110 vs 220

[pdabill]

Some of the tubs I am considering are available in 120 Volt or 240 Volt. For example, the top one on my list right now is the Jacuzzi J-315, which is available at both voltage levels. What are the drawbacks of the 120V version? I understand that it is not as efficient at heating (i.e. heater stays on longer and takes longer to heat water), but what about the power of the jets? Will I get more power from the jets if I go with 240V? That is my main concern...

[J._McD]

The biggest difference is in the heater capacity and when it is on.  With the pumps on high, the heater is off.

Secondly, you will have smaller motors on 110v systems and potentially larger motors on 240 volt systems.

Max amp capacity on 110 volts is 20 amps to run equipment

Max amp capacity on 240 volts is 60 amps to run more equipment in all conditions.

Something that is convertible still has 110 volt motors, while a straight 240 volt system will have 240 volt motors and potentially more power.

[Brewman]

Unless the costs of installing 220v wiring are an issue, I'd suggest that you go with it.  Unless you live in a warm climate.  Where I live, I'd not consider 120 as a viable option on any spa that is covertible to 120 or 220.

[Guzz]

A spa that comes standard as a 120v model is designed to run efficiently that way. You may however convert it to 220v. the power of the jets should be the same either way. In the 120v version when you turn on the jets the heater will switch off and not come on again untill you turn the jet pump off. If you are using the spa for a long period of time with the jets on you will start to loose heat, if you're just in the tub for 15 to 20 mins (normal use) this should not be a problem in a well insulated spa. I tell all my customers that if they are a normal spa user ( use the spa for 20-30 mins, 15 mins jets on, 15 mins jets off) the 120v model will be fine for you. If however you are party central, stay in the spa for longer periods of time with mutiple bather use, you really will need to go the 220v route.
I sell  Hotspring spas in the North East and have almost never had a customer convert to 220v after the sale because it did'nt work for them. The quality of the spa and the climate where you live is definately going to be a factor. Good luck  

[pdabill]

I live in south florida, so that's why I am not too concerned about the heater issue. It should be OK to have the heater off while I am using the spa. I like stronger jets, so I just want to make sure that I get it maximum power from the jets. If that means going to 240, then I will likely do it. If not, then I will try to cut costs by not doing it.

[East_TX_Spa]

Guzz is right on the money in his observations.  Over half the spas we sell in NE Texas are 120v.  I've never had a customer feel the need to convert to 240v.  And, it does get cold and snow here from time to time.

Terminator

[Mendocino101]

Just to echo the above comments here in SO CAL ( Home of the National Champions Trojans )..... ......We have had no issues with the folks who run 110 with the exception of one person who spends about an hour in their spa ......If you are going to have to run a dedicated line, than at that point I would suggest going to the 220 as it will not be that much more to run. But if you have 110 in place than try and see if it works for you, you can always convert later if needed.