Simply put, better-insulated hot tubs use less electricity and are cheaper to run. Most premium North American spas manufacturers use Full Foam Insulation as the preferred method for multiple benefits. Foam insulation acts as a sound barrier, which can decrease plumbing and equipment noise. Full foam insulation also acts as additional support for plumbing components, resulting in less movement and stress on joints and fixtures. In the high humidity environment of a spa, it is critical to use insulation which is moisture resistant and able to maintain structural integrity after years of being exposed to the temperature variations and stress of spa operation. If the insulation absorbs water or allows no drainage, water build up over time could produce mould and other organisms in the shell area which could be a health concern. Water-logged insulation can also sag and deteriorate, resulting in areas of the spa not being insulated and increasing energy costs to run your spa.

Icynene Full Foam Insulation & Cap
Used by Mistral/Pacific Spas as a premium insulation designed specifically for use in spas. The high insulating value of Icynene provide an average insulating factor of R50, with special characteristics which allow leaks to be contained and quickly removed from the insulation. Full foam insulation systems have been proven to have fewer leaks as there are less stress areas and movement on plumbing fittings. Mistral/Pacific Spas add a rigid foam cap on the bottom of their spas to rigidize the base structure and provide additional resistance from ground water and insects. Full foam insulation provides excellent sound absorption characteristics, reducing plumbing and equipment noise and vibration.

Full Foam Insulation
Used by most premium spa manufacturers for high insulation value and plumbing support. In the event of a leak, the foam insulation is pulled out around the problem area and simply replaced (re-foamed) after the plumbing repair. The foam insulation's structural integrity remains.

Perimeter Insulation / Dead Air Space
This system involves a layer of rigid urethane foam being sprayed on the shell floor, rim and cabinet walls, leaving open air space in between. The area needs to be completely sealed as a vacuum to truly be a dead air space and provide high insulation value. This system provides no support to the plumbing and often causes overheating of equipment components with no venting provided in the sealed cabinet.

Skim Coat
This type of insulation involves spraying a few inches of rigid urethane foam over the spa shell surface. The plumbing lines are not insulated or supported, which can cause strain on joints and fixtures with the weight of the water-filled hoses and jet action. There is also no sound absorption quality to this insulation type.

Mineral Wool
This insulating system is quickly degraded in the high humidity area inside a hot tub cabinet. As the insulation absorbs and retains water, the weight causes sagging and reduced insulation value, as well as potential mould collection.

Foil-Lined Insulation Panels
This is a highly efficient insulating system in radiant heating, such as reflecting solar heat. This system, however, becomes only a slight barrier in a hot tub environment which transfers heat through conduction or convection.

What's Right For You?
Make sure that whatever system you choose matches your environment as well as your budget. Ask for documentation from the manufacturer in regards to energy requirements and don't accept anything less than unbiased third party reporting.