Chances are if you have been thinking about purchasing a hot tub, you probably have spent a good chunk of time researching the best model for your family and lifestyle. Like most high-ticket purchases, hot tub savvy shoppers want to know what the average lifespan of a hot tub is to predict how long their investment will last.
Knowing how long your hot tub will last also helps you determine what to invest in the form of maintenance and possible repairs. The good news is that with a quality hot tub model and following the recommended maintenance guidelines, your hot tub can last for many years to come. While it will need routine care and periodic repairs, hot tubs are a smart investment for the health and wellness of your family.
That being said, the average lifespan of a hot tub can vary significantly based on the quality of the make and model in addition to how well it is maintained. Here are some guidelines for how long you can expect a hot tub to last.
Average Hot Tub Lifespan
Overall, the longevity of a hot tub depends on the quality of the model. Cheap designs made with low-quality materials will just not last as long as the leading hot tub brands made with superior parts. And while spa-quality is a significant factor in hot tub lifespan, so is the on-going care that it receives.
The average range for a hot tub lifespan is between 5-20 years. Low-quality hot tubs usually will not last longer than 5 years, while quality hot tubs often last longer than 20 years.
How to Extend the Life of Your Spa
The easiest way to extend the life of your hot tub is by keeping up with your water chemistry. In addition to water chemistry, some hot tub pieces contain plastic, which after a certain length of exposure poor water chemistry may experience wear. Therefore, especially for these parts, it is important to keep your water chemistry balanced and periodically wipe down exposed plastic parts like pillows and diverter valves.
Every several months, or more frequently depending on how often your hot tub is used, you should completely drain the hot tub, do a thorough cleaning and refill with fresh water. To completely clean the entire spa, we recommend removing the filter cartridge and adding in System Flush to run approximately 15-30 minutes prior to draining. The flush cleaner will thoroughly break down any biofilm, clean the lines, and behind the jets. After draining, use a gentle and non-foaming hot tub friendly cleaner like Off The Wall with a soft rag to remove any dirt and residue left behind.
Understanding Maintenance Requirements
When you purchase a hot tub, it should include an owner’s manual that specifically indicates what needs to be done for routine maintenance. Be sure to follow the exact instructions in order to properly service your spa. Not following the recommended maintenance schedule or not replacing consumable parts such as filters could create issues for your hot tub or cause it to not function optimally.
When investing in a hot tub, choose the best quality that you can afford and ensure that it is backed by a solid warranty. Once your hot tub has been installed, make sure that you look after it. Now that you know what the average lifespan is for a hot tub, learn more about becoming a hot tub owner by downloading our hot tub buyer’s guide.