Buying a spa is a decision you shouldn't feel rushed or pressured into, so be sure to ask the dealer a lot of questions. Like shopping for anything else, knowledge is everything. Before you take the plunge into buying a spa, ask for a private "test soak" so you can feel the jets and the overall comfort of the spa.

Here is a checklist of things to consider:

1. Learn about the spa's specific features, ease of use and maintenance.
   • When the spa is not in use, does the water always remain hot and clean?
   • Do the jets and jet systems allow you to customize your hydromassage experience?
   • How loud are the jets and pump?
   • Does the spa offer a balanced filtration system? Is the water continuously filtered 24 hours a day to ensure clean, clear water?
   • Are the filters top-loaded for easy access?
   • Is the heating and filtration system fully automatic with no programming required?
   • Is there an automatic clean-up cycle after you exit the spa?
   • Inquire about the heater--typically the most vulnerable component of any spa. Make sure corrosion will not occur.
   • Are the controls user-friendly, easy to operate and adjust?
   • Are there optional features to make spa ownership easier?
   • What are the electrical specifications of the spa? Are both 115v and 230v available?
     (115v can be far less expensive to install)
   • How is the seating configured? Are you able to move about easily? Is there lumbar support for your back?

2. Learn how the spa was constructed and its energy efficiency.
   • The components should be fully tested and backed by the manufacturer's warranty.
   • Make sure the spa is totally insulated, not just fully-foamed. Lower quality spas only spray a small amount of foam on the shell--not the entire cavity.
   • Ask how to estimate your monthly operation costs. (Beware of less expensive spas which can cost in excess of $50 per month to operate).
   • Visit here for Energy Efficiency information on our spas.

3. Obtain a copy of the warranty.
   • Ask for a copy of the warranty and read it thoroughly. Beware of the dealer who is reluctant to provide a copy.
   • What spa parts are covered under warranty and for how long? Make sure the heater, surface/structure, components, tile and skirt are included. What about the plumbing warranty?
   • How does the manufacturer's warranty compare with other brands? Make sure there are no undesirable limitations or exclusions.
   • Visit the following areas for warranties on the spas we offer:
     • Hot Spring Spa Warranty
     • Tiger River Spa Warranty
     • Solana Spa Warranty
     • Freeflow Spa Warranty
     • Hot Spot Spa Warranty

4. Obtain information on the manufacturer and the dealer to ensure you will receive quality service both during and after your spa purchase.
   • How long has the manufacturer been in business?
   • How long has the dealer been in business? Inquire about their service policy and find out who services the spa. Does the dealer stand behind their product?
   • Research Consumers Digest "Best Buy" awards in the portable spa category.
   • Ask for customer references

• In house Service--"Best Service Dept" award 1994. We service what we sell.
• In house Deliveries--We deliver to your spa site (not curb), level, polish and explain. We do not contract this out to outside companies.
• Most comprehensive warranties in the spa industry and offered by a local manufacturer. We'll gladly give you a copy.
• Established in 1985 with a goal to offer only the finest quality products the industry has to offer unlike many companies who only strive for promotional or price oriented products.
• Quality products require a quality well-trained staff. Frequent training is done to ensure the right answer for all your questions.
• A Hot Spring Spa or Tiger River has been the "Best Buy" in Consumer Digest Magazine in EVERY study done on portable spas.
• Named in the top 100 companies in North America for 5 consecutive years. Inducted into the Aqua Hall of Fame in 2000 for consistent levels of professionalism, customer service and quality work. Also been Regional Dealer of the Year twice since 1995.
• We offer a full line of chemicals and accessories to enhance your spa experience
• Hot Spring Spa of North County specializes in the water industry unlike others that sell many products with no clear specialization.

Thank you for visiting our web site and for your interest in our spas. Please note that spas can NOT be shipped outside of our immediate area. As much as we would like to have every visitor to our website as a customer, it is not feasible to ship unwrapped spas across country. Thank you for your understanding. If you reside outside of Southern California, e-mail us with your city and zip code so that we can reply with the dealer nearest you.