If you’re in the market for a new hot tub, it’s crucial to choose one that is the right fit for your lifestyle. Unfortunately it’s easy to make mistakes that lead you to the wrong decision.
Below, you’ll find out how to avoid some of the most common buying mistakes and choose the perfect hot tub for your needs.
Choose quality over price
While price is a major consideration when choosing a hot tub, it shouldn’t be your only criteria. With low-end hot tubs costing around half as much as higher quality options, it can be hard to pass up a deal, but this may not be the best route. Although a cheap model will save you money now, you’ll likely end up spending a lot on future repairs, problems, maintenance, and chemicals.
As you visit each dealer, try to focus on how much each hot tub will cost you over its lifetime, including running and maintaining it. Finally, don’t forget the importance of energy efficiency. An energy efficient hot tub may cost you a little more, but it will save you big money in the long run.
Beware of low-quality exteriors
Cracks and fading are common problems with lower-quality hot tub shells and cabinetry. While many hot tub exteriors may look the same, that doesn’t mean they’re of equal value.
To maximize durability, look for a thermal plastic or acrylic shell that is coated in vinyl ester resin skin coat or bond laminate. Also make sure the hot tub is covered by a lifetime or extended warranty. As you consider cabinetry, choose a heavy-duty option that requires little maintenance and can resist heat, cold, and sun. Finally, be on the lookout for support beams between the lip and seats to the floor as they will ensure that your hot tub lasts for years to come.
Look out for high maintenance models
If you choose a hot tub that requires extensive maintenance, you may enjoy it less than you’d imagined. All hot tubs require maintenance, but when you choose a cheaper, lower-quality model, it will almost always demand that you invest a lot of time and money to maintain it.
There are many features that can reduce your maintenance time including a pressurized filter system that removes debris from the surface and the bottom. Any hot tub that makes draining and cleaning faster or simpler is also a good investment. A final way to save time and money on maintenance is to invest in a water repellent every few months to prevent damage.
If your dealer tries to sell you excessive chemicals or supplies, look elsewhere, as using high amounts of chemicals won’t make your hot tub cleaner or clearer.
Choose the right jet structure
Whether you have leg, back, neck, or other sports pain, a hot tub can help you recover. It can even provide relief from insomnia and stress. Although a hot tub can provide a wide range of therapeutic benefits, this can only happen if you invest in one with the right features.
When you want to choose a hot tub that maximizes its therapeutic capabilities, first make sure to carefully examine the jets. Adaptable jet structures that can provide many different types of massages to different body parts are typically the best choice. Ideally, you should also be able to individually adjust the water flow to each jet to ensure a customized massage.
Choose the right location
Before you invest in any hot tub, consider where you’ll put it. Avoid locations that are likely to flood or that are adjacent to sandy areas, as both of these can cause serious damage. The best place for a hot tub is on a level surface that is strong enough to hold the hot tub’s weight. If you’ll install your hot tub on a deck or patio, investing in a professional engineer is a good idea. This will ensure that you prevent damage as you install.
Don’t skimp on the warranty
Whichever hot tub you choose, make sure it comes with a full warranty. This will save you both time and money.
A great warranty will protect you from shell problems, cracking and peeling, plumbing and fitting issues, and mechanical and electrical repairs. Ideally, choose a hot tub that comes with a 1-10 year shell structure warranty, a 1-5 year shell surface warranty, a 1-5 year leak warranty, and a 1 to 3 year leak warranty. Never choose a hot tub with a prorated warranty as this will require you to pay for part of expensive repair costs.
Avoid unreliable manufacturers and dealers
The value of choosing a reputable hot tub manufacturer and dealer can’t be underestimated. Beware of hot tub dealers at expos that claim they will sell you an exceptional hot tub at a low price, as they will often sell you an inferior model.
Also take the time to read online reviews of dealers and ask for customer referrals. As you determine which manufacturer or dealer is best for you, look for those with great warranties, quality products, and experience in the industry.
These tips will help you understand what to avoid when looking for a hot tub. To learn how to select the right hot tub for you, Download our Hot Tub Buyer’s Guide.