For most folks who have never used or owned one of these, it is typical to refer to everything with hot water as a “hot tub.” And, although that’s not an issue for most folks, if you’re in the market to upgrade or replace yours, or especially if you’re buying your first unit, it’s important to know and understand the distinction between these terms.
With that in mind, here’s a handy definition from an article at PoolandSpa.com,
"What is the difference between a spa, hot tub Jacuzzi and whirlpool?
A. Basically, the word “spa” is used to describe any one of a number of jetted, heated, water-filled tubs. According to Webster’s Dictionary, a spa is defined as “a celebrated watering place in Belgium; any place, especially a resort, having a mineral spring.”
Most “spas” are made out of either fiberglass or acrylic. Acrylic spas are, by far, the better of the two types and will provide longer life and service to their owners.
“Hot tubs” are made of wood, sometimes with a liner set inside. They can provide you with that “jet action”, but without the contoured seating acrylic spas offer.
A “whirlpool”, the way the word is commonly used, refers to any spa or hot tub’s circular “water action”. Remember, a “Jacuzzi” is not a generic name for spas. Jacuzzi is a company that makes “whirlpool baths” and spas. Any spa or hot tub will provide you with this “whirlpool action” of the water."
Regardless of what you call yours, however, the biggest chore facing you when bringing home your new appliance is disposing of your old one!
If you've owned your spa, Jacuzzi or hot tub for a while, you already know it’s a great way to take off the evening chill and enjoy a glass of wine or relax after a long day at work. In addition, hot tubs and spas are great places to entertain guests or family in a fun and relaxing atmosphere.
And, even though maintaining a hot tub can be a lot of work, most owners can’t imagine ever living without one after having had one for a period of time.
Unfortunately, if you’ve decided that it’s time to replace it, you may already know that it's going to be difficult to break down and remove that old hot tub or spa by yourself.
A typical hot tub makes removal and disposal a very labor intensive process because of its size and its construction. For starters, the sheer size and bulk of the tub usually requires cutting it into smaller sections to remove it from your yard or your deck.
The skirting, base and all the connections and components must be dismantled or disassembled and removed even prior to cutting the tub portion down into manageable pieces. Finally, all of the pieces, parts and debris must be gathered up and carried from the yard and out to the street.