The term “saltwater hot tub” can bring up the wrong idea. You might picture a miniature ocean in your backyard, worrying about salty residue and potential damage to your spa’s components. The reality is far more sophisticated. A Hot Springs saltwater hot tub uses the advanced FreshWater® Salt System, which operates with an incredibly low salt concentration that’s gentle and virtually unnoticeable. This isn’t about recreating seawater; it’s about using smart, integrated technology to create a steady, automatic supply of sanitizer. This guide will walk you through how this system actually works, dispelling common myths and showing you how it provides a superior, low-maintenance soak without the harshness of traditional chemicals or the intensity of ocean water.
Key Takeaways
- Simplify Your Water Care Routine: The FreshWater Salt System automates sanitization, so you can replace constant chemical adjustments with simple, occasional checks. This means less time managing your spa and more time enjoying it.
- Get Softer Water Without the Harsh Chemicals: A saltwater system produces soft, silky water that is gentle on your skin and eyes. You get all the benefits of clean water without the strong chlorine odor or irritation common with traditional systems.
- Invest in Long-Term Value and Efficiency: While the upfront cost is a factor, a saltwater spa saves you money over time. You’ll spend less on chemicals and conserve water, making it a more predictable and cost-effective investment in your wellness.
What Makes a Hot Spring Saltwater System Unique?
When you hear “saltwater hot tub,” you might picture something like a mini-ocean in your backyard. But the technology in a Hot Spring spa is far more sophisticated and user-friendly. Unlike traditional chlorine or bromine systems that require constant manual additions, the FreshWater Salt System is a game-changer for water care. It’s designed to be simple, gentle, and effective, giving you a premium spa experience with less work.
This system is exclusive to Hot Spring® Spas, and it’s engineered to work seamlessly with the spa’s plumbing and controls. It’s not an aftermarket add-on; it’s a fully integrated part of the hot tub. The goal is to provide consistently clean and clear water, so you can spend more time enjoying your investment and less time managing it. It’s a smart, modern approach to water care that aligns perfectly with a wellness-focused lifestyle.
What is the FreshWater Salt System?
At its core, the FreshWater Salt System is an easy-to-use water care system that keeps your spa water clean, clear, and sanitized for up to a full year with normal use. It uses a small amount of salt—about the same concentration as a human tear—to automatically generate the perfect amount of chlorine. This process eliminates the need to manually add chlorine after every use. The system is designed for simplicity, ensuring your water feels softer, looks clearer, and smells better than water treated with traditional bottled chemicals. It’s a more natural-feeling approach to hot tub ownership.
How Saltwater Keeps Your Spa Clean
The magic of the FreshWater Salt System lies in its titanium cartridge. As water passes through the cartridge, a low level of salt is converted into chlorine, which sanitizes the spa water. This happens automatically, so your hot tub receives a steady, consistent supply of sanitizer without the harshness of manually added chemicals. Because it’s generated, not added, you avoid that strong chlorine odor and skin irritation. This gentle process is easier on your eyes and skin, making each soak more comfortable and therapeutic. For any questions on your water’s balance, you can always get a free water analysis at one of our showrooms.
Key Features and Technology
One of the best parts of the FreshWater Salt System is its thoughtful design. The system uses disposable cartridges that are incredibly easy to replace. You can swap one out in just a few seconds, right from the top of your spa, with no tools required. Since the system is built directly into the hot tub’s plumbing, there are no extra parts or complicated setups to worry about. This factory integration keeps the design clean and the operation reliable. The control panel on your spa will even prompt you when it’s time for a change, taking all the guesswork out of your hands.
Smart Spa Integration
The FreshWater Salt System is fully integrated with your Hot Spring spa’s main controls. The intuitive on-screen display lets you set your desired chlorine level and then monitors the system for you. It will confirm that the system is running and provide status updates, letting you know everything is working as it should. The main idea is that you spend less time on maintenance and more time relaxing. For homeowners who want a completely hands-off approach, our Spa Valet Plans can handle everything from cartridge changes to water balancing, ensuring your hot tub is always ready when you are.
The Benefits of a Saltwater Hot Tub
If you’re looking for a more natural, low-maintenance hot tub experience, a saltwater system is an incredible choice. The technology behind it, like the FreshWater® Salt System found in Hot Spring® Spas, simplifies water care and transforms the feel of the water itself. Instead of dealing with the harsh smell and feel of traditional chlorine, you get a gentle, clean, and therapeutic soak every time. This approach not only makes your hot tub easier to manage but also enhances the wellness benefits you get from it. From softer skin to fewer chemicals and less time spent on upkeep, the advantages add up, making it easier than ever to build a daily relaxation ritual right in your own backyard. Let’s look at what makes this system a favorite among homeowners.
Softer Water for a Better Soak
One of the first things you’ll notice in a saltwater hot tub is how luxurious the water feels. The salt creates a soft, silky texture that’s gentle on your skin and eyes. Unlike traditionally chlorinated water that can feel drying or irritating, saltwater provides a more comfortable and natural-feeling soak. The water’s density is also slightly higher, which adds a subtle buoyancy that helps you float and release tension from your muscles and joints more easily. It’s a small difference that creates a much more relaxing and spa-like experience, encouraging you to unwind completely. If you want to feel the difference for yourself, you can always schedule a private test soak at one of our showrooms.
Use Fewer Chemicals
A major advantage of a saltwater system is the significant reduction in added chemicals. The system uses a special cartridge to automatically generate the perfect amount of chlorine from salt, keeping the water clean and safe without the need for constant manual dosing. This means no more measuring and pouring, and you can say goodbye to that strong chlorine smell. Because the system produces chlorine as needed, there are fewer chemical byproducts in the water. This creates a gentler environment for your skin and swimsuits and is a more hands-off approach to water care that our customers love. It’s a smarter, simpler way to keep your spa pristine.
Keep Water Fresh Longer
With a saltwater system, you can go much longer between draining and refilling your hot tub. The consistent and automated sanitization process keeps the water stable and fresh for up to a full year with proper care. This is a huge time-saver compared to traditional hot tubs, which often need to be drained and refilled every three to four months. Spending less time on major maintenance tasks means you have more time to actually enjoy your investment. It also conserves a significant amount of water over the life of your spa. This long-lasting water quality is one of the key features that makes owning a Hot Spring® Spa so effortless.
Spend Less Time on Maintenance
Because the FreshWater® Salt System automates water sanitization, your daily and weekly maintenance routine becomes much simpler. The system’s control panel lets you know when it’s working and when the cartridge needs attention, taking the guesswork out of water care. With balanced water that lasts for months, you’ll spend just a few minutes a week testing the water instead of constantly adjusting chemical levels. This simplified upkeep makes it easier to fit hot tub ownership into a busy lifestyle. And for truly hands-off care, our Spa Valet Plans can handle everything for you, so all you have to do is relax and enjoy.
A Boost for Health and Wellness
Your hot tub is more than just a luxury—it’s a tool for daily wellness. Soaking for just 20 minutes can help ease muscle soreness, reduce stress, and improve sleep. The clean, soft water of a saltwater system enhances these therapeutic benefits by creating a more pleasant and calming environment. Without the distraction of harsh chemical odors or skin irritation, you can focus on the restorative power of the warm water and powerful jets. Integrating this ritual into your day helps create a personal sanctuary where you can recharge your mind and body, making it a cornerstone of your at-home wellness routine.
Save Money Over Time
While a saltwater hot tub can have a higher initial cost, it offers significant savings in the long run. You’ll spend far less on bottled chemicals, sanitizers, and water care products throughout the year. Plus, since you only need to drain and refill the spa about once a year, you’ll save on water costs and the time it takes to perform that maintenance. Over the lifetime of your hot tub, these reduced operating expenses really add up, making it a smart and valuable investment. We also offer flexible financing options to help make the initial purchase more manageable, so you can start enjoying the benefits right away.
Common Questions and Simple Solutions
A saltwater hot tub is designed to be incredibly low-maintenance, but it’s not completely hands-off. Like any system, it works best with a little routine care. The good news is that keeping your Hot Spring spa in perfect condition is straightforward. Let’s walk through a few common questions and the simple steps you can take to ensure your water is always fresh, clear, and ready for you to enjoy.
Balance Your Water Chemistry
The FreshWater Salt System turns salt into chlorine to keep your water sanitized, and this process can cause the pH level to rise over time. That’s why it’s a good idea to test your water weekly. Keeping the pH and alkalinity in the right range ensures the salt system works efficiently and your water feels comfortable on your skin. If you’re ever unsure about your test strip readings, don’t guess. Just bring a water sample to any of our showrooms. We offer a free water analysis to give you precise, easy-to-follow advice on the spot.
Replace Your Cartridge
One of the best features of the FreshWater Salt System is its disposable cartridge. There’s no need to handle messy chemicals or call a technician for this simple task. The cartridge is designed to be replaced in just a few seconds, right from the top of your spa, without any tools. Each cartridge lasts about four months, depending on your usage. Most owners find that a pack of three cartridges will keep their water sanitized for an entire year, making it a simple and predictable part of your hot tub care routine. This set-it-and-forget-it approach is perfect for a busy lifestyle.
Care for Metal Components
You may have heard that saltwater can be tough on metal parts. This is only a concern when the water chemistry is not properly maintained. Consistently high salt levels or imbalanced pH can lead to corrosion over time. However, the Hot Spring system is designed to operate with very low salt levels—far less than ocean water—and is built with durable components. By simply keeping your water balanced and following the system’s guidelines, you can easily protect your spa’s heater, jets, and other internal parts, ensuring they last for years to come. Regular care is the key to prevention.
Quick Troubleshooting Tips
If you ever feel like your water isn’t quite right, there are a few easy checks you can do. If a test strip shows low “free chlorine” but high “total chlorine,” it means the sanitizer is used up and needs a refresh. An oxidizing shock can quickly fix this. To confirm your salt system is working, turn off the jets and look for a stream of tiny bubbles rising from the salt cell inside the spa—that’s a sign it’s actively generating chlorine. If you don’t see bubbles or your control panel shows an error, it might be time to check the cartridge or call for support.
Find Local Support
While many owners love the DIY-friendly nature of the FreshWater system, it’s comforting to know an expert is nearby if you need help. Instead of searching online forums for answers, you can rely on a local team that knows your spa inside and out. Our in-house technicians are factory-trained to service every Hot Spring model we sell. Whether you have a question about water chemistry or need a diagnostic check, our certified service team is here to provide clear answers and professional support, ensuring your hot tub is always a source of relaxation, not stress.
Choose Your Perfect Hot Spring Model
Once you’ve decided a saltwater system is right for you, the fun part begins: finding the perfect spa to match your lifestyle and backyard. Hot Spring makes this easy by organizing their spas into two distinct collections, each with its own unique features and design philosophy. The choice between them comes down to your personal priorities. Are you seeking the absolute peak of hydrotherapy technology and luxury features, or is a vibrant, stylish design with powerful performance more your speed? The Highlife Collection is Hot Spring’s premier line, where every advanced feature, including the FreshWater Salt System, comes standard. The Limelight Collection offers a brilliant balance of contemporary style, robust jetting, and accessible value, with the salt system as a flexible option. To help you decide, we’ll walk through the key differences in design, performance, and features. We’ll also cover the practical steps of choosing the right size for your space, customizing your massage with patented jets, and understanding the energy-efficient engineering that makes owning a Hot Spring spa so rewarding. This is about creating your personal sanctuary, and we want to make sure you have all the information to choose with confidence.
Explore the Highlife Collection
The Highlife Collection is Hot Spring’s premier line, representing the very best in spa technology, design, and performance. If you’re looking for an unparalleled hydrotherapy experience, this is where you’ll find it. Every model in this collection comes standard with the FreshWater Salt System, ensuring your water is always soft, clean, and ready for you to enjoy with minimal effort. Highlife spas feature the most advanced jet systems, intuitive controls, and sophisticated designs that make a statement in any backyard. Think of it as the ultimate investment in your daily well-being, combining luxury and cutting-edge wellness features. You can see these stunning models in our hot tub gallery.
Discover the Limelight Collection
The Limelight Collection strikes the perfect balance between contemporary style, powerful performance, and accessible value. These spas are known for their vibrant, multi-point lighting and sleek, modern aesthetics that create an incredible ambiance for evening soaks. While the FreshWater Salt System is an optional feature for Limelight models, they still deliver the exceptional quality and reliability Hot Spring is known for. If you want a visually stunning spa with robust jet options and a more approachable price point, the Limelight Collection offers fantastic choices for creating your backyard oasis. It’s a brilliant way to bring hydrotherapy and entertainment home.
Find the Right Size for Your Space
No matter which collection you lean toward, Hot Spring offers a range of sizes to fit your space and your needs. You can find everything from intimate spas designed for two to spacious models that can comfortably seat the whole family or a group of friends. Before you get too far in the process, take some time to measure your patio, deck, or yard. Think about how you plan to use your hot tub—is it for personal relaxation or for hosting gatherings? Answering these questions will help you narrow down the perfect model. We can help you visualize your dream space with a free design consultation.
Customize Your Massage with Jet Options
One of the best parts of owning a Hot Spring spa is the ability to create a personalized massage experience. Both the Highlife and Limelight collections feature a variety of patented jets designed to target different muscle groups. From powerful, deep-tissue jets that work out knots in your back and shoulders to gentle, rotating jets that provide a soothing sensation, you are in complete control. You can easily direct the flow and adjust the intensity to get the exact relief you need, turning your daily soak into a therapeutic ritual that helps you recover from stress and physical activity.
Review Energy-Efficient Features
A common concern for new hot tub owners is the impact on their utility bills. Hot Spring addresses this by engineering some of the most energy-efficient spas on the market. Features like multi-density, full-foam insulation, custom-fit covers, and low-energy circulation pumps work together to lock in heat and reduce operating costs. This means your spa stays hot and ready to use without wasting energy. Investing in an energy-efficient model not only saves you money over time but also makes your wellness routine more sustainable. Paired with our flexible hot tub financing, owning a top-tier spa is more accessible than ever.
Plan Your Hot Tub Investment
Thinking about bringing a hot tub home is exciting, but it’s also a significant investment in your property and your well-being. To make a confident decision, it helps to look at the complete picture—from the initial price to the long-term costs and care. A Hot Spring saltwater spa is designed for efficiency and ease, but planning ahead ensures there are no surprises. We’ll walk through the key financial and logistical details you should consider. This includes everything from the upfront purchase and professional installation to the day-to-day operating expenses. We’ll also cover warranty details, financing, and what your backyard needs to be ready for delivery day. Our goal is to give you a clear, straightforward understanding of the total investment, so you can focus on the years of relaxation and wellness ahead.
Purchase and Installation Costs
The initial price of a saltwater hot tub is typically higher than a traditional chlorine model. You can expect the advanced FreshWater Salt System to add to the upfront cost, but you’re paying for superior technology, softer water, and simpler maintenance. Think of it as an investment in a better ownership experience. At Fun Outdoor Living, we provide a complete, transparent quote that includes the spa, cover, delivery, and professional installation. Because our in-house construction teams handle everything, you won’t have to juggle multiple contractors. We’ll help you get a custom quote that covers every detail from start to finish.
Ongoing Operating Expenses
This is where a saltwater system really shines. While the initial cost is higher, you’ll save money over time. The FreshWater Salt System generates its own chlorine from salt, which dramatically reduces your spending on water care chemicals—often saving you between $100 and $200 per year. You’ll also change your water less frequently, which cuts down on water and heating costs. These efficiencies add up, making the total cost of ownership lower and more predictable. For those who want completely hands-off maintenance, our Spa Valet plans can handle all your routine care.
Understand Your Warranty
A strong warranty is your assurance that you’re buying a quality product built to last. Hot Spring Spas are known for their comprehensive warranties that cover the shell, components, and the FreshWater Salt System itself. Before you buy, we’ll walk you through exactly what’s covered and for how long. And since we are a full-service dealer, our certified in-house technicians handle all warranty claims and repairs. You’ll never have to track down a third-party service provider; you’ll always have a direct line to the local team you trust.
Flexible Financing Options
We believe that relaxation and wellness should be accessible. To help fit your new hot tub into your budget, we offer several flexible hot tub financing options, including 0% APR plans for qualified buyers. Our team can walk you through a simple application process to find a monthly payment plan that works for you. This way, you can start enjoying the benefits of your spa now while managing the investment in a way that feels comfortable for your family’s finances.
Site and Location Requirements
Your new hot tub needs a solid, level surface that can support its weight when filled with water and people—a concrete pad or a reinforced deck are the most common foundations. During your free home consultation, our experts will assess your backyard, help you choose the perfect spot, and confirm your site is ready. While saltwater can be corrosive to some metals, Hot Spring spas are built with high-quality components designed to withstand it. Simple, regular care is all it takes to keep everything in top shape.
Electrical Specifications
Hot tubs require a dedicated electrical circuit to operate safely and efficiently, which is something a licensed electrician must install. The specific requirements depend on the model you choose. The FreshWater Salt System’s automatic chlorine generation is powered by this connection, making it a key part of the spa’s efficient design. Our team coordinates with you and your electrician to ensure everything is prepared correctly before delivery day. You can find detailed specifications in our pre-delivery guide to make the process smooth and simple.
A Simple Guide to Maintenance and Care
One of the best parts of owning a Hot Spring spa with a FreshWater Salt System is how little time you’ll spend on water care. This system was designed to be intuitive and low-maintenance, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your investment. With a simple routine, you can keep your water feeling soft and looking crystal-clear all year long. Here’s a straightforward guide to keeping your saltwater spa in perfect condition.
Test Your Water Regularly
Forget daily testing and constant adjustments. With the FreshWater Salt System, maintaining balanced water is incredibly simple. You only need to dip a test strip into the water about once every 10 days to check your levels. The spa’s control panel will guide you through any minor adjustments needed to keep everything perfectly balanced. If you ever feel unsure or just want a second opinion, you can bring a water sample to any of our showrooms. We offer a free water analysis to give you complete peace of mind and expert advice on the spot.
Your Regular Maintenance Schedule
The FreshWater Salt System is designed for long-term performance, allowing your spa water to stay fresh and clean for up to a full year with proper care. This means no more draining and refilling your hot tub every few months. Your routine is simple: test the water every 10 days, clean your filters as recommended in your owner’s manual, and replace the salt cartridge when the system tells you to. That’s it. This predictable and minimal schedule frees you from the constant upkeep required by traditional chlorine systems, making spa ownership truly effortless.
How to Care for the Salt Cell
The heart of the system is a disposable titanium cartridge, often called a salt cell, which automatically generates chlorine from the salt in the water. This cartridge is designed to last up to four months, and you’ll never have to guess when it’s time for a change. Your spa’s control panel will display a notification when the cartridge is nearing the end of its life. Swapping it out is a breeze—you can do it in just a few seconds without any tools. Better yet, you don’t even have to drain any water to do it.
Professional Service and Support
While the FreshWater system is incredibly user-friendly, we know that questions can pop up, especially when you’re getting started. Our team is always here to help. If you’d rather leave the upkeep to the experts, our Spa Valet Plans offer a completely hands-off solution. Our certified in-house technicians will handle everything from water balancing to filter cleaning, ensuring your spa is always ready for you to enjoy. We service every brand we sell, so you can trust you’re getting knowledgeable support from a team that knows your hot tub inside and out.
Best Practices for Crystal-Clear Water
The salt system does most of the heavy lifting, but a few simple habits will ensure your water stays pristine. Because the system automatically generates chlorine, it’s much more efficient and stable than adding chemicals by hand. To support it, encourage everyone to rinse off in the shower before getting in the spa to remove lotions, soaps, and oils. When you’re not using the hot tub, keep the cover securely in place. This not only conserves energy but also prevents leaves, pollen, and other debris from getting into the water and making the system work harder.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will a saltwater hot tub feel like swimming in the ocean? Not at all. This is a common misconception, but the salt concentration in a Hot Spring spa is extremely low—about the same as a human tear. You won’t feel sticky or taste salt in the water. Instead, the water feels incredibly soft and silky, which is much gentler on your skin and eyes compared to traditionally chlorinated water. It’s a more natural and comfortable soaking experience without any of the harshness you might associate with salt.
How much work is really involved in maintaining a saltwater spa? While no hot tub is completely hands-off, the FreshWater Salt System gets you very close. Your main task is testing the water with a strip about once a week and making small adjustments as needed. The system’s disposable cartridge does the sanitizing work for you and only needs to be replaced about three times a year, a process that takes just a few seconds. This is a significant time-saver compared to the daily or weekly chemical measuring and adding required for traditional systems.
Is the salt harsh on the hot tub components or our swimsuits? This is a valid concern, but the system is designed to prevent it. Because the salt level is so low and the spa components are made from high-quality, durable materials, corrosion is not an issue when the water is properly balanced. The gentle nature of the water is actually better for your swimsuits and skin, as it lacks the harsh chemical byproducts that can cause fading and irritation in traditional hot tubs.
Does a saltwater system actually save money compared to a traditional chlorine hot tub? Yes, it does. While the initial investment for a saltwater system is higher, the long-term operating costs are lower. You will spend significantly less on bottled chemicals and sanitizers throughout the year. More importantly, you can keep your water fresh for up to a full year, which means you only have to drain and refill the spa annually instead of every few months. This saves a considerable amount on water and the energy needed to heat it.
What happens if I can’t get the water chemistry right on my own? You’re never on your own. The system is designed to be very straightforward, but if you ever feel unsure, we’re here to help. You can bring a water sample to any of our showrooms for a free, expert analysis, and we’ll give you simple, step-by-step instructions. For a completely hands-off approach, our Spa Valet service plans can manage all of your water care for you. Our goal is to make sure your hot tub is always a source of relaxation, not stress.
