There have been many buyers guides for hot tubs, but somehow they always seem skewed to the type of hot tub for sale by that company. Here are a few things to know about the real hot tub industry and how you can get the best hot tub for your purpose.
Step 1: Determine Your Budget
There is no point looking at a $12,000 all-bells-in hot tub if you only have $500 to spend. The other side of this is that you may very well get similar hot tubs ranging between $3,000 – $8,000, so it pays to understand why one hot tub is twice as much as the other (and it is not what you think).
Step 2: Determine Your Ideal Hot Tub Size
Will the spa be placed indoors or outdoors. How many people should it accommodate at maximum capacity? How many will regularly be using the spa. Are heating and ongoing operating costs an important factor? (it costs more to heat more water). Are there taller people who will be using the spa that would appreciate more legroom?
Step 3: Make a list of accessories and features you want or need
Some accessories such as a hot tub cover are a must have. Others such as the stereo are an option that you may do without.
LED lighting is nice to have and it can enhance evening hot tubbing. A cover lifter may be needed especially to lift larger and thicker hard covers. Spa steps may be required, especially for deeper spas. An ozonator can help reduce the amount of sanitizer needed to keep the spa water clean.
Step 4: Manufacturer Reputation, Length of Time in Business and Delivery Terms
A dealer is a middleman between the public and the manufacturer. Some people need the hand-holding a dealer provides, while others who want to save money can deal directly with the factory. Some industries have protected territories and do not allow the public to buy factory-direct, but in the hot tub industry there are several long-term manufacturers who will sell direct if you know where to look.
In the next post of the series we will break down the details on the above considerations along with more ideas on how you can save hundreds and even thousands when buying a hot tub.