Watkins Manufacturing Corporation, a subsidiary of Masco Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, is recognized as a leading global manufacturer of hot tubs. Located north of San Diego, California, Watkins has been producing spas since 1977, marketing them through dealers in every state in the USA and in over 70 countries. The company claims to be the world's number one selling brand, having built over one million hot tubs. Watkins' extensive line of spas requires regular maintenance and eventual part replacements, including covers, pumps, blowers, heaters, ozone generators, pillows, and jets.
Watkins Spa Models
Watkins Manufacturing offers a diverse range of spa models across different series to cater to various needs and preferences.
Vacanza Series
The Vacanza Series includes five spa models with seating arrangements for two to seven adults. One notable model is the Tarino spa, which accommodates up to five adults and features 23 massage jets within its 6'10" square shell. Another model, the Entice, measures 7'2" x 6'5" x 33" and offers a deep, contoured lounge seat, a molded-in ice bucket, and space for up to five people. The Martinique seats 5, with 34 jets and a lounge seat in a 7'5" x 6'4" x34" shell. The Drift spa is a compact 5'2" x 5'10" x 32" inch hot tub, suitable for smaller spaces like decks and patios. The Aspire spa fits through a standard door for indoor or outdoor use, measuring 6' x 3'11" x 28".
Freeflow Spa Series
The Freeflow spa series offers seven model options, starting with the Mini, the smallest spa in the series. The Mini features 10 hydrotherapy jets, accommodates two people, and measures 6' x 3'11" x 28", allowing it to fit through standard doorways for indoor or outdoor installation. The Cascina spa can accommodate up to four people and features 17 massage jets in a compact 5'2" x 5'10" x 33" shell. The Aptos spa is a round hot tub with 18 hydrotherapy jets, including one whirlpool jet, and its barrier-free design can accommodate up to five adults in a 6'6" round x 34" high space. The Tristar spa has room for up to 3 persons with 17 massage jets and is triangular-shaped to fit in corners. The Azure spa is a deeper spa with room for 4 bathers, plus a total of 18 jets including foot jets, and a rectangular 6'0" x 5'3" x 33" shell. The Excursion spa features a lounge seat and room for 5 in a spacious, rectangular 6'5" x 7'2" x 33" shell, which features a built in ice bucket and 25 hydrotherapy jets. The Monterey is the largest spa in the Freeflow series, with a generous 7'3" x 6'5" x3 4" shell and room for up to 7 adults.
Endless Pools
Watkins Manufacturing also produces a line of Endless Pools, compact pools designed with swim currents for exercise and training. These models offer varying degrees of performance and propulsion for aqua therapy and aquatic exercise. The Water Well model is a chest-deep pool suitable for rehabilitation and training using water, heat, and motion. The Original Endless Pool, introduced in 1988, features a single propeller in a swimming area ranging from 7' x 12' to 10' x 16', powered by a 5 hp swim current pump. It includes a heater, modular construction, and a digital control system. The Performance Endless Pool offers the same swimming area and pump as the original but provides a smoother and faster current. The High-Performance Endless Pool utilizes a dual propeller system, a 7.5 hp motor, and an upgraded pump in an 8' x 14' to 10' x 16' swimming area, designed for more competitive training. The Elite Endless Pool caters to competitive swimmers, featuring a 7.5 hp pump with dual hydraulic motors driving two propellers, delivering the fastest current in training pools.
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The Importance of Spa Covers
Spa covers are essential for maintaining the energy efficiency, cleanliness, and safety of hot tubs. They provide insulation, prevent water evaporation, and protect the spa from debris and the elements. High-quality covers, like those designed for Hot Spring Spas, are engineered to meet rigorous energy standards, reduce utility costs, and ensure durability.
Hot Spring Spa Covers: Energy Efficiency and Design
Hot Spring Spas are known for their energy-efficient hot tubs, and their custom-fitted covers are integral to this efficiency. These covers are designed, engineered, and manufactured by Watkins Wellness to meet the strict energy standards set by the California Energy Commission (CEC) for portable spas.
WeatherPro Covers
WeatherPro spa covers feature a dense foam core and a thick insulated gasket along the entire hinge to minimize heat loss. This design helps maintain water temperature, reduces energy consumption, and lowers utility costs.
Construction and Safety
WeatherPro covers are made with durable, fade-resistant materials, including double-stitched polyester, which provides superior resistance to the elements. The reinforced, adjustable straps ensure the cover can be safely secured. Each Hot Spring hot tub cover is UL-classified in accordance with ASTM safety standards and includes child safety locks for added protection.
Style and Convenience
Available in contemporary shades, WeatherPro covers complement various home and outdoor spaces. They also feature sturdy brackets for easy installation of cover lifters, enhancing convenience.
Cover Lifters: Enhancing Convenience and Extending Cover Life
A hot tub cover lifter is a valuable accessory that extends the life of the spa cover. Without a lifter, the repeated removal, storage, and replacement of the cover can lead to damage and wear. Cover lifters allow one person to effortlessly open and close the cover, keeping it off the ground and preventing scuffs and other damage.
Replacement and Maintenance of Spa Covers
Spa covers require regular maintenance and should be inspected annually for wear and to ensure a tight seal. Over time, exposure to the elements necessitates replacement. Factors such as water saturation, increased weight, and visible damage indicate that a replacement is needed.
Signs of Wear
- Excessive Weight: A heavy cover likely indicates water saturation.
- Visible Damage: Tears, cracks, or fading suggest the cover is deteriorating.
- Inefficient Insulation: Increased energy costs may signal that the cover is not providing adequate insulation.
Maintenance Tips
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the cover regularly to remove dirt, debris, and mildew.
- Proper Storage: Use a cover lifter to prevent damage during removal and storage.
- Annual Inspection: Check for signs of wear and tear, and address any issues promptly.
Replacement Options
When it is time to replace a hot tub cover, several options are available. Purchasing directly from the manufacturer ensures a custom fit and adherence to quality standards. However, third-party retailers may offer more competitive pricing.
Direct from Manufacturer
Purchasing a replacement cover directly from Watkins Manufacturing or an authorized dealer ensures compatibility and quality. While this option may be more expensive, it guarantees a precise fit and adherence to the manufacturer's standards.
Third-Party Retailers
Numerous online and local retailers offer spa covers that are compatible with Watkins spas. These options may provide a broader range of prices and features, but it is essential to verify the cover's dimensions and quality before purchasing. Hot Tub Outpost sells spa parts that work with all the brands produced by Watkins Manufacturing, replacement covers, pillows, jets or other hot tub parts and accessories for this expansive line of spas, browse our site or contact us for assistance.
Considerations
- Material Quality: Look for durable, weather-resistant materials.
- Insulation: Ensure the cover has a dense foam core and a tight seal.
- Safety Features: Verify that the cover includes safety straps and child safety locks.
- Warranty: Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer or retailer.
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