Hot Spring Spas

Hot Spring Spas

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Overall Rating1.7 out of 5
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About Hot Spring Spas

Hot Spring spas and hot tubs have been manufactured in Vista, California, by Watkins Wellness since 1977. Hot Spring’s portable saltwater hot tubs include soothing massage features and a variety of jet options. The company also offers saltwater systems and energy-efficient models. Find accessories, including replacement covers, cover lifters and furniture, on its website.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Customizable features
    • Energy-efficient models
    • Range of price tiers

    Cons

    • Limited warranty
    • Sold only through local dealers

    Bottom Line

    Customers enjoy Hot Spring Spas’ patented technology features, such as Tri-X filters, and its three different water care systems that ensure freshness. All models are customizable.

    Featured Reviews

    Verified
    Bethesda, MD

    After spending months and months reading about hot tubs and going to dealers, we finally decided to buy the HotSpot Relay. So far (a month in) we are very happy with it. Its jets ...

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    Verified
    Damascus, MD

    The first year was fantastic. When operational, this is a fabulous hot tub. However, after a year or so the hot tub began having problems but was covered under warranty. The contr...

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    About Hot Spring Spas

    Hot Spring Spas’ hot tubs use a variety of massage and hydrotherapy features, including rotating and directional jets, to provide owners with a therapeutic and relaxing experience. Those looking to lower their utility costs gravitate to Hot Spring Spas because the company’s SmartJet system is specifically designed to conserve energy. All of the company’s tubs are certified by the California Energy Commission and SpaSearch.

    Hot Spring Spas prices

    Entry-level Hot Spot Spas from Hot Spring start at $6,999 for a two- or three-person hot tub. The Limelight Collection and Highlife Collection cost $8,999 and up for premium and luxury tubs.

    Prices vary based on added features, hot tub size, installation costs and taxes. Hot Spring Spas suggests reaching out to a local authorized dealer for the most accurate pricing.

    Hot Spring Spa hot tubs

    Hot Spring Spa offers three collections of hot tubs: Hot Spot Spas, the Limelight Collection and the Highlife Collection. Available features for the spas include wireless remote controls, large power indicator lights and patented pump shrouds as well as Hot Springs’ dual Freshwater Salt and Ozone systems.

    • Highlife Collection: All Highlife Collection models — Grandee, Vanguard, Sovereign, Envoy, Aria, Prodigy, Triumph, Jetsetter and Jetsetter LX — come with multiple jet configurations, Tri-X filters, customizable lighting and multilayered foam insulation. Hot Springs manufactures the Highlife Collection with polymer and ABS-backed acrylic shells to create a strong and durable product. Select models also include sculpted seating, such as the captain’s chair included with the Highlife Collection’s Envoy model.
    • Limelight Collection: The Limelight Collection features five models: Prism, Pulse, Flash, Flair, and Beam. All models include a variety of jet styles and fit from four to seven people. With a full-color LCD screen, a power indicator light that shows when the hot tub is ready, exterior lighting and optional wireless entertainment, the Limelight Collection offers all of Hot Spring’s best features without the hefty price tag.
    • Hot Spot Spas: The most popular Hot Spot models — Tempo, Relay and Rhythm — come with a variety of seating, lighting and massage jet options. The Relay includes lounge seating, cushioned headrests and LED lights that can be dimmed for a relaxing nighttime soak. Select Hot Spot models can fit up to seven people, and every model includes multiple jet configurations, an insulated cover and the option to add wireless entertainment.

    Hot Spring Spa maintenance

    Hot Spring Spas’ Ozone system with MPS and silver ions makes water care easy — tubs with this system only require weekly maintenance. The saltwater systems found in Hot Spring Spas’ Limelight and Highlife Collection require even less attention and offer up to a full year of sanitation. With the FreshWater Salt System, small amounts of salt are converted into chlorine to flush out any bacteria or germs within the water.

    It’s important to rinse out hot tub filters once a month to avoid any clogging. The company recommends you perform a deep clean every three to four months. The patented Tri-X filters featured in the Highlife Collection are dishwasher safe, which makes them easier to clean. Depending on the amount of use, the company recommends that you drain and refill your hot tub three to four times per year. Once drained, you can clean the spa shell.

    Hot Spring Spas warranty

    Hot Spot Spas come with a five-year warranty on their no-leak shell and a two-year warranty on components, including the MotoMassage jet and no-fault heater. The LED light assemblies in the Tempo, Relay and Rhythm models also come with a two-year warranty.

    The Limelight Collection and Highlife Collection come with a seven-year warranty on the no-leak shell and a five-year warranty on components and Everwood cabinet material. The wireless remote control battery included in the Highlife Collection comes with a one-year warranty. Local authorized dealers can explain additional warranties.

    Hot Spring Spas’ hot tubs must be serviced by an authorized technician or you run the risk of voiding the warranty.

    Hot Spring Spas FAQ

    How much do Hot Spring Spas cost?

    Most hot tubs from Hot Spring Spas start at $6,999. A premium hot tub for four adults with a FreshWater Salt System, multicolor lighting, an LCD control panel and FiberCor insulation costs between $9,000 and $10,000. Hot Spring Spas’ prices vary based on features, size and local taxes.

    How long do Hot Springs hot tubs last?

    At a minimum, most Hot Spring Spas hot tubs last five years. A well-maintained hot tub can last 20 years or more.

    How do I connect my Bluetooth to my Hot Spring hot tub?

    Connecting a Bluetooth to your Hot Spring hot tub is easy — simply select “Blue” or "Bluetooth" as the source on your hot tub’s audio setup menu and pair your device by choosing “My spa” on the device menu. Hot Springs’ Bluetooth speaker system has a range of up to 30 feet.

    How often does Hot Spring Spas have sales?

    Hot Spring Spas offers sales throughout the year. Most authorized dealers clear out their inventory during the fall, which is a good time to shop for deals and promotions.

    What is the ACE Salt Water System?

    The ACE Salt Water System is available in Hot Spring Spas’ Highlife Collection, Highlife Collection NXT and Limelight Collection hot tubs. This system uses small amounts of salt in the water and converts it to chlorine so that the hot tub’s water stays fresh and sanitized without the use of bottled chlorine.

    Are Hot Spring Spa hot tubs worth it?

    Hot Spot Spas offer a value-priced and budget-friendly option with all of the Hot Spring’s best features — energy-efficiency, FiberCor insulation, the Freshwater Ozone System and FROG @ease in-line cartridges. For hot tub owners looking to upgrade their hot tub, the Limelight Collection provides a premium hot tub with dual FreshWater Salt and Ozone systems, colored lighting and FiberCor insulation. The Highlife Collection combines all the best features of these collections into a line of sleek and luxurious hot tubs.

    Hot Spring Spas Reviews

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    Page 1 Reviews 0 - 10
    Customer ServiceMaintenance

    Reviewed Aug. 5, 2023

    We received our Hot Springs Spas less than 13 months ago. It is inside, used daily for 15 minutes by myself and occasionally by my lady. I regularly check and adjust the water as well as change it regularly, maintain the filter, etc. It first broke down at 5 months. After being down for 4 weeks, it was back up and running with a new pump. It broke down again roughly 5 months later. After a few more weeks it was up and running with a new contol panel and another part. That was about 5 weeks ago. Today, it again has broken down and is giving me the FLO warning. I just shut the power off and notified my dealer. Kylie from Hot Springs customer service was communicating with me via Messenger but stopped responding to any message I send a couple months ago. I am so disappointed. I wanted a spa for years and trusted Hot Springs would be a good brand to go with. Instead, it has been a truly painful and frustrating experience.

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    Hot Spring Spas
    Response from Hot Spring Spas
    Timothy, I am sorry to hear about your disappointing spa experience. Please know that we value all of our customers and strive for excellence in every aspect of our services. Kylie has already contacted a manager and your dealer to address this issue. According to her latest message, your spa is operational, and we are working diligently to resolve any remaining concerns.
    Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

    Vanessa - Customer Care

    StaffWarranty

    Reviewed June 18, 2023

    We’ve had the Hot Tub for about 6 years now and we’re getting ready to buy Wireless Remote #4—yes, the fourth + 1 new dock in 6 years. On all three that have failed to date, the screens seem to get water under the plastic screen cover. And shortly thereafter the touch feature stops working and eventually won’t turn on at all. Tried leaving in the sun, in bowl of rice to dry out; no luck.

    In our case, we bought our house from a friend who had the hot tub installed just 8 months before we moved in. So, of course, the warranty doesn’t transfer over. I had contacted Hot Spring directly for the previous remote issue; the woman I spoke with was incredibly polite and empathetic. But there was nothing she could do. It’s a very poor design, and it’s quite disappointing. For us, this will be the last replacement remote we’re buying. Next time, I’m replacing the whole tub with a different manufacturer.

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    Response from Hot Spring Spas
    Thank you for taking the time to share your review with us. I apologize for the reoccurring issue you have been experiencing without any resolution. I can understand how frustrating this must be for you. We strive to provide our customers with the best experience possible and want everyone to enjoy the benefits of hot water therapy. I would like to gather more information about your case and assist you in resolving this issue. Please look for an email from me.

    Vanessa - Customer Care

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      Reviewed April 12, 2023

      I bought my second (and probably last) Hot Springs Grandee Hot Tub in 2017. Shortly afterwards, the retailer who I bought both my hot tubs from stopped being a reseller for Hot Springs, which should have been my first clue. Hot Springs have added all kinds of useless features, while allowing the quality to decline substantially.

      Specifically for me, the wireless remote system. I have now gone through 3 of these remotes due to failures, the last 2 in less than 6 months. This is especially frustrating as there doesn't seem to be any logical purpose for a wireless remote in the first place. Unfortunately for me, after being a loyal customer for almost 20 years, it appears I'm going to have to find another company to purchase products from. I would strongly recommend anyone looking for a tub, try another brand.

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      Response from Hot Spring Spas
      Paul, I'm sorry to learn that as an experienced owner of Hot Spring Spa, you are not satisfied with your current spa. Our company values our customer's feedback and take it seriously to make necessary adjustments to enhance their spa experience.
      We offer a wide range of spa models with various features, some of which come with built-in controllers. Rest assured; I will personally reach out to you to ensure that all steps have been taken to improve your spa experience.

      Vanessa-Customer Care

      Customer ServicePriceMaintenanceWarranty

      Reviewed March 12, 2023

      Paid over $12,000 for Hot Spring spa that started leaking 1 month after warranty was up. Called local dealer we purchased the spa from. They came out and told us they would put us on their list to repair the leak and charged us $240.00 for service call with no repair. Checked back with dealer after not hearing from them for 3 months and then they told us the 5 year warranty was up and they don't repair the spas. Checked with all spa dealers in the area and they wouldn't repair the Hot Spring brand because they didn't sell it to us and they are not the local dealer. Called the manufacture to complain. They opened a case file but didn't lift a finger to help. Had to repair the leak myself.

      In less than a year we had the second leak. Again I had to repair the leak. Now after 4 leaks in 3 years, I had enough. Cut the Hot Spring spa up to remove it since it was indoors. No help from the local dealer or the manufacturer. I do not recommend this brand by Watkins Manufacturing. Worst plumbing I've ever seen and way overpriced.

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      Response from Hot Spring Spas
      I appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. I'm sorry to hear that your spa required service and was not repaired. It's unfortunate that you had a negative experience, and I understand your frustration. We strive to ensure that all our customers are satisfied and able to enjoy their spas for many years. Hot water therapy is a beneficial experience that we believe everyone should have access to, and I hope you find a spa that meets your needs.

      Vanessa-Customer Care

      Price

      Reviewed March 4, 2023

      Before you purchase the Hot Spring salt water system please be aware the cost to maintain the system is getting really expensive. I went into a HSS retail location last week and spent over $420.00 on three cartridges and one vanishing act to soften the water. I don't mind the system but I am truly rethinking my decision to have purchased the system in the first place.

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      Response from Hot Spring Spas

      Thank you, Sam, for bringing up a great topic. While there is an upfront cost for the salt system cartridges, the box of three will last one year. Other benefits of note are softer and longer-lasting water.

      I am happy to hear you are enjoying your spa, and your feedback is important. Knowing how much it costs to maintain the spa matters. I encourage spa shoppers to discuss this with their dealers; local prices will vary.

      Happy Hot Tubbing!

      Vanessa - Customer Care

      PriceWarranty

      Reviewed Feb. 11, 2023

      I paid for a salt system that I no longer have. I couldn’t keep it running. It kept shutting down. Not good in Wisconsin so I had it disconnected. I paid for a sound system that I no longer have. I was told that it would be $1,100 to fix. Last fall it shut down and I had to have a part replaced; under warranty. That is when I was told that the sound system wasn’t working properly. It never did. I was just too dumb to realize it. Sound was coming out so as far as I knew it was working. Now it has shut down again. February in Wisconsin. After hours so I couldn’t contact anyone. Today I was told to go out and buy a cow tank heater to keep it from freezing. I think that I have one more year of warranty and soon after that I think that I’ll have a piece of junk that will be very expensive to dispose of.

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      Response from Hot Spring Spas
      Gerald, I am sorry to hear about your spa experience. A hot tub should be relaxing and enjoyable; that has not been the case.

      Please look for a direct message from me. I want to know more about your spa and how I can help.

      Thank you for taking the time to share your review, and I look forward to working with you soon.

      Vanessa - Customer Care

      Verified purchase
      PriceMaintenanceWarranty

      Reviewed Nov. 15, 2022

      12K+ Hot Tub sprung a leak within the first 2 years (even though this Spa has been professionally maintained at my own expense since date of delivery). When I tried leaving an honest review on their website, I received an email suggesting that my review needed to be updated since it violated their Guidelines (i.e. was not supposed to mention how much it cost). I clicked on link to edit it, which took me to a 404 Page not found Error Page. So I submitted a brand new review without specifically mentioning cost. This time I received an email suggesting that my Review was approved and a link provided to view it. When clicking on the link provided, again takes me to a 404 Page not found Error Page. So 1) product is expensive but will fail early in life. 2) Warranty coverage is limited and will not cover Dealer additional fees. 3) Reviews are virtually impossible, likely go into a BLACK HOLE. 4) Customer is left holding the bag.

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      Response from Hot Spring Spas

      We appreciate you reaching out to us with your concerns. I know it can be very frustrating when something doesn't work as it should. The reviews on our website are hosted by a third party and we're working with them to ensure that any issues are resolved as soon as possible so that reviews can be posted without errors. We'd like to hear from you and see if we can help resolve any concerns that you have regarding your experience with your spa and will be following up with you for more details.

      Reviewed Sept. 23, 2022

      This is our second Hot Springs Spa. We love the new one and the changes they have made. It is beautifully styled and comfortable to sit in. The new jet designs are wonderful and relaxing. The new jets incorporated in the lounge seat feel like you are having a professional massage therapist working on your back.

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      Response from Hot Spring Spas

      Thank you for reaching out with your review. The Sovereign is a beautiful model, we're glad that you are a part of the Hot Spring family. It's wonderful to hear that you are enjoying your new spa.

      Happy Hot Tubbing!

      Kylie - Customer Care

      Customer Service

      Reviewed June 21, 2022

      My heater failed in December and I have been trying to get parts to my dealer for over six months. The answer from Hot Springs is I don’t know when. My spa has been down for over six months. It is only two years old. This is very frustrating and they don’t even have an answer for me. Very disappointing.

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      Response from Hot Spring Spas

      Hi Charles,

      Thanks for reaching out, I'm so sorry to hear that you've had trouble getting the part you need. Being without your spa for so long is frustrating. I'd like to see how I might be able to help get you back into hot water as soon as possible.

      Please keep an eye out for a private message so that I can get a bit more info from you. If you have further questions or concerns please call 800-999-4688 ext 8432.

      Kylie - Customer Care

      Maintenance

      Reviewed June 9, 2022

      Top control not made anymore?? I have to replace control board also due to no parts available cost over $2500! Can I get some help $$ from Hot Spring to repair my $15,000 spa. A minor part failure & I have to replace entire electrical control system! Why, is this a design or manufacturing defect?

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      Response from Hot Spring Spas
      Mark,
      We make a commitment to have parts for our spas for at least 20 years. Sometimes, alternatives are used when the original part is no longer available. I understand it's frustrating to replace more than one part, but due to the age of your spa & the availability of the original control panel, this is the best option. I'll send you a PM to get more info on your spa & dealer to see if there's any further assistance we can provide to get you back to enjoying your spa.

      Kylie - Customer Care

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        Hot Spring Spas Company Information

        Company Name:
        Hot Spring Spas
        Year Founded:
        1977
        Website:
        www.hotspring.com