Hot Tub FAQs

Thinking About Buying a Hot Tub

Q: Are hot tubs bad for you?
A: Hot tubs are not bad for you—when properly maintained, they offer measurable wellness benefits. A quality spa like a Bullfrog Spa supports daily hydrotherapy, improved circulation, and relaxation right at home. Used with care, they’re a healthy habit, not a hazard.
If you are pregnant or have a heart condition, high blood pressure, or other medical concerns, it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider before soaking.
For a deeper look at the science, read our article:
Hot Tubs vs. Saunas: Surprising New Study Reveals Which Offers Bigger Health Benefits

Q: Are there any health risks with hot tubs?
A: When properly maintained, modern hot tubs are very safe. Issues like “hot tub rash” or “Legionella” occur in poorly maintained public or neglected tubs, not in clean, well-kept home spas.
Every Bullfrog Spa owner we serve receives clear water-care guidance, so your spa remains a source of comfort and wellness—not concern.

Q: How much does a hot tub cost?
A: Bullfrog Spas are designed to fit a wide range of families, backyards, and budgets.
Starting MSRPs typically begin around $7,995 for the X-Series® and extend into the mid-$20,000s for luxury M-Series® models, with A-Series® and STIL® in between. Your final investment depends on size, options, and delivery details. Rather than a one-size-fits-all price, we provide clear, written quotes so you always know what to expect.
For full current ranges, visit our Pricing & Investment Guide.

Q: How much does it cost to run a hot tub in Maine winters?
A: Modern hot tubs are far more efficient than most people expect.
A well-insulated Bullfrog Spa typically uses between $20 and $40 per month in electricity under normal conditions,
even through Maine winters. Real-world energy use depends on factors like air temperature, frequency of use, and the temperature you keep your spa set to.
Energy efficiency is built into every Bullfrog Spa—tight plumbing, high-density foam insulation, sealed cabinets, and a fitted cover
all work together to hold in heat and reduce energy draw.
You can improve performance even more by placing your spa on a solid base, using a floating thermal blanket,
and keeping a natural wind barrier around the area.
We’re happy to help you estimate operating costs for your home and review easy ways to keep them low year-round.

Q: Is it cheaper to keep a hot tub on all the time?
A: Yes—it’s generally more efficient to keep your hot tub heated than to let it cool completely and reheat each time.
Bullfrog Spas are insulated to hold temperature efficiently, so maintaining heat uses less electricity than daily reheating.
We recommend keeping it at your preferred soaking range (100–104°F) and lowering the set point slightly when you’re away for a few days.

Q: How do I know which Bullfrog model is right for me?
A: Start with how you plan to use your spa—quiet evening relaxation, muscle recovery, or family time. Then consider space, seating, and budget:

M-Series: our most advanced design and therapy options with full JetPak® customization
A-Series: versatile comfort and style for most families, also with JetPak® therapy
X-Series: simple, high-value performance with traditional fixed jets
STIL®: modern, award-winning design with targeted JetPak® massages

All Bullfrog Spas share the same durable construction and cold-climate engineering.
We’ll help you compare models side by side in our Portland showroom and, if you like, schedule a test soak so you can feel the difference yourself.

Q: What should I consider before buying a hot tub?
A: Think about how you’ll use your spa—and what matters most to you:

• Comfort and seating layout

• Energy efficiency

• Backyard space and location

• Design style and budget

The biggest factor is fit—how the spa feels when you’re in it. That’s why we encourage you to visit our Portland showroom and, if you like, take a test soak before deciding. Buying a spa is a process worth doing thoughtfully, and that’s exactly how we guide you.
Why Buying a Spa Isn’t Like Buying a Toaster (or Even a Car)

Q: Can I come to Skillful Home Recreation for a spa day?
A: We’re not a public spa. Skillful Home Recreation is a showroom where you can explore and purchase Bullfrog Spas Hot Tubs and Swim Spas to enjoy at home. You can, however, test soak before you buy.

Q: What’s included when I buy a hot tub from Skillful Home Recreation?
A: Every Bullfrog Spa purchase includes:

• Full factory warranty (up to 10 years structural)

• Professional delivery and setup

• Startup guidance and ongoing local service

And one more thing—peace of mind.
We’ve already done the hard work for you by carefully curating the best brand on the market.
As Southern Maine’s exclusive Bullfrog Spas dealer, we choose the best so you don’t have to.
You get a spa that’s proven, supported, and built to bring comfort for years to come.
Learn more about: Why Skillful Home Recreation Chooses Bullfrog Spas

Q: How long do Bullfrog Spas last?
A: With regular care, a Bullfrog Spa typically lasts 15–20 years or more—often far longer than traditional hot tubs.
Their EnduraFrame™ composite structure never rots or corrodes, and the JetPak Therapy System® lets you replace or update components over time.
Many of our Maine customers are still enjoying Bullfrog Spas purchased well over a decade ago. It’s one of the reasons Skillful Home chooses Bullfrog Spas.

Q: Why do people get rid of their hot tubs?
A: Most people replace old hot tubs when repairs or energy costs start to outweigh enjoyment.
Lower-quality tubs can become expensive to heat or maintain after 8–10 years.
Bullfrog Spas, by contrast, are built for longevity and easy service, so owners upgrade out of desire for new features—not frustration.
Proper care and energy-smart design keep Bullfrog ownership satisfying for the long term.

Q: How soon can I get delivery or installation?
A: It depends on the model and options you choose. Most Bullfrog Spas are custom-ordered, so you can select your preferred size, colors, and JetPak® therapy layout. Once your spa is ordered, we’ll give you a clear timeline and keep you updated every step of the way.
If you need something sooner, we often have a limited number of floor models available for immediate delivery from our Portland showroom.
Either way, our team handles every detail—from order to installation—so your spa arrives ready to enjoy.

Q: Why choose Skillful Home Recreation instead of a big-box store?
A: Simply put—you can’t compare.
Big-box stores sell hot tubs that may look similar on the surface, but they’re not built like Bullfrog Spas.

As Southern Maine’s exclusive Bullfrog Spas dealer, Skillful Home Recreation offers something mass retailers can’t: a spa engineered for personalized therapy, energy efficiency, and long-term comfort.
Bullfrog’s patented JetPak Therapy System® lets you choose and swap out targeted massage jets for your body and your preferences—technology no warehouse brand can touch.

Bullfrog Spas are also built for Maine’s climate—fully insulated, energy-smart, and made to last for decades, not seasons.
When you buy from Skillful Home, you’re choosing professional installation, real guidance, and local support from experts who know your spa inside and out.

Big-box stores compete on price. We compete on performance, personalization, and lasting value—because your spa should never be ordinary.

See the Bullfrog Difference
You don’t have to take our word for it. The reason Bullfrog Spas stand apart from commodity-level hot tubs comes down to smart design, lasting quality, and the unique JetPak® Therapy System.
Watch “The Bullfrog Difference” to see why not all spas are created equal—and then visit our Portland showroom to experience the difference yourself.

Q: Do you offer financing or payment plans?
A: Yes. We partner with trusted lenders to make ownership simple and flexible. Visit our showroom or call for current financing options.

Q: Can I buy accessories or covers through Skillful Home later?
A: Absolutely. We stock covers, steps, chemicals, filters, and cleaning tools—and we’re happy to help you keep everything in top shape.
Give us a call for details.

Ready to start your search? Visit our Hot Tub Buyer’s Guide or stop by our Portland showroom to explore Bullfrog Spas in person.

Owning & Caring for Your Spa

Q: How often should I change the water?
A: Typically every three to four months, depending on use and your water-care routine.
Bullfrog Spas’ advanced filtration and plumbing design keep water cleaner longer, making changes quick and simple.
At delivery, we show you exactly how to drain, refill, and rebalance your spa for crystal-clear results year-round.

Q: Are Bullfrog Spas easy to maintain?
A: Very. Bullfrog Spas eliminate dozens of potential leak points and feature the JetPak Therapy System®, which allows easy access for cleaning and service.
The EnduraFrame™ composite frame never rots or corrodes, so routine care takes minutes—not hours.
Most owners tell us they spend more time relaxing than maintaining.

Q: Do hot tubs work in Maine winters?
A: Absolutely—winter is one of the best times to enjoy them.
Bullfrog Spas are engineered for cold climates with dense insulation and an energy-efficient JetPak plumbing layout that keeps heat where it belongs.
Even on a zero-degree night, your spa stays hot and ready—turning Maine winters into something to look forward to.

Q: How energy efficient are Bullfrog Spas?
A: They’re among the most energy-efficient hot tubs available.
The fully insulated base and JetPak System minimize plumbing heat loss, allowing Bullfrog Spas to use up to 30 % less energy than conventional designs.
Lower energy use means lower operating costs—and more relaxing for less money.

Q: What’s involved in winterizing a hot tub?
A: If you plan to use it all winter, just keep it filled, balanced, and heated—no special steps required.
If you’ll be away or closing the home, we can professionally drain and winterize your Bullfrog Spa to prevent freezing damage and ensure an easy restart in spring.

Q: How long will my hot tub last?
A: With proper care, most Bullfrog owners enjoy 15–20 years or more of dependable use.
Durable materials, replaceable JetPaks, and the all-composite frame keep them feeling new long after typical tubs have worn out.
Regular maintenance and balanced water chemistry make the difference between a decade of use and a generation of enjoyment.

Q: What should I do if my water looks cloudy?
A: Cloudy water usually means an imbalance of sanitizer or pH.

1. Test the water with a strip or digital kit.

2. Adjust sanitizer and pH levels.

3. Rinse or replace filters.
   If you’re unsure, just call and we can give you clear instructions to get you back to sparkling water fast.

Q: Who provides service and repairs after purchase?
A: We do. Our in-house Skillful Home Recreation service team handles everything from start-ups to long-term care.
You’ll always reach a local technician who knows your specific Bullfrog Spa—not a call center.
It’s part of our commitment to standing behind every spa we sell.

Q: What chemicals do I need to maintain safe water?
A: Bullfrog Spas are designed to make water care simple, safe, and low-touch.
Most owners use Bullfrog’s Simplicity® Total Water Care System, a 3-step process that keeps water clean with fewer chemicals than traditional or salt systems:

1. Filtration – The flat Simplicity® filter captures more debris while being easy to replace and lower in cost.

2. Sanitization – The FROG @ease® system combines natural minerals with SmartChlor® for clean, clear water using up to 75 % less chlorine than standard systems.

3. Oxidation – Choose one of Bullfrog’s automatic options—Clear Comfort® AOP, EOS™ Enhanced O3, or WellSpring® O3—to eliminate impurities and polish the water to a sparkling finish.

With this system, there’s no guesswork—just clear, safe water with minimal effort.
Our team will walk you through setup, provide your starter kit, and help you keep everything balanced for easy year-round care.

Q: Are Bullfrog Spas saltwater hot tubs?
A: No. Bullfrog Spas do not use saltwater systems—and that’s a good thing.
While saltwater tubs are often marketed as “low-maintenance,” they still rely on chlorine generation and can corrode spa parts over time.

Bullfrog’s advanced Simplicity® Total Water Care system delivers all the same benefits—clean, soft, low-chlorine water—without salt or corrosion risk.
Instead of electrolysis, Bullfrog combines three proven technologies:

1. FROG @ease® – mineral-enhanced SmartChlor® sanitation with up to 75 % less chlorine than salt systems.

2. EOS™ O3 or Clear Comfort® AOP – automatic oxidation for crystal-clear, odor-free water.

3. Simplicity® filtration – efficient, easy-change filters that keep water balanced and cost low.

The result is water that feels better, lasts longer, and protects your spa investment—without the complications of salt.
Read our full guide: Thinking of a Salt Water Hot Tub? Think Again.

Q: Can you help move or relocate a spa?
A: Yes. Within Maine, our delivery team can relocate and reinstall your Bullfrog Spa safely.
Whether you’re moving homes or redesigning your backyard, we handle logistics, transport, and setup—so your spa is ready to use in its new spot.

Need help with care or service?
Visit our Services or call 207-775-3000 — our local team is always here to keep your Bullfrog Spa running perfectly.

Health & Everyday Enjoyment

Q: How do hot tubs help with stress and sleep?
A: The combination of warm water, buoyancy, and JetPak® hydrotherapy relaxes muscles and calms the nervous system.
As your body warms, circulation improves and tension eases—helping you unwind physically and mentally.
A short soak in the evening often leads to deeper, more restful sleep as your body cools afterward, triggering natural melatonin release.
For many of our customers, it’s the most peaceful part of the day.

Q: Are hot tubs good for your health?
A: Yes—modern studies show regular soaking can support heart health, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation.
Gentle heat exposure acts like a light workout for your cardiovascular system, while buoyancy relieves pressure on joints and muscles.
With Bullfrog Spas, you can personalize hydrotherapy for recovery, relaxation, or daily wellness.
(See our full article: Hot Tubs vs. Saunas: Surprising New Study Reveals Which Offers Bigger Health Benefits)

Q: Are hot tubs safe for kids or older adults?
A: Yes—with supervision and temperature awareness.
We recommend keeping the water around 100°F or lower for children and seniors, and limiting soak time to 15–20 minutes.
Always ensure hydration and safe entry/exit.
With Bullfrog’s ergonomic seating and easy-to-reach controls, everyone can soak comfortably and safely.

Q: Can I use a hot tub every day?
A: Absolutely. Daily use is safe and beneficial for most healthy adults.
Consistent soaking promotes recovery, relaxation, and better sleep—especially during Maine’s colder months.
Just keep water balanced and take a short break if you feel overheated or light-headed.

Q: Are there any health conditions that require caution?
A: If you have heart issues, high blood pressure, diabetes, or are pregnant, talk with your healthcare provider before soaking.
For most people, moderate daily use is safe and restorative, but professional guidance ensures peace of mind.

Q: What’s the difference between a hot tub and a swim spa?
A: A hot tub is designed for relaxation and therapy; a swim spa combines exercise, hydrotherapy, and family fun.
Skillful Home Recreation offers both—Bullfrog Spas for hot tubs and swim spas—so you can choose what best fits your space and lifestyle.

Q: Do Bullfrog Spas really offer better therapy?
A: They do.
Only Bullfrog Spas feature the JetPak Therapy System®, which lets you customize each seat with targeted massage for shoulders, back, legs, and more.
You can even swap JetPaks over time as your needs change.
It’s the difference between a spa you sit in—and a spa designed around you.

Q: What makes soaking outdoors in Maine so special?
A: The contrast—crisp air, warm water, quiet evenings under the stars.
Owning a hot tub here isn’t just luxury; it’s a deeper way to live with the seasons.
Whether it’s snowing or misting, those few moments of stillness and heat become a small ritual of joy and recovery.

Q: Can I use my hot tub year-round?
A: Yes. Bullfrog Spas are built for four-season enjoyment, with insulation and components designed for Maine winters.
You can lower the temperature for summer soaks, raise it for cold-weather therapy, and enjoy comfort and relaxation every month of the year.

Have another question? Visit our Portland showroom or call us anytime. We’re here to help you choose the right spa, understand the details, and enjoy ownership for years to come.

📍 Skillful Home Recreation | 533 Forest Ave, Portland, Maine
📞 207-775-3000