Outdoor Hot Tub Spas with Built in TV’s

Having a rather unique outdoor TV hot tub for sale for the last few years, we get a number of common questions that I would like to address for my readers.

Can I get a truly good quality TV built into an outdoor spa?
The answer is yes. But, as always, do your research. If the offer is for a “free TV with hot tub purchase,” your senses should tingle. Ask precisely what you are getting. How big is the TV in the hot tub spa?; is it actually in the hot tub, or mounted on the side?; is it on a motorized up and down drive?; if not, does it even go up and down?; what is the resolution of the screen?, is it an LCD screen?; does it come with a waterproof remote control?; and so on. Make sure you see the hot tub pictures before purchasing. You will get a better sense of the quality and if it will fit your needs.

Is the TV waterproof…and how?
In the case of the BellaGrande SLT (stereo, lights, television), the TV is waterproof to IP66 standards. That means you can use your TV hot tub with confidence, knowing that the water won’t damage the screen.
We incorporate a 20”, 720P hi-definition LCD TV in our BellaGrande SLT. That’s plenty of screen to enjoy television programs or DVD’s while relaxing or socializing with friends in your outdoor spa.

Does the TV in the hot tub work in snow?
Speaking only of our own TV hot tub model, the answer is yes. All of our outdoor spas are properly insulated with expansion foam for even the coldest northern climates. The TV stays warm and protected in the cabinet when not in use, so it will be ready to watch even in the chilly winter months.

Does the TV spa have a remote control?
The TV comes with a standard remote which is not okay for a hot tub environment. We include a waterproof programmable remote with our TV hot tub prices. The remote controls the TV, DVD, and Stereo functions. It can even be programmed to control other components like a satellite receiver.

Is the spa stereo waterproof?
Again, in our case, the answer is yes. Some manufacturers cut corners by putting car stereos or even marine stereos in their cheap hot tubs. Those units have air vents in the chassis for cooling. Since they are being put into spas, these manufacturers tape over the air vents to protect from water penetration, but risking overheating. Our spa stereos (stereo/DVD models in the TV spas) have a sealed chassis and use heat syncs for cooling. They are more expensive, but very durable and reliable in the field.

Should You Purchase a Portable or Permanent Hot Tub Spa?

There are a few major and some minor factors to consider when deciding to purchase a hot tub spa. One of the major things to consider is whether you want a portable hot tub or have one permanently placed in-ground.

Indoor hot tubs are usually placed in a bathroom or in an enclosed sun-room (or something comparable). Indoor spas are considered portable because though they are securely attached to plumbing and electrical house outlets, they can eventually be taken away.

Outdoor hot tubs can also be portable as seen on an owner's deck or above ground in the yard. Outdoor hot tubs can also be permanent (meaning they are fixed in-ground like an in-ground pool). Yes, eventually you can also take the in-ground spa away, but this would be much more of a project than one settled above ground.

Many in-ground pool owners decide to supplement the pool with an in-ground hot tub spa. This way, owners can enjoy the cool waters of the pool and then warm their bodies in the hot tub or vice versa.

When deciding on an outdoor above-ground hot tub, the alignment of plumbing and electrical ports to the house may be a factor. Some portable owners move the tub around the yard by season depending on the position of the sun.

Permanent hot tubs are going to cost more than portable hot tubs due to the issue of placing it in the earth. In addition, portable tubs supplemented by such things as spa bars, patio furniture, gazebos, and the like can also cost a bit more because of the added elements.

Eating and Drinking in a Hot Tub

Hot tub spas are great additions to a home. They provide entertainment and relaxation; many people also associate the two with eating and drinking. Hot tub owners believe eating and drinking adds to the enjoyment of the experience.

Is it a good idea to eat and drink in your hot tub spa? That question is mostly up to the individual, but here are a few considerations:

- Combining alcohol and bodies of water is never the best of ideas. For many, entertaining and alcohol are closely related, but it is very important to be cautious. Alcohol has an effect on motor functions, and surfaces around hot tubs can be slippery. A spa pad can add traction to the ground and facilitate balance and safety.

- It won't ruin your hot tub if food lands in the water, but sharing a spa with others warrants some consideration of others. It may be best to purchase patio furniture along with an outdoor hot tub and eat off of the tables rather than directly in the spa.

- Staying in the hot tub for long periods can make a person feel hydrated and can lower blood sugar levels. It is a good idea to keep cold drinks on hand as well as whole foods to compensate for any change in body chemistry.

Outdoor Hot Tub and Spa Electrical Safety Considerations

Outdoor hot tubs and spas are wonderful products, but they do require electrical current to run. Besides the obvious, hazardous implications of mixing water and electricity, there are other safety precautions to consider when enjoying your spa.

Around the hot tub

- Think about installing outlets with covers that protect connected plugs
- Do not touch any electrical appliance around the spa or hot tub while your body is still wet
- Do not place cords or plugs in close proximity to your tub as well as damp pipes and puddles.
- Do not try to be a hot tub repairman (unless that is your profession of course). Make sure a licensed, electrical professional addresses any repairs or electrical concerns.


Electrical appliances

- Do not leave any tools or appliances running unattended or left for small children to find
- Do not move around with appliances while they are plugged in and turned on
- Check for cracked or broken wires because they can quickly become hazardous
- Do not carry appliances or tools by their cords.


Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)

A ground fault is an unintentional, electrical path existing between an electrical current's source and a grounded surface. Currents sometimes "leak", enabling electricity to escape to the ground. If a person's body approaches the leak, it can facilitate its connection to the ground, in turn providing shocks, burns, and electrocutions.

GFCIs were created to circumvent such hazards from occurring. A GFCI continuously monitors a home's wiring system, and finds sources losing current (or leaking). When a GFCI senses a disparity in regular electrical currents, it cuts the power to that specific circuit. A GFCI can be the difference between something feeling like a "static shock" and a painful electrocution.

The Bella Grande SLT - The Bentley of Hot Tubs

Spas And Stuff is excited to have the Bella Grande SLT hot tub in stock. This post highlights some of the major specifications and accessories associated with the SLT model.

Hot Tub Specifications:
- dimensions are 92" x 92" x 36"
- seats six to seven people
- water capacity is 450 gallons
- dry weight is 750 pounds
- equipped with dual, 2-speed 6 BHP pumps
- equipped with 51 stainless steel jets

Hot Tub Features:
- choice of six different shell colors
- foot therapy jets
- full neck and shoulder jet therapy
- 29 star-point LED pin lights

WOW Features:
- 20" high-definition LCD television. The television is waterproof, motorized (goes up and down), and receptive to CD/DVD/MP3 players
- 4 corner 200 watt speakers including a separate sub-woofer
- 6" aqua-waterfall with on/off switch

Hot Tub freebies with order:
- home delivery shipping
- deluxe, insulated hot tub cover
- spa vacuum
- start-up chemical kit
- year-supply of filter cartridges