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Easy-care, efficient and customizable: make the dream of your own home spa a reality

The local experts at Calais share what you need to know
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The whole family can enjoy a home spa or hot tub.

Autumn’s arrival brings more than falling leaves and shorter days … those cooler temperatures also mean it’s hot tub and spa season.

But forget what you used to know about home hot tubs – today’s models boast energy efficiency, a host of new design features and specialty options, and easy-care maintenance that make spa ownership a breeze.

Even how we use them has changed.

“People today are using their hot tubs and spas as a way to support their wellness, whether it’s easing joint discomfort from arthritis or soothing sore muscles after a day on the trail or bike,” explains Murray Renner, co-owner of Nanaimo’s Calais Spas, hosting their 23rd annual fall sale Oct. 16 to 21. “They’ve come a long way.”

What’s new?

If you haven’t soaked in a hot tub since the ‘80s, you’re in for a treat. Among today’s innovative designs is the Swim Spa series, combining the health benefits of hot water, exercise, hydro massage therapy and swimming, all in one beautiful product. Other popular options include soothing waterfall and infinity edge features, LED lighting packages and even a gazebo that when lowered with the electric motor doubles as an insulated, locked lid!

Putting the ‘ahhh’ in ‘Spa’

Today’s quality spas are customizable to your wants and needs – meaning you don’t pay for what you don’t want, Renner explains. Because various massage packages available allow the Calais experts to tailor the hydrotherapy to your needs and budget, in many cases these custom options become more affordable than “off the floor” models – and they’re available in just three to four weeks. Expect to spend an hour or two in store to ensure you get the right design and all the information you need – including details about location requirements, electrical and platform.

Practical matters

If concerns about energy and maintenance costs have you putting off a home hot tub or spa, today’s quality models are designed for efficiency, with operating costs in the area of $15 to $20 per month. Questions to ask include the kind of pump used – 24-hour circulation pumps run 24/7 which can boost costs and wear and tear, for example – and the efficiency of the filtration system. Faster, more efficient systems not only improve enjoyment of the spa, but also boost efficiency and reduce equipment wear.

Pool School 101

Worried about the time a hot tub or spa will take? “If you’re spending more than 10 minutes a week, it’s too much,” Renner says. As part of every sale, Calais offers “Pool School 101” in addition to complimentary water testing.

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A member of the Pool and Hot Tub Council, Calais Spas, Pools and Billiards has provided Nanaimo and surrounding communities with quality products and outstanding service since 1994.