How to Choose the Perfect Hot Tub or Swim Spa for Your Arizona Home: A Complete Buyer’s Guide
Why Investing in a Hot Tub or Swim Spa is Ideal for Arizona Living
Living in the Greater Phoenix area means enjoying stunning sunsets, mild winters, and an active outdoor lifestyle – but also dealing with intense summer heat and dusty conditions. A high-quality hot tub or swim spa can transform your backyard into a year-round oasis for relaxation, family fun, fitness, and entertaining.
At Southwest Spas, your family-owned and operated dealer in Mesa, we’ve helped thousands of Arizona families select the ideal spa since opening our doors. As the exclusive Arizona dealer for Nordic Hot Tubs and a premier carrier of Hydropool self-cleaning hot tubs and swim spas, we know what works best in our desert climate.
This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know to make the right choice – from assessing your needs to comparing key features and brands.
Step 1: Determine Your Primary Use and Needs
The first question we ask every customer at our Mesa showroom is: “How do you plan to use your spa?”
- Pure relaxation and hydrotherapy — Focus on powerful jets, ergonomic seating, and loungers.
- Family fun and entertaining — Prioritize larger models with open seating and fun features like LED lights or waterfalls.
- Year-round fitness and swimming — Consider a swim spa with a strong current for aquatic exercise.
- Limited space or budget — Look at compact 2-4 person models or plunge tubs for cold therapy.
Arizona’s climate makes evening soaks especially enjoyable, with cooler nights providing the perfect contrast to warm water.
Step 2: Consider Size, Seating Capacity, and Space Requirements
Hot tubs range from intimate 2-3 person models to party-sized 8+ seaters. Popular sizes in Arizona:
- 2-4 persons → Ideal for couples or small patios (approx. 6-7 ft square).
- 5-6 persons → Most popular for families – great balance of space and efficiency.
- 7+ persons or swim spas → Perfect for entertaining or serious swimmers.
Measure your backyard or patio carefully. Factor in access paths, cover lifters, and any HOA restrictions common in Phoenix communities.
Step 3: Evaluate Key Features and Technology
Modern hot tubs offer impressive innovations tailored to Arizona challenges:
- Self-cleaning systems (Hydropool exclusive) – 100% filtration with minimal maintenance in dusty conditions.
- Energy efficiency – Full-foam insulation and efficient heaters to keep operating costs low despite temperature swings.
- Jet configuration – Targeted therapy jets for neck, back, feet, and calves.
- Lighting and entertainment – Multicolor LEDs, Bluetooth audio, and waterfalls for ambiance.
- Ozonators and UV systems – For crystal-clear water with fewer chemicals.
Spotlight: Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas
Hydropool is renowned worldwide for innovation, especially their patented self-cleaning technology that filters 100% of the water every 15 minutes – perfect for Arizona’s dust and pollen.
Popular models include:
- Compact serenity series for relaxation
- Executive swim spas with adjustable swim currents up to 6 mph
- Aqua trainer models combining hot tub therapy with fitness
Their zoned jetting and ergonomic designs deliver superior hydrotherapy.
Spotlight: Nordic Hot Tubs – Exclusive to Southwest Spas in Arizona
Nordic Hot Tubs are built in North America with exceptional energy efficiency and durability. Their Nordic Star™ jet system and DTS™ (Dual Therapy System) provide unmatched massage variety.
Standout features:
- Superior insulation for lower electric bills
- Classic round designs or modern rectangular options
- Therapy-focused seating in every model
Many Arizona customers choose Nordic for reliable performance in extreme temperatures.
Step 4: Budget and Operating Costs in Arizona
Hot tub prices range from entry-level portable models around $5,000 to premium swim spas over $20,000. Quality brands like Hydropool and Nordic typically fall in the $9,000–$18,000 range depending on size and features.
Monthly operating costs in Phoenix average $20–$40 thanks to efficient insulation and covers – far less than running a pool. Self-cleaning models save even more on chemicals and maintenance time.
Step 5: Installation, Electrical, and Site Preparation
Most hot tubs require a level concrete pad or reinforced deck. A dedicated 220V circuit is standard (similar to an electric dryer).
Our team at Southwest Spas handles delivery, setup, and startup. We also offer financing options to fit your budget.
Additional Options: Swim Spas and Plunge Tubs
For fitness enthusiasts, Hydropool swim spas provide endless swimming, rowing, and aqua aerobics – staying active without leaving home.
Cold plunge tubs are gaining popularity in Arizona for recovery and invigoration after hot days or workouts.
Real Arizona Customer Stories
Families in Gilbert love their 6-person Nordic for weekend gatherings. Scottsdale couples rave about Hydropool’s quiet operation and easy cleaning. Active retirees in Chandler use swim spas daily for low-impact exercise.
Final Tips for Choosing Your Perfect Spa
- Wet test multiple models – feel the jets and seating in person.
- Compare warranties (Hydropool and Nordic offer excellent coverage).
- Think long-term – quality brands last 15–20+ years.
- Plan for accessories: steps, covers, lifters, and lighting.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Hot Tub or Swim Spa?
The right spa will bring years of enjoyment, health benefits, and memorable moments to your Arizona home.
Visit southwestspas.com to browse our full Hydropool and Nordic inventory. Schedule a no-pressure wet test at our Mesa showroom or contact our expert team today – we proudly serve Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe, and the entire Valley!
What’s most important to you in a hot tub – relaxation, family time, or fitness? Share in the comments below!
– The Southwest Spas Team
