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How Much Should I Pay For a Good Hot Tub?
Buying a new hot tub is a long term investment that should be worthwhile for you and your family. When shopping, it may be hard to know what to look for. With so many different price tags and flashy features, it can be overwhelming. Hot tub price ranges can be between $3,000 and $20,000 on average. While you may be tempted to make price the leading factor when looking for a hot tub, our team is going to share why price should not be the biggest factor when picking a hot tub. So, how much should you pay for a good hot tub? We will answer this question also help explain what to look for and keep in mind while in the hot tub market.
Factors That Affect the Price of a Hot Tub
Size & Features
Hot tub pricing is dependent on many factors. Most obviously is the size of the hot tub. Larger hot tub sizes tend to cost more because they have more parts and require more raw materials and labor. Conversely, smaller hot tubs usually cost less; however, this is not always the case given various upgrades and features. Hot tubs with more jets and upgrades will carry a larger price tag as they offer a more luxury experience.
Branding
Brand names also impact hot tub pricing. Certain hot tub brands carry a designer name and automatically have a higher price. It is important to do your brand research and ask your hot tub retailer about their parts quality. Many times the exact same parts are used across different brands.
Delivery & Installation
When purchasing a hot tub, be sure to understand the price breakdown with delivery and installation. Many reputable dealers will factor delivery costs into the price within a certain location radius, but always check with your dealer to be sure. Many budget hot tubs will not include delivery, which then will cost you a few hundred dollars extra to have the tub delivered.
Energy Efficiency
Proper Insulation
A recurring cost for every hot tub is the electric bill to heat the water. Proper insulation of your tub can be the difference between a $20/month charge versus a $200/month charge. When you are picking out a hot tub, be sure to check that the cabinet is fully insulated to help retain the heat of the water. Some cheaper hot tubs may not have full insulation and will ultimately cost much more to heat and run.
Hot Tub Covers
Another factor in the energy efficiency of your hot tub is to find a tub with an insulated cover. Most hot tubs will come with a cover included in the purchase price, but there may be additional upgrades to improve the durability and insulation rating of the cover. A more insulated cover will help to lower monthly energy costs. Ask your sales representative about cover options and potential upgrades.
High Quality Pumps
Higher quality pumps will cost more upfront, but will save you money on your energy bill. Better pumps tend to run more efficiently and require less energy usage and, thus keep energy costs low.
Poorly Manufactured Parts
It should not come as a surprise that cheaper hot tubs are made with cheaper parts. Poorly manufactured hot tubs are more likely to break, and can often be difficult to find replacement parts for. While many pieces of a hot tub are somewhat standard and interchangeable, it is frequently the case that cheaper hot tubs will not adhere to industry standards. While a cheaper hot tub could save you a few thousand dollars upfront, it will likely come with a hefty service charge and extra headache.
Longer Warranty
Many times, top quality hot tubs will carry a longer warranty. When hot tubs are manufactured by a high quality brand, they want to prove their products worth by offering a longer protection period. This means that:
1) your parts will likely break less, but
2) if they do break, it’s more likely to be covered.
Ask your hot tub dealer about extended warranty programs for your hot tub. A better warranty provides you with extra protection and could save you hundreds of dollars later on.
Think About Longevity
A hot tub is a long term investment for you and your family, so it is important to pick a model that will be suitable for your needs for the long term. Are you planning on growing your family or hosting friends and family events? Perhaps get a larger tub than you need right now in anticipation. Consider what features might be more important as you age, such as targeted massage jets. While certain features might not be necessary right now, it saves you the headache of having to replace your old hot tub when you outgrow its size and accommodations.
Pay attention to why you are getting a hot tub and look for features that align with this. If you are looking for a hot tub for hydrotherapy massage, do not skimp on the jets. If you want to socialize, look for great seating options. With how many hot tub model options there are on the market, take your time to find a model that meets your needs and will be accommodating for years to come.
The Same Goes for Chemicals
As with higher quality hot tubs, higher quality chemicals tend to cost more upfront, but will save you money in the long run. Many cheaper chemicals tend to be less concentrated and thus require a larger dose. Also, with higher quality spa chemicals, you are less likely to have issues with your water’s cleanliness and clarity and will just have to add maintenance doses. If you use lower quality chemicals, you are more likely to have problems with your water quality and will have to do more work and perhaps use specialty products to fix problems.
What to Consider When Buying a New Hot Tub
1) Pay Attention to the Why
Buy a hot tub that meets your and your family’s needs. Pay attention to special features and size and seating options. Find a hot tub that will provide a lasting value for many years.
2) Keep Additional Costs in Mind
Be sure to factor in additional costs such as delivery, installation, chemical maintenance and energy costs. Ask your hot tub retailer what the average costs for hot tub owners in your area are. Check out our hot tub pricing guide for a more in depth breakdown of monthly expenses.
3) Quality is Key
Not all hot tubs are created equal. Premium hot tubs are made with premium hot tub parts which are of a higher quality. This means that you will be less likely to have to deal with stressful service calls and additional charges. Do your research and talk with your local hot tub dealers to find the perfect hot tub.
Epic Hot Tubs is Your Trusted Local Hot Tub Dealer
If you’re ready to take the plunge on a high quality hot tub or swim spa, fill out the form below or call us at 888-884-3742.
About The Author:
Manny Brambila
Pool & Spa Expert
Manny has been in the Pool & Spa industry for over 15 years and is considered a pool, swim spa, & hot tub expert. He has been a Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) since 2009 and worked 15 years in aquatic training and development for the largest pool chemical and customer care company. He also has been an outside consultant for the Pool and Spa industry in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles since 2018. In the past few years Manny has become Director of Operations for Epic Hot Tubs with a priority of providing customers with the most reliable information and best service possible.
