How It All Started

In October of 1996, founder Ernest Canelli launched his pool and spa career with nothing more than $10,000, three hot tubs, and a dream. Those first spas were delivered directly to his home, where he personally handled every aspect of the business—from sales and setup to customer service and follow-up. What started as a small backyard operation quickly gained traction, and by December of that same year, Ernest had already sold 36 hot tubs straight out of his backyard, proving both the demand for quality spas and his natural ability to connect with customers.

That early success quickly evolved into a larger opportunity, leading Ernest into spa distribution. He began working with dealers across the United States—and even internationally, including helping a retailer in England—to establish and grow their own spa businesses. As the company expanded, business continued to thrive, and Ernest earned a strong reputation throughout the industry for his fair pricing, relentless work ethic, and customer-first approach, setting the foundation for the values that continue to define Factory Spas Direct today.

A Different Kind of Showroom Experience

When customers walk into the Factory Spas Direct showroom, they’re met with inventory, not empty promises. The showroom typically features 50 or more hot tubs on display, allowing customers to see, compare, and understand their options in person.

Every sale begins with questions—not pressure:

How many people will use the spa?
How often will it be used?
Is this your first hot tub?
What features actually matter to you?

These conversations help guide customers toward the best value for their needs, not the most expensive option. Upselling and pressure tactics simply aren’t part of the culture.

Beyond hot tubs and swim spas, Factory Spas Direct also offers fire pits, outdoor heaters, chemicals, covers, accessories, and other backyard lifestyle products—sometimes even bundling them to add more value for customers.

Flexible Pricing. Real Value.

One of the defining traits of Factory Spas Direct is flexibility.

Ernest believes in making deals work. If a customer has a specific budget, he finds a way to meet it. Trade-in programs allow customers to start with an entry-level spa and later upgrade, receiving their full purchase price toward a larger unit within a year.

The philosophy is simple:
The customer gets a great deal, and the relationship lasts.

Delivery That Goes the Extra Mile

Factory Spas Direct partners with professional movers to handle even the most complex installations—including crane lifts for elevated decks. Deliveries aren’t just drop-offs; they’re fully thought-out placements, sometimes involving deck builds, cement pads, and complete setup support.

Ernest has delivered hot tubs across the Northeast and beyond—from Virginia to Maine to Ohio. He’s even made deliveries on Christmas Eve, ensuring families could enjoy their spa on Christmas Day.

Service That Doesn’t End After the Sale

What truly sets Factory Spas Direct apart is what happens after the sale.

Customers receive direct access to Ernest himself. Many issues are resolved over the phone or via FaceTime, often in minutes. When parts are needed, they’re usually already in stock, allowing for fast turnaround.

“I give customers my cell phone number,” Ernest says. “If they call on a Sunday afternoon, I’ll get back to them as soon as I can.”

Built on Gratitude & Relationships

At its core, Factory Spas Direct is built on relationships.

“I’m only well-known because I take care of my customers,” Ernest says. “People who bought hot tubs from me 25 years ago still come back. That means everything.”

Recognized by Aqua Magazine as a Trusted Partner in the Spa & Pool Industry, Factory Spas Direct continues to grow—rooted in experience, resilience, and genuine care.

About Factory Spas Direct