Vortex Spas™ Review (Prices, pros, cons and more)

Where are Vortex Spas™ made?

Vortex Spas™ are designed in Australia and New Zealand, and their products are manufactured in China.

Unlike other businesses that may rely on third-party manufacturers in China, Vortex Spas™ has an onsite quality assurance team that closely monitors every stage of the manufacturing process resulting in better control of quality and design decisions.

How much is a Vortex™ Spa Pool in Australia?

Vortex Spas™ is a mid-market spa brand that offers a wide range of spa pools. In Australia, the prices for these spas range from $6,990 to $29,990.

At the time of writing, Vortex™ Spa Pools prices are:

How much is a Vortex™ Swim Spa?

The prices for a Vortex™ Swim Spa can range from $21,490 to $34,990. The prices can vary depending on the specific model, features included, and customisation options chosen.

At the time of writing, Vortex™ Swim Spa prices are:

Vortex Spas™ Review – Running costs

The level of insulation in spa pools is the key factor that affects the heating cost. When the insulation is poor, spas lose heat more quickly, causing the heater to run for extended durations and higher power bills.

Let’s look at how Vortex Spas™ are insulated.

Perimeter insulation

The Vortex™ circuit thermal insulation system has two key benefits that make it superior to traditional foam-on-basin systems. It recirculates lost heat from pumps and equipment while insulating the plumbing, reducing heat loss and lowering operating costs. It provides insulation between the spa pumps for a quieter and more peaceful spa experience.

Base and cabinet insulation

Unlike many spa companies, Vortex Spas™ has insulation inside the cabinet. This means that the warm air created by the running pumps gets trapped between the cabinet's inside and the spa shell's outside. It's like double-glazing the interior of the spa.

The base of the spa is also insulated, and there's a special foam layer up under the lip of the spa that stops any heat from escaping over the top of the frame. This means it locks warm air around the spa and prevents heat loss through the shell and the cabinet.

High-density Insulation cover

Vortex Spas™ has a specially designed lid that fits tightly to enhance insulation. The lid securely locks in place, ensuring heat retention and providing additional safety measures.

These insulation covers are designed to withstand a weight of up to 80 kg, while the UV-resistant vinyl cover helps protect it from harsh UV rays.

Insulation upgrade

Vortex Spas™ offers an insulation upgrade ー, the Arctic Pack. This upgrade increases the perimeter insulation to 50mm, providing a better level of insulation. It is commonly used on Vortex Spas™ that are sold in regions with extreme climates like Scandinavia, Canada and New Zealand.

Dynamic thermal tuning

Every Vortex Spa is equipped with the innovative SpaNet^® SV Series controls. These advanced controls an adjustable thermostat that automatically regulates heating based on your spa's heat retention qualities. This smart feature reduces the frequent turning on and off of the filter pump and heater, leading to considerable energy savings while keeping the water at the desired temperature.

Vortex Spas™ Review – Construction and Quality

Shell Construction

The most crucial element of a spa is its shell. Unlike other spa components, the spa shell cannot be replaced.

There are various materials used for spa shells. The most commonly used materials are vinyl, rotomolded plastic, and acrylic. US-made acrylic sheets are believed to be the best quality for spas.

Framing

The spa structure is the underlying framework that provides support for the shell. The stronger the frame, the longer the spa is likely to last.

Base pan

The base is another significant aspect to consider when constructing a spa.

The base must be well-built to support the weight of the spa, water, and users.

A well-designed base pan also prevents water from entering the spa during rough weather conditions, protecting the pumps and equipment from potential damage.

Pumps and Heater

Spa pumps circulate the water through your plumbing system for filtration, heating and sanitisation. The pump also provides water flow to run the jets in your spa.

Vortex™ Spas uses SpaNet^® jet pumps, programmable circulation pumps, and heaters.

SpaNet^® is one of the most reliable spa equipment manufacturers and is used in many popular spa brands in Australia and New Zealand, including Sapphire^®, Monarch^®, Fisher Spas™ and many others.

Control system

Vortex Spas™ uses SpaNet^® controllers. Depending on the spa model, the controller can be SV Mini 1™, SV Mini 2™, SV 1, SV2, SV3, and SV4.

Covers

The Vortex Spas™ comes with a custom-fitted locking cover. These spa covers are designed to withstand a weight of 80 kg and are made from ultra UV-resistant vinyl and high-density foam. With proper care and maintenance, it guarantees years of outstanding performance.

Automated swim spa cover

ClearLift™ is an innovative motorised system exclusively designed for swim spas.

It effortlessly lifts heavy covers on and off the spa. Unlike other cover lifters, ClearLift™ is fully retractable, folding the cover to the side without obstructing the view. Controlled by a key and connected to the spa's control system, it provides a seamless experience.

Please note: ClearLift™ is currently compatible with select Vortex Swim Spas™ manufactured after November 2023.

Vortex Spas™ Review – Appearance and Design

Vortex Spas™ markets itself as a “design-led” company focusing on “superior comfort and style”.

Vortex Spas™ Review – Automatic water maintenance

Automated sanitising systems can make owning a spa much easier and more enjoyable. These systems do most of the water care and sterilisation for you, so you can sit back and relax.

All Vortex Spas™ are equipped with Purezone™ Automatic Ozone water clarifier. This automatic water clarifier uses ozone technology to oxidise and remove micro-organisms, producing the clearest water available.

Vortex Spas™ provides an additional sterilisation system to enhance water maintenance – the Purezone™ UV sterilisation system.

The Purezone™ UV sterilisation system in Vortex Spas™ uses UV-C technology, which is commonly used to purify drinking water and public swimming pools globally.

As mentioned above, Vortex Spas™ pioneered UV sterilisation in spas and swim spas.

The Purezone™ UV sterilisation system eliminates 99.9% of viruses and bacteria in the water, including tough ones like Giardia and Cryptosporidium. This ensures safe and pure water for spa users.

Vortex Spas™ Review – Jets and hydrotherapy

Jets are what make a spa, so it's crucial to have suitable ones.

Although more jets may seem visually appealing, it’s important to understand that more isn't always better when it comes to jets. What’s essential is the jet design and placement.

Jacuzzi^®, Hot Spring^®, and Bullfrog^® are renowned brands that provide excellent hydrotherapy experiences, even with fewer jets.

Vortex Spas™ Review – Control Systems

Besides the physical components of a spa, the control system is another important feature you need to consider.

Most reputable spa brands use control systems manufactured by Balboa^®, Gecko^® and SpaNet^®.

Vortex Spas™ uses SpaNet^® for its control system and other spa components. SpaNet^® is one of the most reliable control systems for spas in Australia and New Zealand. Because SpaNet^® is used by most spa brands, finding replacement parts or a compatible unit in case of damage shouldn’t be a problem.

SpaNet^® also supports wireless technology to connect devices and remotely control spa settings.

With the SmartLink™ WiFi module and SpaLink App™, you can use an Apple^® or Android™ smartphone or tablet as a wireless remote control for your SpaNet^® SV controller equipped Vortex Spa™.

SpaNet^® controllers can also be connected to Amazon Alexa™ and Google^® Assistant and use voice commands. It’s like having a personal attendant!

Vortex Spas™ Review – Safety Features

Vortex™ Spas is committed to ensuring safety in all its spa designs. Vortex™ Spas come with important safety features that other brands overlook, like the bypass suction cap.

This safety feature is important for preventing hair from getting caught in the spa's bottom suction, a danger that's especially serious for kids.

Every Vortex™ spa comes with this protective feature to either meet or exceed the strict safety standards set in Australia and New Zealand.

Vortex™ Spas also features an intuitive health indicator light that shows the spa's status without the need to remove the cover. When blue, the light signifies the water is perfectly tempered for use.

If it turns red, it alerts you to significant water temperature shifts exceeding 5°C or signals the presence of a malfunction, ensuring you are always informed about your spa's condition for optimal safety and enjoyment.

Pros and cons of Vortex Spas™

After gaining knowledge about Vortex Spas™, let's briefly review its pros and cons.

Pros of Vortex Spas™

• High quality
• Very highly featured

Cons of Vortex Spas™

• Higher running costs than some premium brands

What’s the Hydroplus™ Upgrade?

The Hydroplus™ is an optional upgrade for those wanting a better hydrotherapy experience. The upgrade includes additional and upgraded Hydroflow™ jets and an extra SmartFlow™ jet pump engineered to create a powerful and focused water stream, allowing for a more targeted and effective massage.

Look at the image below to see the difference between the standard model and the Hydroplus™ model.

Note: The blue jets in the Hydroplus™ model are upgraded, and the orange jets are additional.

Not all Vortex Spa™ ranges offer the Hydroplus™ upgrade. Make sure to ask the salesperson if the model you’re interested in offers the Hydroplus™ upgrade.

Are Vortex Spas™ worth it?

Vortex Spas™ can be a perfect fit for an affordable, thoughtfully designed spa with many features.

To help with your decision-making, ask yourself these questions:

First, who will use the spa, and how will you plan to use it? How many people will be using the spa at once, and what will be its primary purpose - hydrotherapy, entertainment, or personal relaxation?

When it comes to seating capacity, Vortex Spas™ come in a range of sizes from small 1 to 2-person models to large entertainers spas that can fit up to 10 people or more.

Vortex Spas™, in our own opinion, offers great hydrotherapy. But if you’re after absolute hydrotherapy experience, premium brands like Jacuzzi^®, Hotspring^®, and Bullfrog^® might be worth the investment.

Secondly, what’s your budget? As mentioned above, Vortex Spas™ price ranges from $6,990 to $17,990.

Are you willing to spend more for a premium brand, or do you want to keep it low and settle for an entry-level spa?

If budget allows, we recommend considering premium brands such as Jacuzzi^®, Hotspring^®, and Bullfrog^®.

When working with a limited budget, consider choosing well-built spas without the extra features you might not need from trusted budget-friendly brands like Fisher™ and Sun & Soul™.

Remember to consider the running costs, which can significantly impact your long-term savings. You might save money upfront but spend more on operating expenses over time.

Lastly, what features are you looking for? With the advancements in spa technology, there are many options available. However, investing in some of these technologies may only be necessary. For instance, built-in televisions in spas, like those found in Master Spas^®, can be a deal breaker for some spa buyers.

But, if your goal is to use the spa to reconnect and build more prosperous relationships, somewhere to engage with and focus on each other, this feature may be optional.

These questions are just the beginning to help narrow down your choices. We recommend consulting a spa expert to assess and help you find the perfect spa.

Buying a spa is a personal experience; you’ll never honestly know what feels best until you try it.

Most Spa World™ stores have dark rooms away from the main area where you can ‘wet test’ the spa you're interested in.

In summary

We hope this article helped you get one step closer to finding your dream spa. If you have any questions or need further information, we’re here to help!

We also encourage you to download our Spa Buyer's Guide below.

Disclaimer: In this article, we’ve used brand names not affiliated with Spa World™, Sun & Soul™ or Vortex Leisure Pty Ltd, the parent company of Spa World™ All information, including pricing and product details, was accurate at the time of writing and may change without notice.

*The following registered trademarks are owned by companies not affiliated in any way with Spa World™ or Vortex Leisure Pty Ltd: *

*Bullfrog Spas^® trademark is owned by Bullfrog International. HotSpring^® Spas trademark is owned by Watkins Manufacturing Corporation (Watkins). Balboa trademark is owned by Balboa Water Group. Gecko^® trademark is owned by Gecko Alliance Group. Amazon Alexa™ trademark is owned by Amazon Technologies, Inc. SpaNet™ trademark is owned by Alder IP Pty Ltd. Google Assistant™ trademark is owned by Google LLC. Sapphire Spas^® trademark is owned by T&G Enterprises (VIC) Pty Limited. Monarch^® *