With the scan of a QR code, spa owners now can virtually connect with their hot tubs via the Jacuzzi SmartTub System app.
After scanning the code, users can connect anytime and anywhere to check the state of their spa.
The app is compatible with any 2018 and newer Jacuzzi model.
“We try to make it really easy for the consumer,” says Larry Ovalle, director of marketing, strategic growth at Jacuzzi.
Branded as a personal hot tub assistant, the app draws on the ease of using technology as a means to making hot tub ownership a breeze.
When customers download the app, they receive access to customized hot tub stats, along with personalized tips and how-to videos.
By offering connected products like the SmartTub System, it gives dealers a leg up on competitors who aren’t offering such technology in their showrooms, some dealers believe.
“SmartTub allows us to offer an option that none of our competitors can,” says Dave Moccia, owner and sales manager at Poolside Spa Services Ltd. “Being a resort town, our market has many ‘absentee’ owners who don’t live full-time in their homes. SmartTub allows owners to monitor the tub from anywhere in the world, and they can contact us.”
Even for the not-so-tech-savvy folks, the system requires practically zero setup.
“Having technology options like SmartTub allows us to keep our products connected,” Moccia says. “It seems like all devices and appliances are heading in that direction. Many customers are looking to find a way to operate things as easy as possible with minimal maintenance.”
Cell towers connect the tub to a spa dealer portal, which helps retailers address minor issues before they become troublesome. On the consumer front, reminders and email notifications let owners know when parts like UV bulbs and filters need replacing, or if water needs changing.
The tub automatically connects to the customer’s local spa dealer. Without having to pick up a phone, a dealer can troubleshoot long before a customer might even know something is wrong.
If an issue arises, the dealer portal — which shows the dealer’s entire sold inventory — flags a problem tub. Dealers can then run a remote diagnostic command to repair the issue immediately.
“The hot tub essentially takes care of itself,” Ovalle says. “It lets you know what it needs, and it connects you with your dealer.”
The portal is available via desktop, and smartphone and tablet platforms, making it easy for technicians to check on tubs while in the field.
“We wanted to have those key features of remote monitoring sort of like a remote control,” Ovalle explains. With the touch of a button, spa tub owners can set the temperature and turn on lights before even stepping into the tub.
The goal of the app is making the consumer experience of owning a hot tub easier, Ovalle says.
For customers who travel frequently, there’s piece of mind knowing an expensive investment is being safeguarded, even from afar. If the power goes out, for example, the Jacuzzi SmartTub System automatically notifies the owner and kicks on a backup battery. By doing so, it reduces complications for an owner unable to immediately remedy the situation.
One of the more popular features with customers is the energy usage estimates. By using the app, consumers can dial down energy use right before vacation, for example.
The app gives owners a sense of control, Moccia says, especially when it comes to energy use. Such key features give dealers and customers a deeper look into efficiency.
“Knowing the actual energy consumption from a hot tub gives the customer confidence, rather than taking our word for it that the hot tub is actually consuming the amount of power it’s supposed to,” he says. “And if it’s not, then we can look into why, like a problem with a pump or too frequent a filter cycle. It keeps us relevant — Jacuzzi has set the bar for the hot tub industry. And they continue to keep innovating and releasing products that give us a competitive edge.”