Are you in the market for a new hot tub? Well, you shouldn’t treat this purchase as an impulse buy. Instead, this is a purchase that will need careful thought and consideration so that you won’t get buyer’s remorse.
Whether this is your first time purchasing a hot tub or investing in an upgrade, keep the following in mind.
Know Your Reason For Buying a Hot Tub
Why do you want to buy a hot tub? Is it that you want to be able to throw extravagant parties for friends and family, complete with fun in the spa? Or do you simply want to use a hot tub for therapeutic reasons? Before you develop a budget for a hot tub and go out shopping for one, make sure you know your reason for getting a hot tub. This will help you narrow your choices further when shopping because it will help you determine the size spa you’ll need.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Hot Tub
Once you know the reason for buying a hot tub, you’ve touched the surface of factors you need to consider. There are numerous other factors to consider, however. Here are other things to remember when shopping for a new hot tub.
Costs
One of the most critical factors you’ll consider is cost because you will need to know if you can afford this purchase in the first place. According to Forbes, a hot tub may cost, on average, between $2,000 to $16,000. This range may go up or down depending on various factors, including materials, spa type (inground or freestanding), fees, or add-ons.
Delivery and Installation Costs
In addition to the spa itself, you may incur charges associated with the delivery of the hot tub and the costs to set it up. This could cost you an additional $200 to $500 for delivery and upwards of $800 for installation.
Additional Fees
Besides installation and delivery fees, if your home doesn’t already have a hot tub you’re replacing, you may need plumbing and electrical to accommodate your spa. Hiring a plumber and an electrician to prepare your area for a hot tub may incur additional charges. Most of these professionals charge by the hour. So, costs for a plumber and electrician may vary from state to state and company to company.
Extras
You may want a hot tub with all the bells and whistles. If so, your salesperson will help you customize your hot tub. These extras will increase the final cost of your hot tub by upwards of $1000. Amenities include lights, headrests, covers, steps, cup holders, speakers, and more.
Maintenance
When purchasing a hot tub, don’t forget the costs of operating the tub. According to Angi, you can expect to pay, on average, $240 to $900 to maintain your hot tub. These costs include electric bill increases, filter replacements, chemicals, cleaning, repairs, and other unforeseen expenses.
Brand
Like any other product, hot tubs have brand names to consider when purchasing them. Some brands are more popular than others, of course. Each brand will have pros and cons and come with its own warranty. So, when searching for hot tubs, research brands to know which one will work for you in terms of cost, durability, space, features, and more.
Materials
When shopping for a hot tub, you will need to consider what type of materials you want for your hot tub for the shell and the exterior. Regarding the exterior, you can choose from wood, metal, or plastic if it is an above-ground hot tub. For the shell, you can select rotomolded plastic, acrylic, or vinyl. However, if you get an inground spa, it will likely be concrete.
Size
Another consideration is how big your spa needs to be. You may only need a small spa if you use it for therapeutic reasons. However, you may need a large spa if you are using it for entertaining. Here are typical dimensions for a spa.
● Small (2 to 4 people)
● Medium (5 to 6 people)
● Large (7 or more people)
Indoor or Outdoor
Another thing to consider about your hot tub is whether it will be indoor or outdoor. In either case, the place where you put it will have to handle the weight of the hot tub, mainly when it is full of water and people. Also, it would help if you considered whether you want your hot tub above ground or in-ground.
FAQs About Hot Tubs
When is the best time to buy a hot tub?
The typical selling season for hot tubs is in the spring. However, you can get great deals on spas during promotional periods such as Memorial and Labor Day. Another good time of the year to get great hot tub deals is in late fall and winter.
What’s the difference between a hot tub and a Jacuzzi?
Although these two words are sometimes used interchangeably, Jacuzzi is a name brand for a hot tub.
Can I keep a hot tub open all year long?
Yes, you can keep your hot tub open all year long. But many people, especially those who reside in more temperate climates, prefer to close their hot tubs for the winter and reopen them in the spring.
Consider spa products made by Master Spas, they are worth the investment. It’s a brand you can trust because the quality is top notch. With so many features and designs to choose from, you are sure to find exactly what you want.
Ready to purchase a hot tub from Master Spas? Our sales team at The Hot Tub Store in Rochester Hills has the information and product expertise you need. Visit our swim spa store and see our premium selection of luxury swim spas and hot tubs. We have plenty of series for you, including Twilight Series, Clarity, Getaway tubs, and Michael Phelps Legend. Our options fit any lifestyle. Call today to schedule a consultation and get an estimate on a new hot tub.