FAQ

Most manufacturers recommend draining and cleaning your spa 2–4 times per year, depending on usage and water maintenance. In Alaska, common practice is changing water at the end of fall and the beginning of spring. Arctic Home provides cleaning products and guidance in store. Customers can also join the hot tub club, which includes three water changes and cleanings performed at home by a water technician.

Not all manufacturers use full foam insulation, but it is widely agreed that filling the spa cabinet with polyurethane foam significantly reduces heat loss and heating costs. While it increases manufacturing cost, research shows it provides long‑term savings. Some manufacturers eliminate it to lower price. Arctic Home adds upgraded perimeter insulation inside the skirting to trap waste heat from pumps and motors, making the spa highly efficient for Alaska’s climate.

Hydrotherapy is the combined effect of heat, massage, and buoyancy. Warm water increases blood flow to sore or damaged tissues, helping muscles recover faster. Massage from spa jets relaxes muscles, relieves nerve pressure, and improves circulation. Buoyancy reduces body weight by up to 90%, easing pressure on joints and muscles. Hydrotherapy is widely recognized for relieving stress‑related tension. Arctic Home offers industry‑leading hydrotherapy systems such as Jacuzzi PowerPro and Sundance Fluidix jets at all three Alaska locations.

Quality spas are available in a wide range of prices. Depending on what features and benefits are important to you, that can dictate the cost of the hot tub you decide on. When purchasing a hot tub in Alaska, it is imperative that you consider the efficiency of the hot tub for our harsh winters. We suggest visiting the showroom to see in person the options you have before deciding what you are going to spend. Remember that you can also take advantage of financing options if that is the support you need for the purchase.

Keep in mind that warranty lengths typically increase as you move up the tiers of hot tubs. Make sure your hot tub dealer provides service and maintenance on their spas so if you need help they are just a call away. The better you take care of your hot tub water chemistry, change filters, and schedule yearly service, you will see the longevity of the tub improve. Arctic Home proudly provides warranty service on all the spas they offer, as well as non‑warranty service on all spas.

A spa can be installed indoors or outdoors, although over 90%, including those in cold weather climates, are installed outdoors. The two main considerations for installing a spa indoors are whether it will fit through the door and whether the structural strength of the flooring is adequate. We feel there is no better place to enjoy a hot tub than outside under the Midnight Sun or gazing at the Northern Lights. When placing your hot tub outside, you will need a strong, level base made of cement, wood, or gravel. Keep in mind this is a hot water appliance, so installing inside does come with risks related to water leaking or splashing inside your home.

Most hot tubs must be connected to 240V electrical service, but some offer the option of operating on either 120V or 240V. While connecting to 120V can be less involved, most customers prefer the benefits of a 240V spa, which include quicker heating time and better temperature maintenance during cold weather use. This is because the heater output is four times greater in a 240V spa versus a 120V spa. If you choose 120V service, it must be a dedicated circuit with appropriate amperage. Arctic Home Living works with experts from Renewable Energy Systems to answer power questions and install 220V upgrades if needed.

Most people research top brands and local retailers to gather information on features and sizes available locally. Once you have options in mind, visit a local showroom to see the tubs in person and speak with a hot tub expert. You may consider wet testing a spa before purchasing, which means getting into a spa with water to test it yourself. Establishing what you and your family want in massage, size, style, accessories, color, and brand makes the decision easier. Choosing a company that supports your full installation, provides water maintenance training, and offers an efficient, high‑performing product is crucial.

No. All above‑ground portable hot tubs, swim spas, and cold plunges can be filled using a standard garden hose, so no plumbing is required. For customers with extremely hard water or high iron levels, Arctic Home provides treated water via water truck upon delivery and after installation. Saunas do not require plumbing and only need an electrical connection.

Proper water maintenance is vital to the enjoyment, performance, and lifespan of your spa. Maintenance procedures are not difficult if you are properly trained and stay consistent with testing and treating the water. Arctic Home provides new hot tub owners with a Start Up Spa Kit and an in‑store class explaining product use and timing. You will receive a weekly maintenance instruction sheet. Arctic Home also offers free in‑store water testing if you bring a fresh sample.