Hot Spring Jetsetter Spa Review

We got the Hot Spring Jetsetter Spa in 2002 when my husband and I retired. We have been hot tub owners for many years; our first was one of those old-fashioned circular wood tubs from the 70s. From there we purchased a 8-person hot tub big enough to fit the kids and friends of the family. When the last of the kids moved out (a few years later than anticipated), we moved into a smaller house. We left the big hot tub behind as a perk for the new owners, but soon decided to buy a new one. I should warn you once you own a spa, you'll never want to do with out. We decided it didn't make sense to buy a huge energy hog when it was just the two of us, so we visited a few dealers and tried out some of the 2-4 person models. We settled on the Hot Spring Jetsetter Spa after trying several.

Overall, we have been extremely pleased with this model, especially since we can compare it to hot tubs we have owned in the past. Out last hot tub (the 8 seat monster) put an extra $40-$50 on our electric bill. We didn't mind so much because we used it everyday (sometimes more than once), but the Jetsetter costs only $8-12 extra per month (depending on the season--we live in Maine where winters are quite chilly). I believe the smaller size has a lot to do with the reduced energy needs, but I also think the heaters, pumps, and insulation are all more efficient on these newer, quality models.

The size of the Jetsetter Spa is 6' 10" x 5' 2" x 29" H and it holds 215 gallons of water. I believe our old hot tub held 400-500 gallons. As you can imagine, it takes far fewer chemicals to keep the water balanced in our new spa. This is a great choice for empty-nesters or anyone with a small family. Yes, a large hot tub is great for entertaining, but you need to ask yourself if you will have people over often enough to justify the added monthly costs. Even when we had a number of people living in the house and numerous guests, it was rare for many people to be in the hot tub at once, so we certainly could have purchased a smaller model earlier on.

The Jetsetter comes with 11 jets, which was quite a few less than our old hot tub, but since this is only meant for 2 people it works out to about 6 per person which is great. The nice thing is the jets are customized to hit certain body areas just at the right angle and the right pressure to feel great. The Motojet works on the spine area and it is so relaxing, like getting a massage at home. Likewise, the jets that focus on the lower back feel great. In our old hot tub, there was one jet near the waterline that would start spurting out of the tub if the water level become low. We've had no such inconveniences with the Jetsetter. Once you get a little older you seem to be sore or achy all the time. My husband and I crawl out of bed and hop in the spa, pressing sore muscles and joints up against those jets, before doing anything else. It helps us feel ready to take on the day. 

The spa has a second motor in addition to the regular one and a good heater which means the temperature stays right where you set it even when you're inside with the lid off and it's chilly outside. The controls are simple and easy to use (I'm a technophobe so I like easy!). The overall quality of the spa is lovely. It comes with a 7 year shell warranty and a 5 year parts warranty but after 2, almost 3 years, we've had no need to call in any problems.

Compared to our last hot tub, the Jetsetter is quite quiet. You can barely hear it when it isn't in use. When you are inside you can still talk to people outside without raising your voice or straining to hear.

The only negative thing I can think of to add to this review is that the price is fairly high for the size of the tub. As with all things, average prices for hot tubs have really gone up in the last 10 years. We paid just over $4,000 for the Hot Springs Jetsetter. We saw other similar size models for less money, but we eventually went with the Jetsetter Spa because the dealer treated us well, throwing in a bunch of perks, and because it truly seemed like a quality hot tub. Also, the dealer came out to the house and set everything up for us. One of the jets was defunct when it arrived, and the dealer had it replaced very quickly and at no charge.

The Jetsetter Spa has not disappointed and we have no regrets. With some big purchases you feel buyer's remorse because you buy it then never use it. We use our hot tub everyday and it is so wonderful. It is definitely something I recommend to anyone who can afford a little luxury.

--Review by Linda S., 2005