meanwhile, which are generally installed two or three in a row, provide a deep back massage, the elongated oval jet creates this e ective massage by pulsating the water back and forth.

Defined as Tapotement, rhythmic tapping using the edges of the hands, can be replicated in hot tubs with advanced jet systems located in appropriate seating settings to pulse the water to gain a similar benefit. Firm pressure can also be applied by whirlpool jets that are concentrated to an area by redirecting pressure from the other jets, providing a powerful deep tissue massage to provide welcome relief for our tired or aching muscles. While Swirl Jets and Pillow Jets create a ‘beneficial neck massage and soothing cushion’ and are traditionally installed above the hot tub water line.

Reflexology & foot massage

Our hard-working feet take the strain of our entire weight on a daily basis. Even after squeezing our feet into all shapes and sizes of shoes we rub salt into the wound by hammering them for hours at a time. Yet, as most of us realise, our feet are extremely sensitive because of a massive concentration of nerve endings that can stimulate numerous benefits with correct treatment and care.

One of the best tonics for tired feet is reflexology, which is a complementary therapy that is based on the understanding that certain areas of our feet are linked to organs, and that applying pressure on these areas produces benefits for the related area of our bodies. For example, it is believed we can give the frontal sinus a boost by massaging the tips of our toes.

Now, a significant percentage of footwell areas in high-quality hot tubs currently include jets that reproduce this health improving reflexology-type pressure, while also creating the added benefit of reducing pain and soreness in feet and ankles along with stimulating our feet’s many pressure points to super charge our organs and areas of our bodies that have been neglected. ➧

Healing hot tubs

A good soak can do wonders for your health and can be used to both prevent and address a range of issues:

Stress

Stress is known to cause headaches, fatigue and tense, knotted muscles. The combination of heat, massage and buoyancy in a hot tub can relieve tension and stress, ease pressure on the joints and stimulate natural endorphin production.

Insomnia

Soaking in a hot tub prior to bedtime will help you fall into a deeper, more relaxed sleep. Sleep deprivation can lead to depression, poor concentration, mood swings and memory lapses.

Sports injuries

Leading physios say a soak aids recovery from post-match aches and more serious muscle and joint injuries. Top sportsmen and women have installed hot tubs to keep themselves in peak mental and physical condition, and to speed-up rehabilitation.

High blood pressure and stroke

Research suggests that soaking in a hot tub for 15 minutes will lower a person’s blood pressure. New studies also reveal that hot tubs enhance rehabilitation for patients recovering from a stroke.

Muscular aches and strains

Hot water increases the temperature of muscles, causing blood vessels to dilate which increases blood flow to them. This boosts circulation and reduces tension, which in turn aids relaxation. Hot tubs also help the body to eliminate waste products, helping to detox the body.

Arthritis

Joint pain and inflammation due to arthritis can be eased with a hot tub session. The Arthritis Research Campaign recommends a morning dip to warm up joints and make movement easier throughout the day. www.arc.org.uk

Colds and infections

Patients with upper respiratory infections, asthma, colds and bronchitis can all benefit from hot tub sessions, which help to open airways and promote the circulation of healing white blood cells.

Diabetes and weight issues

Research in the States shows that daily 30-minute sessions in a hot tub, six times a week for three weeks, can reduce blood sugar levels by an average of 13 per cent. Hot tub use is also believed to increase metabolic rate and digestion, which research suggests could lead to weight loss of an average of 3½ lbs without any change to your diet and exercise regime.

Skin care

Through the creation of thousands of tiny oxygenating bubbles, new MicroSilk technology is proven to moisturise and rehydrate skin and even relieve the symptoms of eczema. Its inventors claim that MicroSilk will also make your skin smoother, and even reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Photo © Wellis

Skin care

Several manufacturers have incorporated a new technology called MicroSilk® in their hot tubs in recent years to tackle skin health for the first time. This is being viewed as a revolutionary skin treatment system to provide health benefits within hot tubs by utilising oxygen to stimulate collagen production.

During the ageing process, our skin’s natural collagen production gradually subsides, and this leads to the thinning of the skin, which causes fine lines, wrinkles and the appearance of age spots. It is believed that as little as 20 minutes of MicroSilk® exposure a day will remove years off your appearance by restimulating collagen levels to leave your skin appearing smooth and beautiful. Also, the latest low-maintenance and skin-friendly water care products; which have been developed especially for hot tubs, will leave your skin looking and feeling cleansed and refreshed, following a spa session of 20 to 30 minutes.

Advanced lighting

A large majority of modern hot tubs are produced with advanced LED coloured lighting systems, which can create an attractive night time spectacle, and help to illuminate our garden areas, but advanced lighting technology can also benefit our health by stimulating our senses that have been recognised to play a major role in our mood and wellbeing. To harness powers of colour therapy, hot tubs are traditionally fitted with an array of coloured underwater lights to provide users with a health boost.

Generally defined as ‘chromotherapy’, it is also known as colour therapy and is viewed as an alternative healing benefit associated with the principal that the seven shades of the spectrum are infused with many specific healing energies that can be harnessed to improve a person’s energy capacity and increase mental health.

This form of chromotherapy healing originates from ayurvedic medicine, which designates certain healing properties to individual colours. Red, for example is associated with the stimulation of our circulation; while green, is linked with calm and balance.

Enhanced mood

A growing health benefit of hot tubs in relation to enhancing our moods is the use of aromatherapy. This is a popular favourite with spa-goers as the fusion of heady essential oils and flowing strokes can generate a wonderful sensorial and relaxing experience. Generally, we associate aromatherapy with hands-on massage at a spa, yet increasingly the use of essential oils and additional plant extracts to improve wellness and enhance our mood is experiencing rapid growth

within the use of hot tubs, which is being reflected by manufacturers incorporating this technology in their hot tubs.

Manufacturers and suppliers are providing a greater choice of ‘spa soaks’, and these have been specifically developed to be regularly adopted in the hot tub routine to provide the double benefit of an individual smell of your choice that also creates the required mood. Rosemary and peppermint, for example, have the aromatherapy powers to invigorate and stimulate your mood; while lavender oil promotes healthy sleep patterns.

Deep sleep

Medical and health professionals are increasingly worried that a lack of quality sleep is causing a host of illnesses and health problems. Most people at one time or another suffer the torture and the anguish of a restless sleep pattern and total lack of sleep, but hot tubs are now providing a natural cure.

Research by the Mental Health Foundation and the Surrey Sleep Research Centre at Surrey University, has also highlighted that almost two thirds of us are failing to gain a healthy boost from a good night’s sleep. Experts report that the problem has become widespread because we are failing to switch off from a wide range of electronic stimulus and worries about keeping pace with our hectic lifestyles and work.

After media coverage about the negative use of sleeping tablets, restless sleep sufferers are turning to the natural cure that hot tub hydrotherapy offers, rather than seeking help from pharmacists with over-the-counter remedies such as sleeping pills.

Generally, a hot tub session of only ten to 20 minutes prior to bedtime will naturally help your body to unwind and then gain much deeper and more relaxed regular sleep, so may be the ideal prescription to prevent illnesses and health issues from lack of sleep

(See Sleep Matters on page 46). ❚

Photo © Artesian Spas

Photo © Softub

Treat yourself to some TLC with CALDERA

Introduce a Caldera hot tub to your life, and very quickly it will move from luxury to one of life’s essentials. Relaxing in the warm, massaging waters of a Caldera hot tub will mentally and physically transport you to another place. Exhilarating and therapeutic all at the same time, nothing equals its life-enhancing sense of feeling GREAT. Go on, be kind to yourself, invest in a Caldera and make it part of your everyday wellness routine.

Reset mind, body and soul

Purchasing a Caldera hot tub will introduce you to a healthy work/life balance. It’s your own private restorative spa right on your doorstep.

It’s proven that spending just twenty minutes a day in a Caldera hot tub provides substantial holistic benefits. Mentally, it will aid relaxation, calming your mind to improve focus and concentration.

Physically, the benefits of hot tub ownership are well documented, with the release of endorphins (the body’s natural pain reliever), improved circulation and relief from muscle and joint pain, all top of the list.

Why Caldera?

Caldera is a market-leader for good reason. The di erence is in the detail and it’s the sum of the detail that provides unparalleled comfort and relaxation. Here’s just four Caldera assets for starters:

1. Deep, cradling seats and a unique textured Foot Ridge help you stay ‘anchored’ even whilst being massaged by powerful jets.

2. Each seat provides a deep massage to a di erent muscle group, decompresses your spine and keeps you aligned.

3. Strategically positioned hydrotherapy jets melt your tension away.

4. Personalise your massage by adjusting the strength and flow of individual jets.

The beauty is in the detail

There’s a Caldera hot tub to suit every budget and every home. Whether it’s from the Vacanza, Paradise or Utopia Series, each spa has been ergonomically designed and is as aesthetically beautiful on the inside as it is outside, from lights and speaker placement to the pattern in the footwell.

State-of-the-art light and sound systems add to the whole ambience. The Utopia spas include six adjustable colours that accent individual zones plus corner and perimeter lighting. The Vacanza and Paradise Series’ LED Points of Light System casts a beautiful reflective glow which you can set to your colour choice or a slowly rotating colour display. There’s also a range of integrated music options, including a Wireless sound system with Bluetooth and a 55cm high definition display.

Eco-friendly

A Caldera spa is one of the most energye cient hot tubs in the marketplace. All the spas feature environmentally responsible FiberCor insulation which has four times the density of the urethane foam used in most hot tubs.

The innovative EnergyPro system in the Utopia and Paradise Series keeps the water hot and ready for use, whilst at the same time, meeting the most stringent energy standards to minimise operating costs.

The spa covers are manufactured to give a tight seal for optimum energy e ciency. The full-foam cover is wrapped in durable, marine-grade vinyl and includes child safety locks.

Zero-hassle low maintenance

Forget complicated and confusing water care, with Caldera you have access to clean, healthy water without handling chemicals. The revolutionary FreshWater Salt System (available on all Utopia and Paradise Series Spas) automatically generates chlorine from salt, keeping water clean and fresh up to a full year before the spa needs draining and refilling. The maintenancefree, disposable cartridge lasts up to four months and can be replaced in seconds. Simply set the desired chlorine level with the touch of a button and the system will automatically generate the correct amount of sanitiser.

Vacanza spas are fitted with the FROG System – again, rather than measuring out chemicals, simply replace the cartridge, which lasts for weeks or months depending on use.

Peace of mind

A Caldera hot tub comes with one of the most complete warranties in the business. Caldera is manufactured by Watkins Wellness – the global industry leader responsible for building more than one million hot tubs. They are supplied in the UK through a network of dealers, who are supported by Certikin International – the country’s largest manufacturer and supplier of wet leisure equipment. For further information, please contact Certikin International on 01993 777200 or visit www.calderaspas.co.uk to find your nearest dealer. ❚

✆ Contact Details

Certikin International Ltd

Email:calderaspas@certikin.co.uk

Tel: 01993 777200

www.calderaspas.co.uk

SPA-RTY TIME!

Outdoor parties involving hot tubs are becoming ultra-fashionable, and for new owners wanting to take advantage of this trend, WhatSpa? puts the spotlight on planning the perfect alfresco ‘SPA-rty’.

When you have a hot tub, you don’t need a special occasion to host a great garden party. No having to worry about red wine on the carpet or chocolate cake on the cream sofa. So why not celebrate the arrival of your shiny new hot tub by planning an outdoor party and take advantage of the fresh air and outdoor surroundings by hosting your very own spa party or ‘Spa-rty’ as the team here at WhatSpa? like to call them!

Planning is crucial if you want your summer garden party to be a success. Hosting the perfect hot tub party does not have to be di cult or expensive; but a little organisation goes a long way. Here are our top ten tips for your inaugural fun-filled hot tub party.

1. Guest list focus

When you are preparing a guest list for your inaugural ‘spa-rty’ it can be fraught with problems if you don’t ask first. Many people still have not had the experience of

joining in with a hot tub crowd, so it is best to prevent ‘spa-rty’ poopers from spoiling any occasion by carefully choosing the appropriate guests. You certainly don’t want to have the unfortunate situation of being the only ones in your hot tub with a group of people looking on! So, at first it may be the best policy to only make provision for guests who indicate that they are eager to join in the hot tub experience.

2. Respect your neighbours

To ensure that you don’t get the cold shoulder from your neighbours, it is advisable to involve them, even if it is just for notification. Even though they may not be scheduled to do so, many ‘spa-rty’ gatherings can run late into the evening, so it is a good idea to try to be respectful about your neighbours – especially with mid-week events. Even if you don’t

include your neighbours on your regular ‘spa-rty’ guest lists you may find that by consulting them or sending an invitation it gets them on side.

3. Be prepared

If you plan to unveil your new hot tub and let your guests hop in for a dip, let them know beforehand that they need to bring a bathing costume and the reason why.

Even the most extrovert among us are reluctant to strip down to our swimsuits in a friend’s house, so have spare bathing costumes, shorts and bath robes at the ready, and a private changing area.

4. Pre-dip tipples

Having a good selection of alcohol will help loosen up your guests a little and get them into the hot tub party mood.

Once you’re in the water remember that bathing in hot water will dehydrate you so excessive alcohol and hot tubs aren’t the greatest of mixers! Have plenty of iced water on hand and don’t forget non-alcoholic beverages for designated drivers! Always use plastic cups or polycarbonate glasses when in the spa to avoid danger of broken glass.

5. Finger lickin’ good

Heavy, stodgy food is not a great combo for relaxing in hot water, so keep food light and simple. What really fits the bill is moreish finger food that is easy to serve, easy to eat and utterly delicious. If you are eating whilst in the tub, stick to serving finger party foods and snacks that are easy to handle and won’t be likely to drop into your beloved crystal clear hot tub water. ➧

Photo © Villeroy & Boch

6. Spare their blushes

Once it’s time to don the swimwear and dive in, always remember ‘ladies first’ if it’s a mixed party, and have the chaps make a splash after the girls have comfortably stolen all the best seats! Show your guests to your changing area and ensure that you have plenty of spare robes and flip-flops for your guests to slip on to go from your changing area to the spa. An outdoor towel rack or table nearby will be handy for people to hang up their robes before making their spectacular entry into the water, and a sturdy set of spa steps will make entry and exit easy and safe.

7. Safety first

Invest in a good set of acrylic or plastic glasses as you do not want glass anywhere near your lovely hot tub. Accidents happen and a smashed glass in the bottom of your hot tub will soon curtail the festivities and mean the spa will have to be evacuated and drained down to clear the hazard. Supplying towels will prevent your guests from dripping water in your kitchen or leaving a damp trail throughout the house if they require the bathroom upstairs. Also, beware of tiled kitchen floors that may prove to be a slip hazard for people coming straight out of your hot tub with wet feet.

8. Bring provisions

Once your guests are relaxing in the water and in awe of your shiny new hot tub, make sure that you bring any drinks or nibbles to the spa side so that you don’t have to keep hopping out to serve every whim of your guests. A Spa Caddy can be fitted to the side of your spa, which will hold plenty of drinks for all your guests.

9. Fun and games

No party would be complete without fun and entertainment. Choose your guest list according to who you think will want to take the plunge and keep in mind the maximum occupancy of your hot tub as you don’t want to over commit and run out of spa seats. There are plenty of waterproof toys and

games on the market that are great fun and ideal stocking fillers for Christmas and birthday gifts. Waterproof cards, floating game boards, tables and drink trays all make a hot tub party a little more fun.

10. Let me entertain you!

If your hot tub is equipped with a sound system, make sure there’s a wide variety of music in your playlist. While the music should get everyone in the party mood, avoid pumping up the volume to such an extent that you upset the neighbours and can’t hear each other chat. You might also want to include some quiet pieces or nature sounds to help everyone relax and wind down at the end of the evening, or whenever you want rid of them!

Whatever you do, don’t forget the most important thing about throwing any successful party is having fun. At a hot tub ‘spa-rty it is almost impossible not to have fun, so take it in your stride and enjoy the evening. It almost certainly will be an event to remember for your guests and one that they will be keen to repeat very soon! ❚

Photo © Master Spas

❝An outdoor towel rack or table nearby will be handy for people to hang up their robes before making their spectacular entry into the water, and a sturdy set of spa steps will make entry and exit easy and safe.❞

Photo © RotoSpa

IKON LEADS VORTEX EVOLUTION

Vortex Spas has made an instant impact in the British market and is now evolving with greater choice after the stunning launch success of the award-winning IKON model that has re-imagined hot tub design.

Manufacturer Vortex Leisure has risen to southern hemisphere dominance with affordable environmentally-friendly hot tubs that are produced to exceptionally high quality standards. Now a new range of design options, which incorporate advanced tailor-made hydrotherapy and state-of-the-art functionality, are available for the first time in the UK.

With swimming icon Ian Thorpe as its brand ambassador, the Australian manufacturer is not content to rest on its laurels as a market-leader ‘down under’ and has specifically chosen Spa Solutions for its experience and respected distributor credentials to supply the IKON and its Vortex Spas hot tub counterparts to UK customers through a network of top dealers.

IKON impact

Vortex Spas has a truly unique hot tub in the form of the futuristic IKON that has made an instant impact with phenomenal global demand, due to its innovative design that incorporates luxury marine concepts with modern ‘irregular topside deck’ architecture that includes ‘floating’ hardwood steps.

Inspired by the truly ‘outside the box’ design philosophy of international car and product designer Alain Brideson, the IKON landed on these shores in spectacular fashion last year and immediately gained WhatSpa? Best Buy Award status and an Australian Good Design Gold Award on home turf. This year it has also received top ‘innovative interior’ acclaim in the German Iconic World 2020 design awards.

Now the Vortex Spas evolution is continuing with the promotion of additional feature-rich models that provide a host of advanced user-friendly and longlife benefits with attractive price tags.

Palladium seats

With twin luxury lounger seats, the Palladium (Hydroplus) is just the ticket for large families and ‘spa-rty’ gatherings to take advantage of the enormous capacity to accommodate ten people at once!

Other options in the Vortex Spas range include the Gemini, Neon, Eon (Hydroplus), Azure, Mercury, Cerium (Hydroplus), Cobalt (Hydroplus), Xenon, Nitro (Hydroplus), Spectrum (Hydroplus), and Titanium (Hydroplus). There are also Aqualounge, Aquagym, Aquagym Max, Aqualap, and Hydrozone models for combining hot tub hydrotherapy and swimming.

They incorporate the SmartStream sound system, which is an integrated and completely invisible transducer speaker with a powerful subwoofer. Your hot tub water then acts as a large sound box as part of an innovative acoustic experience.

SmartLink remote capability also allows you to control your hot tub remotely from anywhere in the world.

Thermoclad reassurance

Vortex Spas provide purchasing reassurance with their Thermoclad construction design, which is wood-free and so eliminates structural damage risks and maintenance worries. Along with the Thermoclad plastic cladding, there is extra peace of mind from the Permaframe structure and industryleading Aristech acrylic. The benefit of a wood-free Permaframe structure is that it is constructed from high-impact injected moulded plastic to ensure a long life without rotten wood and pest problems. In addition, Aristech acrylic prevents extreme outdoor weather conditions from deteriorating your hot tub shell.

Advanced features

At all times, you can be certain that your environmentally-friendly Vortex Spas hot tub has crystal clear water for you to enjoy safely thanks to advanced features that reduce the amount of chemicals required to maintain maximum hygiene capability. The intelligent control software monitors the water quality and provides automatic daily cleaning and filtration, so they never overlap with your massage program.

Another feature that Vortex Spas dealers are keen to shine a light on is the innovative Hydroglow Lighting system. It is fully adjustable and ensures you are in control of the colours and light sequence.

The system includes perimeter, above and below water line LED lighting for the waterfalls, as well as the light-bending laminar jets, drinks holders and a touch screen control panel. This has extra userfriendly functionality as it allows ‘wet touch’ control capability.

Expanding service

Spa Solutions is expanding its warehouse storage and distribution services to ensure dealers can efficiently satisfy the growing demand for Vortex Spas in the UK.

Managing Director Anthony Schneikert has pledged total commitment to Vortex Spas and declared that the exclusive distributor status for the brand has surpassed all his previous achievements.

“Spa Solutions is committed to ensuring total satisfaction for Vortex Spas customers and achieving further success in the UK market,” said Anthony. “Distributing this brand to a network of top dealers is the highlight of my career.” ❚

✆ Contact Details

Tel: 01536 540122

Email: office@spasolution.co.uk

www.spasolution.co.uk

Photo: Ian Thorpe, gold medallist and IKON ambassador

Stress BUSTER!

Stress is a growing health concern and like a deadly assassin it can be a silent killer. It often creeps up on you to land a fatal blow or conspires towards a myriad of health issues that are preventable with early action.

Just by prescribing themselves with a daily tonic of hydrotherapy, hot tub owners can prevent illnesses occurring in the first place by simply taking the time to soak away stress on a regular basis before it becomes out of control and causes more severe health problems.

Poll results

A study into stress levels undertaken by YouGov in 2018 was the largest known UK study to date and had a sample size of 4,619 respondents. It found that in the past year, 74 per cent of people have felt so stressed they have been overwhelmed or unable to cope.

In terms of the causes of stress, 36 per cent of all adults who reported stress in the previous year cited either their own or a friend/relative’s long-term health condition as a factor. This rose to 44 per cent of adults over 55. For people who reported high levels of stress, 12 per cent said that feeling like they need to respond to smart phone messages instantly was a stressor, (see our Digital Detox feature on page 56).

The feedback into the behavioural e ects of chronic stress indicated that

46 per cent reported that they ate too much or ate unhealthily due to stress. 29 per cent reported that they started drinking or increased their drinking, and 16 per cent reported that they started smoking or increased their smoking.

Indicator warnings

It is clear that stress and its impact on behaviour can have a major e ect on short-term and long-term health, so what are the warning signs to look for?

Likely symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, tiredness, muscle spasms and trembling or eye twitches, sti ness in your neck and backache may be the early warning signs that your body is su ering stress. Other signs include aching muscles, a nagging headache after working long hours without regular breaks, panic attacks, frequent urination, diarrhoea, impotence, disrupted sleep due to unresolved anxieties, or troublesome indigestion or heartburn.

It is critical that if you experience some or many of these stress indicators, then you should take notice of the early warning signs from your body and act to prevent repercussions of prolonged exposure to stress by making healthy lifestyle choices that can include the many health and wellness benefits of hot tub ownership.

People are generally unaware that they are su ering from stress in the early stages; and may be shocked to discover this when they visit their local surgery

with headaches, indigestion and muscle pains, for example. Severe stress, on the other hand, can be more dramatic with panic attacks, severe headaches or migraines, and chest pains among the likely symptoms.

Consulting your local GP about any nagging physical ailments is always the best policy, but if the symptoms are being caused by just common levels of stress then hot tubs can be the perfect prescription to provide a natural daily remedy; rather than reaching for the medicine cabinet or instead of having to resort to prescribed drugs and other treatments after your health has deteriorated further.

Down time

If you are constantly under pressure due to leading a ‘full throttle’ busy, chaotic, or very hectic lifestyle that seems never ending from dawn to dusk; then taking time out from your schedule to be alone and tranquil without any distractions can be very helpful for boosting your health and eliminating the build-up of high levels of stress.

Set aside a time of day when you can be secluded from the world to just savour the moment and gain a tremendous natural tranquillity tonic in your hot tub. It should be part of your daily schedule, which can be truly enhanced if it is in a good quality model with advanced hydrotherapy, audio functionality and lighting.

Regular doses of hydrotherapy in a quality hot tub can be the perfect stress-buster tonic to combat our ‘full throttle’ lives.

We are all di erent. Some owners may want to get a boost from their hot tub early in the morning, to help kick-start their day; while others may wish to unwind in their hot tub in the evening to ensure all their cares are soaked away before gaining a restful night’s sleep. Either way, the very fact that you are using the hot tub regularly will deliver the many health benefits of heat and hydrotherapy and help you to melt away chronic stress levels.

Drug reliance

Stress is negatively a ecting one in five of the working population, according to the Stress Management Society, and it is costing employers £1.24billion annually with millions of working days lost every year because of work-related stress, which can increase anxiety and depression. When stress overload occurs, especially over a considerable period, there can be a breakdown in mental and physical health, which may then lead to poor decision making and an acute accumulation of serious illnesses and critical symptoms.

Once our bodies are burdened by too much stress it may lead to them blowing a mental fuse, which could lead to time o work or having the more drastic action of bowing out from occupations that we may have trained and worked up to for many years and previously excelled at. This can continue the vicious circle of stress and depression.

Tens of millions of depression drugs are dispensed every year and it is now widely accepted by health experts that we are in a ‘depression crisis’. Yet it has recently been highlighted from research funded by the Alzheimer’s Society that patients who took anticholinergics, including dosulepin, paroxetine and amitriptyline, which are designed to block a key neurotransmitter in the body called acetylcholine, for more than a 12-month period had a 30 per cent increased risk of dementia in later life. ➧

Lead pharmacist on the study Dr Ian Maidment of Aston University warned that people need to be more conservative in using these drugs but advised: “The key thing is don’t panic. It’s a long-term e ect so don’t suddenly stop taking medication.”

Pressure points

Many stress-related problems include being impatient, snappy, painful and embarrassing skin conditions, and the worrying build-up of high blood pressure that can lead to serious health issues such as the risk of stroke or heart-attack.

It must be stated that no amount of hot tub time can solve the original problems that are causing you to be stressed on a regular basis, but e ectively coping with stress, and finding ways to reduce unnecessary or unhealthy levels of stress are important life skills to master.

Studies have shown that being immersed in warm water can release the hormone dopamine in our bodies. It is produced by the parasympathetic nervous system to help our bodies to counteract the problem of being under stress.

By deciding to spend some of your free time in the confines of a soothing and relaxing hot tub you will not only feel de-stressed and prepared to take on the World but also you’ll be less inclined to turn to excessive amounts of online activities, alcohol, cigarettes, or junk food as a way of coping with stress.

Hunger gains

There is mounting evidence that stress plays a significant part in weight gain. Chronic stress disrupts our sleep and our blood sugar levels. This leads to increased hunger and comfort eating. And that then leads to further disrupted sleep, even higher levels of stress and even more disrupted blood sugars. In time, this can lead not only to unhealthy levels of body fat, but also to type-2 diabetes.

Scientific research has proven that when you are stressed, your body goes into ‘fight or flight’ mode. Your body thinks it is under attack and releases glucose into your blood to provide energy for your muscles.

But if you don't need that energy to run away from danger, then your pancreas will pump out insulin to bring those blood sugar levels back down again. These rising levels of insulin and falling blood sugars will make you hungry – which is why you crave sugary carbs when you are stressed. The same sort of thing happens when you have a bad night’s sleep.

Calorie burner

If you have sacked o the gym in favour of a long, relaxing soak in the spa area you will be relieved to know that it still results in calories being burned o !

Researchers at Loughborough University have claimed that enjoying a hot tub session might have equivalent health benefits to exercise routines. Passive heating they claim, might have a positive e ect on blood sugar control, which is a good indicator of your overall metabolic fitness, and the number of calories that the body burns.

Dr Steve Faulkner conducted a study looking at 14 men who took part in two tests: the first was to go on an hour’s cycle. The second was to kick back in an hour-long 40-degree Celsius bath. Both tests were designed to raise the core body temperature by one degree, which allowed the team to study how many calories were being burned in each session. And, although the cycling obviously burnt more calories, the researchers found that a hot bath used up around 130 calories, the same energy demand as a 30-minute walk!

Health crisis

Recent media coverage has again highlighted that there is a mental health crisis among children. Cases of anxiety have risen by 42 per cent in five years and highly-respected journalist Mark Austin

has declared that children’s mental health is now one of the most pressing issues of our society.

Tina Bould, who is a senior supervisor for the children’s charity ChildLine, has highlighted that there has been a dramatic rise of contact from young people who are struggling to deal with the pressures of their education and family life.

“We’ve had a 34 per cent increase in young people contact us with mental health issues,” said Tina. “It is closely linked with other problems such as school, education and pressures in the family home.”

It illustrates there is now a case for hot tubs to be utilised by the entire family as the welcoming warmth and relaxation of the family hot tub can provide an area that is free from anxiety and can encourage greater communication with siblings, parents and friends rather than retreating behind bedroom doors and increasing self-isolation.

Struggling teenagers can become isolated very easily, so they can really reap the rewards of spending quality social time, not just with family members, but also with their trusted friends; so what better way to improve their ‘real’ social interaction time than by providing them with the ultimate relaxing safe space in their very own home or garden, in the form of a quality hot tub away from the distractions of their tech gadgets? ❚

❝

If you have sacked o the gym in favour of a long, relaxing soak in the spa area you will be relieved to know that it still results in calories being burned o !❞

Photo © AquaVia Spa

WhatSpa?

The Ultimate Hot Tub Guide

There can be no greater endorsement for a product than trying it out and being so bowled over that you commit your life to selling it. When publishers Nick and Karen Clamp invested in a hot tub in the early noughties, little did they know the profound life-changing e ect it would have. What had originally been a purchase aimed simply at enhancing their family’s leisure time and quality of life, soon turned into something a great deal more involved.

Having experienced the benefits of

Having experienced the benefits of hot tubs for themselves, and the pitfalls and bewilderment of the purchasing process at the time, Nick and Karen made it their joint mission to spread the word about spas and help to simplify the buying process for other spa owners. They took the plunge to assemble a team of the most respected figures in the hot tub industry to launch a one-stop information source for prospective hot tub buyers.

The result was WhatSpa? – a clear, concise and independent guiding hand for those seeking to purchase their dream hot tub.

One-stop advice

Our mission is simple, declares Nick: “We are dedicated to supporting you, not just in the research and evaluation stage of purchasing a hot tub, but also after you have chosen and installed your spa as well. Our aim is to make the process of buying and owning a spa as simple as possible.

“The easy bit is making the decision to buy a spa; selecting the manufacturer, model and retailer is usually a bit more di cult, which is where we come in. There is still a lot of confusion in the market, and because many people are first-time buyers, we want to remove that confusion and put all the necessary and relevant information about buying a spa at your fingertips.”

Advice you can rely on

A key tenet for WhatSpa? is its independence, which ensures you receive informed and impartial advice. You can be sure that you are receiving unbiased, clear and comprehensive information that will enable you to make the right choice when it comes to selecting your ideal spa.

WhatSpa? Editor-in-Chief Nick Clamp reveals why WhatSpa? is the UK’s number one source for independent and trustworthy hot tub advice.

Photo © Artesian Spas

WhatSpa? has a team of respected experts who are on-hand to provide sound, independent advice and reviews of all the very best spas and hot tubs. We also have a team of ‘Spa Doctors’ who are happy to answer any technical questions and queries that our readers may have.

Best Buy Awards

Since 2006, WhatSpa? Best Buy Awards have become the industry standard recognition for hot tubs that achieve the best scores in our rigorous tests for quality and value across all price brackets.

“Our Best Buy Awards cannot be purchased or influenced by third parties, such as manufacturers and retailers, and we take great pride in their independence, which is why they are now held in such high esteem by both buyers and manufacturers,” reveals Nick.”

For a full breakdown of our 2020 Best Buy Award winners across all price brackets, go to page 114 and don’t forget to look out for these prestigious logos in showrooms as you start shopping.

Seal of approval

When making any purchase of this size, trusting the manufacturer and retailer is essential. The WhatSpa? Approved scheme is a unique hallmark of quality and is only awarded to companies who meet our exacting high standards.

The Approval Scheme o ers the customer peace of mind that comes from knowing companies are reputable, well established, have a professional infrastructure and a good track record within the industry, so it is the logo to look out for.

In order to win coveted WhatSpa? Approved status, hot tub retailers must have a minimum number of display spas and prove that they have all of the insurance requirements and trained sta in both water hygiene and safety as well as technical backup and maintenance. WhatSpa? Professional retailers also have to pass a stringent extra set of criteria, including professional training accreditation by attending industryrecognised hot tub technician courses. For more details visit the www.whatspa.co.uk/ logos page of our web portal.

WhatSpa? has also teamed up with regulatory body BISHTA (British & Irish Spa & Hot Tub Association) to ensure the highest standards of spa safety. BISHTA is an industry body set up to educate and protect the public against the potential hazards arising from poorly-maintained spas, and to promote the importance of water maintenance. The role fulfilled by BISHTA is vital, and one of our criteria for WhatSpa? approval is BISHTA membership or proof of attendance on a BISHTA recognised pool and spa water hygiene course.

WhatSpa? online

Our website – www.whatspa.co.uk –is the perfect complement to WhatSpa? magazine, providing the ultimate online advice centre for spa and hot tub owners and buyers in the UK. We have completely re-designed the website for 2020, making it more user-friendly and easier to navigate than ever before. The site will have fresher graphics and even more information about buying, installing and maintaining your hot tub.

WhatSpa? remains committed to supporting bona fide and professional retailers in the UK, and we have a strict entry policy to our Find a Retailer section,

which means you can know in advance what your local retailers have to o er. You can also save lots of time by using our WhatSpa? Genie advisory service to request brochures and up to date o ers from all your WhatSpa? Approved local retailers at the touch of a button, rather than wading through lots of individual websites. In our Manufacturer's Directory we also have links, a brief profile and UK contact details of all of the major brands currently represented in the UK.

Hot Tub Chooser

The website also links through to Hot Tub Chooser, the UK’s No.1 hot tub search engine. Hot Tub Chooser takes product search to the next level in a way that no general search engine or comparison site can even begin to match. It is the only website that catalogues every major brand and hot tub model in the UK with its definitive database of hot tubs, spas, manufacturers and retailers. WhatSpa? is firmly in favour of shopping locally, and when our readers kept asking us for a facility to search all of the models that were available in the showrooms in their local areas, we set about the challenge... and that is exactly what we built the site to deliver.

Hot Tub Chooser also features our Hot Tub Voucher Scheme, which allows retailers to display the current special in-store o ers that they have available. To search the hot tub models and savings vouchers available in your local area visit: www.hottubchooser.co.uk ❚

❝When making any purchase of this size, trusting the manufacturer and retailer is essential.❞

Sundance® Spas are proud to be making a di erence by teaming up with Teenage Cancer Trust to help teenagers and young people diagnosed with cancer get the support and specialist services they deserve.

We all know people and families that have been touched by cancer, and we all know how devastating the e ects can be. But, thankfully, there are charities and organisations across the world who are working tirelessly to not only combat the disease, but also to provide support for those a ected by it.

One of those charities is Teenage Cancer Trust; an amazing team of people whose sole purpose is to raise funds for and bring awareness to young people between the ages of 13 to 24 who are su ering the e ects of cancer. During these di cult times the money raised by

Teenage Cancer Trust helps to provide the specialised nursing needed as well as bringing the care and support required.

Helena Starling, Brand Manager at Sundance® Spas said:

“We are incredibly proud of the Good Cause Spas™ movement which will support the amazing work carried out by Teenage Cancer Trust. It may be a simple idea – every time a Sundance® Spas hot tub is purchased in the UK, we’ll donate to Teenage Cancer Trust – but we hope it proves to be a beneficial one.”

Heather Bowen from Teenage Cancer Trust remarked:

“It’s absolutely wonderful that Sundance® Spas nominated us as their charity of the year for 2020. We will be working together to plan our year ahead with events, challenges and campaigns to really engage with each other so that together we can make a real di erence for young people.”

™

With seven teenagers and young adults being diagnosed with cancer every day, Teenage Cancer Trust believe this age group needs and should receive the best possible care there is. By teaming up with Sundance® Spas, they are ensuring that support is within reach for all those young people who need their help.

Traditionally treated alongside children or elderly patients at the end of their lives, young people can feel extremely isolated, some never meeting another young person with cancer. Being treated alongside others their own age can make a huge di erence to their whole experience. Teenage Cancer Trust wants every young person with cancer to have access to this specialist support, no matter where they live.

Sundance® Spas has always been devoted to improving wellbeing through the benefits of superior hydrotherapy. As a premium brand for people who realise the importance of investing in their health and relaxation, all their hot tubs are engineered to provide the highest quality hydrotherapy experience. Throughout their long history as a company, Sundance® Spas have a heritage of innovation with features such as the Fluidix Jet series and the CLEARRAY® water purification system that demonstrates their commitment to constantly improving the peace of mind and ease of body that their spas provide. ❚

SPA BUYER'S

Our easy three-step guide to buying the spa of your dreams.

If, like most of us, you’ve never bought a hot tub before, the process can be a little daunting. Fear not, our team of experts are at hand to walk you through the process and make choosing your new spa as easy as possible. We have broken down our buying tips into three easy steps, each of which will become milestones in your route to choosing the perfect spa to suit your needs.

Step 1 – Do your homework

Congratulations! You have already started doing your homework by the very fact that you have purchased this issue of WhatSpa? magazine. Welcome to the discerning spa buyers’ club!

Take some time to research which brands are currently available in your local area before you go any further. If you have already visited our website at www.whatspa.co.uk why not visit

our hot tub comparison website

www.hottubchooser.co.uk, which catalogues every major hot tub brand and model available in the UK into a huge database for you to conveniently search at a time that suits you.

We thoroughly recommend that you purchase your hot tub via a specialist local retailer, rather than taking your chances buying over the Internet or on online auction sites. We have seen an endless onslaught of horror stories from unsuspecting UK spa buyers that have taken the risk of buying online from websites that claim comparable quality to established brands at rock bottom prices. Most of these products are grey import copies of established brands from factories in developing countries with few quality controls. See our investigative Net Dangers on page 66 for more in-depth analysis of this worrying trend.

Local specialist retailers, by contrast, have to put their own name and bricks and mortar reputation behind the brands and products that they sell. It is in their vested interests to offer good quality, reliable hot tubs that stand the test of time and delight their clientele. They will service a manageable geographical area so they can respond quickly and cost-effectively to service call-outs, both within your warranty period and thereafter. After your hot tub is installed your retailer will be a local source of spa water care products and will be on hand to offer invaluable tips and advice every time you pop in.

Once you have read our Spa Masterclass it is time to dip your toe in the water and start visiting your local specialist showrooms to see for yourself what they have to offer. Check out our Retail Directory

Photo © Wellis

Supplement that comes poly wrapped with WhatSpa? and visit the Find a Retailer area on our website www.whatspa.co.uk to get an up to date list of companies in your area.

Also look out for your VIP Vouchers that are enclosed within your copy of WhatSpa? magazine for great o ers from your local WhatSpa? Approved showrooms.

After you have pored over our Spa Masterclass, start visiting showrooms armed with your new-found hot tub expertise. Talk to sales sta and get a feel for the models and features on o er in each di erent price bracket. If you see a model that you like the look of, arrange a ‘wet test’ also known as a ‘test soak’. A wet test is an actual trial of the hot tub in the showroom where you take your bathing costumes along and ‘try before you buy’. All professional retailers will have private wet test facilities and changing rooms. The objective is to pick at least three or four of your favourite models to shortlist for a wet test...the most vital stage in the buying process. If you can, try to arrange those all-important wet tests one after the other on the same day so that the experience of the previous spas is still fresh in your mind when trying those afterwards. Insist, if possible, on trying the actual models that you are most interested in rather than other models in the range... they all feel di erent! Allow at least two hours in each showroom to give you adequate time to try as many spas as possible. Then prepare yourself for the most fun-filled shopping experience of your life! ➧

❝Talk to sales sta and get a feel for the models and features on o er in each di erent price bracket.❞

Photo © All Weather Leisure

Photo © Villeroy & Boch

Step 2 – Get wet testing

The best way to conduct a wet test is to get the showroom staff to show you how everything works whilst you are in the spa... they know all the nuances of their spas better than you do. This is no time to be bashful; once you are comfortably in the water, call the showroom staff over to demonstrate the features and controls. Once they have thoroughly demonstrated all the functionality of the spa, get them to leave you to it so you can play around with all of the jets and controls to your hearts content.

Try as many spas as you can in each showroom...you may be surprised to find that the spa that you expected to like best is not the one that you prefer after wet testing. Remember the first decision you will have to make is whether to choose a ‘Lounge-seater’ or ‘All-seater’ model. The merits of each are explained from page 62 Bear in mind that when you wet test, there will probably be fewer people in the spa than the maximum spa capacity. How would it feel if you had your friends and family in with you? Would it be roomy enough in the footwell as well as having enough seats? Where would the waterline rise to if more people were in? How comfortable are the seats? Are the jets providing good quality massage and how adjustable are they for both power and massage type? Is the depth of the spa suitable for your needs given the height and build of the main bathers? Remember that you will want a variety of different seating depths so that bathers can swap to a shallower or deeper seat if they feel too hot or too cold respectively. Are the seats too large or too small and are they supporting you comfortably. Ensure that you do not float out of any of the seats, particularly the lounge seat/s if the spa model has them.

If the showroom has the facility to turn the lights down or off, get them to do so as this will enable you to assess the lighting system on the spa. If the model is equipped with an audio system, ask to hear the stereo system. Take along your smartphone so that you can stream your favourite tunes from your music streaming app of choice, so that you can compare the same track in different stereo systems.

Remember that the wet test is all about feel and comfort. Which spas felt best when you tried them? After all, this is the main reason why you are buying one (besides turning the neighbours green with envy!).

As you are discussing models and wet testing your preferred brands, be aware of the product knowledge and communication skills of the showroom staff. It is vital that you also choose a retailer that you trust, not just pre-sale, but to ensure that they will support you for the entire lifespan of the spa which can be many years in the future. Always ask searching questions about warranty support and service plans to ensure that post-installation support is available.

When you have tried all of the spas on your wet test list and chosen a preferred brand, model and retailer it is the big one... decision time! Before you throw open your cheque book or melt the plastic here are some top tips to getting a great deal.

Step 3 – Close the deal

Don’t leave your purchase until the last minute. Remember that many of the most well-established manufacturers are in North America, Canada and mainland Europe, so hot tubs can take up to eight weeks to arrive if the exact model that you want is not in stock in the UK. Start shopping at least a couple of months before you want delivery so that you don’t narrow your options to stock spas. You will be typically required to pay a 25-30 per cent deposit when you place your order and the remaining balance is usually payable either on or a few days before delivery. It is crucial that you always pay any up-front costs (at least £100) by credit card or via a consumer finance company as this affords you the protection of your credit card supplier or finance company if anything goes wrong between the point of order and delivery day.

Photo © Caldera Spas

For extra peace of mind look for WhatSpa? Approved retailers and other industry affiliations such as BISHTA (British & Irish Spa & Hot Tub Association) membership. If a retailer is going to the trouble of meeting the requirements to comply with these standards this is a good sign that they are professional retailers and intend to stick around in the future.

Getting the right deal

The best deal will not come your way without some hard bargaining so here are some of our top tips to getting the right deal once you have decided on your spa model.

The best deal will be a combination of paying the best price available and also negotiating free or discounted extras wherever possible. Before you commit to the sale think about the additional accessories that are essential to creating a practical spa environment such as steps, cover lifters, delivery, installation and commissioning, spare filters, extra supplies of water care products etc. These are all bargaining points when negotiating the deal.

Try to get as many of them included in the deal as possible. If they are not included you will probably end up buying them at a later date and paying full RRP, so now is the best time to get a package deal.

Good retailers may already include such extras at their own cost... bear this in mind before trying to beat them down even further on price. It is important that they stay in business to serve you and your warranty! On the subject of warranties, ask for a written copy of the warranty certificate before you buy and make sure that you read the small print. Some suppliers may offer extended warranties at a premium so again use this as a bargaining point before you commit to buy. Make sure that the spa warranty covers both parts and labour and ask the retailer if warranty calls are completely free or if you will have to pay a call-out or labour charge.

Professional spa dealerships will also offer service packages to ensure that your spa stays in tiptop condition. Again this is often an ‘extra’ that you will pay for later so now is a great time to get some servicing thrown in for free.

Payment options

If you are paying by cash, cheque or debit card this is cheaper for the dealer than low rate or interest free finance, which they will probably have to subsidise, despite historically low Bank of England base rates.

Credit card transactions typically cost the dealer around two per cent of the balance in fees, so if you are paying by other means you are in a good position to negotiate. Interest free credit can cost the dealer between five and fifteen per cent of the balance (depending upon the loan term) so again, if you have cash on the hip this is a great bargaining chip. We would always recommend paying at least £100 of the deposit or balance by credit card for the extra protection that this offers.

Often the best deals are to be had on ex-display models and previous year models. Retailers will have to move their showroom floor spas on at least once a year (typically between Christmas and April) to make way for newer models. The warranty should still start from when you take delivery (confirm this before you buy!) and ex-display spas are often still like new by the time that you take delivery. Expect to pay at least 10-15 per cent less than new model prices for ex-display models that are under 12 months old.

Check the small print

Always read the contract terms on order forms before you sign and ensure that you will get delivery in a timeframe that you are happy with.

Professional retailers should issue you with a printed pre-delivery guide (also see our Pre-Delivery Guide on page 100), which includes things like base preparation and electrical requirements for your particular model, and they should also arrange a mutually convenient time for a physical site visit, so they can survey your garden terrain for obstacles and plan your delivery. If a dealer suggests that they can use Google Maps for their site survey rather than visiting in person, head for the hills immediately before handing over your deposit!

All you need to do now is get your electrics and base arranged, put the bubbly on ice and count off the hours to delivery day. Good luck and happy hot tubbing! ❚

❝Always read the contract terms on order forms before you sign and ensure that you will get delivery in a timeframe that you are happy with.

❞

5-Star Advice

When it comes to choosing your ideal hot tub, multi awardwinning MySpa UK have a vast array of choice, all on display at their three-acre site in the heart of Leicestershire. Only by visiting this five-star dealership and testing the extensive selection of hot tubs and wide range of seating choices will you achieve the best possible fit for you and your family.

MySpa is providing the ultimate destination for prospective hot tub owners, with the unique status of being the UK’s Number One supplier of worldrenowned brand Sundance Spas, and multiple WhatSpa? Best Buy Awardwinning brands. They have perfected their capability of o ering an unrivalled ‘try before you buy’ service at the largest hot tub, swim spa and garden building show site in the country.

Centrally located just o the A46 in Leicestershire and only 10 minutes’ drive from junction 21a of the M1, Andy and Laura Wroot, and the MySpa team have created a ‘superstore status’, ‘mustvisit’ show site which is the largest in the country, in terms of single location display with a choice of over 20 display hot tubs and at least three swim spas set within the imposing Bentleys Garden Buildings display site that boasts over 100 garden buildings and hot tub enclosures on display.

Having celebrated their 20th anniversary working in partnership with Sundance Spas in 2018, the growing team of 13 sta have a wealth of experience and product knowledge, which is plain to see when prospective clients visit their show site for the first time. The length of this association is rare and serves as testament to their ongoing commitment to the iconic global brand, providing the continuity of service their loyal clients require.

MySpa is open seven days a week and as part of your research this is a must-visit location. Vitally they keep most of their display hot tubs and swim spas filled and ready for a full product demonstration, and even encourage you to ‘try before you buy’ with a private pre-booked wet test appointment at your convenience, something that can now be booked easily online via their brand new website booking facility

Having such a large display provides the advantage of being literally ‘spoilt for choice’. This is a good problem to have however, and one that the experienced and friendly customer service team will help you to navigate and find the perfect hot tub for you.

Sundance Spas is one of the world’s leading brands, having won a staggering amount of independent awards for innovation in their 40+ year history, and MySpa provides existing and prospective Sundance Spas customers with the largest display of its products in the country,

enhanced by a unique insight, knowledge and expertise that sets them apart from other dealers in the UK today. To enhance this range, MySpa have partnered with carefully selected ranges from other global brands such as Marquis, Jacuzzi, and Artesian Spas to o er what they feel are the perfect models in each style and price range available.

In 2020, MySpa will launch their own brand of MySpa Wellness Hot Tubs, with initially three new models aimed at delivering a high-quality massage with a range of popular features, at more a ordable prices, made even more attractive with the company’s o ering of various competitive finance packages with low deposits.

“We are excited about the launch of this new range of spas which can only bring greater choice to our customers, who are looking for the best fit for them,” explains MySpa co-founder Andy Wroot. “We have found the first three models which o er something a little di erent to our existing range and we can’t wait to showcase them to people who choose to visit us in store.” World-class products combined with vast knowledge, exemplary customer service, and professional installations from fully qualified engineers have helped to achieve glowing testimonials from customers over more than two decades. Testimony to the top-quality service that is provided to all customers is the fact that MySpa has achieved a five-star rating on Trustpilot, which independently verifies online reviews by highly satisfied customers.

The MySpa customer service team will also help to tailor the best finance package available for your needs, whether that be 0% Interest-Free Finance or Buy-NowPay-Later, all with low deposits.

To take advantage of this market-leading service, book a wet test, or request a free brochure pack, call the MySpa team today. ❚

✆ Contact Details

Tel: 01164 645870

Email: info@myspashop.co.uk

www.myspashop.co.uk

The MySpa team

Spa Spa SpaSpa Masterclass

If you’ve read our Spa Buyer’s Guide, before you head o shopping with your bathing costumes at the ready, take a little time to educate yourself so that you can talk to the sta in hot tub retail showrooms with more confidence and knowhow.

Our Spa Masterclass will arm you with the information needed to view and wet test hot tubs and confidently understand hot tub features and some of the terms used by spa retailers when they are demonstrating hot tubs to you.

Spa shell & seating

The spa shell is the coloured visible moulded interior that contains the seating in which we sit. The spa shell is usually vacuumformed from acrylic (typically in a choice of colours and finishes) plus other invisible strengthening layers such as fibreglass, and should be moulded with comfort, ergonomics and durability in mind. It is vital to choose a spa that has a well designed, comfortable shell interior with a large enough footwell to accommodate the maximum number of bathers.

Don’t be daunted by the prospect of buying your hot tub. We cut through the jargon for everything you should know before you go spa shopping.

❝Take a little time to educate yourself so that you can talk to the sta in hot tub retail showrooms with more confidence.

Photo

Also check how easy it is to move from seat to seat and that there is a good variety of seating depths, not just for di erent heights of bathers, but also so that you can swap places with other bathers to vary your massage experience or to move from a deeper to a shallower seat if you get too hot or cold whilst in the tub. Wet testing will help you to check that pillows are positioned in the right place for your height and build.

If the spa has a lounge seat (a full bodylength seat where the bather is positioned in a more reclined position – like sitting on a garden lounger), check that it conforms to your body without the feeling of floating out of the seat. A well-designed lounge seat that suits your height and build can counteract

this. This can only be checked by wet testing and by consulting with a specialist retailer. Finally check how easy and safe it is to enter and exit the spa. Is there a defined flat step area as you get in and out of the spa, or grab handles for a sure-footed exit after a glass of your favourite tipple in the tub?

Spa construction & cabinetry

The inner frame of the spa supports the spa shell and is generally made of either treated timber, metal or synthetic struts. It is important for the long-term integrity of the spa structure. The framework on some cheap ‘grey imports’ is constructed using untreated timber, which will rot within the first few years of a spa’s lifecycle so be sure to check this out before you buy.

The floor of the spa is integral to the spa frame and is important, as this is where the spa will come into contact with the base that you have prepared. Ask your retailer how the base of the spa is constructed; it should be protected by some kind of waterproof membrane or material to prevent any dampness from permeating up inside the cabinet.

The spa cabinet is the outer cladding that protects the inside of the spa

from the elements and provides the aesthetic finish to the area below the shell. Cabinets are most commonly made from timber such as cedar or teak, or synthetic materials that replicate the look of wood.

Avoid cheap imports that use softwood cabinets, as these will rot quickly. Hardwood timber cabinets may weather and require some regular treatment to keep them looking good. Synthetic cabinets are maintenance-free and can be cleaned by hosing or wiping down with a damp cloth.

TOP TIP: If you are in any doubt about the construction properties of a spa model, ask a member of showroom sta to remove a cabinet side panel so that you can inspect the interior.

Spa insulation

Most spas have some form of insulation inside the cabinet to retain water temperature and reduce the amount of time that the heater is activated each day. Di erent levels of insulation are generally available ranging from none at all to ‘fully-foamed’ spas.

Well-constructed and insulated spas are incredibly energy-e cient and this will minimize running costs. Cheap spas with little or no insulation can cost up to ten times as much to run. It is vital that you check this element of the spa build in person by asking for the cabinet panels to be removed so that you can check the insulation.

An added benefit of fully foaming hot tubs is that the insulation supports flexible pipework and prevents movement in pipes as pumps are activated. This will help to minimise the chances of leaks occurring inside the spa over time. ➧

Photo © Marquis

All things being equal, hot tubs with a good combination of shell, cabinet and cover insulation will minimise heat loss and therefore have lower electrical running costs than a similar model with poor insulation. So, like your home, the more insulation the better.

Spa cover

Spas are supplied with an insulated hard cover that is filled with either high density foam or polystyrene. This is then vacuum-wrapped in a sealed waterproof plastic and the final covering is made of vinyl on the outside to protect the cover from the elements. The cover should have lockable clips to secure it to the cabinet to prevent unauthorised access (particularly unsupervised access by children).

These clips will also prevent the cover from being blown o and damaged by high winds and also ensure a tight seal when the spa is not in use in order to minimise heat loss and reduce running costs.

Seriously consider investing in a ‘cover lifting system’ to help you to take the cover on and o the spa before and after use. Spa covers can be very cumbersome and heavy, particularly if you are using the spa on your own. There are a large variety of cover lifters available. Bear in mind that di erent cover lifters will need di erent amounts of clearance on one or more sides of the spa to allow the cover to be stowed away.

TOP TIP: Also allow for the fact that the cover folds in half before the cover lifter comes into operation. If you are building a gazebo or pergola over the spa area, make sure you have allowed enough overhead clearance for the cover to be folded over.

Pumps & plumbing

Hot tub pumps provide three main functions:

■ To pump the water through the plumbing system to the jets which will convert the flow into a massaging action

■ To pump water through the heater to heat the water

■ To pump the water through the spa filters to keep the water clean

Do not get bogged down with pump specifications and horse power as this is only one factor which dictates the hydrotherapeutic value of a spa. Hydrotherapeutic massage is determined by the relationship between the pumps, the

e ciency of the plumbing, and the jet types, number, adjustability and positioning.

Instead of looking at pump specifications, simply wet test the spa as this is the ultimate test of how well a hot tub is designed and plumbed for hydrotherapy.

Some spas are equipped with a separate circulation pump to constantly push water through the heater and filters, even when the heater is not activated. The benefit of circulation pumps is that they are quieter than larger pumps and because they run constantly, they can o er 24hour filtration and ozonation.

New technologies

Just when we thought that hot tub manufacturers had hit the wall when it comes to innovation and technology, a whole raft of new features have entered the market in 2020.

Besides automatic water quality monitoring and dosing systems that hit the market a few years ago, the latest models from some manufacturers are now coming equipped with remote management software to allow you to programme settings and water temperature from your iPod or smartphone via their latest apps.

Bearingless jet technology is becoming more widespread, with jets that create relaxing massage without any moving parts. Also available in the market are spas equipped with sequential massage technology and low voltage variable speed pumps so that bathers can completely control the massage that they receive, irrespective of what is happening in the seats around them.

Energy-e ciency is also high on the agenda for the market-leading manufacturers and their latest models are designed and built to provide the very lowest running costs via smart equipment packs and insulation.

Finally, the latest manufacturing innovation is the addition of MicroSilk® technology to stimulate collagen production and promote skin health and reduce the e ects of ageing. Through a complex pressurisation and venturi process, billions of micro bubbles containing negatively charged ions are produced, which forms an e ervescent cloud of highly oxygenated water (70 per cent more oxygen than regular water) that is released back into the hot tub to revitalise your skin.

Jets & topside controls

It is the jets that convert the flow provided by the pumps and plumbing system into a tangible massaging action. A common fallacy is that spas with more jets are more powerful. This is unlikely to be the case unless more pumps are added to provide greater flow rates. The very best spa manufacturers put the right jets in the right places in order to maximise the relaxing e ect of hydrotherapeutic massage.

The massage experience can be maximised by placing di erent types of jets in di erent seats, so that as you move around the spa each seat feels di erent and targets a di erent set of muscle groups and pressure points. Look for

spas that have a variety of different jet types, and particularly look for spas that allow complete control of water flow from each jet and allow the option of introducing air into the jet stream for a more powerful massage.

Ask retailers to demonstrate the features of the control panel/s and the topside air controls and flow diverters, so that you can test the massage performance and adjustability of all the seats when you wet test the spa.

TOP TIP: The only way to assess the relative hydrotherapy provided by different spas is to wet test all of the models on your shortlist.

Air blowers

Some spas are equipped with air blowers, which are plumbed to a multitude of air jets around the spa. When switched on, the air system produces the typical jacuzzi bubbling water effect. This produces a light tissue massage rather than targeted hydrotherapy.

This is different to air introduced via hydrotherapy jets. The best way to decide if you want a spa with an air blower is to wet test spas with and without and see for yourself.

Control panels & remotes

Control panels have undergone a huge stepchange in technological development over the last couple of years. Some spa models still have fairly simplistic control panels that have buttons to activate pumps and lighting. On the other hand, the very latest models have waterproof remote controls, plus extra topside control panel functionality incorporating a range of extra functions by scrolling through the screen menus.

A range of peripheral control panels can be seen on the latest control systems and even underwater control switches have also started to appear on some models. Throw in a raft of smartphone apps to add extra control functionality and it is clear that hot tubs have embraced new technology with both hands!

Water treatment system

Filtration is important in spas as the filter performance will dictate how well the spa filters out undissolved wastes without the intervention of chemicals. Well-filtered water will stay clearer for longer.

TOP TIP: Look for hot tubs with larger filters or more of them (at the very least 50 sq ft of filter area) as this will keep the water cleaner and will require much less maintenance and filter cleaning.

Besides filtration, a whole host of other technology is now on hand to make your life nice and easy and keep your spa water looking and feeling great. These include ozone systems, inline mineral purifiers and salt-water chlorine and bromine generators. We won’t bore you with the science behind this kit but all of these systems have their merits and should be requested if available.

Lighting & waterfalls

Spa lighting is important for both safety after-dark and also to add ambience and mood to the experience. Most spas now have LED multi-coloured lighting of some kind inside the tub, which can randomly scroll through the colour spectrum or be set to your favourite colour. Backlit pillows, topside controls and jets are also

now available. Exterior cabinet lights are popular because they add extra ambience to the spa environment and also provide an after-dark safety benefit to prevent tripping or falling on spa entry or exit. Waterfalls are also a great way of adding ambience, and some spas have backlit waterfalls for that extra-special after-dark effect. Make sure that waterfalls can be manually turned off for those times when you want a quieter spa environment and when the spa is not in use.

Multimedia options

State-of-the-art spas are generally being made with modern stereo systems and smartphone-linked compatibility, usually via Bluetooth. Some manufacturers offer built in TV systems or make them available as optional extras. Such extras may seem good at the time but don’t forfeit hydrotherapeutic performance, or general build quality, so that you can watch ‘The X Factor’ in your tub!

Hot tubbing is about all-yearround relaxation, escapism and the uninterrupted chance to spend real quality time connecting with your loved ones for at least half-an-hour every day. Don’t miss the opportunity to ditch the TV remote and actually talk to each other instead...you won’t regret a minute of it! ❚

Waterfall

Multimedia system

Control panel

Photo © Artesian Spas

RETAILER UK'S LARGEST INDEPENDENT

Award Leisure is a familyrun business that has been trading for 34 years and has become the number one retailer of hot tubs, swim spas and outdoor leisure products with five award-winning showrooms in Lincolnshire, Warwickshire, Birmingham, Cheshire and London plus a NEW 7,500sq ft superstore providing the most extensive choice for customers. With over 70 Hot Tubs, Swim Spas, Gazebos, Saunas, Pizza Ovens and Garden Buildings on display it's not hard to see why Award Leisure grows from strength to strength.

Award Leisure has grown significantly into a successful franchise with six operating stores sustaining growth year on year, with four owned plus two franchisees and counting. The business was recently nominated by the British Franchise Association for ‘Emerging Franchisor of the Year’. What sets Award Leisure apart from other hot tub retailers is not only the ‘one stop’ shop, but their vast experience in garden design and landscaping over three decades, helping customers successfully develop their outdoor leisure projects; o ering the whole package from decking, hot tubs, swim spas, outdoor

enclosures and other leisure products –designed to make a garden a home and social hub all year round. Every store features private wet test demonstration facilities and regularly host education events so you can discover how to properly maintain your purchase and enjoy all the benefits of it for years to come.

Only the best

Award Leisure uses the most reliable, industry certified and established manufacturers in their field and with no distribution chain they guarantee that their prices will not be beaten on like for like products.

A dedicated, award-winning customer service team offer assistance with all of your product’s needs; with a five-year peace of mind plan offered on Hot Tub and Swim Spas for annual servicing, and in store water tests and 24 hour technical and chemical advice.

It's no wonder Award Leisure was the first industry retailer to gain Which?

Trusted Trader Accreditation and is consistently WhatSpa? Approved as well as being voted ‘Retailer of the Year’ at the UK Pool & Spa Awards

In fact, since the business was first established in 1984, Award Leisure has gained unrivalled recognition from both the industry and manufacturers by amassing multiple top awards including the latest honours from Canadian manufacturer Coast Spas for exceptional sales and customer service.

In-store experience

When visiting Award Leisure, it is certainly an experience to remember – the range of outdoor leisure products ooze luxury and quality and the large display of products enables most customers to find a product that matches their budget. They also have the major advantage of being able to provide finance options from Hitachi Finance, which include the popular ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ scheme, an Interest Free option and flexible low interest repayment terms of up to ten years.

The fully trained and qualified sales team are expert in explaining the unique features whilst understanding your needs and requirements to ensure you find exactly what you are looking for! Also on offer are complimentary refreshments, and sometimes on weekends fresh cooked pizza from a live wood fired pizza oven!

It is easy to see how Award Leisure attracts customers from far and wide with such a stress-free buying experience from the initial showroom visit, through to delivery and installation. The aftercare team then takes over the mantle with services such as water maintenance training and annual servicing for owners.

New for 2020

Award Leisure continue to invest in the very best products to give customers the biggest choice. For 2020 they have the new hydrotherapy and ergonomic focused hot tub called Purfikt. A revolutionary spa with no compromises, designed with sleek ergonomic lines and a modern aesthetic. Created by artisans and engineers to combine beauty with hydrotherapy.

Cambridge Calling!

Award Leisure will open their newest store near Cambridge, a massive showroom with a fully landscaped outdoor area and large garden buildings display. ❚

Tel: 0808 169 6555

www.awardleisure.com

❝Every store features private wet test demonstration facilities and regularly host education events so you can discover how to properly maintain your purchase.❞

SLEEP MATTERS

Rising numbers of people from all age groups; whose lives and health are being blighted by tiredness, sleeping problems, and chronic insomnia; are finding it harder to achieve the restorative qualities of a good night’s sleep. This is leading to concerns that it could result in early dementia and Alzheimer’s cases and critical illnesses reaching record levels.

Once you purchase a quality hot tub from a reputable showroom supplier you can take the important step of incorporating it into a regular pattern of daily behaviour to achieve quality sleep. A soothing soak as part of a healthy lifestyle will help to reset your body clock and improve the quality and quantity of your nightly sleep, which will enhance the clearance of the bad beta-amyloid protein, especially when it is combined with a suitable evening routine in anticipation for a restorative slumber.

Sleep studies

Sleep studies by researchers from the University of California Berkeley have highlighted that sleep helps to ‘cleanse’ the brain and lack of deep sleep or poor sleep patterns can result in the build-up of beta-amyloid that attacks the brain. A study revealed that participants with the highest levels of beta-amyloid had the poorest quality sleep. They also performed the worst on memory tests, while continuing a vicious cycle of poor sleep and poor memory with beta amyloid build up.

“The more beta-amyloid you have in certain parts of your brain, the less deep sleep you get and, consequently, the worse your memory,” reported senior

author of the study Matthew Walker; “Additionally, the less deep sleep you have, the less e ective you are at clearing out this bad protein. It’s a vicious cycle.”

Tech surge

The surge in the use of mobile devices to maintain contact with family and friends, as well as the stress of keeping up with the latest developments of fellow users on social media platforms, has exacerbated the problems of those who already struggle to drop o and sleep restfully. A modern culture of being constantly ‘switched on’ to advanced technological

gadgets has now created a major worry for health experts; who have highlighted that the lack of a healthy bedtime routine, to ensure the correct sleep cycle for our individual bodies, is resulting in an increasingly dangerous problem of tiredness among all age groups and the worry that early dementia and Alzheimer’s cases will dramatically increase.

Tests on mice, as part of new research published this year, has highlighted the importance of deep sleep to ward o the risks of early dementia and that those who got fewer hours, but higher quality sleep had a lower risk of dementia than

A hot tub can enhance sleeping patterns and provide a natural solution to eliminate insomnia problems that could lead to other health issues.

those who had prolonged light sleep, or poor sleeping patterns during the recommended eight hours of slumber.

“Sleep is critical to the function of the brain's waste removal system and this study shows that the deeper the sleep the better,” reported study lead author Professor Maiken Nedergaard, of the University of Rochester Medical Centre (URMC); who has been building on the discovery that the ‘glymphatic system’ performs a unique process of ‘removing waste’ to prevent the build-up of plaque in the brain during quality sleep.

Danger alert

While we can all experience the occasional loss of a good night’s sleep, which can leave us feeling irritable and out of sorts; there are other more dangerous consequences of having to endure prolonged periods without enough sleep.

Take a drive along any motorway and you will generally see signs warning that tiredness can kill. Not only can lack of sleep hinder your reaction time, the more serious element of falling to sleep at the wheel can be fatal to yourself or other occupants of vehicles on the motorway or road you are on.

In the UK, it is estimated that as many as one in five of all motor tra c accidents are because of tiredness or falling asleep while driving.

To counteract this potential danger many drivers who are setting o on car journeys while su ering from lack of sleep may be resorting to drinking more ca einated drinks, such as tea, co ee or very highlyca einated energy drinks to try to reduce the impact of tiredness. But in regular higher use and quantities, ca eine can raise blood pressure and pulse, which consequently puts a strain on the heart.

Unhealthy e ects

Studies have found that a lack of sleep can also lead to stress, and an unhealthy increased appetite. Good quality sleep helps to regulate levels of leptin and ghrelin, which are hormones that are associated with appetite and hunger. The consequences then of these hormones becoming unregulated could result in becoming overweight and obese, as well as increasing the risk of a heart attack and premature death.

According to the European Heart Journal: ‘those who had trouble falling asleep and remaining asleep each night were three times more likely to develop heart failure than those who reported no trouble sleeping’.

Deteriorating skills

It is believed and recommended that most adults need around seven to nine hours sleep at night. We often feel irritable and have a shorter fuse before our tempers erupt when we are tired. Sleep deprivation can also make us feel more emotional and result in a deterioration of interpersonal skills and communication capabilities that can have a major impact on our relationships and work.

Our reaction times decrease and problem solving becomes di cult, while creativity can go out of the window if we are feeling below par because of a lack of sleep. Unfortunately, a negative impact on cognitive functions can lead to poor long-term memory; as well as an inability to concentrate and pay attention.

If you are constantly tired and worried about your lack of sleep you should always consult your GP. A hot tub soak every night, though, may be the ideal cure if you are only prone to the occasional sleepless night.

Sleep stages

During sleep our bodies repair themselves, while our mind organises, stores and links our memories. During this time important hormones that control vital body functions are then regulated in the bloodstream; and as a result, our immune systems are strengthened so that we are capable of fighting o common minor illnesses and reduce the risk of more serious diseases. We alternate between di erent types of sleep throughout the night, as part of the sleep cycle. There are two main types of sleep during the sleep cycle, which are non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye-movement (REM) sleep.

It is known that NREM accounts for approximately 75 per cent of sleep time and Stage One is the transitional stage of being awake and beginning to fall asleep. Once we reach Stage Two our bodies are more relaxed, breathing and heart rate slow down, and we become less aware of environment and sound and light. Stage Three of NREM sleep is the deepest phase of sleep and the one that is the most beneficial to our overall health and mental wellbeing. Various hormones are released into our bloodstream during this stage, which help to regulate and control tissue and muscle growth; as well as helping to repair and regulate our metabolism and appetite.

Generally, REM sleep does not occur until approximately 90 minutes to two hours after we first fall asleep. During this time of REM sleep our brains are more active than during NREM sleep, which is why dreaming occurs at this stage. Our bodies are very relaxed at this stage and blood is concentrated to the brain, rather than our muscles. This REM level of sleep then allows our bodies to restore physical and mental energy.

Lack of quality NREM and REM sleep on a regular basis can lead to many problems in our everyday lives. It can greatly influence performance and behaviour; as well as having a big impact on our relationships and careers.

Sleep hygiene

With the decision to purchase a top quality hot tub, there are also many ways that you can benefit from what is termed as good ‘sleep hygiene’. This is used to describe the behavioural and environmental factors that influence our capability to benefit from the ability to fall asleep and gain a good quality of sleep.

While a hot tub can soothe and ease away any aches and pains or relax you from the daily stress and strains of the day, it is often advisable not to take a soak immediately before bedtime as your body needs to cool down su ciently to allow it to fall asleep and remain asleep properly.

Once you begin a regular routine of using your hot tub on a daily basis an hour or two before bedtime you will alert your body that you are preparing for bed and improve the quality and quantity of sleep.

If you are including exercise in your pre-bedtime routine then do it much earlier than your hot tub session and sleep time, so that you can soothe your aching muscles with your hot tub’s advanced hydrotherapy functionality. ➧

12 Tips

If you are struggling from poor quality sleep or insomnia, follow these 12 simple tips for a more restful night’s sleep:

Get a workout

Research shows that undertaking at least 20 minutes a day of cardiovascular exercise like walking, cycling, running or swimming strengthens circadian rhythms, stimulates the release of endorphins and may stimulate longer periods of slowwave sleep, the deepest and most restorative phase of sleep.

Make lists

If you tend to lie in bed thinking about everything you have to do tomorrow, set aside time in the evening to make plans for the next day. Writing them down will help you to clear your mind before bedtime.

Cut ca eine

If you’re having trouble sleeping, it’s important to reduce, if not eliminate, ca eine in your diet. If you can’t give it up entirely, at least try to stay away from ca eine within four to six hours of bedtime. Instead, have a warm, milky drink or herbal tea.

Limit alcohol

Whilst alcohol can help you to drop o , it also alters your sleep patterns and the quality of your sleep. When the alcohol level in your body drops a few hours later, it wakes you up, making it di cult to sleep peacefully for the rest of the night.

Butt out

Nicotine is a stimulant, just like ca eine and can disrupt your sleep. Avoid smoking in the hours directly before bedtime.

Eat lightly

A heavy meal just before bed isn’t good for your sleep. Eat lightly, if at all, before bed, and avoid foods that might cause stomach trouble—like anything that’s spicy, fatty, or fried.

Set a schedule

Going to bed and getting up at roughly the same time every day will programme your body to sleep better. Choose a time when you’re likely to feel tired and sleepy.

Enjoy a soak

Enjoy a relaxing hot tub soak at around 37 degrees Celsius for at least 20 minutes every day and at least two hours before you want to go to sleep to allow your body to cool down again. This will induce powerful sleep-enhancing endorphins.

Put away that tablet

If you want to read before bed, don’t use a smartphone, tablet or other light-emitting e-reader. Studies have found that people who use these devices at bedtime take longer to fall asleep and have disrupted circadian rhythms.

Cool it down

You don’t want Arctic temperatures, but a cool bedroom— around 19-21 degrees Celsius is best for sleep, research suggests.

Clear the clutter

Many people relax more easily when their bedrooms aren’t cluttered and full of distractions, so try going minimalist in your bedroom, or at the very least, keep things tidy.

Get up

If you’re tossing and turning and getting more and more frustrated with your inability to drop o , staying in bed may just make it worse. Get up and do something relaxing, like reading a book, until you feel drowsy.

stimulus that could trigger your body to ‘reawaken’ and make your brain more active than it should be as bedtime approaches. So, try to prevent use of your computer, mobile device or tablet as you approach the immediate period before retiring to the bedroom.

If you are a smoker then avoid smoking at least an hour before bedtime as nicotine is also a stimulant. It is also commonly known that consuming large meals before bedtime should be avoided, as they can make our bodies feel uncomfortable and unwilling to fall asleep.

Take care with any drinks with ca eine and alcohol, as they are stimulants and may hinder your chances of a sound night’s sleep. So naturally they should be cut out before bedtime.

Perfect environment

Any extra elements of good ‘sleep hygiene’, to create the ideal surroundings for your perfect sleeping environment, should incorporate ways of keeping cool. As a rule, it is advisable that your body should be cool to sleep e ectively. So, you could use a lighter duvet or blanket on your bed during sleep; have a window open or use a fan in the room.

Along with creating a cool environment, the room where you sleep should be quiet, dark and comfortable. If it is possible, aim to have your sleeping area free from distracting gadgets. Many people use their mobile devices for their alarm call in the morning. But if it is causing you to lose sleep or is disturbing your sleep pattern then possibly consider purchasing a standard alarm clock or radio alarm.

It is best to always keep sleep time routines the same and consistent. Try to stick to the same bedtime and wake-up times; and allow enough time to gain the benefits of a good night’s sleep. So that your body gains the necessary benefits and so that you are not feeling tired during the day.

Some fitness trackers can also automatically track how long and how well you sleep. You can set a sleep goal and bedtime reminder to form good ‘sleep hygiene’ habits and a silent alarm can also help you to wake up. ❚

Photo © Sundance Spas

MASTERING a Better Life

If you want to master a better life with one of the most popular hot tubs on the planet from a manufacturing giant that has decades of production experience then the UK’s number one retailer can provide you with top quality choices, as part of a free delivery and installation service.

USA manufacturer Master Spas has swimming legend Michael Phelps as its brand ambassador and is helping hot tub owners to dive into a ‘Live Life Better’ philosophy with top quality designs that are being exclusively supplied to British customers by national television stars

The Hot Tub Superstore

Star status

Due to their ‘number one’ billing in the international and UK market, both Master Spas and The Hot Tub Superstore have been specially selected by documentary producers wanting to go behind the scenes at their headquarters and provide viewers with an insight into their respective manufacturing and retailing operations.

As America’s largest hot tub manufacturer, with 100 per cent of the production process being conducted entirely within the USA, Master Spas was chosen to showcase its state-of-the-art 33-acre production headquarters in Fort Wayne, Indiana, as part of a ‘How it’s made’ documentary feature on The Discovery Channel

Television cameras have also provided coverage of the working life of the UK’s leading independent hot tub retailing and distribution service at the Blackpool-based headquarters of The Hot Tub Superstore, for the ‘Hot Tub Britain’ documentary by ITV

Master crafted

With a management team that has over 150 years of spa manufacturing success Master Spas has gained legendary status in the market with ‘Master crafted’ designs that are exceptionally economical and produced to provide peace of mind performance with a host of wellness capabilities. This includes the exclusive Master Force Bio-Magnetic Therapy System that is standard on all the Master Spas hot tubs.

For centuries magnetic therapy has been utilised to help relieve pain, improve circulation, reduce swelling and alleviate stiffness and as a Master Spas owner you can take advantage of the benefits of the Master Force Bio-Magnetic Therapy System that applies magnetic therapy to pressure points along the neck, shoulders and back.

Triple protection

When it comes to water care technology

Master Spas has a triple advantage over inferior hot tub manufacturers. To ensure crystal clear and safe water within all its hot tubs Master Spas has incorporated three important elements in its EcoPur Charge Filtration System. The water care process involves the unique combination of copper and zinc in the EcoPur filters to help eliminate many heavy metals and microorganisms, while the inclusive ozone and UV-C light elements provide additional extra safe water functionality.

Six appeal

As part of its exclusive supplier status, The Hot Tub Superstore provides customers with a stress-free approach to purchasing models from the Force, Evolution, and Legend ranges.

Featuring six ergonomically designed seats the Force 8, Legend 6 and Evolution S2 have all become best-selling models in the UK. They all have a lounger seat within their designs that also incorporate QuietFlow 24-hour circulation pumps.

Along with WhatSpa? Approved service credentials, the appeal of these six-seater models is that they cost very little to run. For example, the Legend 6 has achieved tested running costs of just 60p per day, and the Force 8 has tested running costs of 67p per day, while the Evolution S2 has only running costs of 68p per day.

Nationwide delivery

Thanks to the free nationwide delivery and professional installation services from The Hot Tub Superstore and its specially selected Master Spas Partners you can now have the stress free and relaxed capability to obtain a Master Spas hot tub from the Force, Evolution, and Legend ranges.

For a small deposit of £95, you can reserve your respective hot tub choice online at www.thehottubsuperstore.co.uk and by visiting the Blackpool showroom at the Trident Business Centre, Amy Johnson Way, and then let the delivery and installation team provide you with professional assistance.

This service is perfect if you want to achieve a relaxed and stress-free purchasing process without the worry of stock not being available. ❚

✆ Contact Details

Tel: 01253 599330

Email: sales@thehottubsuperstore.co.uk

www.thehotubsuperstore.co.uk

Stars IN THEIR

Professional athlete Kimberley Morrison is one of the rising stars of triathlon and has become a keen advocate of Jacuzzi hot tub hydrotherapy as part of her recovery process while honing three critical sporting disciplines to reach the pinnacle of her sport.

Jacuzzi has now become Kim’s main sponsor and has been closely following her blossoming career, along with other wet leisure official partners, Wensum Pools, Certikin, and Endless Pools, with success highlights including first place finishes in the 2016 Ironman 70.3 Buenos Aires and 2017 Ironman 70.3 Texas ahead of her debut in the 2019 Vega Ironman World Championships in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

One of Kim’s strengths is her power on the bike and she has managed to break a number of course records during the bike stages of Triathlon events; including at Ironman70.3 Dubai in 2017, in which she was leading the race at one stage with Ironman World Champion Daniela Ryf; and during the 2018 edition of Ironman Texas, in which she finished fifth.

Recovery retreat

As part of her training routine before her outing in the sweltering heat of Texas Kim utilised her own Jacuzzi J-480 IP for heat preparation. It also provides a hydrotherapy retreat to recover from rigorous exercising, running, swimming and cycling; as well as a place to socialise with her family and friends!

“With jets focused on the entire body the J-480 is ideal for recovery after training or a race and the lounge seat allows me to lay back and unwind,” divulged Kim; “Plus with space for six people it's also great for socialising with friends and family.

“After my hard sessions I make sure I stretch the abused muscle groups and have some food high in carbohydrates and protein and then I enjoy a 30 or 60-minute session in our Jacuzzi hot tub to help my muscles recover so I can perform to the best of my ability in my next session.”

Although Kim likes to spend some of her free time walking with her Alaskan Malamute, Suka; whenever she gets the chance she is always in her Jacuzzi.

Photo © Amy Williams / Jacuzzi

Professional athlete Kimberley Morrison is among a growing group of stars who advocate hot tub use in their homes to gain health benefits.

Photo © Kimberley Morrison / Jacuzzi

“I have our hot tub at home set to 38 and I spend between 30-60 minutes using all the jet options to promote circulation and aid recovery,” reports Kim.

Advocating wellness

Kim is following in the footsteps of confirmed hot tub hydrotherapy fan

Olympic Skeleton Bob Gold Medallist and TV star Amy Williams MBE who is now a strong advocate of the wellness capabilities of hot tubs following an awareness initiative by Jacuzzi.

Amy, who was part of the BBC’s commentary team for the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang where her successor Lizzy Yarnold gained a second Gold Medal after becoming an Olympic champion in the skeleton event at Sochi in

2014, was Great Britain’s first Winter Games individual gold medallist for 30 years and first woman for 52 years to get on the top podium when she became the 2010 female skeleton champion in Whistler, Vancouver, at the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Since then Amy has become a TeamGB Ambassador, motivational speaker and a TV star, including presenting on BBC’s ‘Ski Sunday’ and Channel 5’s ‘The Gadget Show’ programmes, following her retirement in 2012 and has assisted Jacuzzi with highprofile promotion of its sponsorship of Alpine Ski World Cup Races.

“The relaxation you can get from sitting in a Jacuzzi is amazing,” enthuses Amy. “You’ve got so many other benefits as well, from mental wellness to de-stressing at the end of a long day.

“To sit in a Jacuzzi with some massaging jets on your back really relaxes your posture and eases any aches and pains.”

Maximum hydrotherapy

Sally Gunnell OBE, DL is another golden athlete who has become a TV and motivational speaker star since turning her back on professional sport and has recently upgraded her hot tub to a Jacuzzi J-495 to gain maximum ‘home comforts’ hydrotherapy benefits.

After gaining multiple Gold medals and the status of having held concurrent Commonwealth, European, World and Olympic 400m hurdles titles, Sally has since carved out a career as a television presenter and motivational speaker. ➧

Sally, who has four influential books to her name, utilises hydrotherapy as part of a healthy lifestyle. She has owned a Jacuzzi for 16 years and purchased her new model from the iconic brand’s J-400 designer collection for her family to enjoy wellness and communication benefits, as well as crucially helping to ease her lower back pain.

Whenever Sally has the time to unwind at home after a busy day she can take advantage of hot tub hydrotherapy pain relief for her back. Sally suffers from lower back pain and has revealed that she particularly enjoys the double bench seat in the J-495; which offers an intense lower back massage; helping to ease pain and enhance recovery.

“I’m delighted with our Jacuzzi hot tub,” enthused Sally, “The neck jets are also a huge benefit to relieving tension.”

Health force

Like Sally, Star Wars and Harry Potter films actor Warwick Davis has also joined the growing band of TV stars who advocate hot tub use in their home surroundings to enhance their communication strategies with family members as an extra bonus with multiple health benefits.

Warwick, who can be regularly seen on our television screens presenting ITV game show ‘Tenable’, has revealed that he would never want to be without his HotSpring hot tub to provide his family with a place to chat while he takes advantage of ‘the force’ of advanced hydrotherapy technology.

“I suffer a lot with my joints and sitting in the warm water of the hot tub and having the bubbles help to ease those pains,” divulges Warwick. “Part of it is relaxation, helping the muscles to relax around those painful areas.”

Warwick, who previously presented the revised version of ‘Celebrity Squares’ and played two roles in the Harry Potter films; and was Wicket the Ewok in one of eight Star Wars film roles, revealed that hydrotherapy helps to ease pain naturally and increase the bond between his family. “I’m all for ways of trying to reduce pain without taking pain killers and hydrotherapy is a really important one,” explained Warwick; “It’s also a way to get together and chat and digest the day. It’s a fantastic way for us as a family to bond.”

Hot designs

After shooting to stardom as Britain’s most recognisable gymnast, with four Olympic Games medals to his name and lifting the BBC’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ trophy, Louis Smith MBE can now recover from TV and stage appearances with his own hot tub ‘signature’ designs.

In 2016 Louis became the only British gymnast to win medals in three different Olympics after gaining a Silver Medal in Rio 2016, to add to his previous Olympic Games pommel horse successes. In recent years he has teamed up with fellow Strictly contestants Aston Merrygold, of JLS fame, and McFly drummer Harry Judd to launch the ‘Rip it Up’ dance show after finishing second in the Channel 4 series ‘The Jump’.

Louis had been planning to qualify for this summer’s 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, but qualifying criteria changes forced him to rethink the decision. He then officially retired from competitive gymnastics after a quarter of a century in the sport.

“From a young age it became my dream to compete at an Olympic Games and represent Great Britain,” said Louis; “So to have had the opportunity to do that on three separate occasions, and bring home four Olympic medals in the process, is something I will forever cherish.”

In the last two years since the retirement announcement Louis has been utilising his dancing shoes again for successful outings of ‘Rip it Up’ in the West End and afterwards can rely on hydrotherapy recovery from his own Louis Smith Signature Series of models by Cal Spas

“We wanted to focus on making the Louis Smith Signature Spas the very best in relaxation and function,” revealed Louis. ❚

Photo © Sally Gunnell / Euphoria

Lifestyle

Photo © Warwick Davis / HotSpring

Photo © Louis Smith / Cal Spas UK

DIGITAL DETOX

Sharing a tech-free soak in a hot tub to gain greater closeness with family and friends is helping tackle the problem of digital devices

People of all ages are now constantly tuned into their mobile devices. There is now a growing trend, though, to find ways of ‘switching off’ from the distraction of technology and hot tubs are providing the perfect ‘digital detox’ strategy.

We are constantly informed that technology developments are supposed to enhance humankind but it has become clear that the digital overload in our constantly ‘switched on’ 21st century lives is causing concern in the classroom, friction in families, and break ups in relationships; which in turn has resulted in the growth in ‘detox’ strategies to help ease going ‘cold turkey’ from the constant lure of mobile devices.

It has been reported that one in three children are using tablets before they can even talk, and the problem of digital addictions has become so bad that the government is drawing up new strategies to prevent children excessively using social media and viewing adult content by imposing ‘age restrictions’.

After you make a conscious decision to take regular tech-breaks and truly embrace the ownership of your hot tub and the outdoor lifestyle, though, it will produce the additional positive social benefit of being able to share a soak with family and friends.

As the saying goes, it’s ‘good to talk’, and the bonus of reconnecting with loved ones and socialising in soothing

warm water is the perfect tonic to untangle from the web of day-to-day technology distractions and mobile gadget lives with never-ending updates from electronic communications.

Hijacked households

Previously, shared mealtimes gave families a perfect time to interact and catch up on the day’s news, but the advanced gadget-rich world that we now live in has resulted in households having dinner tables hijacked by technology to the extent that many of us are captivated by mobile technology that we become oblivious to the lives of those returning home from work, schools and colleges, especially when social media stress prevails.

eroding face-to-face communication.

The fear of missing out or ‘FOMO’ and an anxiety to check their latest social media updates and communications via Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp and Youtube has increased the use of digital tech to new heights among the younger generation viewing social ‘stories’, trending content and online news.

This year the mainstream media has once again been highlighting that parents have realised the danger of being totally submersed in a digital world and are now heeding the advice from psychiatrists and communication experts who have warned that the influence of technology is becoming a hindrance to interpersonal relationships and spawning a new modern social problem among the young and old alike. Open access to adult content resulted in the government’s digital minister Margot James introducing age verification from July 2019, while other strategies have been discussed to limit children’s use of social media.

“The introduction of mandatory age-verification is a world-first and we’ve taken the time to balance privacy concerns with the need to protect children,” said Mrs James; “We want the UK to be the safest place in the world to be online.”

Enforcing age verification restrictions to prevent children viewing adult content has been welcomed by online safety group Internet Matters; which is also advocating greater communication between parents and their children about online viewing.

“Parents overwhelmingly support age-verification and are confident it will make a difference,” said Carolyn Bunting of Internet Matters

“We must recognise that digital solutions aren’t the only answer and parents can’t become complacent. There is no substitute for regular and honest conversations with your child about what they’re getting up to online.”

Generational divide

Warnings of a ‘generational divide’ and increased government intervention follow a survey by technology experts in the UK that has revealed almost fifty percent of young adults interviewed admitted tweeting, texting, or sending email from their rooms to members of their families living in the same house; rather than communicating verbally.

Worryingly, the survey also revealed that a large percentage of teenagers in the developed world have virtually cut off their parents from their lives because of their over-reliance on tablets, laptops, smart phones, and other tech devices, which medical experts predict will result in later lives being blighted by both physical and mental illnesses.

Even though Chartered Clinical Psychologist Dr Tanya Byron, who specialises in working with children and adolescents, producing The Byron Review ‘Safer Children in a Digital World’ called for a national strategy for child internet ➧

use and safety; there has continued to be an explosion of use of digital tech in the home and schools.

“There is a generational digital divide which means that parents do not necessarily feel equipped to help their children in this space – which can lead to fear and a sense of helplessness,” said Dr Byron.

Mobile distraction

Visit any playground or school at home time and you will generally see parents preoccupied by their mobiles, rather than monitoring the activities of their children, which has resulted in some schools resorting to extreme measures such as making signs declaring ‘greet your child with a smile not a mobile’.

Due to this obvious example of digital distraction by their parents, it is no surprise to learn that more than 90 per cent of British teenagers own a mobile and that during the past few years there has been a significant rise in the number of teenagers being treated for technology addiction by London’s Nightingale Hospital.

A poll by the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) has also revealed that most of the school leaders surveyed had the belief that the mental health and wellbeing of pupils had suffered over the past year because of social media.

Amazingly, researchers have reported that banning mobiles from schools has the effect of providing pupils with an extra week’s education over an academic year; after market research firm Childwise reported that children aged between five and 16 currently spend, on average, sixand-a-half hours a day glued to screens.

Social soak

Despite experts declaring that the benefits of socialising continue to be lost to almost an entire youth generation due to the dependence on digital technology, communication strategies can quickly be revitalised between family and friends by purchasing a hot tub to gather in and get the conversation flowing.

Multiple generations of one family will rarely share a vision passionately enough to carry on dedicating time to it, but the reality is that every member of the family will enjoy a regular soak in the hot tub. There’s a glorious ‘unplugged’ feel about hot tub ownership that allows you to soak away the daily strains and stresses of modern life that appeals to all ages with the convenience of being at your own home.

A warm and relaxing soak with harmonious hot tub family conversation, and the occasional duck racing contest or ‘spa-rty’ game, can be the perfect recipe for open communication with your loved ones that will allow you to stay ‘in the know’ of their day-to-day lives.

During the year, and especially on cold winter evenings, a hot tub can be a great location to gather with family members and friends for socialising on a regular basis. Obviously, the larger options in your local showrooms would help you to accommodate larger family groups. There is also the additional benefit for hot tub owners of a healthy hydrotherapy massage being the ‘icing on the cake’.

Outdoor virtues

Even though the UK’s hot tub market continues to thrive, there is still a long way to go to catch up to hot tub owners in the USA and Canada who have been embracing the shared soak benefits for the past three decades. Similarly, our Southern European and Australian counterparts have embraced the natural virtues of spending quality time outdoors

with family and friends to break the cycle of constantly using digital devices. It incorporates frequent, if not total, alfresco cooking and dining that not only provides healthier meal options but also increases their happiness and longevity. Instead of going to the expense and having the stress and emotional turmoil of emigrating to countries where outdoor lifestyle is part of the culture, why not start the trend in your family, as part of a new chapter in your digital detox life, by purchasing a hot tub.

Once you gain your dream quality hot tub you can incorporate it within a designated space to create an all-yearround outdoor living and socialising area that can help to enhance communication with your loved ones and friends as well as creating the additional benefit of you all gaining improved health and wellness.

To gain the benefit, though, the important rule is ‘regular use’, whether it is for shared soak catch up time or the perfect self-indulgent tonic to unwind on your own before a sound night’s sleep. Trust us, whatever you decide to use your hot tub for, it will make your family much happier and well-connected. ❚

Photo © Master Spas

❝Communication strategies can quickly be revitalised between family and friends by purchasing a hot tub to gather in and get the conversation flowing.❞

SerenityNow

Since 1980, Hydropool has become one of the largest hot tub and swim spa retailers and manufacturers in the world. Whether it’s our products, knowledgeable advice, or after sales service and support, our team provides our customers not only great service but also the best experience in the hot tub industry. Our hot tubs and swim spas are sold in over 60 countries worldwide and we meet or exceed all international standards. Our unique Self-Cleaning and Triple Thermal Shield System enable us to meet the rigorous energyefficiency standards set out by the state of California and are the World’s First California Approved Hot Tub and Swim Spa manufacturer.

Always seeking perfection

The All NEW redesigned, reimagined Serenity Hot Tub has been introduced for 2020. Our innovation never stops and to that end Hydropool introduces an all new redesigned cabinet and frame. The new Unibody Frame cradles the all new Edgewater Shell and it all sits on a Poly Insulated floor sealing in the acrylic shell, cabinet and frame. Thus creating a completely sealed system that keeps the heat in and the cold out in the winter. In the summer heat can be released and regulated by the Ecoheat Exchange fully adjustable venting built into the cabinetry.

Science of immersion

Through our understanding and development of Zone Hydrotherapy and ergonomics of the human body, Hydropool has taken the science of immersion to the next level. This constant innovation has created a line of hot tubs that interacts with the human body in the most natural and effective way possible. Hydropool Zone Therapy is designed around you and your usage of the hot tub to help you benefit from a general sense of well-being. We are all unique individuals genetically and with varying lifestyles that all play a role in defining our sensitivity to a release of various tensions.

Ease of ownership

A new water management system for Serenity Hot Tubs includes a three stage filtration system that keeps water cleaner and clearer. The first stage is the Ultra Flow Grill with its Catch Barrier preventing debris from re-entering the hot tub. The second stage skimmer net traps large debris before reaching the filter cartridge. The new Wave filter cartridge with its much larger surface area filters more water than ever before and is made out of micro fiber with a dense inner core that traps the smallest particles and holds them. Clean and healthy spa water is the foundation of all Serenity Hot Tubs so that you can enjoy the cleanest water with the easiest system to operate and maintain your Serenity Hot Tubs performance.

Energy-efficiency

Our innovative HydroWise Thermal Shield Energy Efficient Insulation and superior WeatherSeal Cabinetry work in combination with our HydroWise Hard Cover to keep the heat in and the cold out. Combine this with the fact that our hot tubs are engineered to be the most energy efficient in the world, providing 37°C for just pennies a day.

Industry-leading guarantee

We stand behind the quality of our products with straight forward, no-nonsense protection. We offer an industry-leading hot tub guarantee.

The All NEW Serenity Hot Tub will give you peace of mind, body and soul right in your own backyard.

There’s exceptional quality and comfort in every Serenity Hot Tub, starting with our entry-level Serenity Special Edition 4L and 5L Hot Tubs right up to the Model 6800. All attractively-priced and packed with exciting standard features that are sure to please even the most budgetminded consumer.

The modern design and enticing ergonomics is sure to bring serenity to you and your guests, while delivering many years of fun and enjoyment for friends and family. ❚ www.hydropoolhottubs.com

❝We stand behind the quality of our products with straight forward, no-nonsense protection.❞

LOUNGER ALL-SEATER

The one decision that every hot tub buyer will have to make is whether to purchase a spa equipped with a ‘Lounge Seat’ or to opt for an ‘All-Seater’ layout. WhatSpa? Editor-in-Chief Nick Clamp explains the merits of each style.

When it comes to choosing the interior seating style of your dream hot tub, only wet testing will enable you and your family to truly decide if one (or more) lounge seats are right for your hot tubbing needs. Yet many consumers neglect this important element of the seating style before making a purchasing decision.

Leading manufacturers now produce a wide array of models with lounger or all-seater designs and so it is the responsibility of prospective owners to ensure that the seating of any purchase is suitable for their individual body shape and lifestyle; by consulting knowledgeable staff at a professional dealership and trying out a selection of hot tubs ahead of any purchase decision.

STYLES EXPLAINED Lounge Seat Spa

A ‘lounge seat’ or ‘lounger ‘is an elongated moulded seat that is shallower than a standard upright seat but where the bather is more reclined with their legs in a level or slightly elevated position. It is effectively the underwater equivalent of a garden lounger, or a bit like the seating position in one of the new breed of sofas or living room chairs that offers the ability to recline back so that the footrest rises up and you are lying almost horizontally.

Lounge seats typically have hydrotherapy jet positions that target the lower/mid back and shoulder/neck area and sometimes have additional jets that target areas such as wrists, thighs, calf muscles and feet. If you can find a lounge seat that fits your height, body shape and buoyancy levels, they can therefore offer a very relaxing all-over body massage.

It is imperative to wet test different lounge seats, as a common criticism of an ill-fitting lounge seat that is either too long or too deep, is that bathers feel like they are floating out of them, rather than feeling comfortable enough to enjoy the massage experience on offer. Don’t be tempted to sit in dry hot tubs to check for comfort and fit, as the experience will be completely different when the buoyancy of the water is taken into account.

same size and height a lounger suitable for one person will most likely be comfortable for the other. However, where one partner is much taller than the other it will be very difficult to find a perfect sized lounger for both of you. In this case, opt for a lounger that fits the person that prefers the lounger experience to conventional open style ‘bucket seats’.

The downside to lounge seats is that they can take up a large proportion of the seating space on offer, as they are long enough to take up the space of two or even three open style bucket seats.

Some spas are even equipped with two loungers, in which case a medium to large spa (up to 8ft/2.4m square) can only accommodate three or four bathers. The upside to choosing a dual-lounger spa is that you’ll never have to argue with your fellow bathers about who gets the lounger!

Lounge seats can vary dramatically in shape and size. Most lounge seats are designed for people who are average height or taller. Where a couple are the Lounger Dual

Lounger

All-Seater Spa

Put simply, an ‘all-seater’ layout is a catch-all label for hot tubs that don’t have a lounge seat. In reality, well-designed allseater spas have a good variety of seating shapes and depths to accommodate the needs of di erent bathers.

Some all-seater layouts are fairly open and ‘barrier-free’ so that bathers can easily move from one seat to another, and some are more contoured for additional support with seats that include moulded arm rests in what are sometimes termed ‘Captain’s chairs’.

Just like lounge seat spas, the importance of wet testing cannot be understated, as seating depths can vary enormously, and the only way to discern if a spa has the correct depths for all the members of your family is to try them when full of water.

Thanks to our Ancient Greek friend Archimedes, we know that an object immersed in water always displaces a volume of water equal to its own volume. So the more bathers (and their sizes) will dictate how far the level of water will rise in the hot tub which of course will a ect the depth of the water as more bathers enter. So for larger families, it is always recommended to choose a large spa with a bigger water capacity in the first place, as the water level will be less a ected by the number of bathers.

all facing each other. So if you plan to use your hot tub to entertain friends and family on a regular basis, perhaps this is the seating style of choice.

Adirondack seats

To make life slightly complicated, a small number of spas are equipped with a seat that is a cross between a lounge seat and a conventional bucket seat, whereby the bather is in a semi-reclined position. These seats are typically called ‘adirondack’ seats, named after the backward-sloping outdoor chair style designed by Thomas Lee in 1903. Adirondack seats take up less space than a lounge seat but still o er some of the body-cradling comfort of loungers and are therefore worth wet testing if your local showrooms have them available. For simplicity, in our coveted 2020 Best Buy

Awards from page 114, we class adirondack spas as loungers, and to make your life easy, all our models are labelled as either ‘A’ for ‘all-seater’ or ‘L’ for ‘lounge seater’.

Massage variety

The principle of all hot tub designs, irrespective of their seating style, is that bathers can move from seat to seat and experience a di erent hydrotherapy massage in each massage station, so that, once you’ve spent some time in each area of the spa, you have enjoyed a full-body hydrotherapeutic massage.

Jet types and positioning, along with the ability to control the massage flow for your preferences are critical to the hydrotherapy experience. But don’t underestimate the importance of seating contours and depths to ensure that the spa is suitable for the heights and sizes of the main bathers. ➧

The upside to an all-seater configuration is that they can open up a more sociable entertainment space, in that all the bathers are seated in the upright position and are All-seater

Adirondack

Lounger

All-seater

Don’t forget that you want a combination of deep and shallow seats, as you may feel the need to move to a shallower ‘cool-down’ seat if you feel too hot and need to expose your head, neck and shoulders to some cool ambient air to lower your body temperature. This is even more vital for children, who cannot self-regulate their body temperatures as efficiently as adults.

An often-overlooked factor of hot tub suitability is the size of the footwell, as this can be the busiest area of the spa when all the family (and their legs and feet) are enjoying the fun. Always look for a spa where the size of the footwell is commensurate to the number of seats in the spa. Also, if you enjoy reflexology (foot massage), wet test the models on your shortlist to check the positioning and feel of foot jets and foot domes.

Avoid ‘webshops’

Again, neglect to wet test at your peril if hydrotherapy is important to you to maximise the health and wellness benefits of regular hot tub sessions. You can’t tell if a spa is comfortable by looking at pictures and even watching videos of other people enjoying them!

While going online to purchase a hot tub from a ‘webshop’ poses many perils that we outline in our ‘Net Dangers’ feature on page 66, it will eliminate any opportunity to ‘try before you buy’. So, you should avoid ‘webshops’ at all costs if you want to prevent costly seating disappointments, as well as poor quality production problems.

If you do a detour and bypass the essential process of visiting a hot tub

showroom to gain an online ‘bargain’ there is no way you can possibly know if the seating design is going to be comfortable or suitable for your needs, whatever your choice may be.

Personal choice

Also, don’t be tempted to buy the same model as your pals or family members, as it is unlikely that your family will be anatomically similar to theirs, let alone your massage preferences.

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong answer to the question of ‘to lounge or not to lounge?’. But whatever you choose after wet testing, it will definitely be a hot tub model that ‘feels right’ to you and your loved ones; and you will inevitably avoid making the costly mistake of buying a spa that is not fit for the purpose you intended. ❚

All-seater calf jets

All-seater foot jets

Lounger

DANGERS NET

Serious

‘web shops’ that

WhatSpa?

Throughout the last decade the booming development of online shopping sites has ensured that waiting until the weekend to hit the road and go shopping is now a thing of the past. At our fingertips there are 24/7 ‘shop windows’ from both national and international companies that are providing us with the capability to browse at the time of our choosing and then with just a quick click allow us to make purchases of products that are then conveniently delivered to our own homes. This convenient ‘open all hours’ shopping experience may be ideally suited to all manner of small-ticket consumable products, but anybody that has had a bad experience trying to return faulty electronic goods to an online platform will know that it can spell frustration and disaster in certain circumstances.

Whilst buying online may be appropriate for purchasing entry-level inflatable hot tubs and paddling pools costing a few hundred pounds at most, it is certainly not recommended for more considerable investments involving thousands of pounds of your hard-earned income and savings, especially in the case of hot tubs, where water and electricity make unlikely bedfellows if strict safety regulations have not been observed during manufacture.

Industry warnings

Despite warnings from respective industry representatives, hundreds of unsuspecting consumers are finding out to their cost that there are many dangers of purchasing a hot tub in this way, as less-than-reputable traders hide behind the facia of anonymous registered o ces and glossy websites with constant fictitious sale o ers, whilst peddling

shoddy ‘grey imports’ that turn out to be very poor quality and even dangerous fire hazards in some cases.

“Unfortunately for trusting UK consumers, where large sums of money are involved in any market, a small dishonest underbelly of suppliers always seems to get ahead of the authorities and try to scam unsuspecting buyers; the hot tub industry is no di erent it is sad to say, especially when they can hide behind the facia of slick websites and social media profiles,” testifies Nick Clamp, WhatSpa?’s Editor-in-Chief.

A general word of caution applies here. If you cannot identify the provenance of a hot tub model from the website of a trader and trace it to a trusted manufacturer of good repute, it’s advisable to do more research and ask some searching questions about where it was manufactured and what quality assurance standards have been observed in its production.

dangers of purchasing poor quality ‘bargain’ hot tubs from virtual

use social media hype, have been diagnosed by the

team and industry training professionals.

In particular, before you commit to purchase, ensure that a full delivery, installation and commissioning, and water care training service is included in the price, as opposed to ‘kerbside delivery’ where you will be responsible for moving and installing an appliance that can weigh up to half a tonne! Also ask for warranty details in writing and ensure that parts as well as labour call-out charges are covered for at least 12-24 months.

Manufacturer traceability

Sadly, there also seems to be a growing trend for some online retailers to o er products typically manufactured in emerging economies, but then claim they are manufactured in the UK, North America, Canada or Europe, which may mislead customers into thinking they are buying a product from one country when it is actually from somewhere else entirely, where quality control and manufacturing standards can be far less exacting.

If you do your due diligence and purchase a quality hot tub from a trusted brand, not only will it give you many years of reliable service, it will also maintain a strong residual value should you ever wish to upgrade or sell it on. You are also guaranteed continuity of parts going forward so that it can be kept in great working order for decades if well serviced and maintained.

By stark contrast, some of the grey imports that are available are generally

only lasting a couple of years because, despite looking great in the pictures on the website, the model has been manufactured very cheaply using poor materials and unrecognisable fittings, pumps or heaters that cannot be replaced. From the moment that you hand over your hard-earned cash, products like this are literally devoid of value and will even cost you money to cut up and take away when they finally stop working and can’t be fixed.

Trusted reviews

Treat glowing testimonials placed on company’s websites and social media pages with an element of scepticism as they can be unauthentic or edited, and any negative feedback from disgruntled customers can easily be removed from social media feeds. WhatSpa? has even seen reports of disgruntled clients being ‘blocked’ from social media pages to prevent them from adding feedback that is deemed by the company to be potentially damaging, even though the complaints are valid.

For more trustworthy sources of ‘social proof’ look out for reputable third party review websites like Trustpilot, Reviews.co.uk and Feefo, who’s reviews and star ratings cannot be edited or deleted by the supplier. If a spa retailer is registered with any of these platforms, they will generally display their star rating on their website but you can also search their database by visiting the rating company’s websites.

Struck off

The perils of purchasing from hot tub ‘web shops’ have been highlighted recently following complaints of poor products and service by customers of Hot Price Tubs, which was incorporated in July 2016 by company director Dean Morley under the company name HOTPRICETUBS FR LTD. The online business was later dissolved by compulsory strike-off by Companies House in January 2018.

Hundreds of Hot Price Tubs customers were reported online as never gaining complete satisfaction and were left with products that quickly had major faults occurring upon delivery or within months, without the provision of warranties promptly being honoured. Consumers were then left scrambling to claim their money back via their finance schemes or credit card providers before Hot Price Tubs was officially dissolved.

After problems fulfilling orders occurred, an online news article by Gazettelive. co.uk reported that to help ease the backlog two new North East factories were established in Hartlepool to produce hot tub shells and fit components under the London Spas brand.

Alarmingly, one of the reader comments after the article states: ‘Our hot tub caught fire…I had to take them to court to get our money back’.

Reviewers on Yell.com urged consumers to avoid Hot Price Tubs after proclaiming it to be ‘the worst company in the world’. One review stated: ‘They ignore all phone calls…They take your money and are never heard of again.’

On TrustPilot Dale McGleenon wrote: ‘I was given a replacement and told in writing by Dean the owner that the replacement would come with a new 3 year warranty. Fast forward another 9 months and the replacement hot tub’s acrylic shell starts to bubble…I am told the warranty has expired…Be aware that the owner has another shell company he has created called Tubs2U’.

Dissolved service

Dangers of hot tub ‘web shop’ purchasing were also illustrated a few short years ago after online retailing operation Danz Spas brought the curtain down on its activities after announcing that it had ceased trading and was in the process of appointing a liquidator.

Thanks to celebrity endorsements and low-budget options, Danz Spas had tasted the sweet success of gaining a share of the online market over the course of a decade, but the tide turned and former favourable online reviews were overtaken by sour criticism about poor customer service, delivery of incorrect products, and faults not being rectified.

Disgruntled customers of the company, launched in 2006 by Daniel Thomas, were forced to report poor post-sales service after forking out thousands of pounds for problematic products.

On her ‘Google Review’ a clearly frustrated Danz Spas customer Emily Payton wrote: ‘Terrible customer service. My spa is just over a year old and the heater has broken. Called the company three times to try and speak to somebody. Call centre promised to get someone from technical to call me back and still no call back. Very frustrating. Pay a bit more for your spa and go with a company who have good customer care and will provide support post sale!’

Safety concerns

It wouldn’t be so bad if all online retailers abided by EU Distance Selling legislation and ethically offered good quality, reliable products with a rock-solid warranty, but the WhatSpa? editorial team has been alerted to the tactics of a small number of web-only retailers that hide behind slick websites, but offer dangerously sub-standard hot tubs that do not comply with technical safety standards.

“The worst part is that you can’t tell if a hot tub is built to technical safety and CE standards by looking at photographs and videos on websites,” testifies Nick Clamp, WhatSpa?’s Editor-in-Chief.

“Often these products look great on the surface, but the danger lurks beneath the cabinetry and manifests itself in plumbing that can pose entrapment safety risks, and equipment and electronics that are not fit for purpose.

“That’s without taking into account the risk to your capital when buying one of these sub-standard ‘grey imports’ that cannot be serviced or repaired and end up being a short-term liability rather than a long-term lifestyle asset to be enjoyed,” revealed Nick.

Bandit victims

Despite major campaigns from manufacturers and consumer warnings from trade organisations such as BISHTA

An online-bought poor quality hot tub

(British and Irish Spa & Hot Tub Association) and respected industry representatives, there are still some unsuspecting consumers who are finding out to their considerable cost that there are many dangers of purchasing a hot tub online.

Every year we come across atrocious examples of poor quality hot tubs that are dangerous and unfit for purpose, which have been purchased by British homeowners. Most of the time these hot tubs, purchased in good faith from unscrupulous online suppliers, simply fail to work and are then scrapped. Then there are those that are manufactured so poorly that they are almost inevitably going to cause injuries and even catch fire.

Even though there are many examples of terminal atrocities that have been uncovered by industry experts there is still the temptation to try and gain a ‘hot tub bargain’ from an online source; rather than gain the peace of mind from a trusted showroom dealer who will provide models with warranties that guarantee thousands of pounds of hard-earned savings are not going to be washed down the drain – literally – or pose a serious risk to the health of you and your family.

Imitation awareness

As part of its aim to raise awareness of the importance of seeking out a trusted hot tub dealership and eradicate the problem of consumers being deceived by bogus retailers, Jacuzzi has been running its ‘Beware of imitations’ marketing strategy for a number of years.

Joint partner of Jacuzzi dealership Euphoria Lifestyle Mike Robinson has an award-winning company website, which has been bestowed with Gold Award recognition from BISHTA, and knows only too well how it can help to increase sales. Yet he still believes that the online environment is fraught with ‘net dangers’ and is causing unsuspecting consumers to seek cheap models from dubious ‘web shop’ suppliers. These are then usually worthless within months, rather than lasting many years.

“Even though most people we speak to in our showroom eventually do purchase quality hot tubs from us or other showroom dealers; there are still those who speak with us and ignore all of our advice and try to get an online bargain,” divulged Mike.

“The trouble is, once most people have a bad experience with a high-ticket hot

Do’s and don’ts

■ Pay at least £100 of the deposit by credit card (not debit card) as this affords you the protection of the credit card supplier for the entire value of the purchase

■ Always buy from a showroom that you have visited in person. Don’t buy unseen from a website or online auction site (no matter how professional it looks)

■ Check the dealer is BISHTA or SPATA registered or WhatSpa? Approved

■ Make sure that delivery and installation are provided. If all that is offered is ‘kerbside delivery’ then walk away

■ Don’t pay the entire balance up front – a 25 per cent deposit is typical, with the remainder payable on or around the delivery day

■ Ask to see a copy of the warranty certificate, and make sure it covers parts and labour for a minimum of 12 months

tub product from a ‘web shop’ they are not likely to then go out and purchase a quality hot tub from a showroom dealership.

“It is worrying, but hopefully consumers who read the features by WhatSpa? and see awareness campaigns by BISHTA and brands such as Jacuzzi will think twice before risking their money on an online hot tub purchase that could be worthless junk not long after delivery.”

Price drive

Award-winning ‘Retailer of Excellence’ and WhatSpa? Approved dealer Jane Veysey, who runs All Swim Limited in Wales and has achieved an impressive hat-trick of BISHTA ‘Showroom of the Year’ Awards, is also warning consumers about false online claims and not to be driven into a purchase by low price points.

Jane promotes the Caldera Spas brand supplied to dealers in the UK by wet leisure product powerhouse Certikin from leading manufacturer Watkins Wellness that has recently reached the historic ‘industry first’ major milestone of having built its 1.5 millionth spa; and are committed to battling against the threat from poorly manufactured hot tubs from online ‘bandit’ suppliers.

“Unfortunately, there is still a problem of cheap and poorly manufactured hot tubs that are attracting people who are simply driven by price,” reports Jane.

■ If you are unsure about the provenance of your spa, ask the supplier to provide written assurance that the model is fully compliant with current CE standards

■ Ask to see inside the cabinet of the hot tub, as even poorly constructed hot tubs can look great from the shell side, but untreated softwood frames and messy plumbing and wiring can be hidden away behind cabinet panels

■ Upon delivery, demand to receive a comprehensive instruction manual with your spa (written in English) along with the warranty certificate

■ If you are unhappy with the quality of the product, complain in writing and send by recorded delivery post to the supplier within seven days of delivery and contact your local branch of Consumer Direct for free advice www.consumerdirect.gov.uk

“I think that consumers are being attracted by some of the false sales messages and claims about hot tubs that are being sold online. Some people are prepared to purchase a cheap hot tub online from just a picture, because it seems a simpler and easier route than having to visit a showroom.

“I tell prospective customers that they should visit showrooms to physically meet the staff, look at their hot tubs and wet test the ones that they think will suit them best.” ➧

Photo © 1Stop Spas

False advertising

Leading Coast Spas and Regency Spas hot tubs dealership network Award Leisure has been highlighting this problem and the fact that some first time buyers are still being lured into poor purchasing choices by false advertising of hot tub products.

To avoid purchasing poorly manufactured hot tubs, Chris Anthony from WhatSpa? Approved and BISHTA Gold Award-winning Award Leisure has urged hot tub consumers to seek out respected showroom retailers who can provide top quality products from reputable manufacturing companies.

“We know that there are unscrupulous suppliers who are making false claims about where their poor quality and dangerous hot tubs are being manufactured,” divulged Chris.

“These false claims can lead to major problems with poor products and poor after care services. So, we always strongly advise hot tub consumers to make sure that they do their research thoroughly and check the countries where hot tubs are being manufactured and the credibility of suppliers.”

Testing advice

Andrew Wroot, who is a leading WhatSpa?

Approved retailer of Sundance Spas as well as Jacuzzi and Marquis hot tubs, has over 20 years’ experience in the hot tub market and believes showroom research and wet testing is the best and only solution to avoid net danger risks.

Andrew and his thriving professional MySpa team in Leicestershire proudly promote a five-star rating on Trust Pilot and advocate that prospective customers should gain first-hand knowledge of hot tubs as part of a professional wet test experience, rather than risk the pitfalls of purchasing from an online picture and description.

“We always promote the fact that prospective owners of hot tubs should wet test products before purchasing them, rather than simply ordering one from a web site,” divulged Andrew.

“It’s the most reliable and trusted way for consumers to ensure the security and best outcome of their hot tub investment.”

Research and rights

Even though WhatSpa? would always strongly caution against purchasing a hot tub online, there is a great deal of Internet information that can be researched about retailers and hot tub manufacturers before visiting reputable showrooms.

Views of users in product reviews or testimonials may provide peace of mind for you or your partner ahead of splashing out a large sum of your savings, while sites such as our very own whatspa.co.uk provide an independent launch pad of valuable guidance for your online research of hot tub brands and products. All the retailers and brands on the whatspa.co.uk website are WhatSpa?

Approved so that you can buy with confidence, knowing that our team of experts have pre-researched these companies. To see the accreditation criteria for WhatSpa? Approved status go to www.whatspa.co.uk/logos

This homework and subsequent knowledge of the market will provide you with confidence when you visit hot tub showrooms, and will ensure that dealers can guide you further with specific advice on your personal health and lifestyle requirements and hot tub brand choices, rather than starting from scratch and having to explain all the facets of the hot tub manufacturing and wellness capabilities. It will also help to build a relationship with your chosen dealership for future water treatment purchases, or servicing requirements, which will enhance your enjoyment of your hot tub by ensuring it is always working in tip-top condition.

For those that still want to take the gamble and purchase big-ticket items online, it should be noted that you are covered by the same Statutory Distance Selling Regulations that apply to buying from your home via telesales or mail order. A key element is the right to a cooling off period, which most traders usually allow 14 days for, and a refund in the event that you are not satisfied with the hot tub.

Another aspect of these regulations is that consumers purchasing products

online have the right to clearly defined information before placing an order, as well as a complete refund if products or services are not delivered by an agreed date, or within 30 days of the order being registered.

Online shoppers who make credit card payments should also have the peace of mind extra protection against the seller for breach of contract if the need arises following goods being faulty or not being supplied. This policy could prove to be vital if the online trader goes out of business and it applies to goods valued at £100 or more but under the £30,000 price tag for a single item. It applies even if your credit card has been used for a deposit payment.

Immediate action

Notify your supplier as soon as you believe you have received faulty goods and this should be done via phone, email or mail, while making a note of the date, time and name of the person you spoke to. Also retain written or printed records of emails and copies of correspondence.

Whenever you want to make an online purchase, you should also firstly check to see if the online company has a secure and encrypted method of payment and is approved by leading independent bodies such as TrustUK Additional security for your purchases, meanwhile, can be gained by registering to online fraud protection like the ‘Verified by Visa’ scheme.

It should also be noted that registered companies with a website are legally required to have their company number and registered address displayed on their website. You can confirm that the website you are looking to purchase products from is a credible one by utilising the free Companies House Webcheck Service at www.companieshouse.gov.uk/info ❚

Spa servicing from a trusted spa retailer

Another DESIGN TRIUMPH from Jacuzzi®

Thousands of us globally know that Jacuzzi® has been at the forefront of the hot tub industry since its inception, safe in the knowledge that we are experiencing the very best home hydrotherapy available. Whilst their technology undeniably provides ultimate relaxation and massage relief, the team at Jacuzzi® are also constantly pushing the boundaries on a visual level.

With that in mind, let us introduce you to their new face of hydrotherapy; the J-300™ collection. As their signature range, the J-300™ collection has always had comfort at its forefront, what is irresistibly exciting about this face-lifted collection though is the advances that have been made in its striking appearance. With the introduction of stunning ProFinish™ cabinetry each model in the range shouts style and sophistication, even before you immerse yourself in their soothing waters. Another particularly stylish and charming feature is the architect-inspired optional corner lighting, which is not only visually arresting, but also provides added illumination to keep you safe on those darker evenings.

Never ones to rest on their laurels, the designers at Jacuzzi® are always searching for more ways to heighten your experience at every touch point. Well, they’ve succeeded yet again, this time by unveiling their unique HydroSoothe™ massage pillow.

This enviable feature delivers not only a superior head and neck massage, it also treats you to a soothing, delicate cascade of warm water over your neck and shoulders without any splashing or spraying.

Now boasting eight high quality models to choose from in the range, the hardest decision you face in the showroom is which one! Whilst this collection showcases some pioneering improvements, it has also retained many of the exclusive features that existing Jacuzzi® consumers have become so attached to. One of these features is the exclusive Powerpro® BX jet, a genius piece of technology that treats your calves to a comforting and rejuvenating massage through a stream of champagne like bubbles. Clever positioning of their patented deep tissue jets in every model also provide you with the ultimate head to toe hydromassage experience.

Keeping pace with advances in smart technology, Jacuzzi® have also now introduced an incredibly simple way to monitor your hot tub from literally anywhere – introducing SmartTub™ Operated from an app on your smart device, this system is the only app that runs on a cellular platform and uses cloud integration that provides remote monitoring and control, wherever you are.

Taking a closer look at some of the most popular models within this unrivalled collection, it is clear to

see why their popularity is on somewhat of a meteoric rise. Take for example the J-315™, a compact mini spa ideal for two to three people that delivers all the benefits of the larger models in the range using a reduced footprint. Offering users a flexible combination of two standard seats plus one lounge seat, you will be able to enjoy that unique Jacuzzi® full body massage from any position once you lower yourself into this mini paradise. If you’re looking for a little more room to accommodate the entire family, then you should get yourself acquainted with their gorgeous J-335™ model. A perfect spa for four to six people that packs an impressive and completely relaxing hydromassage experience, delivered through thoughtful jet placement whichever seat you choose to treat yourself to. Combined with the breath-taking illuminated headrests, waterfall and LED ProLite™ lighting system, all your senses will be on the most soothing, calming journey as the stresses of the day melt away to nothing. We could go on for many more pages covering the myriad of additional range features that are waiting to improve your health and wellbeing, but we can’t stress strongly enough, the only way to truly understand and feel the industry-leading Jacuzzi® difference is to make time for that showroom visit. Only then will you realise: your search is over. ❚

BACK TROUBLE

Lower back pain has become an extremely common health problem and, unfortunately, most of us will su er pain in our backs at some point in our lives. By purchasing a quality hot tub, you can help to support back pain management e ectively and possibly eliminate the requirement for painkilling treatments.

Chronic back pain and sciatica caused by poor posture and sitting for long periods in front of computer screens is already having a major health impact on people of all age groups, but especially those who are over 50, according to figures by the UK Statistics Authority. Experts believe that with an increasingly obese and ageing population, with rates of physical activity continuing to decrease, the number of people with back pain and osteoarthritis will rise even more rapidly during the next ten years.

Latest study

Back pain can strike at any time, but a new study has revealed that generally people were most likely to have sudden lower back pain in the morning. Any manual duties involving awkward positions were tied to an eight-fold increase in risk for lower back pain, the researchers also found.

One of the new study’s authors, Manuela Ferreira of The George Institute for Global

Health at The University of Sydney, Australia has declared that back pain is a ‘worldwide’ health concern and that antiinflammatory medicine, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), has very limited impact.

Findings of a systematic review published in the last couple of years in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, reveal only one in six patients treated with the NSAIDs achieve any significant reduction in pain.

“Back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide and is commonly managed by prescribing medicines such as anti-inflammatories,” said Manuela, who is Principal Research Fellow at the Institute of Bone and Joint Research at the University of Sydney; “But our results show antiinflammatory drugs actually only provide very limited short term pain relief.

“When you factor in the side e ects which are very common, it becomes clear that these drugs are not the answer to providing pain relief to the many millions who su er from this debilitating condition every year.”

Heat treatment

Associate Professor Christine Lin has reported that it is important to remain as active as possible and avoid bed rest and use heat treatment instead when you have

lower back pain. She has been involved in research at the university that has shown that paracetamol, the pain relief medicine that is universally recommended to treat people with acute low back pain, does not speed recovery or reduce pain for this condition.

“In the world’s first large placebocontrolled trial, we have demonstrated that taking paracetamol does not speed recovery or reduce pain compared to placebo,” reported Christine.

“An active approach is probably more important than any therapy you may receive. Heat wraps and heat packs are simple methods that you can use to help with your pain.”

By investing in a quality hot tub with advanced hydrotherapy functionality you can support your back pain problems and gain greater levels of health and wellness.

This supports studies published in the British Journal of Rheumatology that have highlighted that people receiving spa therapy treatments showed greater improvement from reduced pain and mobility than those who were treated with only medication. This is because hot tubs can combine heat, buoyancy, and massage treatment all at once.

Wellness investment

If you are seeking to gain the maximum benefits from your hot tub purchase for back pain and arthritis relief then you need to do your homework thoroughly and draw up a shortlist of options with suitable hydrotherapy jets and

comfortable seating configurations.

The key advice, if you are purchasing a hot tub for advanced hydrotherapy and greater wellness, is invest wisely. Hot tubs range from very simple ‘entry level’ models that are designed mostly for warm water socialising and family leisure fun to more advanced ‘luxury’ designs with state-of-the-art hydrotherapy functionality. There are also a wide range of ‘mid-range’ options that provide good levels of hydrotherapy capability within specific seating configurations.

Although it is wise to use websites for research, if you are seeking to gain top quality hydrotherapy to ease your back pain then we would strongly advise

against purchasing a hot tub from a faceless ‘web shop’ and instead seek out WhatSpa? Approved showroom suppliers who have a wide range of options that you can sit in and wet test before purchasing.

Jet counting

Most above ground hot tubs generally incorporate between 20 and 100 jets. These are targeted at various parts of your body, including the legs, back and shoulders to help tackle muscle fatigue, soreness and general aches and pains. It is important to remember, though, that when it comes to jets for easing back pain it is all about quality, rather than quantity. ➧

Just because a hot tub has 85 jets this doesn’t mean that it provides the best hydrotherapy solution for your body shape and wellness requirements. Optimisation of the jet technology within the hot tub is the main requirement you should be researching during your purchasing considerations.

Generally, the best advice if you are suffering from chronic pain is to seek out a hot tub that provides a specific and focused hydrotherapy massage capability with fewer, more powerful targeted jets that target your troublesome body areas, such as your lower back, shoulders and neck.

Seating consideration

Hot tubs are produced to meet a wide range of seating requirements, from indulgent single-seater models to the larger eight-seater varieties that are suitable for family gatherings and socialising with friends. If pain relief is your primary concern, don’t compromise on day-to-day massage therapy to cater for the odd occasion when your extended family will pop in for a dip in the hot tub.

As with the expert advice when it comes to jet count, the quality and comfort of the seating design is the most important factor when it comes to achieving optimum hydrotherapy. There is no point purchasing a hot tub with the most advanced jets and hydrotherapy functionality if you can’t sit comfortably in the seats and the jets don’t match up to the specific body parts that you are seeking to gain pain relief; including your spine and lower back.

Many leading manufacturers have produced hot tubs that can be easily transported through gates and doorways and accommodated into small garden spaces, but these are not suitable for a tall person who requires deep seating designs to accommodate their body shape.

Likewise, if you have a small body there is no point splashing out on a huge hot tub that has been designed to accommodate larger body shapes. It is important to visit your local professional showroom dealers to sit in dry display models and then wet test those that you find are suitable for your body and have the correct jets configured in the seat for your hydrotherapy requirements. Additional seating advice is available in our ‘Lounger v All-Seater’ feature on page 62

Showroom satisfaction

By visiting a showroom and wet testing a hot tub before purchasing you will eliminate the problems with poorly manufactured models sourced online from ‘faceless’ web sites that can lead to stress and an increased level of muscular and back pain. A quality hot tub purchase from a WhatSpa? Approved showroom supplier should negate this completely.

By choosing a reputable brand with advanced hydrotherapy from a showroom, where you have had a comprehensive consultation and opportunity to wet test the model before completing the payment or finance paperwork, you should quickly achieve the wellness benefits from high levels of hydrotherapy.

It is important to maximise the potential of your hot tub by having it installed by a professional dealership who can advise you

on how you can safely enter and exit the hot tub without causing injuries or increased levels of back pain by purchasing dedicated steps with handles, if required, or having it semi-sunk or fully sunk within a decking area that has easy access. Some hot tubs may be supplied with standard steps within the purchase cost, but you may require more expensive steps or raised grab bars if you have specific mobility requirements.

As part of this purchasing and installation consultation process with your showroom dealer you should discuss cover lifter options. Hot tub covers can be quite heavy to lift off so if this is going to cause you difficulties you should ensure that you have a quality automatic cover system or hydraulic cover lifter fitted. This is especially important if you are contemplating a solo soak and want to avoid doing any further damage to your back or other muscles during the cover lifting process.

Regular dose

To maintain the benefits of your back pain-busting hydrotherapy and to gain the best possible return on investment from your hot tub you need to be able to use it conveniently on a regular basis.

Only top quality hot tubs from respected dealerships will provide you with guaranteed reliability so that you can use them every single day, without worries of technical problems hindering your hydrotherapy session.

By using your hot tub regularly, you should gain an improved wellness level that should ensure better capability for your body to recover from any further aches and pains in the future. Others have already taken this plunge to back support health wellness. Now it’s your turn. We know you will look back on this decision and wish you had done it sooner! ❚

Photo

© Vortex Spas

Hydrotherapy jets

Choose the right seating

GRAND

Planning to create your own hot tub garden retreat?

Then start your grand design process with these ‘in-spa-rational’ project ideas.

Celebrity gardening icon Alan Titchmarsh MBE has recently opened his doors to his own Hampshire home garden for TV viewers and for Gardener’s World magazine readers after many years of inspiring thousands of hot tub owners to transform their garden retreats thanks to his books, TV programmes and media profile coverage. Now, after helping to conduct and film television garden makeovers with hot tub installations, the ‘Love Your Garden’ presenter and former ‘Britain’s Best Back Gardens’, ‘Gardener’s World’ and ‘Ground Force’ presenter is continuing to plant the seeds of hot tub hydrotherapy within the blossoming wet leisure market after revealing that the best thing planted in his own green space is his hot tub!

The Yorkshire-born author of over 40 gardening books, who also presented coverage of the Chelsea Flower Show for the BBC for 30 years and voiced the title character in ‘Gordon the Garden Gnome’ on the CBeebies channel, inherited a hot tub after purchasing a home on the Isle of Wight and has been growing his hydrotherapy advocate roots ever since. Since gaining his own hot tub haven and sampling the delights of relaxing with his wife in the restorative warm water of their own personal hot tub haven gardening journalist, poet, and novelist Alan; who on an episode of ITV’s ‘Fifty Shades of Green with Alan Titchmarsh’ has recently provided a first ever tour of his stunning Georgian farmhouse garden in Hampshire that boasts several water features and includes ten tiny waterfalls; immediately became a hydrotherapy convert and is now an ‘addicted’ hot tub fan as it rids him of his worries.

“I don’t know anybody who’s got in one who hasn’t decided they’re the best thing since sliced bread,” enthuses Alan. “I’m now a fan. I’m totally addicted.

“It came with the house and we thought we’d get

rid of it. But it was working so we thought we’d give it a go. The worries of the day melted away.

“After a day of pottering among my charges, I look forward to the sun passing the yardarm and submerging my body (glass in hand) in the restorative waters. If a hot tub was good enough for the Romans and Cleopatra – it is good enough for me!”

While the TV garden projects that Alan and his professional teams have undertaken on the latest 2020 series of ‘Love Your Garden’ can provide inspiration to get you started, there is no pressure or requirement for having to undertake lavish landscaping projects or exotic surroundings to gain the full health and wellness benefits of your hot tub; as the main advantage of being portable is that hot tubs are specifically designed as stand-alone products. All you need is a foundation that is secure and solid for your dream hot tub.

However, if you are seeking to create a dedicated hot tub garden ‘grand design’ with more intensive planning and research then you may want to take inspiration from the many installation projects by wet leisure professionals and WhatSpa? readers who have surrounded their dream hot tub with their own individual design features and garden creations.

Here, WhatSpa? provides you with ‘in-spa-ration’ with these hot tub installations before you break turf.

Photo © HotSpring

Photo

© Jo Marshall

Taking under cover provision to a whole new level, or height, this hot tub installation by Three Counties Pools is one to be admired for many reasons. While enjoying a luxurious soak with state-of-the-art hydrotherapy functionality within their advanced Caldera Spas Marino hot tub the owners can enjoy unrestricted views of the garden and surrounding landscape from most sides. By locating it next to the wall the hot tub receives natural protection from the elements while the extremely large roof high above reduces the threat of a soak being called o by rain.

Specialist Artesian Spas dealership North Spas has many award-winning installations to its name and this hot tub within an all wooden structure and pergola and decking area illustrates what can be achieved if you want to create a professional rustic result. The key benefit is that the installation ensures that garden maintenance is minimal for the owners so there is more time for them to spend soaking in their hot tub and to gain total rest and relaxation after a busy day.

Combining a soak and socialising area all in one this above ground installation by Chiswell Leisure illustrates how hot tubs can be located within proximity to a home and the ideal choice of exterior cabinet colour of the Sundance Spas Kingston help it to blend in perfectly with the surroundings. The standalone parasol provides flexible sun protection provision, while the rattan furniture is a great choice for socialising as there are no dangers of it being damaged by excessive splashing!

If you are seeking to gain a modern outdoor hot tub project result with an enclosed space for changing and additional protection from the elements while socialising after a soothing soak then this Jacuzzi fabulous installation by Hot Tub Village ticks all the right boxes. It provides the owners with the flexibility to open the bi-folding doors to gain an enhanced open air view of their hot tub that is located within a perfect blend of wooden structures, stone flags, and a grassed garden area.

BISHTA Awards

already in the bag from previous years, leading Artesian Spas dealership have once again received 2020 industry acclaim for this awardwinning installation of an Artesian Island Grand Bahama 61 that is certainly eye-catching and a Grand Design to give you your own ‘in-spa-ration’ for all the right reasons.

The advantage of hot tubs is the fact that they can be simply located onto a secure and safe concrete base and this is a striking example. This particularly modern design with an installation of a Jacuzzi J235 by Surrey-based outdoor product specialist Ergo Group illustrates how to combine an above ground hot tub soak with other rattan seating options for outdoor use to allow additional family or friends to socialise or relax in the sunshine while budding footballers practice their scoring techniques in the miniature goals!

This installation by Coast Spas specialist dealership Award Leisure Cheshire certainly illustrates the benefits of gaining expert guidance and professional support and assistance for a ‘grand design’ project that creates a stunning modern result and allows future servicing and maintenance of your hot tub. The owner wanted to gain stone step access to the Element Elite hot tub but drew up plans to ensure the landscaping project retained the capability for hot tub technicians to conduct cover care plan duties and gain access to the internal advanced hydrotherapy technology in the future.

A walled garden has gained a rustic hot tub retreat thanks to this installation by Ultimate Hot Tubs of a Riptide Spas Starlight Eclipse. It is nestled perfectly on a sturdy concrete platform within the garden border area and adjacent to the wall for ultimate protection from any strong winds. This installation has a sturdy gazebo that allows the owners to gain the benefit of rain cover from the roof high above without restricting the views of their garden.

When your budget allows you to splash out on a lavish indoor hot tub installation then you will want to achieve a stunning result like this truly grand fully-sunken design HotSpring World Nottingham that maximises the space and views of the garden plus the countryside landscape beyond. It has achieved total protection from the elements, so that weather will never interrupt a soaking session, and is within close proximity to the bi-folding doors for quick and convenient entry to and from the garden.

Within its own wooden structure area, the owners of this ‘all-round’ garden design have now gained a fabulous hydrotherapy retreat result thanks to the Jacuzzi installation by All Weather Leisure. When the sun is beating down or rain threatens to dampen the occasion there is extra protection from the elements above as well as the two sides adjacent to the patio and a dedicated grass area for sunbathing or ‘spa-rty’ socialising.

For a perfect example of how to maximise the space between buildings with a decking area for maximum socialising and hot tub soak capability then this Jacuzzi installation by All Weather Leisure takes some beating. The extended decking, with a curved finish next to the grassed garden area, is perfect for hosting a large number of ‘spa-rty’ guests while the sturdy gazebo provides protection from the rain, and there is additional shelter from the wind that is achieved on three sides of the hot tub.

This installation by Welsh Hot Tubs is a perfect example of what can be achieved if you bring in expertise to ensure traditional materials for a contemporary decking and wooden ‘under cover’ structure are correctly constructed to ensure maximum safety and servicing access for your hot tub. This top-of-the-range L.A Spas (now American Whirlpool) is located under the bespoke gazebo with rugged cedar shingles with tough rope balustrade adjacent to the socialising area on the hardwood decking.

This enclosed installation project by The Hot Tub Warehouse should give you hot tub retreat envy. Having the hot tub within its own dedicated internal area is a nice touch as it provides the cosy ‘true retreat’ feeling and protection from the elements while enabling unrestricted views of the garden from the front. An additional socialising area with folding doors has the total flexibility to be fully enclosed or open at all times of the year when the weather is favourable.

When space and budget is no barrier for fulfilling your hot tub grand design dream, then this innovative hot tub installation within a bespoke garden building structure as part of a ‘work from home’ hot tub lifestyle project may be just the example to motivate you to act to achieve a top quality wellness retreat for you and your loved ones. The owners of this Sundance Spas Optima have combined it with an o ce space room within the building project with professional hot tub dealership guidance and support from MySpa UK Ltd

Hot tub users that want to be able to soak in deep warm water while being exposed to their surroundings and the Great British weather can take inspiration from the project by the owners of this hot tub from Jacuzzi specialist dealership Euphoria Lifestyle. They have incorporated an above cover shelter nearby for socialising or catering purposes before and after taking a dip with their family and friends.

HOT PROJECTS

Are you looking for project in-spa-ration?

If so, the next eight pages feature a pair of ‘hot projects’ to show the entire process from ‘breaking turf’ to beautifully finished gardens equipped with state-of-the-art hot tubs, luxury garden structures and sleek designer landscaping.

Photo © MySpa (UK) Limited

PROJECT 1 MySpa (UK) Limited

The decision by Mr and Mrs Cross to gain a top quality hydrotherapy product as part of their total garden and hot tub installation project has paid dividends with professional support from specialist dealership MySpa UK

If you are undertaking a major hot tub installation project with a large financial outlay such as this particular example, then you should always select your supplier carefully in order to gain total peace of mind, safe in the knowledge that you are dealing with professionals.

DEALER

MySpa (UK) Limited

Bentley’s Garden Buildings, Loughborough Road, Wanlip, Leicestershire, LE7 4PN

Tel: 01164 645 870

www.myspashop.co.uk

MODEL AND SPEC OF HOT TUB

Sundance Spas 680 McKinley

DIMENSIONS: 226cm x 226cm x 92cm

SEATING CAPACITY: Seating for 7 adults

DRY WEIGHT: 353 kg

FILLED WEIGHT: 2,320 kg

TOTAL JETS: 44 with stainless steel trim

OVERALL CONTRACT VALUE: £60,000

Mr and Mrs Cross have ensured a dream result for their lavish garden landscaping and hot tub project by taking the professional route of commissioning the services of a respected WhatSpa?

Approved retailer with long service and vast experience of hot tub installations with the Sundance Spas brand.

By taking this route, in conjunction with employing the services of a garden designer and landscaping specialists, the couple and their two older children

have now gained a stunning area to take advantage of their hot tub installation that will provide guaranteed quality results for many years to come.

It ensures their combined investment of £60,000 on the garden project, which includes the cost of a three-tiered lighting system that helps light up the way at night to the all-seater Sundance Spas 680 Series McKinley located under a pergola structure within close proximity to a decked level area and stone path leading to a paved patio flush to the property’s bi-folding glass doors, is going to have blossoming benefits for all the family.

Quality counts

MySpa Managing Director Andrew Wroot and his wife Laura, along with all the professional MySpa team, including

All photos © MySpa (UK) Limited

Andrew’s father and co-founder Peter Wroot, are committed to a policy of providing exemplary products and customer service that has earned the thriving dealership a five-star Trustpilot rating and glowing endorsements from a long list of satisfied customers that stretches back over 20 years.

During the past two decades the founders of the MySpa company have become leading specialists of the Sundance Spas hot tubs ranges; and provide a wealth of knowledge of products from this iconic brand that has recently celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2019.

When you are conducting your research to find a hot tub supplier for a major installation project it is always important to ensure you gain the services of a trusted and respected dealership with extensive experience that can be utilised at every stage of the project.

This was certainly the case with Mr and Mrs Cross. They visited the MySpa show site and opted for the WhatSpa? Best Buy Award-winning McKinley from an extensive choice of designs from Sundance Spas that are always available to wet test, along with a wide variety of designs by two other iconic brands Jacuzzi and Marquis

“If you’re undertaking a major landscaping and garden project for your hot tub installation then it is important to choose a quality hot tub model from a respected brand,” explained Andrew.

“By choosing the Sundance Spas McKinley model, which is one of our

best-selling hot tubs, Mr and Mrs Cross have the peace of mind that it is from a distinguished manufacturer that has built up an international reputation for the past forty years of producing award-winning designs that are built to last with state-ofthe-art technology.

“You don’t want to risk the financial loss of investing tens of thousands of pounds on a lavish installation project like this and have your hot tub let you down and be worthless within a matter of months due to poor quality manufacturing and inferior spa components and plumbing.”

Mr Cross reported that the couple had both agreed that they wanted a hot tub for regular use that would provide top quality seating and advanced hydrotherapy technology without being ‘too fussy’ with extra gadgets. When they viewed

the McKinley at the UK’s leading Sundance Spas hot tub showroom they both immediately fell in love with the barrier free ergonomic seating design.

“We loved the McKinley from day one,” reported Mr Cross; “As soon as we saw it on display at MySpa we knew that it would be perfect for us. It’s now become a major part of our lives.”

Professional path

In addition to taking the plunge to conduct research into acquiring the best possible hot tub for their project requirements, the couple consulted with a respected garden designer and provided their ideas to help draw up the final plans before the landscaping specialists broke turf and got to work on the concrete base for the hot tub, as well as the patio, decking, pergola area before introducing new plants and shrubs in various designated areas of the garden.

Mr and Mrs Cross even took the initiative to produce a time lapse video documentation of their project from start to finish. This has allowed them to capture every moment of the various elements being completed as the project gathered pace and came to fruition over a threemonth period.

“We now have a permanent record of how the project progressed and have gained the best possible results by dealing with professionals,” said Mr Cross.

“I would strongly recommend to anyone who is thinking of undertaking a complete garden project like this that they should bring all the required and necessary professionals on board to gain their knowledge, guidance and vital assistance in ensuring that it all runs smoothly and that they can help you overcome any difficulties with their experience. ➧

We loved the McKinley from day one.

As soon as we saw it on display at MySpa we knew that it would be perfect for us.❞

“The landscapers consulted with us at every stage to ensure we would be totally satisfied with their preparation and work. Even when some of the measurements required changing to match other requirements they were willing to go the extra mile and even created some additional seating for us from the Millboard composite decking, which really blends in well.

“The MySpa team were also extremely helpful to fit in with our landscaping plans and installation schedule and even though they have conducted many installations they were impressed on how we had ensured a professional solid concrete platform for them to install the hot tub on safely and securely and that it had been constructed with a very effective soak away capability.”

Seamless transition

For a hot tub installation project to be successful it has to ensure that the owners can gain maximum use and satisfaction from their hot tub. Whatever your size of garden, WhatSpa? generally recommends that your hot tub is located within close proximity to your home for best possible use and convenience when transitioning from indoors to the outdoor climate. In this case Mr and Mrs Cross opted for their hot tub to be installed at the bottom of their garden within an intricate pergola structure area. As part of their desire to go seamlessly from indoors to their hot tub they wanted to be able to step out from their home through their bi-folding patio doors and onto the same level without the need for a step. They also wanted easy access with a pathway leading to their hot tub and pergola area.

“We did have a different place in mind for the hot tub to be located but we took advice from the professionals and we’re delighted with the result,” said Mr Cross.

“Thanks to our decision to ensure that the outside patio area is at the same level as the interior of our home we can now just simply walk out through our large bi-folding patio doors and can use the pathway to our hot tub under the pergola.”

Light fantastic

Many hot tubs come alive at night due to their futuristic interior and exterior lighting within their designs and the McKinley is no exception. Even without any other additional help, the Sundance Spas hot tub provides a colourful centrepiece to any garden, but it has been enhanced with extra lighting.

Due to his expertise within the lighting industry Mr Cross has been able to acquire specialist lights that are controlled by three different switches for total flexibility. There is a perimeter lighting configuration around the garden, to complement the additional lighting within the interior planting areas and the pergola area.

Not only does this lighting element provide extra safety measures for any users as they approach or depart from the hot tub in the dim light of dusk or darkness at night, it also creates a visual delight even when the hot tub is not occupied.

“I was able to utilise my knowledge of the lighting industry to gain some really top quality waterproof lighting that we’ve included within this project,” divulged Mr Cross. “It’s provided a fantastic result.

“At night we can have all three switches on or a selection of lights on. Some of the lights can be controlled remotely to provide extra flexibility at night.”

Dream result

Before they splashed out on their lavish project Mr and Mrs Cross say they could never have imagined that it would provide such a ‘wow factor’ dream result with a multitude of hot tub benefits for themselves, as well as their son and daughter.

“Even though we planned every aspect of the project and had professional help at every stage of the process we could never have envisaged it being so incredible,” divulged Mr Cross; “It really is a dream result for us and we’re overjoyed with how it’s turned out.

“Everyone who has seen it has been blown away and they have all agreed that it has the ‘wow factor’, and this provides us with so much satisfaction as we’re using our hot tub on a regular basis.

“My wife and I have our own favourite seats that we use when we’re in our hot tub most nights, at least four or five times during the week. It’s nice to chill out and have somewhere to chat together about what we’ve done and our plans for the next day.

“Another healthy bonus for me is the fact that it’s so relaxing and after we’ve used the hot tub in the evening it helps us gain a great night’s sleep!” ❚

All photos © MySpa (UK) Limited

The finished installation

PROJECT 2 Award Leisure

Mr and Mrs Salmons have achieved multiple health benefits with a ‘best of both worlds’ hot tub and swim spa installation project by Award

Leisure

Hot tubs and swim spas have their own individual health and wellness merits but if you have the financial resources and space in your garden to acquire and install both as part of your project then you will certainly gain multiple ‘best of both worlds’ benefits.

DEALER

Award Leisure

Showrooms across UK

Tel: 0808 169 6555 www.awardleisure.co.uk

MODEL AND SPEC OF HOT TUB

Regency Spas Prince by Coast Spas

DIMENSIONS: 207cm x 207cm x 92cm

SEATING CAPACITY: 7 Adults

DRY WEIGHT: 424 kg

FILLED WEIGHT: 1,675 kg

TOTAL JETS: 50

OVERALL CONTRACT VALUE: £10,495

MODEL AND SPEC OF SWIM SPA

Regency Spas Emperor II by Coast Spas

DIMENSIONS: 384cm x 229cm x 135cm

DRY WEIGHT: 998 kg

VOLUME: 5,320 litres

TOTAL SWIM JETS: Two Hi-Flow River Jets

OVERALL CONTRACT VALUE: £35,500

While UK sales of hot tubs have continued an upward trend in recent years the popularity of swim spas has surged to record levels. Owners generally are acquiring hot tubs for socialising and therapeutic benefits from the advanced hydrotherapy functionality, while swim spas and ‘party pools’ are being purchased for aquatic exercise, fitness training or swimming practice purposes for competing in open water events, such as triathlons. To solve any household

purchasing decisions, or problems of garden space restrictions, manufacturers have been developing quality ‘dual chamber’ designs that incorporate a dedicated hot tub area, along with a separate swimming unit.

There is another band of hot tub owners, though, who are now purchasing them in tandem with a single chamber swim spa. This provides the capability for owners to separate their respective use of two distinctive wet leisure products by utilising the hot tub to socialise with family and friends or relax after a rigorous workout in their swim spa or to warm up muscles before taking the plunge to enhance their swimming techniques against the advanced swim jets.

If your intention is to go down this route taken by Mr and Mrs Salmons, then you will have the double commitment to

All photos © Award Leisure

conduct research on both the hot tub and swim spa market. In this case, it would be a good idea to request a free copy of our sister magazine WhatSwimSpa? as the perfect introduction to the very best swim spas that are available in the UK.

Dual purchase

It is often the case that hot tubs and swim spas are chosen from a single supplier who has a multi-brand showroom with products from different manufacturers. For their installation project, the couple opted for the services of one of the UK’s most respected dealership networks that has a wide range of hot tub and swim spa options from a single manufacturing production source, which has decades of award-winning installation experience as part of its trusted services.

Mr and Mrs Salmons gained all these peace of mind benefits by turning to WhatSpa? Approved and Which?

Trusted Trader wet leisure and outdoor product retailing powerhouse Award Leisure, which has a leading ‘one-stopshop’ approach. An extensive choice of products, combined with installation project services, can be purchased through a dedicated network of hot tub and swim spa showroom dealerships that provide the complete sales, installation and exemplary after care services.

The team at Dorden-based Award Leisure is responsible for this successful hot tub and swim spa installation project that incorporates the best-selling sevenseater Regency Spas Prince hot tub and

Regency Spas Emperor II swim spa, which are two quality products from the WhatSpa? and WhatSwimSpa? Best Buy Award-winning Regency Spas hot tub and swim spa ranges that are only available in the UK market through this exclusive dealership network.

As a confirmed advocate of Coast Spas, Award Leisure National Sales Manager Charlotte Anthony believes this manufacturer and the Regency Spas brand was the perfect choice for Mr and Mrs Salmons as it exemplifies the highest levels of manufacturing excellence and has guaranteed warranty assurance.

“We only supply top quality products and have gained many years of product knowledge of the Coast Spas manufacturing process,” declared Charlotte. “We now have the extra option for our customers of being

able to provide, with same total product confidence, our exclusive Regency Spas range of hot tubs and swim spas.

“It ensures that no other dealership network can provide these designs or match our landscaping and hot tub and swim spa project experience. This has provided Mr and Mrs Salmons with complete peace of mind purchasing and they have now joined our growing list of Regency Spas owners and highly satisfied Award Leisure customers."

Exclusive products

The all-seater Regency Spas Prince chosen by Mr and Mrs Salmons is perfect for owners who want to ensure they have the capability to provide hot tub seating satisfaction choice for various age groups and body sizes. This model is popular with parents of young and older children, because it has a variety of seats to accommodate all sizes, no matter how tall or small, by combining five hydrotherapy seats with two dedicated cool down seats.

“Those who are new to the market and planning on purchasing a hot tub and swim spa for a double installation project like this one then you need to be conducting thorough research of the market to find a supplier of quality products from a respected manufacturer,” advises Charlotte. “These two models are among our best-selling Regency Spas products and fit the bill perfectly.

Prestigious assurance

By choosing a hot tub and swim spa from Award Leisure for their project, Mr and Mrs Salmons had the assurance of being in safe hands with the capability to tap into Award Leisure’s vast landscaping and installation experience. This incorporates professional product delivery and installation services ➧

that have been recognised by the trade with prestigious Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards from BISHTA during many presentation ceremonies.

Seeking out a dealership with this level of experience, and glowing testimonials from successful projects, certainly pays dividends. Award Leisure has extensive case studies and project examples, with many that have been scrutinised by an independent panel of experienced representatives from the wet leisure trade, which provides prospective customers with peace of mind that they will achieve professional results with them.

During every stage of the project process, from the initial showroom visit and purchasing agreement onwards, Award Leisure was able to liaise with Mr and Mrs Salmons and proceed professionally to ensure that both the hot tub and swim spa were delivered and installed correctly.

Ahead of delivery Mr and Mrs Salmons had a professional site survey conducted by Award Leisure to ensure the best possible location for the hot tub and swim spa. This also ensured that all the necessary preparations were in place to provide Mr and Mrs Salmons with the guarantee that the electricity supply, landscaping, decking and installation process would achieve a highly satisfactory result.

“We always conduct site surveys with our customers as part of our professional hot tub and swim spa services to ensure that everything is agreed and fully prepared at the installation site and this ensures the delivery and installation day runs smoothly,” said Charlotte.

“To gain the best project result like this one, you need to find a showroom supplier that you can trust to deliver

and install your products safely and professionally and then correctly provide you with water maintenance guidance, as well as the capability of additional support to you with after care services that ensure your hot tub or swim spa is running efficiently for many years into the future.”

Decking experts

When it comes to decking, like Mrs and Mrs Salmons purchased for their project, it is always the best policy to use the necessary products specific to the wet leisure industry and the decking services of a professional company or those available from a hot tub and swim spa installer. They will have the experience and knowledge to prepare the site and rectify any undulating ground in your garden.

They should also importantly ensure that the preparation and work on the decking construction provides the capability for future access to the hot tub and swim spa for servicing provision. It can be heart breaking for owners of hot tubs or swim spas within decking structures to have to rip up large sections of their decking because they failed to make this provision as part of their project planning.

For convenience, and to ensure that the cost of decking does not spiral out of hand, it is always a good idea to locate the hot tub and swim spa within close

proximity to each other and on the same level on the decking structure. This project allows Mr and Mrs Salmons to transfer easily from their hot tub to their swim spa without having to go back on the grass and be able to communicate to each other while in the respective Regency Spas products.

“We have vast experience of landscaping and have the experience and capability to ensure any decking projects for our customers are safe and secure for hot tubs or swim spas,” said Charlotte.

“In this particular case Mr and Mrs Salmons have gained the convenience of the hot tub and swim spa being located close to each other within their decking structure. It makes it so much easier for them to exit and enter the hot tub and swim spa and go into the other one, plus it keeps the cost of the project down.”

Double delight

Mr and Mrs Salmons have now joined a growing group of owners who have successfully combined a hot tub and swim spa within a garden project. They have the flexibility to be able to use them independently or together as part of their new wet leisure lifestyle.

There is also the reassurance that both the hot tub and swim spa are built to last and should provide many years of wellness enjoyment with Award Leisure being available to provide product guidance or future servicing requirements if the need arises.

“It has been a pleasure for Award Leisure to work on this project and help Mr and Mrs Salmons to achieve this ‘best of both worlds’ result and we’re delighted that they are enjoying all of the health and wellness benefits of their hot tub and swim spa so much.

“They’ve certainly been very enthusiastic about our services. Their praise of our products and professional installation, as well as all of the positive feedback of their hot tub and swim spa ownership, will now be added to our long list of testimonials from our satisfied customers.” ❚

Building the decking All photos © Award Leisure

The hot tub and swim spa arrive

ENERGY RATING TOP

Boasting the most energyefficient hot tub technology in the world, as well as stylish design, simple installation and userfriendliness, Softub has boasted unrivalled low running costs since it was founded in 1982 in Los Angeles.

Over 10,000 satisfied Softub owners in the UK alone have since benefited from the energy-efficient design, which has the lowest running costs of any hot tub currently available.

Typical power consumption is less than a microwave needs to heat a meal! This is due to the Hydromate system combining the hot tub’s pump, motor and heating into a single unit heating the water with the motor’s excess heat via state-of-the-art heat exchange technology. Linking a Softub to solar panels makes for an even greener carbon footprint.

All the Softub models are so economical thanks to their highly insulated Polybond construction. Originally developed by NASA for furnishing space capsules, Polybond provides the triple benefit of being lightweight, creating excellent thermal insulation, and producing structural stability, while remaining comfortable and extremely soft yet supportive for users.

Enhanced flexibility

Along with being very simple to install, another advantage of Softub ownership is the greater mobility and enhanced flexibility compared to traditional acrylic and wooden hot tub models.

Softubs are extremely portable, which allows them to be installed in small spaces, on roof terraces or where there is difficult access, without the need for costly alterations or cranes. In most instances the tub can simply be rolled into situ, through door frames or lifted over fence panels and then plugged into a 13-amp socket.

New models

Portico has now become the ‘flagship model’ of the brand and shares the striking and stylish appearance of its slightly older Softub sibling the Poseidon, which gained incredible launch success. It also features the new distinctive Syntex exterior material but it now has the unique advantage over other Softub models with the inclusion of a Therapy Station Bench.

Introducing the ‘Softub design first’ Therapy Station Bench in 2020 the Portico combines a powerful Poseidon Power Jet system and a Trident diverter that is one of the strongest jet systems in the industry.

A trio of jet therapy positions are strategically placed for single or three multiple users to utilise along the Therapy Station Bench area and these include the new oriented and positioned jets for dual lumbar and dual spine therapy massage.

As well as being available in a choice of five colours that are ‘Graphite’, ‘Taupe’, ‘Metallic Blue’, ‘Caribbean Green’, and ‘Off White’, the Portico also incorporates internal jet faces and suction covers in Pearl to match the interior liner colour.

The new Premium Line Series model is available from a large network of Softub showroom dealerships,

supplied by a dedicated Softub UK division in York, to ensure the brand continues to make waves in the British wet leisure market.

Award recognition

With so many key design advantages, it is no surprise that Softub has gained top levels of customer satisfaction and critical award recognition from consumer magazines.

The Sportster 140 and Resort 300 have achieved multiple WhatSpa? Best Buy Awards in recent years. Along with the new Portico, there is also the Poseidon Resort 300+ and the Legend model to choose from.

The user-friendly flexibility of Softub makes this the tub of choice not only for home owners, holiday home rentals and glampsites but also the entertainment industry. It was a Softub that allowed actress Kate Winslet to keep warm between scenes way back when she filmed the ‘Titanic’ blockbuster and television crews are still taking advantage of Softub today with Channel 4 producers of the reality show ‘In the Circle’ more recently procuring a Softub for roof terrace filming due to its stylish design and simple installation.

Softub has also been voted among the leading best products for outdoor living in Selfbuild and Design magazine, and was featured in House Beautiful magazine. ❚

✆ Contact Details

➧ Pre-Delivery Guide

Have you dreamed about installing your perfect hot tub but don’t know how? WhatSpa? is here to help with our simple seven-step pre-delivery guide.

Creating a domestic outdoor oasis, equipped with a relaxing hot tub haven area, is a dream for many of us. Just a quick peek at our Grand Designs section (page 78) should be enough to whet the appetite of anyone interested in creating their own hot tub Shangri-la.

Unless you are a hot tub aficionado, pool engineer, or landscape gardener, the prospect of installing a portable spa correctly and creating a complementary environment could be more than a little daunting.

Which is why we have created a step-by-step guide to help you plan and realise your perfect wet leisure project. Get it right and you will have something that will enrich your leisure time, health and relationships on a daily basis. And you really can’t put a price on that!

Step 1. Do your homework

Your first step should be to identify what kind of hot tub you want. Look at what you want from the spa with regards to size, seating, jets, features and general appearance. This is where the Internet and sites like whatspa.co.uk and hottubchooser.co.uk come into play, as you can research different products from various brands, make your wish list and visit a dealer for a wet test.

Before you go headlong into wet testing and buying, measure the area of your garden that you have earmarked for your shiny new spa; and even use string, or tape, to plot the footprint of the spa to ensure it will fit comfortably.

Most reputable dealers will carry out a site survey at your home, before your delivery date, to give you an idea of what is possible and advisable within your garden/home. They will also hold your hand throughout the whole process, and will work closely with landscapers and electricians to ensure a seamless installation.

It is wise to get your shortlisted suppliers to conduct a site survey before you commit to buying, or certainly within seven days of purchase, as this is the timeframe that will enable a full refund if there are any unforeseen issues with the delivery process. Remember that hot tubs are typically delivered to the site on their sides via a specialist ‘spa dolly’. If you are doing your own pre-delivery measuring, the height of the spa when it is sitting flat on the ground plus about one or two inches for packaging is the critical clearance width that you will need at every point on the

A crane may be required for installation

Photo © North Spas

route, from the kerbside to your chosen location. Spas do not bend in the middle, so be particularly careful with any bends or kinks in the route and look out for outdoor taps or boiler flues that may jut out from walls along the way. If you are in any doubt, ask the dealer to do a site survey.

If you decide to employ the services of a separate landscaper make sure there is plenty of communication between yourself, the landscaper and hot tub installer. There’s no point having your hot tub delivered when the groundworks aren’t suitable or complete.

Step 2. Choosing your position

Although the tendency is to put a spa at the bottom of your garden, remember that the further you locate your tub from the house, the longer your walk to it. There is something to be said for having your tub closer to home, particularly when the cold weather draws in. Common sense says the nearer you are to your tub, the more likely you are to use it! Does your chosen spot afford you privacy from the neighbours? Generally, the closer you position your hot tub to the house, the less overlooked you will be due to the acute angle from neighbour’s windows.

Is there a pleasant view from your tub? Have a walk around your garden to visualize the best location. As silly as it sounds, make an outline of your spa’s perimeter dimensions using tape or string, grab a low-seated garden chair and sit on each side and corner to give you an idea of the view you will have.

This is particularly important if you are choosing a ‘lounge-seater’ model as it is important that your views from the lounger are facing the best aspect of your garden view.

Consider the route from the house to the hot tub – a clean path will mean less grass and soil gets transferred from feet to spa. Avoid placing your spa underneath a tree, as the last thing you want to do is continually pick out decaying leaves from your water.

If you have children then consider whether you can see where they are and what they are up to, if say, you are relaxing in the patio area while they splash around in the spa... or vice versa!

It is advisable to have an outdoor tap and hosepipe within reach, and desirable to have an accessible drain, which makes emptying your tub easier. For safety’s sake, avoid placing your hot tub within three metres of overhead power cables.

Step 3. Plan your landscaping

Consider what you want out of the landscape. Do you want it purely for relaxation, or do you want an area for entertaining as well? If you want to create something special that will wow your guests, there are plenty of additional ‘props’ that can add to your outdoor living lifestyle such as gazebos, outdoor bars, BBQs, outdoor kitchens and even pizza ovens. ➧

Photos © Waterstream Ltd

Philip Edwards is a landscape gardener specialising in wet leisure designs. Philip says there are a number of factors to consider when planning your ideal garden. “You need to think about whether you want the spa area hidden or visible, how easy it is to get power to the area, and can you easily drain the wet area,” says Philip.

“How do you want to link the area in with the rest of the garden? Will noise from the area cause a problem with neighbours? Is lighting or rain protection required?”

So what are the common mistakes to avoid? “Gravel or grass around the tub can end up in the tub from feet and block access to maintenance points,” advises Philip. “Avoid slippery or rough paving, use good wood for decking that does not splinter easily, avoid herbaceous or deciduous plants and choose materials around the area that will link in with the rest of the garden. The trends for 2020 are for clean, modern lines with contrasting colours and plants that create movement.”

Communication between client, hot tub installer and landscaper is vital, says Philip. “For a designer look, it is essential to have the project managed, which could be by the designer or the landscaper – very rarely can the client manage this themselves. It is better to choose a landscaper who can cover all the aspects in-house, with electrics being the exception,” advises Philip.

The trend for some spas – particularly larger models – is to have them ‘sunken’ into the ground. If this is the effect you are after then it may require some ground excavation, which will have an influence on the length and cost of your project.

Talk to your hot tub dealer and ask them to recommend a landscape gardener or architect. Their experience will be invaluable, so use it.

Step 4. Solid foundations

Your hot tub needs a good solid, level foundation. A hot tub on its own is a heavy item, typically weighing in at around half a tonne when empty. Fill the same tub with water and four people and that weight can rocket up to two-and-a-half tonnes. So the area you sit your tub on must be able to support the stresses and strains associated with this considerable weight.

What you don’t want is a spa plonked half-heartedly on a patch of gravel. If the support is inadequate your tub may shift, putting stress and causing possible damage to your shell. It’s common sense but putting your spa on a slope will lead to uneven water levels.

If you are installing your tub on a concrete base make sure it is at least four inches thick. If you plump for decking make sure the structure is up to the task of coping with the stresses placed on it. As a general rule the cross-members supporting the deck should be 4”x 2” and no more than 18” apart.

Your spa may look better recessed –partly or completely – rather than on top of the structure. If you have an undulating garden don’t be afraid to give it some elevation, although bear in mind that if you do suspend your spa the decking will have to be robust enough to cope with the stresses and weight. Remember to build in access points for an engineer to get access to the equipment bay for servicing later.

Step 5. Get wired

You don’t need a permanent water supply for a hot tub or garden spa, but you will need a suitable electrical supply to run the tub.

Most reputable hot tub showrooms will be able to recommend a local trustworthy electrical contractor who is au fait with the ins-and-outs of hot tubs, so don’t be afraid to ask. They will also be very happy to liaise with your chosen ‘sparkie’ regarding the spec of the spa and the resultant power supply requirements.

When appointing an electrician to prepare your hot tub electrics check that they are a suitably qualified electrician. Do not attempt to install hot tub electrics yourself if you are not qualified.

The Government introduced a new ‘Part P’ law in January 2005, which demands that most electrical work in UK households is only carried out by a ‘competent’ person. This law means that electrical safety requirements have been included in a new Part P of the Building Regulations.

Concrete base

Photo © Award Leisure Cheshire

Electrical supply

❝You will need a suitable electrical supply to run the tub.❞

Part P Explained

The law states that anyone carrying out fixed electrical installations in households in England and Wales must ensure that electrical installations are:

■ Designed and installed to protect against mechanical and thermal damage, so that they do not present electric shock and fire hazards to people.

■ Suitably inspected and tested to verify that they meet the relevant equipment and installation standards.

It is now against the law to have a new circuit installed in your home without having it inspected and tested to ensure it is Part P compliant. Make sure that your electrician is Part P registered and that you receive a Part P certificate after the hot tub electrical supply work is completed. This will need to be kept on file as all electrical works will need certification evidence should you ever decide to sell your home at some point in the future.

Your hot tub retailer can liaise with your electrical contractor regarding the exact specification for your spa but you must meet the following specification:

■ The hot tub must be hard-wired on its own fused spur back to your household consumer unit (i.e. the tub should not be sharing a supply with any other appliances).

The hot tub should be protected by a sufficiently rated MCB (mains circuit breaker) and should cover the maximum amperage pull of the spa plus 25 per cent to allow for brake torque (i.e. the extra rush of current when pumps are first started). So a hot tub that has a maximum current draw of 20 amps should be fitted with a 25amp MCB.

■ The hot tub should also be protected against earth faults by an RCD (residual current device). This is a trip switch, which prevents danger of electric shock from damaged or waterlogged cables and connections. A suitably rated 30mA RCD is recommended.

■ Outdoor cabling should be protected from damage by either laying protective ducting (pvc pipe) below ground or by using ‘steel wired armoured’ (SWA) cable. Your electrician will calculate the size of cable required depending on the loading and the distance from the mains supply. Six mm2 3-core SWA cable is perfectly suitable in most cases but always consult an electrician first.

■ An IP65 (waterproof) 45 amp rotary isolation switch is also recommended so that the hot tub can be isolated outdoors in an emergency or for service work. This is simply a rotary on/off switch but should be sited more than two metres away from the hot tub so that bathers cannot be in the spa whilst touching the switch.

■ Leave a tail of SWA cable from the isolation switch that is sufficiently long to feed inside the spa cabinet and reach the load box within the hot tub equipment bay. Contact your dealer to confirm the requirements.

Once electrical installation is complete, lock off the isolation switch in the ‘OFF’ position, coil up the SWA cable tail and tape off the exposed wires at the end of the cable to prevent water ingress in the period between now and delivery day. Upon delivery, the hot tub supply can be directly hard-wired into the load ➧

Lifting the hot tub into position

Photo © MySpa (UK)

Photos © North Spas

box inside the spa. Waterproof gland packs should be used to prevent ingress of water on all outdoor electrical connections (two at the isolation switch and one inside the hot tub). Ensure that all earth cables are clearly colour-coded with green/yellow insulating tape or earth sleeve.

Finally, once the hot tub is operational, your electrician will need to conduct their tests to ensure Part P compliance and also issue your Part P certificate.

Step 6. Delivery day

The delivery of your hot tub is an essential part of the process – we’re not talking about a courier dropping off a Blu-ray player here. Hot tubs, by their nature, tend to be large, heavy and bulky items. If all a retailer offers to do is deliver it to your kerbside without installation then head for the hills!

Factor in how easy or how difficult it will be for a dealer to deliver your spa to the exact spot required. If you have easy access to the required spot then it may simply be a task for your dealer to wheel the spa into position on a gurney or ‘spa dolly’. You may have to remove fencing or gates to enable access.

However, if you have restricted access to your garden (a particular issue for people living in terraced streets), there is every possibility that the spa will have to be craned into position. This will, of course, affect the cost of installation.

If you do need a crane delivery, there are two types of offerings from crane companies. A ‘contract lift’ is a full service contract where the crane company is responsible for everything including writing method statements and risk assessments, liaising with transport authorities for road closures and also providing banksmen and insurance cover. The cheaper ‘crane hire’ means that you are responsible (and liable) for all of these extras. We always recommend that you opt for ‘contract hire’ for the protection and convenience that it offers. Note that hire time starts from when the crane leaves the depot so always opt for a reputable local crane hire company and get several quotes to ensure best value.

Step 7. Up and running

Once your hot tub is delivered, placed in situ, filled with water and the electrical supply is installed, your hot tub installation team should commission the hot tub and check that everything is fully operational before ‘handing over’ to you with a thorough training of how all of the hot tub features work.

Reputable dealers will fill it up and ensure that your water is safe and balanced with the appropriate water care products. They also provide information about testing and maintaining clean water, and will lead you through the process before leaving you alone to enjoy your new pride and joy. Ensure that the spa has a comprehensive instruction manual written in clear English, as this is a legal requirement for all electrical goods.

Keeping it simple

Not everyone wants the full spa and landscaping works. If you want to keep things ultra-simple then there are a number of affordable spas on the market that offer 'plug and play' practicality. Many manufacturers are now producing models that can run on a 13-amp supply. They will still need to be connected to a waterproof outdoor socket which is RCD protected for those who don’t want the hassle of putting in a dedicated electrical supply.

All you have to do is find a sturdy, level surface, fill your tub with water, balance the water to make sure it is clean and safe and away you go! ❚

❝Remember that hot tubs are typically delivered to site on their sides via a specialist ‘spa dolly’ or ‘spa sled’.❞

Spa sled

Photo © Spyrys Spas

UNDER COVER

Before acquiring the hot tub of your dreams, you should conduct research into additional products that can ensure it is suitably protected from the elements, so that you can gain all the health and wellness benefits of regular hydrotherapy.

In the last couple of years Britain has been battered by several serious storms with extreme weather conditions including strong winds. If you are unfortunate enough to live in parts of the UK that are exposed to the prospect

of gusty wind damage or are constantly under the threat of excessive periods of rain showers then you should be seriously considering splashing out on an automatic cover system or a sturdy reputable garden building that can ensure guaranteed hot tub enjoyment in differing weather conditions.

Traditionally hot tub owners want to gain additional time outdoors and are not too worried about being exposed to all the many temperature and weather fluctuations throughout our four seasons. However, most of us would prefer some form of shelter from the rain, wind and snow, with a purposebuilt enclosed structure or suitable cover to provide protection from the elements while receiving health and wellness hot tub benefits from top quality hydrotherapy technology.

Increasing options

With the popularity of hot tubs increasing there has been an increase in ‘under cover’ options in recent years from suppliers who want to capitalise in the booming demand for rugged structures. As you conduct research, you may want to add products to your shortlist from specialist companies that have already gained a foothold in the market with purpose-built garden structures that have been designed specifically for the wet leisure market.

Modern garden structure manufacturers are now producing designs that provide multiple lighting and ventilation choices, and most can be easily assembled or have assembly included within the total cost of the product. This is ideal for hot tub owners who want to leave this specialist task to the professionals, rather than undertake DIY assembly work.

With the bonus of creating extra privacy, for example if your property is overlooked by other homes or buildings, hot tub buildings, gazebos, lodges, and glazed enclosures have the additional health benefit of also helping to shield you and your family members from exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Generate all-year-round benefits from a new hot tub by adding a stylish gazebo, garden building or automatic cover system to your purchase package.

Log Buildings and Thatched Enclosures

A wide range of gazebos, African enclosures, cabins and BBQ huts have been lined up by the thriving team at Award Leisure that has established showrooms throughout England.

The multiple award-winning family-run franchise company has forged a formidable presence in the market as a leading supplier of the Coast Spas hot tub ranges and associated garden products, and has introduced the Valkea Scandinavian cabins options, which are made from high-quality Nordic Pine or Canadian Cedar materials.

Along with glowing testimonials from a legion of satisfied customers, Award Leisure has more than 30 years of experience to provide customers with guaranteed quality service and this vast hot tub and gazebo project experience capability will provide you with the peace of mind to help you successfully navigate the whole process of purchasing a hot tub as part of a gazebo, cabin or garden building package; as well as the capability to carry out all of the fully-inclusive delivery and building requirements.

Award Leisure also prides itself on being able to provide a wide range of additional bespoke garden buildings with double glazing, flooring and weatherproofing, which are available to cater for customers who require a lavish outdoor living space for relaxing in their hot tub, socialising, or home-o ce working whatever the weather conditions are like outside.

www.awardleisure.com

WOODEN STRUCTURES

Debut Designs

York-based Softub UK is aiming to break into the wooden structure market this year with the debut of dedicated designs produced from European Redwood and British Columbia red cedar that will provide owners with peace of mind that their hot tub project has extra protection from rain and is sturdy enough to withstand strong wind conditions.

The distribution outfit behind the success of the Softub brand has reacted to the growing demand for rugged wooden structures by bringing on board a specialist structural designer who has drawn up designs ahead of the launch of its fledgling wooden structure options.

Initially, several standard sizes to easily accommodate round Softub models and other traditional hot tub sizes will be available before the options are extended to accommodate swim spas.

www.softub.co.uk

Cedar Enclosures

Having already taken advantage of the booming demand for wooden hot tub enclosures, Cedartree Products Ltd has asserted a foothold in the market with structures crafted using the finest Western Red Cedar, which is known as the ‘Tree of Life’.

Capitalising on a direct supply line to the largest British Columbia sawmills in

Canada, which own their own cedar forests, family-run Cedartree Products Ltd has utilised its specialist and sophisticated machinery to produce a range of Western Red Cedar hot tub lodges and shades.

Western Red Cedar is recognised as being one of the most beautiful products of nature and its key advantage is decay resistance, so the wide range of options for hot tub enclosure projects are ideal to accommodate all sizes of hot tubs and outdoor enclosure demands, as well as for hospitality and additional changing area space.

For extra peace of mind a large UK dealer network enables the brand to provide a nationwide installation service to ensure your structure can be fitted by qualified installers. ➧

www.cedartreeuk.com

Photos © Cedartree Products Ltd

Photo © Softub

CONTEMPORARY DESIGNS

Covana

The Covana brand has become a top choice for British hot tub owners requiring a secure and extremely strong state-of-the-art automated cover system that has been proclaimed as the ‘world’s best’ by a thriving network of suppliers.

Not only is it a rugged and extremely strong hot tub cover, the Covana is also a fully automated advanced user-friendly gazebo that has gained annual increases in ownership because customers are assured of the robust and totally secure hot tub cover.

Throughout the UK, a growing number of hot tub and swim spa dealers have been promoting the fact that the Covana design from Canadian manufacturer Canimex Group is the world’s first automated privacy gazebo that elevates above your hot tub at the turn of a key and now has an innovative tilting option that has been launched to the range.

Among the many advantages of a Covana cover is that it securely locks in place, either elevated or closed. In the closed position it can support up to 600lbs of weight, which ensures exceptional barrier protection, compared to traditional covers, while delivering the additional benefits of a covered roof system to ensure the enjoyment of your hot tub is not interrupted by rain showers or snow.

An additional benefit is the fact that unlike most covers, there is no heavy lifting involved and young and old owners alike can quickly and effortlessly gain access to their hot tub’s wellness

capabilities by simply turning the key to operate the automatic lifting system, which can lift an additional 200lbs of snow on the roof structure.

For additional privacy, owners can also purchase shades or screens, which can even be printed with scenes of exotic locations to enhance your hot tub ‘views’. These can be conveniently added to the Covana to help to create a secluded and relaxed atmosphere for enhanced enjoyment of your hot tub.

If you are conscious about making energy savings then the Covana is an ideal purchase, as it is hermetically sealed when closed and therefore significantly reduces unwanted heat loss. This is due to the manufacturer’s seamless design concept, which provides an insulation value three times that of traditional hot tub covers thanks to the use of polyurethane foam, which also helps to reduce the evaporation of water and chemicals. It is also friendly on your pocket once it is installed as there is no risk of having the extra cost of replacement covers due to weather or other damage.

Photos © Covana

The Covana Oasis

The Covana Horizon

❝Owners can also purchase shades or screens, which can even be printed with scenes of exotic locations to enhance your hot tub ‘views’.❞

Significantly, there is no danger of the structure coming down unexpectedly or being blown off in strong winds. The manufacturer has incorporated a ‘positive up’ design and this provides the peace of mind safety functionality to remain in the up position due to the fact that the lift system is compressed 60lbs per jack and the legs are designed to always want to go up, while the motor is responsible for forcing them down to the closed position. After the key is removed it is impossible to lift the Covana cover off the hot tub, preventing unauthorised access. In recent years the Covana hot tub system models that have become established in the market are the Oasis, and the Evolution that have been followed by the innovative Horizon option.

Covana Oasis

The Covana Oasis comes with a heavyduty pitched roof design with a scalloped underside that can house an ingenious multi-coloured point lighting system for extra ambience after-dark.

The Del lighting system was designed to create a warm, friendly atmosphere

and relaxing ambience based on a combination of seven carefully chosen colours. The lights give a dramatic effect by delivering colour-changing modes to enrich the atmosphere of your hot tub experience. Optionally, this lighting system can be powered from stored solar energy.

Covana Evolution

The Covana Evolution provides a wide range of solutions, as it is compatible with square hot tubs from 7’ to 8’ and rectangular units from 8’ x 9’ to 8’ x 11’ and also for the first time, an automated solution for round hot tubs up to 8’.

It’s refined flat roof design gives the Evolution a sleek and streamlined look, while the adjustable size offers the greatest range of possibilities to fit larger hot tubs. Both the Oasis and Evolution are available with retractable slate or mocha shades or mesh material screens to provide protection from the wind and harsh elements. Shades provide complete privacy from onlookers, whilst screens offer privacy and also allow you to see what is happening around your hot tub.

Covana Horizon

The latest innovation in the Covana range is the Horizon, which is distinguished by its inclined open position, which provides an unobstructed view of your surrounding garden environment by day and the sky and stars after dark. The Horizon is compatible with most spas with two different versions available; ‘large’ for square spas up to 81” x 83” or round spas up to 81” in diameter or ‘extra large’ for square spas up to 93” x 95” or round spas up to 93” in diameter. ➧

The Covana Evolution

The Covana Legend

Do I need planning permission?

If you are erecting a shelter, gazebo, enclosure or summerhouse, as long as the floor area is less than 15 sq m building regulations will not normally apply and you won’t need to apply for planning permission.

Under the latest Town and Country Planning laws outbuildings do not require planning permission as long as the following criteria is followed:

■ No outbuilding forward of the principal elevation fronting a highway

■ Outbuildings and garages must be single storey with maximum eaves height of 2.5m and maximum overall height of 4m with a dual pitched roof or 3m with any other roof style

■ Within 2m of a boundary the maximum height must be below 2.5m

■ No verandas, balconies or raised platforms

■ The total area of ground covered by buildings or enclosures within the boundaries of your garden must not exceed 50 per cent of the total area excluding the ground area of the original house

■ If any part of a building is within 5m of any part of the house or bungalow it must not have a cubic content greater than 10 cubic metres

There are a number of caveats to this. If the proposed outbuilding is within the curtilage of a listed building it will require planning permission. In areas such as National Parks, the Broads, World Heritage Sites and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty the maximum area to be covered by an outdoor building more than 20m from the house must be limited to 10 sq m. Any buildings at the side of a property within these areas will require planning permission. However, local conditions may prevail so it’s advisable to contact your local authority’s planning office for clarification. There may also be restrictions and covenants, such as proximity to boundaries or other buildings, or you may live in a conservation area. Again, it is worth making a quick call to your local planning office for confirmation.

Terrace Roof Systems

For more than a quarter of a century Dorset-based Nationwide Home Innovations have been manufacturing awnings, verandas, garage doors and roller shutters from their purpose-built factory in Wareham. Now the company has taken a step into the hot tub market.

The company is promoting the Terrace Roof System to current and prospective hot tub owners. It is a designer aluminium garden structure, which can provide hot tub owners with the flexibility to enjoy open views of the night sky or seclusion from the elements at the flick of a switch. Two permutations are the Rapallo and the Levanto.

Levanto Terrace Roof

The Levanto has a remote control operated aluminium slatted roof. At the press of a button the rotating slats can be fully closed or open anywhere up to 90 degrees, which allows owners to control the shade and airflow.

A key benefit is the fact that it can be manufactured as a freestanding product or with one side fixed to a wall. It is also possible to have optional sub screens fitted integrally within the structure and it can also be combined with bespoke fixed and sliding glass wall systems.

Rapallo Terrace Roof

Like its Levanto counterpart in most aspects, the Rapallo has the distinction of having aluminium slats that retract rather than rotate. It is also compatible with screens and glass walls, allowing hot tub owners to partially or fully enclose the roof.

These products have complemented the Nationwide Home Innovations range and have already gained a good foothold in the market, by providing owners with the same high-quality aluminium frames that are powdercoated in a colour of their choice for additional personalisation. ❚

www.nationwideltd.co.uk/ terrace-roofs

InstaShade Parasols

If you want your hot tub or alfresco dining and ‘spa-rty’ area to be exposed to the elements for the majority of the time but may require the flexibility for the provision of sunshade and light shower protection with superior wind resistance then the user-friendly InstaShade Parasols with different styles and colour options, including wood effect and popular ‘pistachio’ for gardenblending and vibrance, may be just the answer to add a touch of glamour to your ‘under cover’ requirement.

Warrington-based InstaShade Parasols has been ramping up promotion of its colourful and flexible semi-permanent or in-ground fitting designs within a new brochure for 2020. Along with providing stylish shade in the VIP pavilion at the Chester race course and an appearance at The Hampton Court Flower Show, RHS Cardiff and the RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park, the brand has created a storm of new interest by showcasing the innovative designs to consumers all over the UK.

As well as new heat and light domes and commercial options, such as the giant heavy duty Nova, which are being adopted by restaurants, bars and hotels that have outdoor catering and seating areas, there are several designs, including the 2.8m Aurora with its 360 spin and unlimited tilt capability, which are providing hot tub owners with more stability and flexibility advantages over traditional shades as they have been designed with cantilever or post fittings to withstand 80mph gales as well as block out strong sunlight and harmful UV rays.

Both the Aurora luxury cantilever umbrella and Eclipse premium cantilever umbrella utilise marine-grade materials in their design for extra strength, as well as providing full circle rotation for added flexibility, especially if your hot tub is located next to your outdoor dining area. The Paraflex Wall Mounted Parasol may be another sun blocking solution, especially if you require shade on a small outdoor patio or balcony where a conventional umbrella is not practical.

www.instashade.co.uk

Best Buy Awards

Our bumper 14th issue sees the 13th Anniversary of our coveted WhatSpa?

Best Buy Awards. The next 32 pages feature the vey best hot tubs that the UK has to o er across all price points, so be sure to try these soon!

Hot tubs are becoming a key investment choice for families wanting to enhance their home enjoyment, rather than risk the ramifications of dealing with travel doubts due to Brexit and Coronavirus health concerns.

A famous quote states that ‘knowledge is power’ and our ‘Best Buys’ will provide you with extra product knowledge as a guide to draw up your shortlist of hot tub choices. Thanks to enhanced consumer knowledge, the attraction of unreliable

and sometimes dangerous cut price grey imports sold over the Internet is subsiding and more and more discerning consumers are buying quality hot tubs from specialist stores, which provide bonafide products and quality showroom customer service backup and support.

There are currently some fantastic deals to be had from some of the market-leading brands, so if you are thinking of investing in a luxury hot tub, be sure to throw your bathing costumes in the car and “try before you buy” at a selection of your local showrooms.

Photo © Artesian Spas

Our 2020 Best Buy Awards acknowledge the hot tub models that excel across a range of criteria, including design and aesthetics, comfort and hydrotherapy and value-for-money.

We have split our 2020 Best Buy Award winners into five di erent price brackets to make life easier for you, but before you hit the road looking for hot tubs to dive into, save some time by finding out which brands are available in your local area by visiting the ‘Find a Retailer’ area on our web portal www.whatspa.co.uk

The ‘L’ and ‘A’ icons denote whether a model is a Lounge Seater (L) or All-Seater (A). Also, we have used QR code video links; so, where you see a QR code next to a product in our Best Buy Awards feature, simply whip out your smartphone, open the camera app and hover it over the QR code to get a direct link to the o cial YouTube or Vimeo video footage about this model. Also, don’t forget to look out for the WhatSpa? Approved, and WhatSpa? Best Buy logos when you are out shopping and be sure to add some of these models to your wet test list!

Just Hot Tubs Dartmoor

British Hot Tubs Westwood

WhatSpa? Verdict

Finding a good quality hot tub at under £4k can be a challenge, especially when the Internet is overrun with poor quality grey imports. This is where the Dartmoor from Just Hot Tubs excels - the build quality is fantastic with stainless steel jets, a foam backed Lucite® acrylic shell and Balboa™ controls. The compact footprint makes it perfect for properties with smaller spaces or restricted access whilst still offering three very spacious seats. At under £3.5k including delivery, installation, full commissioning, cover, cover lifter and steps the Dartmoor really is a bargain for couples looking for a compact three-seater.

WhatSpa? Verdict

British Hot Tubs has ambitious plans to bring hot tub design and engineering excellence back to British shores, and their lineup of three new models for 2020 is the start of things to come. The Westwood will hit showrooms in May 2020 and is sure to make a massive impact at this important price point. It features five comfortable multi-level seats arranged around a spacious footwell, 70 high-flow hydrotherapy jets, and mood colour changing underwater LED lighting plus cabinet lighting. If it’s a ‘bang for your buck’ family spa that you’re after in the sub-£4k price bracket, look no further!

RotoSpa QuatroSpa

Garden Spas Iris

x 200 x 74cm

WhatSpa? Verdict

The hugely successful QuatroSpa is manufactured here in the UK by Midlands-based company RotoSpa and is made by using a rotational moulding technique using a tough resin, which provides an extremely durable finish accented by attractive synthetic cabinetry. The reclining seat with 15-point ultra-blast jet and a considered functional massage system provides for maximum relaxation. The entry step o ers easy access and also doubles as a child seat. It is deceptively spacious and fits through standard doors and gates. At under 13 amps it provides true plug-and-play convenience, just wheel it in, fill it up and plug and play!

WhatSpa? Verdict

Launched to great acclaim a few years ago, the Garden Spas series comes with all of the design expertise and build quality of May Manufacturing, a Nevada-based manufacturer that also boasts award-winning Artesian Spas™ in its stable of top-flight brands. The Iris is new to our Best Buy Awards for 2020 and is the most versatile of the range due to its unique oblong design. This makes it a perfect fit for a small patio or deck, or even indoors as an ideal conservatory spa. Despite its diminutive size, the Iris can fit up to four people and packs plenty of massage punch via its 27 stainless steel jets. An ideal space-saver when room is tight!

Master Spas® Force 8

Softub® T140 Sportster

WhatSpa? Verdict

Market-leading Indiana-based hot tub manufacturer Master Spas® has teamed up with the UK's largest retailer of hot tubs The Hot Tub Superstore in Blackpool to bring the Force 8 and its stablemates to UK shores. It is no surprise that the Force 8 has achieved so much success as one of the best-selling plug-and-play 13 amp spas in the UK. The spacious six-seater layout includes a comfortable lounger plus a range of barrierfree seats, all with stainless steel adjustable jets powered by a powerful Balboa® hydrotherapy pump. The footwell is cavernous and leaves plenty of room to move from seat to seat. A fab family spa from quality suppliers!

WhatSpa? Verdict

If you are looking for a range of spas that offer unrivalled portability and easy installation, then look no further than Softub®! This iconic brand has pepped up its designer styling with a range of new LeatherTex colours and stunning bar and step surrounds in Cedar or Rattan finishes. The T140 Sportster is the smallest model in the line-up but there are also larger models if more bather capacity is required (T220 Legend, Resort 300+ & Portico). The unique heat exchange pump is an ingenious development that guarantees unrivalled energy-efficiency and the soft materials (as the name suggests!) ensure a comfortable and safe entry and exit for all ages.

x 212 x 92cm

Platinum Spas Santorini

www.platinumspas.co.uk

WhatSpa? Verdict

Riptide Spas followed up on its remarkable success in the swim spa arena with its launch of the Urban Lite spa collection in 2016, which is designed to minimise operating costs, as all models in the range can be operated as plug-and-play 13 amp spas. The Uptown is the best-selling model in the range and is a spacious five-seater with comfortable lounger plus a range of barrier-free seats, all with different rotary or directional jets. A lowenergy Gecko® circulation pump ensures quiet constant filtration and the optional hand-held massage jet reaches those muscle groups that can't be targeted by conventional jets. Ticks all the boxes!

Cabinet

Stereo System

Cabinet Type

Parts Warranty

2 Years Parts & 1 Year Labour RRP £5,899

WhatSpa? Verdict

The Platinum Spas range is brought to the UK by Midlands-based Superior Spas, a company that has become the largest distributor of hot tubs in the UK in recent years. The specification of the Santorini is jaw dropping, offering equipment levels more in keeping with spas at much higher price points. There are plenty of seats to fit up to six adults, including a comfortable lounger and a pair of amazing reverse-moulded corner bucket seats that deliver a fab neck and shoulder massage. The futuristic shell design of the Santorini is complemented by modern cabinetry, and a Bluetooth® stereo system as standard tops it all off.

Riptide Spas Urban Lite Uptown

Regency Spas Baron 30

Vortex Spas Mercury

Cabinet

WhatSpa? Verdict

The Regency Spas range is produced by leading Canadian manufacturer Coast Spas® and is exclusively brought to the UK in association with retailing powerhouse Award Leisure, with a growing network of independent showrooms around the UK. The low-profile Baron 30 is squarely aimed at the sub £6k market where space is at a premium, or delivery access is limited, as it fits through standard gates. Despite its compact dimensions the Baron 30 will comfortably seat five adults, with a comfortable lounger and raised seating that is ideal for families with children. Deeper corner bucket seats ensure adults are fully immersed.

WhatSpa? Verdict

To get Olympic gold medallist and swimming icon Ian Thorpe onboard as a brand ambassador, the design statement had to be something quite special. Stage left the 2019 award-winning IKON by Australian manufacturer Vortex Spas, which paved the way in the UK for the Mercury and its stablemates that are new for 2020. The Mercury is Vortex’s biggest selling family spa and unusually features twin loungers so no need to argue about who gets the best seat in the house (or garden)! The remaining barrier-free seats are great for adults and kids alike, making for a superb overall package for most families. Great value and versatility makes the Mercury a hit with us!

British Hot Tubs Kensington

Softub® T220 Legend

WhatSpa? Verdict

British Hot Tubs has ambitious plans to bring hot tub design and engineering excellence back to British shores, and their lineup of three new models for 2020 is the start of things to come. The Kensington is the big brother to the award-winning Westwood and will hit showrooms in May 2020. It features five comfortable multi-level seats arranged around a spacious footwell, 106 high-flow hydrotherapy jets, and mood colour changing underwater LED lighting plus cabinet lighting. A clever touch screen control panel and a dramatic backlit 24” waterfall finishes o the package. An impressive model that packs plenty of punch for its price!

WhatSpa? Verdict

If you are looking for a range of spas that o er unrivalled portability and easy installation, then look no further than Softub®! This iconic brand has pepped up its designer styling with a range of new LeatherTex colours and stunning bar and step surrounds in Cedar or Rattan finishes. The T220 Legend is the 'mid-size' model in the line-up but there are also larger models if more bather capacity is required (Resort 300+ & Portico). The unique heat exchange pump is an ingenious development that guarantees unrivalled energy-e ciency and the soft materials (as the name suggests!) ensure a comfortable and safe entry and exit for all ages.

WhatSpa? Verdict

If it's 'bang for your buck' that you're seeking, the Platinum Spas Infinity delivers an almost 'endless' supply of tech that utterly defies its price point. The Infinity boasts an impressive 91 stainless steel jets peppered around the comfortable seating, powered by two forceful hydrotherapy pumps, so there's no shortage of flow and massage options in every seat. Stunning pop-up water fountains that cascade over each other look fantastic both at day and night and the equipment line-up is topped off with Bluetooth® audio as standard. Corner skirt down lights and an array of topside and underwater lights make for an impressive spa that won’t break the bank.

Vita Spa 300 Series Elegant

WhatSpa? Verdict

The Elegant by leading Arizona manufacturer Vita Spa is no stranger to our awards plaudits and has been one of the UK's best-selling models in recent years. The spacious layout offers a reversible lounger with a further four well-designed seats including two deep bucket seats. The Elegant's 39 jets are powered by a pair of powerful hydrotherapy pumps, which deliver a great full-body massage. The Elegant is further complemented by a Bluetooth® audio system as standard, backlit waterfall and Vita Spa's recycled BlueMaax™ insulation incorporating a copper reflective shield for energy-efficiency. A well-priced spa that certainly lives up to its name!

WhatSpa? Verdict

As you'd expect from one of the World's largest spa manufacturers, the Hot Spot® collection by the manufacturers of HotSpring® has become a huge success and complements the Limelight® and Highlife® series higher up the price ladder. The twin-lounger Propel is the best seller in the range and is firmly aimed at quality-conscious couples that love to lounge! The Propel features a comfortable barrier-free design, a spacious footwell and five roomy seats including the pair of comfortable loungers. With all the build quality of the Watkins Wellness® stable of brands, the Propel is sure to 'ignite the sales thrusters' again in 2020!

Superior Spas Phoenix Lounge

WhatSpa? Verdict

The brand new lounge-seater Superior Spas Phoenix Lounge is the smaller sibling to the award-winning Chicago Family and is the perfect size for medium-sized families. As you would expect, Superior Spas has paid close attention to the lounge seat design and it is comfortable for all but the tallest of bathers. Two pumps and 45 varied hydrotherapy jets, including one Foot Blast jet, power the impressive neck-to-toe massage experience. The spa also benefits from a dual layer Superior HeatShield insulation, a process that recycles wasted heat that the spa naturally produces, which saves you money. A quality Bluetooth® audio system is the icing on the cake!

HotSpring® Hot Spot® Propel

WhatSpa? Verdict

Jacuzzi® is an industry-leading manufacturer that is no stranger to our Best Buy award plaudits. Recently re-designed, the J-200 Series has since won a host of Best Buy Awards, and the J-235 IP has proven its metal with bumper sales every year since its revamp. The lounge seat plus open seating arrangement makes it ideal for social gatherings and entertaining and two powerful pumps provide all the jet power needed to keep up to six bathers happy. Stainless steel jets and a quality Bluetooth® audio system come as standard on this fully featured spa that will continue to create waves of sales in 2020 and beyond!

Caldera Spas® Vacanza Marino

Cabinet

WhatSpa? Verdict

Caldera Spas® is one of Watkins Wellness®' top flight stable of brands, and distributed in the UK by Certikin, one of the most respected names in the British swimming pool and spa industry. The seven-times award-winning Marino is one of Caldera’s top-selling models in the Vacanza Series. The Marino has a stylish ergonomically sculpted shell and roomy non-slip footwell. Barrier-free seating makes moving from seat to seat easy and finishing touches like the Acquarella waterfall ensure a sensory experience that is guaranteed to relax! Built in Spa Frog® tops off the package for easy water maintenance.

Jacuzzi® J-235 IP

Coast Spas® Patio Omega B 21

Riptide Spas Heritage Tribute

Cabinet

Stereo

Cabinet Type

WhatSpa? Verdict

The oblong design of the Coast Spas® Patio Omega 21 has been designed to cram as much relaxation into as compact a space as possible, which makes it ideal for tighter spaces. We love the seating layout, which has all four bathers facing centre for the ultimate social experience. The barrier-free multi-level seating style with textured corner bucket seats is extremely comfortable, and smart touches like the shallower cool down seat serves double duty as a safe entry and exit point, especially after dark. The attention to detail is not lost on the multitude of topside drinks holders, which is a must for this sociable compact patio spa!

WhatSpa? Verdict

Stepping up from its sister Urban Lite collection, the Riptide Spas Heritage collection of hot tubs is designed to o er advanced hydrotherapy and great value in the mid-market sector. The Tribute is the most popular model in the Heritage series and is a back-to-back Best Buy Award winner in this mid-market category. It is packed with goodies including 48 jets, two hydrotherapy pumps, an optional hand-held massage jet, and a low-energy Gecko® circulation pump for silent constant filtration. The barrier-free seating is extremely comfortable and the trio of water fountains and water level LED lighting make for a relaxing after-dark ambience.

Vita Spa 500 Series Prestige

Sundance Spas® 680 McKinley IP

WhatSpa? Verdict

A Best Buy award-winner for the last seven years, the Prestige from Vita Spa is jam-packed with a multitude of jets in every seat to ensure maximum hydrotherapeutic value. Besides being a comfortable and spacious spa, powered by 52 jets and two pumps, the Prestige's spec includes a Bluetooth® stereo system, comprehensive lighting package and an air blower, all at under £8.5k. The 2020 version includes a Galvalume steel sub-frame, and 3M Thinsulate® insulation plus a copper reflective heat shield inside the cabinet and cover for added energy-e ciency. A fabulous performer and great value-for-money!

WhatSpa? Verdict

Sundance Spas® can be proud of its position as one of a handful of global market-leading luxury spa brands. The 680 Series has seen a raft of product developments in the last few years and the McKinley is the best-selling 680 Series model and pick of the all-seaters, with an ultra comfortable barrier-free layout with a fab reflexology foot dome massage from any seating position. Whilst the McKinley may be the smaller sibling to the award-winning Chelsee and Optima, it packs in plenty of goodies and the ergonomic seating easily accommodates up to seven bathers. A great option for large families that prefer an all-seater layout.

Regency Spas Princess 50

Be Well O665 (Montreal Luxury)

WhatSpa? Verdict

Like it's smaller sibling the Baron 30, the Regency Spas Princess is brought to our shores by retailing powerhouse Award Leisure, with a growing network of independent showrooms dotted around the UK. Hot tub buyers in this price bracket will be sure to get the 'royal treatment' with an array of upgrades available as standard for 2020, including the Spa Frog® mineral water purification system, colour changing perimeter lighting, and a high output ozone unit. The barrier-free seating layout makes moving from seat to seat a doddle, and the seating heights are varied making this a great choice for families with children of all ages.

WhatSpa? Verdict

Be Well Canada Spa hot tubs were newcomers to our Best Buy Awards two years ago and are brought to UK shores from Canada by Midlandsbased Superior Spas, a company that has become the largest distributor of hot tubs in the UK in recent years. The O665 (Montreal Luxury) has quickly established itself as the most popular Be Well family-sized loungeseat model as it comes packed to the rafters with tech including 49 jets powered by two hydrotherapy pumps, an air blower with 16 air jets, backlit topside controls, a relaxing backlit water cascade and a Bluetooth® audio system as standard. An impressive spec list and great value-for-money!

Jacuzzi®

120 sq ft (ProClear® System) Cabinet

WhatSpa? Verdict

The J-325 IP by leading brand Jacuzzi® is new to our Best Buy Awards for 2020 and establishes the trend for smaller spas suited to couples and small families. The J-325 IP seating arrangement includes four incredibly comfortable bucket seats plus a raised cool down seat, which also doubles up perfectly for smaller children. The new unique Hydrosoothe™ massage pillow also delivers a relaxing neck massage. The new ProFinish™ cabinet adds designer styling and a whole host of new features include backlit headrests and drinks holders, plus a top quality Bluetooth® audio system. A beautifully styled compact family spa from an iconic brand.

WhatSpa? Verdict

European manufacturing powerhouse Wellis® launched its new CityLine range to great acclaim in 2018 and the response from UK consumers has been as 'glowing' as the lighting extravaganza on offer! The Elbrus is the top all-seater pick in the new range and combines sleek design with a comfortable interior that delivers great hydrotherapy. The backlit jets, topside controls and dual waterfalls create an amazing after-dark ambience and illuminate the entire interior of the spa beautifully. The exterior styling gets equally impressive treatment with new Wellis® branded backlit corner accent panels.

WhatSpa? Verdict

The Palatino by Caldera Spas® is a triple Best Buy Award winner and is the bigger sibling to this year's award-winning Marino, both of which are best-selling models in the Vacanza Series of six models. Like the Marino, the Palatino oozes quality, with a stylish ergonomically sculpted shell, a beautifully contoured lounge seat and roomy non-slip footwell. Barrier-free seating makes moving from seat to seat easy and finishing touches like the Acquarella waterfall ensure a sensory experience that is guaranteed to relax! Built in Spa Frog® tops o the package for easy water maintenance. An amazing spa by a manufacturer of good repute!

WhatSpa? Verdict

As the name suggests, the Riptide Spas Prestige spa collection is designed to o er advanced hydrotherapy combined with beautiful aesthetics and advanced technical features. The Monarch is the 'King of the hill' in the Prestige series and is packed with goodies including 41 jets, two hydrotherapy pumps, an optional hand-held massage jet, and a low-energy Gecko® circulation pump for silent constant filtration. The touch-screen controls are intuitive and the trio of water fountains and water level LED lighting and backlit pillows make for a relaxing after-dark ambience. A comfortable feature-rich spa worthy of its regal signature!

Prestige Monarch

Coast Spas® Classic Element B 50

Superior Spas Chicago Family

WhatSpa? Verdict

A favourite in the Coast Spas® line up, the Classic Element B 50 is a versatile all-seater. With multi-level seating benefiting from bench-style seats (where you can swivel to lounge without a lounger taking up two seats in the spa), a higher cool down seat and wrap-around bucket seats, plus steps into the spa making this model perfect for all of the family. This spa also has a great hydrotherapy feature called 'tactile therapy' which are massage nodules in the bottom of the seats and the large footwell, these provide a kneading shiatsu massage e ect. With a large footwell, backlit waterfalls, drinks holders and wrap-around headrests this model has it all!

WhatSpa? Verdict

The brand new all-seater Superior Spas Chicago Family tops o this price category in style combining a spacious multi-level seating layout with powerful hydrotherapy. Three pumps and 42 varied hydrotherapy jets, including two Foot Blast jets, power the impressive neck-to-toe massage experience. The spa also benefits from a dual layer Superior HeatShield insulation, a process that recycles wasted heat that the spa naturally produces, which saves you money. The intuitive touch screen control panel is a breeze to use and allows you to control the whole spa including the multi-coloured LED lighting, and the Bluetooth® audio system.

American Whirlpool® AW471

www.americanwhirlpool.com

Jacuzzi® J-335 IP

x 221 x 89cm

WhatSpa? Verdict

The American Whirlpool® AW471 is the smaller sibling to the awardwinning AW982 and is already making a splash in the six-seater advanced hydrotherapy market. The AW471 boasts advanced touch screen controls, a superb Bluetooth® audio system, dual-level filtration system, enough underwater lighting to have a disco, plus topside backlit drinks coasters. For sure-footed entry and exit the AW471 features full perimeter lighting around the spa. If massage is important then the new Halo Pro-Loc™ stainless steel jets will see you right, especially in the 'comfort collar' seat where you will receive the ultimate in neck massage. Need we go on?

WhatSpa? Verdict

Since its launch the J-335 IP by leading brand Jacuzzi® is really giving the 400 series lounger models a run for their money. If it's hydrotherapy you're after, the J-335 IP features a re-modelled ProAir lounge seat design with hamstring to achilles massage and a trio of spacious corner bucket seats, including an FX10 therapy seat, which is designed to massage every major muscle group in the back. The new unique Hydrosoothe™ massage pillow also delivers a relaxing neck massage. The new ProFinish™ cabinet adds designer styling and a whole host of new features include backlit headrests and drinks holders, plus a top quality Bluetooth® audio system.

x 226 x 92cm

WhatSpa? Verdict

The quadruple award-winning Sundance Spas® Chelsee is no stranger to our Best Buy Awards and remains the pick of the all-seaters in the 780 Series. The Chelsee is a true family spa, with multi-level seating for up to seven and a cavernous footwell with a foot dome delivering reflexology to all of the main corner seats. The Fluidix® bearingless jet technology delivers a powerful, yet adjustable hydrotherapeutic massage and for deep tissue massage the Accu-Pressure™ seat therapy seat is second to none in its class. MicroClean® filtration and CLEARRAY® ozone ensures crystal clear water and low maintenance. A definite all-seater for the shortlist!

WhatSpa? Verdict

Rarely do we see a revolutionary new hot tub design statement, but the modern and powerful design lines of the Vector range by Oregon-based Marquis® really delivers on this front, transporting us to the future of hot tub design. The Vector21 V94 is the top pick in the all-seater range of Vectors and really delivers a flow and 'force to be reckoned with'! The V-O-L-T hydrotherapy system delivered via 40 uniquely designed JetPods is controlled by V3 throttle controls and the Whitewater-4TM deep tissue footwell jet delivers a flow that will melt away muscle knots in minutes. The optional MicroSilk® skin & beauty system also works beautifully.

Artesian Spas™ Grand Bahama 61

Vita Spa 700 Series Cabaret

x 232 x 92cm

WhatSpa? Verdict

sq ft + 1 Micron Filter

True to its name, the Grand Bahama by Las Vegas-based Artesian Spas™ is the big brother to the award-winning Nevis and o ers incredible value, delivering one of the most powerful hydrotherapy massages that we've seen. Comfortably seating six adults, the Grand Bahama features a spacious lounger, and three 'switchless motor' pumps powering a horde of 61 patented Helix jets and a duo of 'Footblaster' jets powered by a dedicated pump. Being based in the bright lights of Vegas, you'd expect a great light show, and the 20-inch Tranquility water feature that creates a stunning 'curtain of light' as the water cascades into the spa doesn't disappoint!

WhatSpa? Verdict

A five-time Best Buy Award winner, the 700 Series Cabaret from Vita Spa has 'stolen the show' at this price point by packing oodles of goodies into a package that could easily compete in our highest price bracket. The Cabaret o ers advanced and varied hydrotherapy, including a comfortable 'sports lounge' seat and a side-by-side 'cuddle couch' which is completely unique. Touch screen controls, wifi connectivity and Bluetooth® music all come as standard and an advanced water purification system combines both UV and Ozone to deliver the ultimate in crystal clear water. An absolutely awesome family spa!

Hydropool 670 Platinum www.hydropoolhottubs.com

x 213 x 99cm

HotSpring® Highlife® Jetsetter LX

sq ft (Dual Core Pressurised)

WhatSpa? Verdict

Canadian manufacturer Hydropool is one of the long-established names in the global hot tub market, with an extensive UK presence at high profile consumer shows and exhibitions throughout the year and a network of dealers across the UK. The 670 Platinum is one of Hydropool’s best-selling models and is a spacious six-seater spa with unique features such as the 'self cleaning' floor drain system and dual pressurised filtration which cleanses 100 per cent of the water in under 15 minutes. The swivel seat lounger is ingenious and allows two people to lounge at the same time when there are five or less bathers. A rock solid performer!

WhatSpa? Verdict

It is unusual for us to feature a three-seater spa in this price bracket but the Highlife® Jetsetter LX by brand icon HotSpring® thoroughly deserves its place. The Jetsetter arrives in style by squeezing all the same goodies from larger Highlife® models into a much smaller package. The Jetsetter is therefore ideal for couples looking for a small luxury hot tub that offers all the features of larger spas. This makes it ideal for smaller patios, courtyard gardens and even inside conservatories as it can easily fit through standard doorways for delivery. The new backlit Moto-Massage® DX lounger is superb and the backlit pillows, waterfalls and topside controls are stunning.

Master Spas® Michael Phelps MP8

www.thehottubsuperstore.co.uk

Coast Spas® Mirage Curve 50

Cabinet

WhatSpa? Verdict

World record swimming champion Michael Phelps made a huge splash when he teamed up with Indiana-based Master Spas® to design a range of advanced swim spas a decade ago. The Michael Phelps story continues with a unique range of advanced hydrotherapy hot tubs for a top quality post-swim or workout massage. The Michael Phelps MP8 is the best of the bunch and features six comfortable, barrier-free seats, including a lounge seat with incredible lower body massage via 14 well-positioned Orbit Jets. Move around the spa for a full body massage and don’t forget the Master Blaster foot jets to rejuvenate those tired feet. Incredible!

WhatSpa? Verdict

If you're looking for great value-for-money and have the space to accommodate a huge eight-seater family spa for the ultimate 'spa-rty', the Coast Spas® Mirage Curve 50 is the bomb! There aren't many hot tubs that can boast eight seats including a fully-featured lounger, especially with a price tag below £15k, so quite how Canadian manufacturer Coast Spas has managed it, we're not sure. An array of comfortable seats leaves you spoilt for choice and the dramatic raised back with the 24" backlit waterfall adds the finishing touch and welcome protection from the elements. A gadgetladen spa that will have your friends gasping in amazement!

Sundance Spas® 880 Optima IP

Hydropool 790 Platinum

WhatSpa? Verdict

The top award-winning 880 Series Sundance Spas® Optima is no stranger to our Best Buy awards and remains at the forefront of the race for best all-seater spa. The Fluidix® bearingless jet technology is unsurpassed in delivering ultimately adjustable hydrotherapeutic massage and for deep tissue massage the Accu-ssage® therapy seat is second to none. What’s more, the foot jet dome undoubtedly offers one of the best reflexology massages this side of a spa treatment room. MicroClean® Ultra filtration and CLEARRAY® ozone ensures crystal clear water and a backlit waterfall finishes off the package. One of the best all-seaters on the planet!

WhatSpa? Verdict

The 790 Platinum by Canadian manufacturer Hydropool is the big brother to the best-selling 670 Platinum and does everything in more luxurious style for larger groups. The extra space is not wasted with the addition of a reversible lounger and a side-by-side second lounger, which explains why the 790 is commonly called the "honeymooner special". The 790 Platinum packs in all of Hydropool's unique features such as the 'self cleaning' floor drain system and dual pressurised filtration which cleanses 100 per cent of the water in under 15 minutes. The corner Captain's chair seats are amazingly comfortable and the cedar cabinet option is a rare luxury!

x 231 x 95cm

Artesian Spas™ Elite Dove Canyon

100 sq ft (ProClear® System)

WhatSpa? Verdict

The Jacuzzi® J-475 IP has pipped its slightly bigger six-time awardwinning J-480 IP sibling to the honours list for the second year running. This contemporary model is a real showstopper with its dramatic curved high-back profile, designer styling and state-of-the art equipment. The hybrid layout combines the best of both all-seater and lounger models with a comfortable RX Jet Therapy Lounge and powerful foot dome for bathers in all of the bucket seats. New style touches such as the wide-sheet waterfall, striking corner cabinet lighting, and diverter controls that serve double-duty as cup holders are the icing on the cake!

WhatSpa? Verdict

+ 1

The new ELITE range by Artesian SpasTM has really raised the bar for this Las Vegas-based manufacturer. The bright lights of Vegas are reflected in their latest design cues and the ELITE range delivers with an awe-inspiring after dark light show with an array of underwater and exterior lighting plus backlit water fountains and a branded 20-inch waterfall. The scope of the specification and design is also first rate, particularly the unique Direct FlowTM system, which puts each bather in control of their own massage experience. The lounger with armrests is super comfortable and Spa Frog® tops off the high-end spec on the best-selling ELITE Dove Canyon.

Coast Spas® Luxury Apex L Curve 82

www.coastspas.co.uk

Caldera Spas® Utopia Cantabria

www.calderaspas.co.uk

x 234 x 102cm (119cm at back)

WhatSpa? Verdict

If you're looking for a large family lounge-seater spa that comes packed to the rafters with jets and tech, the new Coast Spas® Apex L Curve 82 takes some beating. With multi-level seating for seven people, the Luxury Apex can accommodate even the busiest of 'spa-rties', whilst Coast's advanced cyclonic filtration system and water purification system will ensure crystal clear water and easy maintenance afterwards. To impress your guests even more, the Apex also features the exclusive raised back design equipped with a 24" backlit waterfall o ering a cascade of hot water therapy to soothe those aching shoulders. Has the wow-factor in spades!

WhatSpa? Verdict

If size and seating capacity are important factors for you, the Caldera Spas® Cantabria is arguably one of the best eight-seater lounger spas on the planet! It is no wonder that the Cantabria is the flagship model from the Utopia Series and five-time Best Buy award-winner. Not only does the seating design comfortably cater for eight, but one of you will be enjoying one of the most soothing lounger seats on the market equipped with the amazing UltraMassage® system. This jetting system will enable you to customise your spa experience at any time with di erent jet sequences targeting all parts of your body to give a fabulous all over massage.

WhatSpa? Verdict

When naming this model, just one word must have sprung to mind for World-respected brand Marquis®... Epic! Delivering a simply superb hydrotherapy experience, no expense has been spared on the Epic, which is now vying for top accolades in spa design. Featuring unique Tri-Zone® therapy controls and loaded with 65 of their patented HK® (standing for HydroKinetic) jets, the quality and depth of the Epic’s massage is among the best in the industry. The addition of MicroSilk® technology makes this the whole package for health, wellness and beauty conscious spa buyers. Definitely one for the wet test list if budget permits!

WhatSpa? Verdict

We've seen some huge models in this price category but the American Whirlpool® AW982 is the daddy of them all at almost 3.4m long! It features two full-length side-by-side loungers plus multi-level bucket and barrierfree seating for a further six or seven bathers. It really has to be seen to be believed! The AW982 features a Galvalume steel structure, Northern Exposure® insulation using Thinsulate®, plus built in UV and ozone systems for easy water care. The AW982 also o ers state-of-the-art touch-screen controls, a fantastic Bluetooth® music system and enough lighting to have a disco! Throw in the optional rowing kit and you're golden!

x 231 x 97cm

WhatSpa? Verdict

3 Water Fountains

Just when we thought that spa design had reached it's zenith, HotSpring® has raised the bar again with it's market leading Highlife range. Designed in conjunction with BMW, the new Envoy® has taken contemporary spa design to the next level. The sculptured base gives the impression that the spa is sitting on legs, with integral corner lighting panels for added ambience. The new backlit Moto-Massage® DX lounger is superb and the backlit pillows, waterfalls and topside controls are stunning. If you are looking for a top-notch spa with the emphasis on sleek aesthetics, comfort and hydrotherapy, the new HotSpring® Envoy has them all in spades!

WhatSpa? Verdict

European manufacturing powerhouse Wellis® has 'elevated' its status by producing a truly stunning dual-lounger model that really is as gargantuan as it's name suggests - in the form of the Olympus from its PeakLine range. One of six restyled PeakLine models, the Olympus boasts a whopping 88 jets powered by four hydrotherapy pumps. The Olympus has been designed to go head-to-head with the other eight plus seaters in this category but it is so much more than a party spa. The hydrotherapy experience on o er is truly worth experiencing. So this is definitely one for the wet test shortlist if you have the space and the budget!

HotSpring® Highlife® Envoy