Let’s Talk About What’s Under the Shell: Choosing a Hot Tub That Lasts
When you’re shopping for a hot tub, it’s easy to fall in love at first glance. Sleek shell colors, glowing lights, and bubbling water can make almost any spa look like the right choice. But looks can be deceiving—and when it comes to hot tub ownership, what’s underneath the shell matters even more than what’s on the surface.
At Fun Outdoor Living, we believe the best hot tub isn’t the one that just looks good in the showroom—it’s the one that still works like new five years later. That’s why we proudly carry Hot Spring® and American Whirlpool® spas: brands built for longevity, comfort, and total peace of mind.
So, before you buy, let’s look deeper. Here’s what really sets a great hot tub apart from the rest.
Insulation That Saves You Money Every Month
A beautiful spa won’t keep your water warm—or your energy bill low—unless it’s properly insulated.
Hot Spring® and American Whirlpool® spas use high-efficiency insulation systems that lock in heat, reduce energy consumption, and keep your spa running efficiently year-round.
Hot Spring® and American Whirlpool® spas use high-efficiency insulation systems that lock in heat, reduce energy consumption, and keep your spa running efficiently year-round.
-
Hot Spring® spas are fully insulated with multi-density foam—the same kind used in commercial freezers. Hot Spot & Limelight lines have FiberCor® is a proprietary type of full cavity insulation used only by Watkins Wellness™. It completely fills the cabinet, but not with sprayed-in foam. Highlife line uses multi-density full foam insulation. With two different densities of foams on the shell, four different densities in the cabinet, and sealed with extremely dense foam on the bottom.
-
American Whirlpool® features their exclusive BlueMAAX™ with 3M Thinsulate™ insulation, made from recycled natural fibers that are both eco-friendly and thermally superior.
This isn’t just about comfort—it’s about serious energy savings over the life of your spa.
Structural Strength Built to Last
Underneath every Hot Spring and American Whirlpool spa is a strong, molded frame designed to withstand the test of time. The shells aren’t just attractive—they’re engineered for durability and stability, even in extreme climates.
-
Hot Spring®’s polymer support structure resists rot, corrosion, and shifting over time.
-
American Whirlpool® spas are built on a steel frame base—the only one of its kind in the industry—providing unmatched structural integrity.
So while other spas might shift, warp, or crack, yours stays exactly where—and how—you want it.
Smarter, Simpler Water Care Systems
Nobody wants to spend more time maintaining their hot tub than enjoying it. That’s why the water care systems in Hot Spring and American Whirlpool spas are a game changer.
-
Hot Spring®’s FreshWater® Salt System keeps water clean and soft for up to a full year with fewer harsh chemicals—making it the lowest-maintenance system in the industry.
-
American Whirlpool®’s CleanZone® and CleanZone® Ultra systems use ozone and UVC technology to kill 99.9% of bacteria with virtually no effort from you.
Clear, balanced water doesn’t have to be a chore. With these systems, it’s practically automatic.
Warranties That Actually Mean Something
When a company offers a great warranty, it means they believe in their product—and so can you.
-
Hot Spring® spas come with comprehensive coverage, including 5-year shell structure and equipment warranties, plus unmatched dealer support.
-
American Whirlpool® spas feature industry-leading warranties on both structure and components—plus the added confidence of MAAX Spas’ decades-long manufacturing legacy.
We’re proud to stand behind every brand we carry—and even prouder that they stand behind you.
Bottom Line: It’s What’s Inside That Counts
You deserve a spa that works as well in year 10 as it did in week one.
At Fun Outdoor Living, we’ll walk you through the real differences—from insulation to jet therapy, from ease of maintenance to long-term support—so you know exactly what you’re investing in.
At Fun Outdoor Living, we’ll walk you through the real differences—from insulation to jet therapy, from ease of maintenance to long-term support—so you know exactly what you’re investing in.
Because at the end of the day, a hot tub is more than a luxury. It’s a personal retreat, a wellness tool, and a long-term investment. Let’s make sure it’s the right one.
Let’s Find the Right Fit for You
Exploring what’s under the shell is just the beginning. The real question is—what’s the perfect spa for your lifestyle, wellness goals, and backyard vision?
Take a minute to answer a few quick questions, and we’ll help you narrow it down. Whether you’re seeking deep muscle therapy, low-maintenance water care, or energy savings all year long, our team will guide you to your best match.
👇 Start your search below.
