Smart technology has transformed how we interact with nearly everything in our homes—from thermostats to lighting systems. Now, this same convenience and control extend to your hot tub experience through the innovative SmartTub® System.
The SmartTub® System transforms your Sundance® Spa from a standalone wellness amenity into an integrated part of your smart home ecosystem. Let’s explore how this technology works, the benefits it offers, and how to maximize its potential for your specific needs.
Understanding the SmartTub® System
The SmartTub® System serves as your personal hot tub assistant, providing remote access and control of your Sundance® Spa through a user-friendly smartphone app. Compatible with newer Sundance® models (2016 and later), this cellular-based system operates independently of your home’s Wi-Fi network, ensuring reliable connectivity even in outdoor installations where Wi-Fi signals might be weak.
Key Components
The system consists of:
- SmartTub® Controller: A small hardware module installed in your hot tub that communicates with the Sundance® Spa’s control systems
- SmartTub® App: Available for both iOS and Android devices, providing the interface for remote monitoring and control
- Cellular Connection: Uses cellular data to maintain a constant connection without relying on your home network
The system comes standard on Sundance® 980™ Series models and is available as an optional feature on other series. It can often be retrofitted for existing Sundance® Spa owners with compatible models.
Core Features That Enhance Your Experience
1. Remote Control and Monitoring
Perhaps the most appreciated feature is the ability to control your spa from anywhere:
- Adjust water temperature before you arrive home
- Control jets, lights, and other functions remotely
- Check water chemistry and system status
- Monitor filter conditions and maintenance needs
This remote functionality is particularly valuable during New England’s variable weather. Imagine increasing your spa’s temperature while driving home from a cold winter day on the slopes, or checking that your cover is secure when unexpected storms approach.
2. Energy Management with Auto Schedule
The Auto Schedule feature represents a significant advancement in hot tub energy efficiency:
- Custom Temperature Scheduling: Program your spa to increase temperature only when needed, rather than maintaining constant heat
- Usage Pattern Optimization: Set recurring schedules that match your regular spa usage patterns
- Special Occasion Planning: Create one-time schedules for unique events
- Push Notifications: Receive alerts when your spa reaches desired temperature
For New England spa owners, this feature provides substantial benefits during cold weather months when heating costs typically increase. By precisely timing when your spa reaches ideal temperature, you avoid unnecessary energy consumption during periods of non-use.
A typical use case might include:
- Weekday schedule: Heat spa to 102°F by 6:30 PM for evening use
- Weekend schedule: Heat spa to 100°F by 10:00 AM for daytime use
- Energy-saving mode: Maintain lower temperature (95°F) during extended periods away
Many of our customers report energy savings of 15-20% after implementing strategic Auto Schedule programming compared to maintaining constant temperatures.
3. Maintenance Alerts and Reminders
The SmartTub® System helps extend the life of your investment through proactive maintenance notifications:
- Filter Cleaning/Replacement Reminders: Based on actual usage patterns rather than generic timelines
- Water Change Indicators: Notifications when it’s time to drain and refill based on usage
- ClearRay® UV Bulb Replacement: Reminders when it’s time to replace the UV sanitization bulb
- Service Alerts: Notifications about potential issues before they become major problems
These alerts take the guesswork out of maintenance schedules, ensuring you perform necessary upkeep at the optimal times. For busy professionals or those who use their spa seasonally, these reminders prove invaluable for consistent care.
4. Cover Status Monitoring
The integrated cover sensor provides additional peace of mind:
- Confirms when your cover is properly secured
- Alerts you if the cover is left open
- Helps prevent unnecessary heat loss and energy waste
- Protects your spa from weather exposure when you’re away
During New England winters, a properly secured cover is essential for energy efficiency and component protection. The cover monitoring feature ensures you never accidentally leave your spa exposed to the elements.
5. Water Level Monitoring
The system also keeps track of your spa’s water level:
- Alerts you to low water conditions that could damage equipment
- Helps identify potential leak issues early
- Ensures proper operation of jets and heating systems
Maximizing the Benefits of Your SmartTub® System
To get the most from this technology, consider these strategic approaches.
Optimizing Energy Efficiency
The SmartTub® System provides detailed energy usage monitoring that can help you make informed decisions:
- Track Consumption Patterns: Review energy usage data to identify opportunities for optimization
- Seasonal Adjustments: Create different schedules for summer, fall, winter, and spring based on typical usage and ambient temperatures
- Time-of-Use Coordination: If your utility offers lower rates during certain hours, program your heating cycles accordingly
For maximum efficiency in New England’s climate, consider lowering your maintenance temperature by 3-5 degrees when the spa won’t be used for several days, while still keeping it well above freezing to prevent system damage.
Personalizing Your Experience
Beyond basic control, the system allows for sophisticated personalization:
- User Profiles: Create different settings profiles for various users or activities
- Preset Configurations: Save favorite combinations of temperature, jet settings, and lighting
- Arrival Preparation: Use location services to automatically begin heating when you’re heading home
Preventative Maintenance Integration
Use the system’s alerts as part of a comprehensive maintenance strategy:
- Scheduled Water Testing: Perform water tests when prompted by the system
- Seasonal Deep Cleaning: Coordinate drain and refill operations with seasonal transitions
- Professional Service Coordination: Share alert information with our service team for more effective troubleshooting
Many of our customers maintain a simple log of system alerts and actions taken, creating a valuable maintenance history that helps identify patterns and optimize care routines.
Setting Up Your SmartTub® System
Initial setup is straightforward and typically takes less than 30 minutes:
- Download the App: Available in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store
- Create an Account: Register with a valid email address
- Connect to Your Spa: Follow the in-app instructions to pair with your specific model
- Customize Settings: Set your preferences, schedules, and notification options
Our team at Great Bay Spa & Sauna can assist with initial setup and configuration during delivery and installation, ensuring you’re ready to enjoy these smart features immediately.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the SmartTub® System is designed for reliability, occasionally you might encounter challenges.
Connectivity Concerns
If you experience connection issues:
- Verify that cellular service is available in your spa’s location
- Check that the controller has power (indicated by status lights)
- Restart the app and controller if necessary
Notification Management
To optimize notifications:
- Ensure app permissions allow notifications on your device
- Customize alert thresholds to match your preferences
- Set “Do Not Disturb” periods for non-critical alerts
Temperature Accuracy
For precise temperature control:
- Allow 24-48 hours after installation for temperature monitoring to calibrate
- Consider seasonal variations when setting schedules
- Remember that extreme weather may affect heating time
Privacy and Security Considerations
The SmartTub® System is designed with security in mind:
- Communication between your spa and the app is encrypted
- The system doesn’t collect personal data beyond what’s necessary for operation
- You maintain control over who has access to your spa’s data and controls
Is SmartTub® Right for You?
While most Sundance® Spa owners benefit from this technology, it’s particularly valuable if you:
- Travel frequently but want to maintain spa readiness
- Have a seasonal or vacation property where remote monitoring provides peace of mind
- Appreciate data-driven approaches to maintenance and efficiency
- Enjoy integrating smart technology throughout your home
- Value energy efficiency and cost optimization
For New England spa owners specifically, the system’s ability to monitor and maintain your spa during harsh winter conditions provides exceptional value and protection for your investment.
Upgrading Existing Spas
If you already own a compatible Sundance® Spa but don’t have the SmartTub® System, retrofit options are available:
- Compatible with most Sundance® models manufactured since 2016
- Professional installation ensures proper integration with existing controls
- Typically can be completed during a regular maintenance visit
Our service team can evaluate your specific model for compatibility and provide installation options.
The Future of Smart Spa Technology
The SmartTub® System continues to evolve with regular software updates that introduce new features and refinements. Recent additions include:
- Enhanced energy usage analytics
- More granular schedule control
- Expanded maintenance tracking
- Improved user interface design
As a SmartTub® System owner, these improvements are delivered automatically through app updates, ensuring your system continues to improve over time.
Experience SmartTub® at Great Bay Spa & Sauna
If you’re considering a new Sundance® Spa or interested in adding SmartTub® capabilities to your existing spa, visit our Portsmouth showroom for a hands-on demonstration. Our team can show you exactly how this technology works and help you determine if it’s the right solution for your lifestyle.
For current SmartTub® users, we offer personalized consultations to ensure you’re getting the most from your system. From optimization strategies to troubleshooting assistance, we’re committed to helping you maximize the benefits of this innovative technology.
