How Long Do Hot Tubs Last?

Whether your current hot tub is showing signs of age or you are considering buying a new hot tub, you may be wondering about how long a hot tub typically lasts.

It’s a fair question and one we get regularly at our Hydropool retail outlets around the world. That’s why we wanted to write this article, to break down everything involving how long hot tubs last.

The quick answer is between 5 and 20 years. But we recognize that is a broad answer. There are a number of variables in any hot tub which will have an effect on how long your hot tub lasts though, and we will explain them in this article.  

We’ll explain:

• The typical lifespan of a hot tub
• What you can do to prolong your hot tub
• A look at individual parts of a hot tub
• When it's time to invest in a new one

By the end, we hope you’ll have a strong sense of how long hot tubs last.

 

 

How Many Years Do Hot Tubs Last?

The average life of a hot tub can range anywhere from 5-20 years. While that may sound like a surprisingly wide range, that's because as a hot tub owner you have a lot of control over how long your hot tub will last.

What Are the Factors in How Long a Hot Tub Lasts?

There are many factors, including:

• How much usage the hot tub gets is one factor that determines its lifeline. If you use a hot tub a lot, that puts more strain on its parts over time. Here’s more on this subject: A Complete Guide to Hot Tub Reliability.
• How much maintenance your hot tub receives. This is a huge factor in the lifespan of parts. If your water isn’t kept well-balanced, your hot tub will decline, regardless of any other factor. See this article for more: Typical hot tub problems.
• What kind of hot tub you bought in the first place. If you bought a cheap hot tub with poorly-made parts as opposed to a properly-made quality hot tub, then it is not likely to last as long as a more reputable hot tub. (click here for more: The best hot tub brands you can buy)
• Where you are located in the world. If your climate is cool and you buy a hot tub made for a warmer climate, you’re likely to have a tougher time getting your hot tub to last. (click here for more: The best hot tubs for cold climates)

What Can I Do to Keep My Hot Tub Parts in Good Condition?

One big mistake that can cause your hot tub to fail sooner rather than later is failing to take care of its parts with proper hot tub maintenance. Many hot tub components must be regularly maintained in order to continue to function at a high level. 

Plastic parts, which can be eroded by chlorine and other chemicals rather quickly, often wear out first. Caring for your hot tub is very important for your hot tub’s life expectancy: This is why keeping your water in balance is a must with any hot tub. Keeping your water in balance is the No. 1 thing you can do to extend the life of your hot tub.

How Should I Take Care of Regular Components?

Your hot tub's large components like the pump, heater, and cover will require service over time. Don’t ignore this part, as it will only lead to more costly breakdowns if misbehaving parts are left unattended. Staying on top of the maintenance schedule for these parts is essential, because if one part breaks down it can cause internal damage to the other parts.

If your hot tub isn’t running properly, you hear any mechanical noises, if your temperature won’t hold, have a professional come service your hot tub as soon as you can.

How Long Will the Shell and Cabinet Last?

The shell and cabinet will also wear down over time, revealing cracks and other cosmetic issues. Often cracks can be patched, but it's a good idea to get a professional to do this for you. In general, these are the longest-lasting parts of a hot tub.

How Long Does a Hot Tub Cover Last?

A hot tub cover lasts between 5 and 7 years generally. If it is sagging, shows visible rips, is extremely heavy compared to how it was when you first bought it, has broken pieces or just smells funny, it’s time for a new one.

How long Do Filters in a Hot Tub Last?

Hot tub filters should be replaced annually in most cases. If your hot tub water won’t stay clean and you can’t figure out why, well, that’s the best reason to replace your hot tub filter first, before anything else gets damaged. You don’t want the little pieces the filter catches heading into your pumps and heaters. Weekly rinsing of your filter is also important, as is regular deep-soak cleanings to remove mineral build-up.

When Should I Replace My Hot Tub?

A hot tub should be replaced if it no longer works in any capacity. You bought it for fun or massage or family -- if it’s not functioning properly anymore, then it’s worth getting a new one. You never want a hot tub to become more hassle than it is worth!

If you’ve had it for more than 10 years and it is getting regular maintenance bills, you may want to consider whether having a model under warranty will cost you less. Hot tubs become more energy efficient or offer new elements regularly as well.

Hot tub aesthetics change as well. Hot tubs used to be all cedar for example, but have now moved to tone down woodgrain in many cases.

How Long Does a Hot Tub Last?

A hot tub will last longer if you treat it well. Most will last between 5 and 20 years, depending on how it is treated. But there are a variety of factors that determine how long each hot tub will last, with the biggest being that a proper maintenance routine is followed with your hot tub, ensuring that its mechanical parts have the fewest possible issues.

If you've owned your hot tub for years and it's starting to cost more to maintain than you'd prefer, getting a newer model can save you maintenance time as well as money. Newer models are often more energy efficient and easier to maintain, as change comes to every generation of hot tubs.

If you’re interested in hearing about the latest models of hot tubs, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local Hydropool retailer by clicking here.