November 12, 2025

The PDC Spas FAQ Series

What Should I Know Before Buying My First Spa?

If you’re considering bringing home your first spa, you’re not alone. More people than ever are discovering the comfort, convenience, and wellness benefits that come with having a personal spa experience right in their own backyard. Before making the investment, it’s important to understand what to look for and how to plan for a purchase that fits your lifestyle and home perfectly.

1. How Will You Use Your Spa?

Start by thinking about what matters most to you. Are you looking for a place to unwind after a long day, to ease sore muscles after workouts, or to spend time with family and friends?

• Relaxation & Wellness: If your goal is stress relief and hydrotherapy, look for ergonomic seating and a variety of jet placements.

• Social & Family Time: Consider a larger model with multiple seating zones and features like LED lighting or water spouts.

• Fitness & Recovery: A swim spa or dual-zone plunge may be ideal if you want both exercise and relaxation options.

Understanding your purpose helps narrow down the right model before you even begin comparing features.

2. Where Will It Go?

Location is one of the biggest factors in spa satisfaction. Whether indoors or out, your spa should feel natural to access and use year-round.

• Outdoor Installations: Patios, decks, and concrete pads are popular choices. Think about privacy, electrical access, and a clear path for delivery.

• Indoor or Enclosed Spaces: Ventilation, flooring, and humidity control become important. Cold plunge spas and smaller hot tubs are especially well-suited for indoor setups.
  Take a few measurements and consider how the spa will fit into your home’s overall layout.

3. What Size and Seating Should You Choose?

Spas come in a range of sizes, from intimate two-seat models to spacious designs for seven or more. The best size depends on how you plan to use it and who will enjoy it most.

• Couples or Solo Relaxation: Compact models offer comfort without taking up much space.

• Families or Entertainers: Larger spas allow more seating, legroom, and flexibility.
  Always consider the exterior dimensions and water depth to make sure the size fits comfortably in your chosen space.

4. What Features Matter Most?

Modern spas come with a wide variety of performance and comfort features. A few key ones to look for include:

• Hydrotherapy Jets: Adjustable jets for shoulders, back, and legs help relieve tension.

• LED Lighting: Enhances atmosphere for evening use.

• Water Purification Systems: Ozone or UV systems reduce maintenance and improve water clarity.

• User Controls: Intuitive digital controls make temperature and jet adjustments simple.
  Think about which features will actually enhance your experience versus those that sound appealing but may go unused.

5. How Hard Is It to Maintain a Spa?

Today’s spas are designed for easy maintenance. Most include automated filtration cycles and purification systems that simplify care. Typical maintenance involves:

• Checking and balancing water chemistry weekly.

• Rinsing or replacing filters regularly.

• Changing water a few times a year (depending on usage).
  When researching, look for energy-efficient insulation, durable cabinetry, and advanced filtration systems that reduce upkeep time.

6. How Does Installation Work?

Once you’ve selected your spa, preparation for installation is straightforward.

• Foundation: A solid, level surface like a reinforced deck or concrete pad is ideal.

• Electrical: Most spas require a dedicated GFCI electrical connection installed by a licensed electrician.

• Access: Make sure there’s a clear path for delivery — typically 3 feet or more around the area.
  Your local PDC retailer can guide you through these details and help ensure a smooth delivery and setup.

7. Why Buy a Spa Now?

Owning a spa offers lasting relaxation, recovery, and connection with the people who matter most, all from the comfort of home. Investing now means you’ll be ready to enjoy every season, from cozy winter evenings to summer gatherings.

Conclusion

Your first spa should reflect your lifestyle, your space, and the experience you want to create. With thoughtful planning and guidance from a trusted manufacturer, you can enjoy a lifetime of relaxation and wellness right at home.

Ready to take the next step?
Find your local PDC Spas retailer → and start planning the perfect spa for your home.