How is a Hot Spring Hot Tub Made?

Have you ever wondered how a Hot Spring hot tub is made? Watch as we take you through our manufacturing facility located in Vista, CA. Get your questions about hot tub manufacturing answered.
Watch to understand the heart of the best-selling hot tub brand worldwide, and the only hot tub manufacturer to build more than a million spas. Learn about the people and processes that make Hot Spring the global leader in hot tubs.
Learn more about Hot Spring Spas:
www.hotspring....
/ hotspringspas
/ hotspringspas
/ hotspring_spas
/ hotspringspas
www.houzz.com/...

[@patrickbaker2642]

Most premier spa on the market. If you want the best Hot Spring is it!

[@raystevens2380]

I have had a vanguard model since 2007. Still perfect and I live in Spain 🇪🇸. 2021 .

[@azdesert8963]

I have owned the same Hot Spring-Tiger River since 1997 New. At age 21 replaced circular pump twice (pump runs 24 hours / 365), replaced Ozonator once and all clear tubing (located in the access panel, not in the foam area of the spa) once. It is easy to work on. My neighbors purchased a Vita Spa at the same time, yes $2000.00 cheaper, but only lasted 3 years. If the Hot Spring-Tiger River Spa completely​ dies ( in the next Twenty years from now 2018), I will buy another Hot Springs Spa.

[@Hotspringspas1]

Thank you for your review and for being a longtime Hot Spring Spa owner. We have many spas still providing a great hot tub experience decades later. I love hearing that this is the case for you and your Tiger River. Happy Hot Tubbing. Vanessa - Customer Service

[@nj-1008]

I have previously owned 2 Hotsprings Jetsetter models. They were the best hot tubs I've ever had, including a Sundance I purchased years ago. I ended up leaving them behind when I sold those houses. Now, I moved to a home that had a Jetsetter but, it was a much older model. It had a leak and then the circ.pump died. So, rather than put a couple thousand into it, I opted to purchase a new Hotsprings. I would only consider Hotsprings due to my past experiences with them.

[@TheRealBatCave]

Have u owned other hottub brands

[@lordofelectrons4513]

I purchased a High Life in 1993. Early on there were problems with thermostats but this was all taken care of under warranty. Much later on I replaced a heater box, heaters, and a circulation pump. Recently I put another new cover on the spa amazingly the correct cover was still available! This spa is at my home and working very well. yes it was more expensive than other competing spas of the time but in the long run a real bargain. If it ever wears out I will buy another Hot Spring spa.

[@auser3937]

This video doesn't answer anything a buyer needs to know about purchasing a hot tub. Questions that need to be answered; - Does their shell need cradled support or is it strong enough on it's own because they've hand rolled their layers? + If it's cradled, they cut corners in quality construction. - They used the word "proprietary" in reference to their software, what other parts are "proprietary?" + Proprietary parts means they are the only ones who can repair your tub because they don't use universal parts. - Is the plumbing glued and hand clamped, or just glued? + If they are not hand clamped then repairs to them can be costly and difficult. - What insulation is used; Mylar, ABS, loose fiberglass, rolled fiberglass, open cell, etc.? + With out proper insulation the tub will not maintain and retain it's temperature. - What is the overall Resistance to heat flow, or "R" rating? + Mylar is reflective, not insulating (rating of R1-3). Your house is insulated at R21-25, your tub needs to be as close to that as possible. A Mylar lining with 2" of insulation may only get anywhere from R8-13.

[@K9388-n3z]

Only Sundance has self supporting tubs....

[@auser3937]

That is a very false statement.

[@K9388-n3z]

@@auser3937 not sure if you be more wrong. Do your research brother....

[@auser3937]

@@K9388-n3z I did the research. You should too, brother.

[@K9388-n3z]

@@auser3937 🙄

[@webgamersjames502]

I just ordered mine. Envoy with Walnut exterior and Alpine interior

[@Hotspringspas1]

Thank you for choosing Hot Spring Spas. I hope that you have been hot tub relaxing. Vanessa - Customer Service

[@robertleeevans]

Insulation method not shown. If this is a spray-on foam over plumbing - you might as well throw it away when it breaks. Not saying they do spray-on foam, just saying the video didn't sell me by missing this critical assembly process.

[@bodysupport]

Yup this is a spray foam and then it is layered with a hard crust in the bottom. The side panels are glued so it is hard to get them off without breaking so you have to go in from the bottom. I have a 2014 that I am currently trying to find a leak and it is a painful task removing this stupid foam. They build these thing and act like nothing will ever go wrong. I will not buy a hot tub again that has this type of insulation. Mine started leaking in the middle of the summer so it was not a freezing issue.

[@paulcoonce2493]

I was looking for the same thing but didn't see it. You would think they would want to show you that. Must be hiding something. If anyone has one could you reply informing us if it is spray on or sealed rockwool panels? Sealed panels are my preference. Much easier to work on and find leaks. I won't buy another spray in insulated hot tub.

[@timwilson6710]

I just wanna know how to remove the side cover panels. Not the main pump panel, but the others. Seals don’t last more than 5 years and my grandee Spa is leaking like crazy

[@terryschmunk1956]

So is mine...found 3 jethead leaks and can't find the remaining one which leaks 80gals/4days. Grrrrr....

[@spaman5440]

One of the best Spa you can buy ....As long as it never gets a leak once it does... You will almost destroy the tub to find and fix the leak. HotSprings are not a User Friendly tub when it comes to repairs. And the customer service suck .Service after the sale is just not there.

[@marthawilliams4044]

I have a Limelight collection Flair 2016- purchased by prior owner in Estes Park, CO. Love it...but...have water puddling. Service could not get into three sides of spa as it is 7 x 7 and has only a 1 foot clearance on three sides. It has to be craned off my 2nd floor condo and taken into their shop to find the problem. JUST a heads-up. Make sure you have room for service so you are not caught in my predicament. Also, this spa will be 5 years old in one month and the warranty does not transfer to me.

[@jackdawson3276]

Highlife series shells made in California are not self supporting. They use ABS backed Acrylic which is pretty strong but needs help from the ABS substructure and full foam insulatuon for support. California laws make s it too expensive to use fiberglass. They use a high quality foam sprayed in multiple layers of different densities. Very well insulated and the substructure is well designed. The components appear to be high quality and well put together but too bad they don't seem to clamp their pressure line hoses, especially since it would be a nightmare to dig through all that foam to find a leak. Their Limelight and Caldera spas are made in Mexico and use fiberglass backed shells and Fibercor insulation. It is.unknown if those shells are hand rolled self supporting. At least Fibercor makes it easy to dig to a leak. This video is useless. I have a 2019. We are very happy with it so far but I'm afraid of what would happen if we got a leak or if proprietary components fail after the 5 yr warranty is up. I wish Watkins would offer more informative videos regarding their manufacturing process. I think we will be buying a Masters Spa Legend series spa next time.

[@johncarroll7552]

Miss my hot spring

[@Hotspringspas1]

Hi John! Be sure to get in touch with your local dealer. They're happy to help get you back into a Hot Spring. We can help you find a dealer if you'd like to provide us with your information (zip code is fine) or you can also locate your local dealer here: www.hotspring.com/hot-tub-dealers We look forward to getting you into hot water! Kylie - Customer Care

[@TheRealBatCave]

Some of the pressure dials dont work on my relay, like were they just put there for a different reason?

[@grahamnumber7123]

have to check out the guarantee. Not paying top prices for 1 year on electrics and sub frame rot later on....heard some good things though will keep researching...

[@Hotspringspas1]

Thank you for your comment! All Hot Spring spas with wood frames are built with pressure treated wood to limit the risk of rotting, but if you are at all concerned, you may want to consider a Highlife NXT built with an innovative polymeric base and substructure. Please feel free to give us a call if you have any questions during your research! 1-800-999-4688, ext 8432.

[@natew.5511]

The wood is not pressure treated. Just open the control cabinet and take a look. Its pine wood of what appears to be the lowest grade and the visable wood is spray painted black. Unpainted where you can't see it. And the wood is joined with thin staples. Lots of gaps and shody construction that should have not left the factory. The front control panel is thick vinyl glued to this scrap lumber, stapled together. Its already separating from the wood and warped. This is on our Limelight Flair that was delivered last week, came this way from the factory.

[@jackdawson3276]

I very concerned about all the reviews expressing poor build quality and leaks after just a few years! This video does not offer a comprehensive depiction of how their spas are made. The Highlife series shells are not self supporting. The foam and ABS substructure actually acts as a support. Only Highlife lines are made in USA with Chinese and Mexican made components. Limelight and Hot Spot lines are made in Mexico and have fiberglass shells. Unknown if they are self supporting and if they clamp their hoselines. This video offers no usable detail. Just propaganda. Other spa manufacturers have informative manufacturing videos that explain in detail how the shells are made and were the components come from.

[@metalgod91zb]

I work for a company repairing hot tubs, and I can assure you that these tubs are not worth it. They leak internally due to poor glue joints which often leads to a costly trip back to our shop, with hours of leak troubleshooting/replumbing work. Jacuzzi is much better in terms of reliability.

[@ericshufro8150]

Anybody know how to handle (physically get to) a pin-hole sized leak on one pump inlet pipes? It seems to be coming from a point behind the pump housing area wall and riding along the 3" pipe until finally dripping in to the motor compartment. Thanks. -- Edit: The tub is an Envoy KK from 2004.

[@timothydevries383]

Fix a leak in a bottle. Sometimes works.

[@jaidenlee4128]

Are there any videos on the caldera Factory or is it the same plant?

[@Hotspringspas1]

Hi Jaiden, That's a great question! Watkins Wellness does also manufacture Caldera Spas. This video was filmed at our factory in Vista. Caldera Spas are manufactured in the same facility as some of the Hot Spring Spas but it is a different location than is shown in this video. Thanks for reaching out. Kylie - Customer Care

[@Bertfanvideo]

Just bought my salt water flash 2 days ago. Just waiting for delivery now.

[@nj-1008]

Please hurry up and make my hot tub. I ordered one 3 weeks ago and they say it won't be ready until October!!! I guess Covid set everything back with high demand and other issues. I'm hoping to be pleasantly surprised. I just ordered a TX model so, I doubt you make a lot of those. Thank you in advance!

[@fernsader9261]

They’re garbage

[@nj-1008]

@@fernsader9261 I guess you sell Sundance.

[@fistpump5485]

I have a hotsprings prodigy 110v. How do i convert it to 220?

[@indiancruise12]

Here is an update, we are now filing a case against Hotsprings to trading standards. They again sent the wrong lids twice this makes it 6 times now. They have not responded to emails since JAnuary 2022. so from 2019 to 2022 still going, heard nothing from these cowboys. will keep you updated .

[@Hotspringspas1]

Oh no! I would like an update. Please email me at [e-mail]. I want to know more about this situation and see what I can do to help. If you prefer you can call our customer care team at 800-999-4688 ext 8432. I look forward to working with you soon. Kylie - Customer Care

[@eddygoodwin7089]

From what I have seen so far is this manufacturer uses the plastic frame and so does bullfrog I do like that. I just wish a manufacture offered one with a straight forward electrical system.

[@Hotspringspas1]

Hello Eddy, Thank you for considering Hot Spring Spas. I am not sure what you mean by straight forward electrical. We have spas that come ready to use with a 115-volt plug or 230-volt hook up that requires an electrician. If you have further questions, please let us know. Customer Service can be reached at 800-999-4688 ext 8432. Vanessa - Customer Service

[@Jeph629]

At 4:20 How can you test it out(for leaks, which are common) if the whole spa is assembled and insulated already? I owned one--a complete and utter maintenance nightmare owing to cheap and/or stupid engineering. For example, the relays on the control board go bad after one or two seasons necessitating replacement of the "board" ($300 +). On inspection, it was just the solenoid relays on my board that had become corroded, so I ordered the relays from the relay manufacturer planning to just solder in the new ones. And then I read the directions that came with the relays: "Not for use in outdoor or wet locations". So, the kids at Hot Springs cannot check the specs on their components and engineer/design appropriately. You can bet that is not limited to relays on the control board....................

[@Hotspringspas1]

I am sorry to hear you have had an issue with your hot tub. The potential for leaks is always something we want to be aware of, and along with the rigorous testing shown in the video, we also pressure test the plumbing to check for any leaks, and provide a 5 years No Leak Plumbing warranty with all Highlife and NXT spas. I am not sure where, or what, solenoids you obtained, but I can assure you the parts we install are designed for an outdoor spa. If you are still in need of help with your hot tub, or have any questions, please reach out to us at 1-800-999-4688 Ext 8432 - Thank you Chelsea Customer Service

[@lorenjackson5167]

Amazing insight!!!

[@razorwired130]

I'm a manufacturing engineer and bragging about "hand built" is a scam. Factory workers generally care very little about quality.

[@Hotspringspas1]

Thank you for your feedback. As a frontline worker, I can appreciate your take on this topic. As a Hot Spring employee, I can personally tell you that we do not fall into the "general" category. We have many factory workers who have been with us for decades, with the average tenure being 12 years. The amazing culture we have been able to cultivate over the last 45 years has been one of inclusiveness, innovation, and community. We take pride in the work that we do and ownership in Hot Spring hot tubbing. Kylie - Customer Care

[@renees4278]

Totally depends on corporate culture and values. If you have long term employees and reward quality they actually do care.

[@ericshufro8150]

Thank you for sharing this. Helpful for understanding service for an anging tub (which has been excellent)

[@rogerbell7430]

I’ve noticed you don’t clamp the hose connections, only glue. Clamps would definitely insure no leaks. Does the insulation fill entire cavity of shell? Proprietary parts? Which means I can only get parts from hot springs. They look fantastic but quality standards are low. I’d rather pay more for something that will last more than 5 years. Hot tubs are supposed to relieve stress , not cause it.

[@davidszakacs6888]

We love our Prodigy but hate having to replace the $600 cover every few years, even though we clean and treat it regularly. Why can't the top be made of a material other than vinyl?

[@Hotspringspas1]

Thank you for your question. I understand that having to replace anything can be an inconvenience. Because our covers are exposed to the elements they eventually need replacement. Covers require regular maintenance and should be inspected yearly for wear and to ensure a tight seal. Our covers are made with heavy-duty marine grade vinyl, and feature a tapered custom-fit core that allows water runoff, while its polyester thread and poly-ply laminate create a vapor barrier to protect the cover from harsh weather, chemicals and intense sunlight. Each cover is made with double-stitched vinyl for a durable hinge and extra strong padded handles for long lasting performance. There are 24 internal stress points reinforced in each spa cover, including aluminum reinforcement for maximum strength and minimum weight. Reinforced, adjustable straps make it easy to safely secure the spa cover. Each Hot Spring hot tub cover is UL-classified in accordance with ASTM safety standards, and includes child safety locks for extra protection. Your cover also comes with a 2-year warranty. Please let me know if you would like more information on how to care for your cover during extreme weather. These tips will help prolong the life of the cover. Customer Service can be reached at 800-999-4688 ext 8432. Happy Hot Tubbing!

[@ricktrevino7019]

Put clear flex seal paint on the top We’ve done this to older spa covers that are starting to wear down and starting to tear or get little holes As it dries it will leave a neat mosaic pattern on top of the spal cover

[@giftowercom]

Comments under this video tell the other part of the story.

[@GregHarlow1]

I wanted to see how the mold is set and sprayed in.

[@Hotspringspas1]

Hi Greg. Thank you for your feedback. We will look into adding more production shots with our next videos. Happy Hot Tubbing! Vanessa - Customer Service

[@TheRealBatCave]

Just got my 2019 relay, jet caps fall off constantly , 2 lights went out day 6.

[@debraschofield2486]

What is the actual product used in making the shell of a hot spring hot tub? Hopefully hand-rolled acrylic!!

[@Hotspringspas1]

Hi Debra, the shell is made from a sheet of acrylic backed with a layer of polymer acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, also known as ABS. This is then warmed and molded into your shell shape, leaving a durable, energy efficient, and beautiful shell.

[@jackdawson3276]

@@Hotspringspas1 yes it is beautiful but it is not self supporting. It requires the support of insulation foam and plastic substructure. I'm sure California's requirements makes making a thick Self supporting fiberglass shell too expensive. I noticed your Limelight and Hot Spot lines are made in Mexico and have Fiberglass shells. Are they self supporting? Do you clamp the hose lines? I'm very concerned about all the postings regarding poor build quality, leaks and lack of customer support.

[@aarondavis3475]

Doesn't it make more sense to put together the plumbing when the hot tub is not upside down? That way there's no tension on the lines when it gets flipped. Also with all the new pumps and technology available how come you're still using pumps that have flow switches instead of a pump that has fully electronic probes?

[@terryschmunk1956]

You did not show how you spray foam the underside with the 2 different densities of foam. I have a 2014 Grandee NXT tub and it has developed a leak which is driving me 😠...can't find the source of leak. I've removed all the wet insulation which is approx 40%. It started to show the leaks shortly after the warranty period was done(7yrs)but evidence under the soft foam insulation shows its been leaking well before the 7yr maturity date. We love the spa and is our 2nd unit over a 20yr period. This one will be ready for the scrap yard in a couple years unless I can find the leak and stop it. I have to refill or top up the tub every 4days. Approx 80gallons/4days. I did find 3 other leaks at 3jet heads where the rubber seals were not seated properly. I had to use aquarium silicone on water side of heads to seal them. The initial coat of spray foam is solid and coats all roughed in lines and jets heads making it impossible to access. There is still another leak somewhere and is going to kill the beautiful tub. Such a shame it cannot be sourced and am told will not be covered by the warranty even tho the cause appears to be factory caused(poor assembly) and leaking before 7yr period. What can be done? I really have done my best with no help from my retailer.

[@terryschmunk1956]

Sorry, I meant the leaking g was prior to 5trs and now the tub finish has pit marks in the finish even tho balancing of water was done regularly according to provider. It is a salt water system.

[@Hotspringspas1]

Thank you for reaching out! I'm sorry to hear that you are struggling with a leak. Our team is available to help answer any questions or concerns you might have. You're welcome to give us a call at 800-999-4688 ext 8432 or email our customer care team at [e-mail]. Your local dealer is also a great resource to set up service for any repair work needed. Kylie - Customer Care

[@wcassady]

Not very well apparently. Have had 2 different models of Hot Springs and have had nothing but issues

[@NYVET48TFW]

Is the Hot Spot brand made at this factory? Same quality?

[@Hotspringspas1]

The Highlife and Highlife NXT, Hot Spring Spas are made in our Vista facility. The Hot Spot and Limelight, Hot Spring Spas are made in out Tijuana facility. Yes, they all are made with the same quality and craftsmanship. Great question. Thank you for your post. Vanessa - Customer Service

[@NYVET48TFW]

Hot Spring Spas what about the Tempo? We just got a Tempo...sure hoping (as I had assumed) it's made in the USA...?

[@hottubnick4269]

It's not made in the USA. It's made in Tijuana, about 45 minutes south of Vista (this factory.) California banned Fiberglass rolling... which is how that spa is reinforced. I wouldn't be worried about quality, it's top notch.

[@tan1ray]

@@hottubnick4269 to be in

[@TheRealJRC]

I just purchased my new 2020 Highlife Vanguard spa, I hope it’s everything I expect it to be. Moreover, I hope hot spring stands behind their products as this video suggests.

[@nick000002]

Great product, wouldn’t consider any other make

[@herbertfawcett7213]

To brag and show nothing of the quality is not helpful for this potential customer. How much fiberglass? what is the insulation? who supplies the components? You can say anything but you share nothing!

[@lacyparkeridealdistributin1391]

Your local dealer can answer any questions you may have, and most if not all information about Hot Spring can be found online. The shell is self supporting and thicker than the industry standard, we offer more insulation than almost anyone in the industry with the fibercor and full foam insulation, and most parts are made by Watkins themselves.

[@jasonpalmere695]

I called dealers around me. A 3 Seat spa is 12k plus. The Aria was 15k to 16k Is that right?

[@Aviation_Professional]

Sadly, my faith in human skills and touch is waning quickly

[@Scott-vc7ez]

Just ordered my hot spring hot tub and they said it was a four to six month wait.

[@rarityd]

but I thought they said their products made in the USA

[@jackdawson3276]

Highlife Acrylic ABS shell is formed in USA. The shell is NOT self supporting ND needs foam and plastic substructure for support They then assemble spa with cheap Chinese and Mexican made proprietary parts. Limelight and Hotspot shells are Fiberglass and made in Mexico. Unknown if their fiberglass shells are self supporting like Artesian and Master Spas.

[@koltoharcos]

Why don’t you folks get the lights correct so they work for the life of a hot tub and not go out at year two and become unrepairable! I intend on being a thorn in your side for the rest of my life!!! You can ignore me all you want I intend on making this comment on every one of your videos!

[@gdlr1926]

I am about to buy a limelight flair. What was your experience?

[@Hotspringspas1]

Hello John, I am sorry to hear that this has been your spa experience. I was not able to find your spa info with the name listed here. I'd like to know more to see if I can help. Thank you for your time. You can reach me at 800-999-4688 Ext 8432 or [e-mail] Thank you Vanessa - Customer Service

[@koltoharcos]

Hot Spring Spas Hello, it takes nine months to respond? There’s nothing you can do the waterfall accessory is leaking water and intern leaked water into the foam insulation an intern corroded the wiring causing all the lights to go out. Way you manufacture that area it makes it unrepairable. There’s nothing you can do to fix this problem!

[@nj-1008]

@@koltoharcos No need to be rude.

[@justwatchin5743]

Our’s leaks very bad.

[@indiancruise12]

I would NOT recommend Hotsprings, After sales service is really bad non-existent I would say. My pump failed in year 2 before the warranty, My lid was ripped on day one still chasing it this is year three. They sold me the wrong lid apparently which fits better. They wanted to charge me again for replacement. Till I mentioned trading standards. They sent 4 lids all either the wrong shape or wrong size. UK service is really bad. NEver again .

[@jburdin]

I have a Grande from 2014 broken 10 port manifold probably due to to much bind on the pipe from the chair. I had water out of it for a week waiting on a mail order part. Filled it up after repair, noise in motor 2! I would stay away from this brand. I bought it used a year old that what caused the bind on the pipe :P so not covered quoted 1.5k to fix because they are not built to be taken apart

[@Hotspringspas1]

@John Burdin I am sorry that your spa is in need of service. The Grande spas comes with a 5 year warranty for the original owner, not knowing how it was cared for can play a part in future service that it may need. Our spas are well insulated to keep the heat in. It can make servicing the spa time consuming for techs. It is a fine balance. Either way I get what you are saying and I am truly sorry that you are not happy with your spa. If there is anything we can do to help please let us know. Customer Service can be reached at 800-999-4688 ext 8432. Thank you for your post. Vanessa - Customer Service

[@hobbiehobbs]

Build your spas out of California. Now is a good time to build a new facility.

[@JacksonNjagi-uj7zg]

Too much talking little explanation of the process

[@locacoyote]

Would have been nice if you had actually shown how the tub was made (your video title).which is why I was here.

[@Hotspringspas1]

Thank you for taking the time to view the video. I am happy to provide any information that you are looking for. We do show how the shell is made, workers putting the plumbing together, and the inspection process. If you have specific questions let me know. You can DM me or contact Customer Service at 800-999-4688 ext 8432. Vanessa - Customer Service

[@nj-1008]

Poor you. What a bunch of entitled ninnys. My God!

[@lorenchapman]

Worst hot tub I have ever purchased. Leak after leak. 5 years old. 2 pumps, 1 heater and tons of leaks. Do not buy. Over priced with a shitty warranty. What a headache.

[@LGM2000x]

Thanks a lot for this pointless video that shows nothing in the way of actual important manufacturing details other than glazed over buzzwords. That alone makes me question the deposit I just put down. May cancel my order since I cannot seem to find any actual straight forward information.

[@lacyparkeridealdistributin1391]

Contact me with any questions or concerns you may have and I'll be more than happy to show you made the right choice. Watkins is the number 1 spa manufacturer in the world for a reason! Most information you are looking for is available to view online.