Soaking in a hot tub can be one of the favorite parts of your vacation. You love being able to talk to family while the massage jets make your muscles happy.

What if you could enjoy those vacation vibes all the time?

Purchasing a hot tub can feel like an investment, and you want to make sure that you are making the best decision. One of the most important things when buying a hot tub is to pick a spa that will meet your needs, lifestyle, and budget. The hot tub is supposed to relieve stress — not add to it. This is why you want to choose a quality product from a reputable manufacturer.

However, it can feel like there is conflicting information about what the best hot tub brand is and what you really need. When you shop for a hot tub, ask your retailer these 10 questions. Their answers will help you feel confident in your selection and investment in your overall well-being.

What is included in the hot tub price?

The price of a hot tub is dependent on a variety of factors, including the quality of materials, construction, design, and features. Spas can start at about $5,000 and go up to $18,000 — or more, depending on the upgrades.

Questions to ask as you are discussing the price of your hot tub:

  • Does the purchase price include delivery and set-up?
  • Do you provide a start-up chemical kit?
  • Are spa steps included?
  • Is a cover lift extra?

What happens after I sign the hot tub purchase agreement?

Some retailers might have floor models available for purchase. However, if you want to customize your spa or upgrade features, you might need to wait for it to be built.

Ask your salesperson about how long it will take for your hot tub to be ready and when you will be notified.

What do I have to do before the spa arrives?

You need to put your hot tub on a solid, level surface that can handle its weight. Most manufacturers recommend a reinforced concrete pad. But you do have options and can create a space that matches the vision for your backyard. Perhaps you want to pour a stamped concrete patio or reinforce a deck. Patio pavers or a spa pad are also options but the ground must be properly prepped.

Many spas require a dedicated 50-amp/220V hook-up. This project should be done by a licensed electrician, preferably one who is familiar with hot tubs. Ask your retailer for an electrical diagram and the requirements.

What will delivery and installation be like?

Your hot tub will likely arrive on a flatbed truck, positioned on its side. Depending on where you are putting it and the delivery path, you might need a dolly or forklift to move the spa. Sometimes, a crane might be used. Talk to your salesperson about who is responsible for moving the hot tub and what you need to to make it a smooth process. It’s also a good idea to ask how long it will take from the time the crew arrives to when they leave.

Once the hot tub is in place, your electrician will need to hook it up.

What are the benefits of using a hot tub?

The massage jets can help relieve muscle aches and pains, ease tension, and reduce stress. The hot water of the spa can improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep.

What is the maintenance like?

One of the concerns you might have about buying a hot tub is the water care. There can be so much to think about, from the filtration system to the best chemical for your hot tub. Do you want a mineral system or a salt water hot tub? Should you use chlorine or bromine? How often do you add chemicals?

When you are shopping for a spa, you want to make sure that water care is straight-forward. Talk with the salesperson about the ease of care, whether they sell chemical kits, and the best tips for clean, clear water.

Can I use my hot tub year-round?

It’s a lot of fun to hang out in the hot tub on a summer night, chatting with friends and family. But some of the most magical nights might be soaking in your hot tub as snow falls. When you are exploring options, ask your salesperson about what it’s like to use their spas in the winter.

  • What type of insulation does the hot tub have?
  • How much does it cost to operate?
  • Do they offer a snow-load cover? And does it lock in the heat?

What is the lifespan of a hot tub?

With proper care, hot tubs can last many years. Most experts in the industry estimate that a hot tub will last 10 years — about the same as a car. A quality spa that’s properly maintained can last longer. When you are shopping, you can ask about how long customers typically keep their spas.

What resources do you have available for owners?

You can do a lot of research before choosing a hot tub. However, it’s likely that you will have questions once you begin using it. You want to be able to find the answers to those questions, as well as advice to make ownership easier. Ask about what information is in the owner’s manual. A step further, you might see whether the retailer or manufacturer has easy-to-read guides about water care and video tutorials. Resources like these will improve the ownership experience.

What after-market service is available?

You want hot tub ownership to be stress-free but if there is an issue, you want to be able to have your hot tub repaired. Ask your salesperson if they have a service department and what type of repairs it handles. A service department that handles warranty — and non-warranty — repairs will help you keep your spa in tip-top shape. It can also file any warranty claims with the manufacturer so you can focus on enjoying your spa.

The service department might also be able to offer advice and recommend products that will extend the life of your hot tub.

WriterBy Kimberly T.
Content and Article Writer

Kimberly T. is a content writer and marketer since 2004. An avid runner and recreational athlete, she is passionate about showing people the benefits of hydrotherapy and water exercise. She wants to help people find ways to improve and balance their self-care with everyday life.

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