Hot Tub & Spa Accessories Tips

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My spa cover is too heavy, what can I do?

The Self-Lifting Spa Cover

Are you buying a spa for therapeutic reasons? Then chances are you don't want to wrestle with a heavy cover every time you use your spa. Luckily, you can purchase cover-lifter systems that will remove and replace the cover automatically. Many of these systems also self-store the cover beside the spa while you're using it. If you don't have a lot of room behind the spa, some cover systems will store the cover in as little as 6-inches of space. These systems fit just about any size cover and most of them can be used with both insulated and hard covers.

   
What kind of light systems are available for hot tubs?

Hot Tub Lights

Gone are the days of a single color spotlight in the bottom of your hot tub! Today, many tubs are equipped with high-tech LED light systems that create a rainbow of colors inside your tub. Usually these lights have dimmer controls so you can choose the intensity of the light, too. Can't decide on your favorite color? No problem! Many lights will cycle in a random pattern for your pleasure. These systems use far less energy than regular lights, and can last up to 10 years before they need to be replaced. Some LED systems can also be added to existing spas, so check with your dealer.

   
What type of gazebos are available for spas?

The Spa Gazebo -- Intimate to Airy

If you want a little privacy in your outdoor hot tub, you may opt to place your hot tub in a gazebo. Gazebos come in as many shape and sizes as your hot tub, so it shouldn't be hard to find one that works for your yard. Some come with covers, and some without, so you can still enjoy a starry night from the comfort of your spa. Gazebos are usually open structures, but many spa companies are selling enclosures now, too, that turn your spa into an intimate little backyard oasis – private and personal. These enclosures offer a place to change clothes and hang towels and other accessories, too. From simple to elaborate, the spa gazebo is a popular add-on to the spa experience.

   
What should I look for in a spa umbrella?

What to Look for in a Spa Umbrella

When you choose a spa umbrella there are several things to look for. First, it should be easy to install, especially if the hot tub is full and already in place. The umbrella itself should be made of a durable material that will stand up to the elements and won't fade in the sun. A spa umbrella isn't much use if it doesn't cover the entire spa, or at least most of it and it has to be adjustable, so you can enter and exit the spa easily. It should be sturdy enough to stand up to the elements, so that you can leave it in place for more than a day or two, and it should be flexible enough to use it for surrounding shade when you're not in the tub. Finally, you should be able to open and close it quickly and easily.

   
Spa seats are uncomfortable, what can I do?

The Spa Seat Pillow

If you suffer from back pain, arthritis, or other ailments, the hard seat of a spa bench can create some discomfort. If so, look for special spa seats created just for your needs and comfort. Some of these soft, comfy pillows fit right into the molded seat bottom and come with washable covers, while others are inflatable plastic. They make the spa experience much more enjoyable. They can also act as mini-booster seats for little ones when the family all joins together in the hot tub.

   
What type of jet is right for my spa?

The Many Faces of Jets

Spa jets can massage your feet, ease your aches and pains, and simply relax away the stress of a long day. Picking the right configuration may be one of the most important choices you make in your spa purchase. There are whirlpool jets that circulate water in a round motion, and neck jets geared specifically to relax tight muscles in the neck and shoulders. You can also choose swirling jets that target certain areas of the body, pulsating or "gattling" jets that pulsate water over a larger area (great for the lower back), and even foot or hand jets that will massage and ease tense muscles.

   
Are there pillows made especially for the spa?

The Right Spa Pillow

Tired of resting your head on the hard edge of your spa? Then pick up a spa pillow or two for a more comfortable spa experience. Spa pillows come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and materials. You can even find some pillows with suction cups so you can attach them right to the spa. Look for durable plastic pillows with a soft foam interior. They should be heavy enough to stand up to the wear and tear of hot water, chemicals, and the elements, but soft enough to be comfortable. Don't choose fabric covered pillows; they simply won't stand up in the hot tub environment.

   
What's a spa umbrella?

The Spa Umbrella

If you need some shade from the hot sun during your daytime soaks, a spa umbrella may be just the thing for your daytime spa experience. These market-type, adjustable umbrellas are counterbalanced to provide shade for your hot tub while the base slides underneath the tub for simple installation. (The weight of the tub simply keeps it in place). These umbrellas swivel, so you can use them for shading tables, chairs, or a patio when they're not in use over the tub. If you're tired of squinting in your hot tub, a spa umbrella may be just what you need to make your spa experience complete.

   
What types of new and different spa steps are available?

New Wave of Spa Steps

Spa steps have been around as long as the first hot tubs, but today's spa steps are more than rectangular wooden additions to your spa. Some home spa and hot tub manufacturers are now creating molded plastic or polyethylene steps in a variety of colors that look and act quite differently. The top step actually comes off and you can use the larger bottom step for storage. Spa chemicals, extra towels, or even a book or magazine would fit quite nicely in the compartment, and they work for either round or straight-sided spas.

   
Do spa steps come in different designs, colors, and styles?

Spa Steps as Design Elements

For years, spa steps have been ignored. Today, they can be an integral part of the overall look and feel of the spa. Some come with hidden storage, while others even integrate planters or extra seating. They come in every type of material from redwood and cedar to plastic or polyethylene. If you need a little extra help getting into your spa, handrails are now available too that attach directly to the steps. Different designs are available in case you're tired of the blocky, square variety that come with most tubs. Spa steps are a necessity, so they might as well blend in to your landscape design, too.

   
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