What Should I Know Before Buying a Hot Tub?

When it comes to buying a hot tub, there are several decisions that need to be made in advance. Some of them are obvious: It has to go somewhere, right? Some of them are less so, like “who is going to fix this thing if it ever breaks?”

We know these questions are on people’s minds from time to time because we get asked them at our Hydropool retail outlets. 

We know that purchasing a hot tub is an exciting decision, but it's important to be well-informed before making your investment in one. We have been in business for more than 40 years, and we’re used to people trying to figure out what to do and how to do it. 

We want to help! So in this article, we will explore the key aspects you should know before buying a hot tub, ensuring that you make a confident and informed decision.

• What is the space needed? 
• What are you going to use it for? 
• How many seats? 
• How easy will it be to maintain? 
• How efficient is it? 
• What accessories are there? 

Hopefully, by the end, you’ll know if a hot tub is right for you. 

 

 

What is the Space I Need for a Hot Tub? 

Before diving into the world of hot tubs, it's crucial to assess your available space and plan for the installation process. How much space do you have? Will the hot tub be installed indoors or outdoors?

Before you even ask how many people are going to use the hot tub, you will want to make sure you have space for it first. 

There is no standard size for a hot tub, but the most popular models are roughly 8 feet by 8 feet. You can get larger or smaller though, and many companies offer unusual sizes such as round hot tubs or triangles for hard-to-fit areas such as condo balconies (Hydropool doesn’t offer any such shapes, but you can get them from other quality manufacturers). 

What’s the Purpose and Use of the Hot Tub?

Understanding the purpose and intended use of your hot tub will help you choose the right model and the best features. 

Are you looking for a therapeutic retreat to soothe muscle tension and promote relaxation? Or perhaps you envision it as a gathering place for socializing with friends and family? Defining your priorities will guide your decision-making process and ensure that the hot tub you select aligns with your lifestyle.

Some hot tubs come with many jets, beverage holders and installed stereo speakers. Others come with scent infusers, subtle accent lighting, planned-out massage jets and comfortable headrests (Hydropool is closer to the second one). 

Knowing what you want it for will help you pick the right one.  

How Many Seats Should My Hot Tub Have? 

Hot tubs come in different sizes and offer varying seating capacities. Consider how many people will be using the hot tub regularly to determine the appropriate size and seating configuration. 

We have generally found that people over-estimate the size of the hot tub they need. A hot tub built for 4-6 people is the most popular size range and gives a good range of options. It can be intimate enough for one or two, and large enough for when company comes over.  

How Easy Will This Hot Tub Be to Maintain? 

Maintaining clean and clear water in your hot tub is essential for both hygiene and longevity. Understanding the water filtration and maintenance systems offered by different hot tub models is crucial. 

Hydropool's self-clean technology sets new standards, utilizing a combination of pre-filters, a floor drain, pressurized filtration, and surface skimming to keep your water crystal clear. This innovative and patented system reduces maintenance time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your hot tub.

What Are the Hot Tub’s Hydrotherapy Features?

Understanding the hydrotherapy features available will help you select a hot tub that caters to your specific needs. Some hot tubs put a high priority on the sheer number of jets. Other companies put an emphasis on how their jets function together. Others still have specialty jets that focus on your back, feet or other specific areas. 

It all depends on what you want. Hydropool's hot tubs are equipped with strategically placed jets that deliver targeted massage experiences, alleviating muscle tension, reducing stress, and enhancing relaxation in what we call Zone Therapy. 

 

How Efficient is My Hot Tub? 

Energy efficiency is a vital consideration when purchasing a hot tub. It not only helps minimize your ecological footprint but also affects your long-term operating costs. 

Hydropool's hot tubs feature advanced insulation that is designed to optimize heat retention and minimize energy consumption. We also don’t fill out hot tubs with jets you don’t need and pumps that use power which just costs you money. 

By selecting an energy-efficient model, you can enjoy your hot tub while keeping operating costs under control.

 

How Long Will it Last and Will My Hot Tub Be Covered By a Warranty? 

A hot tub is a long-term investment, and you want it to withstand the test of time. When evaluating hot tub options, consider the durability and construction of the models you are interested in. 

Make sure that the hot tub has a warranty, but more than that, make sure that warranty will actually be honored. You want to know who will actually be doing the service on your hot tub before you buy. You can read more about warranties here. 

What Features and Accessories Do I Want With My Hot Tub? 

Some companies have minimal options, but others make hot tubs customizable (Hydropool is more in the second camp, with base models that you can add to. For production reasons, many companies produce models with minimal options, because it’s easier to run an assembly line that way).   

For example, your hot tub can be enhanced with a variety of additional features and accessories to elevate your experience. From LED lighting and sound systems to aromatherapy options and advanced control panels, these amenities allow you to create a personalized immersive environment. For a bigger look at features, check out this article. 

What to Know Before Buying a Hot Tub? 

Here’s a quick list of what you need to do:

• Assess your available space.
• Define your purpose and intended use. 
• Choose the appropriate seating capacity and design.
• Understand the water filtration and maintenance systems.
• Know if you prioritize hydrotherapy features. 
• Consider the energy efficiency and operating costs.
• Seek out models that offer durability and comprehensive warranties.
• Explore optional features and accessories to create a personalized hot tub experience.

Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas is committed to helping you make the right choice when purchasing a hot tub and we hope this article helped you out. We understand you may have other questions though, and if you do, we’d encourage you to reach out to a Hydropool dealer near you.