Whether you’re ready to transform your outdoor space with a swim spa or a hot tub, there are many areas to consider before you make a final decision.
Below, you’ll learn more about the features and options you should be on the lookout for while you shop.
Prioritize Quality Over Price
While sticking to your budget is important, buying the cheapest hot tub or swim spa available is a bad idea. If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Lower-priced swim spas and hot tubs tend to be less energy efficient, break down more often, and come with less useful warranties, all of which can cost you a lot of money over time. Instead of choosing the lowest price, read reviews of hot tubs and look for a durable model that will last.
Look for Comfort Features
Whether you’re in the market for a swim spa or a hot tub, comfort is essential to your experience. Ergonomically designed cushioned seats, targeted massage options, and soft pillows can all enhance your comfort. When you try out any hot tub or swim spa, notice how you feel in the seats as well as how spacious it is.
Jets are also extremely important to providing you with the highest level of comfort, but just because a hot tub or swim spa has a lot of jets doesn’t mean they’ll be effective. Make sure the jets are high-quality, provide adequate pressure, are adjustable, and are arranged in a way that they target the areas where you most need a massage.
Look for Energy Efficient Features
In terms of energy efficiency, not all hot tubs and swim spas are created equal, but there are many features you can look for to ensure that the one you choose won’t waste energy.
First, look for high-quality insulation. The best insulation will be able to both retain and reuse heat from the motor. Double thermal insulation and a cover that is designed to save energy are good things to look for. Finally, be on the lookout for CEC approved models. These are among the most energy-efficient hot tubs and swim spas on the market.
Maintenance Features
If you choose a cheap hot tub, you’ll often pay in the amount of time and energy you have to use to maintain it. When you want to maximize the time you spend in your hot tub or swim spa and minimize your maintenance efforts, look into self-cleaning models. These technologically advanced options will skim, vacuum, and filter for you so you don’t have to.
Understanding Service and Warranties
Service and warranties go hand in hand, and you want to choose a hot tub or swim spa dealer that will provide you with exceptional service and a good warranty. Ask the dealer how quickly they can respond if you need them, whether they have parts available, and whether they provide service plans to keep your investment in great shape. Also ask which brands have the best warranties and never choose a warranty where you’ll have to pay for any portion of the repairs or maintenance.
Choose a Strong Reputation
Before visiting any dealer, it’s worth your while to find out about their reputation. Online reviews can be a great source of information about others’ experiences from the buying process to maintenance, repairs, and customer service. Always choose a dealer that is known for their knowledge and experience.
Choose Personalized Features
With so many styles and features available, it’s easy to become enticed by the idea that you need every feature offered. In reality, each consumer is different, so instead of paying more for features you won’t use, prioritize the features that are most important to you before you start shopping. Think about what you truly need, whether it’s exercise, entertainment, or relaxation, and tell your dealer exactly what you want.
Now that you have tips for how to choose the best swim spa or hot tub for you, download our buyer’s guide and see our many available choices.