Tips for Choosing the Right Hot Tub for You
A hot tub is an exciting investment, which makes it easy to rush into a purchase without thoroughly considering whether a particular hot tub is right for you. To make the best decision, it's important to fully review the features and benefits of a variety of hot tubs.
There are many steps you can take to help you make the right decision. Here's our list of seven key areas you can investigate to help you make your choice.
Tip #1: Choose a comfort maximizing design
All hot tubs aren't created equally in terms of comfort, so it's essential to evaluate each model carefully. Ask the dealer if you can sit in the dry hot tub or request a "wet test" where you sit in the tub while it's full. Notice what it feels like to sit in the hot tub. Is it large enough and is there enough room for everyone to sit comfortably? Does leaning against the jets cause discomfort? Are the seats themselves comfortable? Ergonomically designed seats that fit your body's shape and multi-level seating that accommodates all body types are always a plus. Non-floating lounger seats that allow you to recline with your feet still on the floor can also improve your comfort level. Safety steps providing easy entry are another important consideration.
Tip #2: Choose massage options for your health and lifestyle
Many people use hot tubs therapeutically to alleviate back or leg pain, recover after sports, or to treat insomnia and stress. It's important to choose a hot tub that provides wellness programs for all of your therapeutic needs. Many of the best therapeutic hot tubs feature a variety of jets and positions so that each seat provides a different type of therapy. Make sure there are sufficient jets, as well as the right types of jets for your needs. Finally, look for a touchpad that allows you to easily select your therapeutic program.
Tip #3: Save on heating and electricity with an insulated hot tub
Insulation is nothing to skimp on when it comes to choosing a hot tub. The right insulation will help you save energy and money. For the most efficient energy use, choose a hot tub that promotes efficiency by trapping waste heat inside the cabinet. Hardcovers are also important features that help hold in heat, while thermal vents prevent energy loss from overheating. Thermal shields and high-flow, low-energy pumps also offer huge energy savings. Finally, ask the dealer about the approximate monthly cost to run the hot tub and find out whether the unit is Commission for Environmental Cooperation approved. CEC approval ensures that you're buying the most energy efficient hot tub possible.
Tip #4: Make maintenance easy
Self-cleaning hot tubs are the best choice when you want fast and easy maintenance. Find a hot tub that is easy to clean and drain and that has an in-line chemical feeder for simple disinfection. A hot tub that can filter all of its water in 15 minutes, skim the surface, and vacuum the floor will require the least time investment for you. Finally, models that allow plumbing access from all four sides make maintenance much simpler.
Tip #5: Buy from a reputable hot tub dealer
A reliable dealer that has been in business for a sufficient amount of time can be an extremely important part of your buying decision. Read independent reviews of the dealer and manufacturer, ask about whether it's easy to get parts for repair, and find out if on-site water testing is available. Also inquire about ongoing maintenance and whether maintenance is done in-house or outsourced. Having an in-house maintenance contact can be a huge plus.
Tip #6: Choose a strong warranty
Without a good warranty, your hot tub can get expensive very quickly. Look for a warranty that includes a 10-year structural warranty, a 5-year acrylic surface warranty, and a 3-year parts and labour warranty. Also make sure to find out whether the company charges trip fees during warranty calls.
Tip #7: Evaluate additional perks and features
Depending on your lifestyle, additional perks and features can be a game changer. Look for ice buckets and drink holders, consider whether you prefer wood or synthetic cabinets, note how loud the hot tub is while running, and if there is a stereo, check the brand and features. Accent lighting, voltage, and the option to add salt water are other features worth considering.