Hot tubs to avoid and tips to help you find the best hot tub

Avoid a hot tub made with subpar materials and low-quality equipment

Just as important as the reputation of the manufacturer, is the quality of the product itself. If you buy a poor-performing hot tub, your overall hydrotherapy experience could be negatively impacted. A hot tub with subpar materials and low-quality equipment may end up leaking, damaged, or unable to perform to the level of your expectation.

Ultimately, you are purchasing a hot tub for stress-free, soothing relaxation. So the last thing you want to do is purchase a hot tub that will end up causing you hassle and frustration.

An inflatable, or blow-up, hot tub, for example, may be an inexpensive way to purchase a hot tub. However, these products generally are not built to stand the test of time, nor are they made with the type of high-performing equipment that delivers true hydrotherapy massage. In fact, they do not actually have jets, rather they have bubblers that move the water around to simulate the bubbling water of a high-quality hot tub.

Avoid buying a used hot tub from an unreliable source

Buying a used hot tub is actually a great way to purchase a high-quality hot tub for a discounted price. However, there is a big difference between purchasing a certified preowned hot tub and buying one from an individual that you don’t know or from an otherwise unreliable source.

Preowned hot tubs for sale at reputable spa dealers have generally passed rigorous multiple-point testing and inspection processes that ensure they will perform at a high level for years to come. You may be able to purchase a preowned hot tub in this fashion for up to 50% off its market price and it may even come with a warranty on parts and equipment. The peace of mind of purchasing a preowned hot tub from a credible hot tub dealer will far outweigh the price of purchasing a used hot tub from an unknown source.

What to ask when buying a used hot tub

However, if you choose to purchase a hot tub from an individual, make sure to find out as much as you can about the history of the hot tub such as:

• Where it was initially purchased and if this individual is the original owner
• Whether the owner has the original receipt and any additional receipts for service or repairs
• If it has a warranty and if that warranty can be transferred when you buy it
• Whether the water will heat up to a desirable temperature
• If the hot tub has any damage or leaks
• If any parts and equipment in the spa are not fully functioning

It is also a good idea to ask if the individual selling the hot tub is willing to offer you an informal wet test, where you can see and try out the hot tub when it is filled with water and fully operating. This is a good time to check for leaks and assess any unusual activity or sounds as the hot tub is running.

If you purchase a hot tub in this manner, it is highly advised to hire a professional hot tub mover to handle the relocation, delivery, and installation to your home or backyard. Keep in mind you may also need to hire a professional electrician to hardwire and hook up your hot tub once installed in your desired location.

Avoid buying a hot tub that looks worn, damaged, or broken

Whether purchasing a hot tub from an expo or a spa showroom, once that hot tub has been delivered to your home, it’s important to inspect it properly to ensure there hasn’t been any damage done to the hot tub in transit. If it looks worn, damaged, or broken in any way, this is a red flag.

Avoid buying a hot tub with very few jets and features

The true joy of your hot tub comes from the power and precision of its jets as well as the many features that can enhance your hydrotherapy experience. When you are shopping for a hot tub, look for one that has a multitude of purposefully placed jets that target specific areas of your body from your neck, shoulders, and back all the way down to your calves and feet. You should also investigate hot tubs that have a variety of specialized jets that perform in a specific way—all designed to elevate your comfort and relief.

The features of your hot tub—from lighting, waterfalls, and sound systems to high-functioning water management systems, control elements, and customizable options—also greatly heighten your experience. Purchasing a luxury hot tub with advanced features is an excellent way to ensure you get the most for your investment.

Avoid buying a hot tub from salespeople who pressure you

Purchasing a hot tub is a very individualized experience. Your hot tub dealer should be there to help guide you to choose the best hot tub for your needs. You should never feel pressured to buy a model that you are not interested in or feel as though you are being misled during your shopping experience.

You will have your future hot tub for many years so it should be the exact one that suits all your preferences. Take your time when shopping for the best hot tub for you.

If you feel particularly pressured by a salesperson, it might be an indication to find another spa dealer in your area that you can trust to help you make the right choice. It’s also important to create a rapport with the hot tub dealer from which you purchase your spa. They can help you throughout the life of your hot tub ownership if you need any service or repairs.

Here are some things to consider when shopping for the best hot tub for you:

• High-quality, reputable brands with a variety of models
• Top-notch materials and choices in color and style
• High-functioning equipment
• Excellent energy efficiency
• Size, shape, and seating options
• Smart technology and one-of-a-kind innovations
• Ease of use
• Customization
• Specialized jets
• Features and amenities

Once you make your final decision, you should feel confident that you have chosen the hot tub that will bring you years of relaxation, fun, and comfort for many years to come.

Affiliations: Jacuzzi® is a registered trademark of Jacuzzi Group. All rights reserved.

Medical disclaimer: This information is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or other medical professional for advice if you have any concerns about your current health or well-being.