It’s amazing how many hot tub brands claim to be the best built, the most comfortable, the most efficient. A shopper will have to pan through the sands of hyperbole to find nuggets of fact.
Where to Buy a Hot Tub
There are three sources that are frequently considered by those looking for a new hot tub.
- Non-showroom such as Internet sources, tent sales and "curbers"
- "Big Box" stores and warehouse outlets
- Retail outlets (hot tub stores)
"Non-showroom venues continue to offer bargain prices...but they don't offer service [or] warranty, and in many cases the products are not approved," notes Pool & Spa Marketing Magazine (March 2009, p. 20). "It continues to be a 'buyer beware' situation, which often leaves the consumer with a bad experience."
Although it is possible to get a good deal and a solid warranty on an entry-level hot tub through a big box store such as Costco or Home Depot, most hot tubs are sold through retail outlets specializing in hot tubs, swimming pools, and back yard living (outdoor lighting, patio furniture, BBQs etc.). While these stores cannot often match the volume discount of the big box stores, they offer buying assistance, installation, warranty support, and after-sale service.
A good dealer will listen to a family's needs and help to select just the right hot tub model.
What to Watch for When Buying a Hot Tub
The hot tub industry offers a bewildering array of models, choices, and prices. Review these points before hitting the stores to help narrow the field.
- Wet test – the most important feature is the fit and feel of the hot tub. It has to feel right. Many times a hot tub that feels okay dry will be completely different with the jets going, so try it out with water in it. Most dealer stores have a private test room. If the dealer isn't willing to fill one up to test, shop elsewhere.
- What is the intended use of the spa? Family, party, personal, couple, therapy, exercise? The answers will help determine the size, seating arrangement, depth, and jetting configuration of the hot tub.
- Will it fit in the available space? Can the crew wheel it in on a dolly or will it need to be lifted over the house by crane? Obviously the size of the spa and the access to the intended location will have an impact on the cost and ease of installation.
- Will it match existing backyard décor? The wrong spa can be an eyesore; the right choice will enhance the outdoor living space. Think of the hot tub as a large piece of outdoor furniture.
- What’s the budget? To the cost of the hot tub itself, add electrical installation and hookup, preparation, delivery, and setup fees (some of these costs may be included in the purchase price; ask the dealer).
- What's the warranty? Insist on getting a copy of the warranty. Examine it. Compare it with that of other brands. There are differences, no matter what the salesperson may say.
Hot Tub Bells & Whistles
There are many differences between a party spa and a therapy spa. The party models tend to be flashier, with more "bling". They will boast high numbers of inexpensive "bullet" jets. In a therapy hot tub, the type and location of the jets has more impact.
The shopper must decide if luxury options such as stainless steel jets, lighting, ozonators, and entertainment systems enhance the ambience of the spa experience enough to justify any extra price.
- Water features such as waterfalls or arcing jets add pleasant sound but may splash and increase water loss
- "Bubbler" systems froth up the water but also cool it down (nice in the summer) and tend to be noisy
- Ozone and salt generators may help with water maintenance
- Lights include flashing or rippling neon for party effects, gently shifting hues for relaxation, or neutral colors for safety.
- Booming party sound, transducers that offer vibration therapy, CD and DVD players and flat screen televisions can now be built into new spas or, in some cases, installed in existing units.
- You can even enjoy watching TV or listening to music through surround sound speakers in ‘theatre’ spas.
Whatever you decide, choose carefully. Most of these extra features are not cheap and will add to the overall price of your hot tub.
Don't get caught up in debates about insulation, filtration methods, or fancy water care options (although between two similar hot tubs, one of those may determine final choice). Concentrate on durability, fit & finish, energy efficiency, lifespan, ease of repair.
Above all, in choosing a hot tub, emphasize comfort. If it isn't comfortable, if it doesn't feel good, it won't be used.
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