Using a hot tub can be relaxing, enjoyable and can provide health and wellness benefits. But making the decision to actually buy one can be difficult. Hot tubs can represent a significant financial investment, and with so many different brands and models out there, it can be hard to know which to choose. On top of that, there are a wide range of feature options, making it difficult to know if you’re getting good value for your money. But if you can arm yourself with the right information, buying a hot tub isn’t nearly as daunting as it may seem. Here’s our helpful guide on how to choose a hot tub that’s perfect for you and your family.

What to know when buying a hot tub

One of the biggest questions on the minds of many prospective buyers is, “Am I really going to use my hot tub enough to justify the investment?” We may be a little biased, but after hearing stories from thousands of satisfied customers, we can safely say, “Yes!” Once you experience the advantages of having a hot tub in your own home, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without one. Hot tubs offer more than just a fun, relaxing activity. They provide a host of benefits that can impact your physical and emotional health in a variety of ways.

Whether you’re looking to improve your health, enhance your fitness routine, or just add a fun and relaxing way to spend time with friends and family, owning a hot tub can have a positive impact on your lifestyle. Once you start experiencing those benefits on a daily basis, you’ll be happy you made the choice to buy.

How to choose a hot tub

With the benefits of hot tubs in mind, it’s time to choose one that fits your needs. There are a number of important factors to consider as you shop around. Here are some questions to ask yourself that can help guide your decision.

What is the right size?

Hot tubs come in a range of models from two-person loungers to large seven-person spas. So, the first thing you need to figure out is how many people will be using the hot tub regularly.

• How many people are in your family?
• Do you envision having friends over for a soak?
• Will you primarily use it for private relaxation before bed?
• Figuring out how and who will use the hot tub will help you settle on the right size.

What features are you looking for?

Hot tubs come with a wide range of features, including design options, different jet systems, water features and more. So, it’s important to figure out which are most important to you. For example, built-in LED lighting is perfect for nighttime soaks, and innovative jet systems help relieve muscle pain and provide a relaxing massage. There are also options for wireless remote controls so you can easily adjust the temperature and other settings from any seat in the spa.
These features help enhance your hot tub experience.

But there are also features that can have a direct impact on your lifestyle. For instance, a saltwater system like the FreshWater Salt System is easier to maintain and gentler on your skin and eyes while getting rid of the pesky “chlorine smell” associated with traditional water care systems. If simplified water care and softer, more natural-feeling water is important to you, this is a feature you should certainly look for when shopping for a hot tub.

Questions to ask your local hot tub dealer:

What kind of technology features are available for this hot tub?
How many jets does this hot tub have and how were they designed and arranged?
Is this hot tub compatible with a saltwater system?

How important is energy efficiency?

Nobody wants a hot tub that’s going to drive up your energy costs. This is especially true in cold weather climates where you need more energy to keep hot tubs hot during the long, cold winters. To find an energy-efficient hot tub, look for brands that offer unique insulation and equipment options to reduce energy loss and improve energy efficiency. This helps reduce your cost of ownership and is easier on the environment — a win-win!

If you’re on a budget, keep in mind that a cheaper hot tub can cost more in the long run. It may satisfy your budget in the short term, but lower cost and result in lower quality, which means you’ll end up spending more on energy costs and repairs. To find a hot tub that will provide you with the most value over time, consider factors such a frequency of fillings, maintenance, quality, and energy efficiency. Additionally, consider the type of water care system. Saltwater systems like the FreshWater® Salt System, available on Hot Spring® Highlife and Limelight Spas, require less frequent draining and refilling, saving you money in the long run.

Questions to ask your local hot tub dealer:

Which model offers the best value for my money?
What are my feature options, and how would that affect the price?
How does this price compare to similarly-sized hot tubs with similar features?

As you think about what’s important to you when buying a hot tub, make sure you’re looking at the big picture.