How To Shop for a Hot Tub
Shopping for a hot tub shouldn't be stressful. Here are some tips to help you.
Shopping for Your Vita Spa
When trying to decide on the perfect hot tub, what makes one better than the next? While there are a few things to consider we want to keep the buying experience as simple as possible. We’re here to make sure you have all the answers to help you find the best hot tub to fit your needs and budget.
You might be surprised to hear that not all hot tubs are the same. There are actually two types of hot tubs: portable hot tubs and in-ground spas. A portable hot tub is manufactured with all the equipment required for operational use (pumps, heaters, filters, etc), and requires no plumbing on site when it is delivered to your home.
Once delivered, the hot tub is prepped, filled and the electric is hooked up for use. Should you decide to move and want to take your hot tub with you, you can. This differs from an in-ground spa because once an in-ground spa is built into your backyard it is designed to stay with the house.
If you don’t really know where to begin your search, a great place to start is by searching for your local Vita Spa dealers. The benefit of buying from a local hot tub dealer is that you can see, touch and test the hot tub you are interested in before you purchase. Ultimately your local dealer will be the one installing, servicing, and answering all questions about your hot tub, so confidence in them is important. Do some research first on the models you are initially drawn and that may fit your needs before making any buying decisions.
What to consider when choosing your local dealer:
Business
How long have they been in business and how long have they sold the brand you are interested in?
Avoid dealers that consistently change the brands they sell. It is also helpful to know why they chose to sell this brand.
Service
Do they service the products they sell?
Great dealers stand behind the products they sell. Be sure to find a dealer that provides year-round service so you can enjoy your hot tub in complete confidence.
Site Inspection
Are they willing to come to your house to provide a site inspection at little to no cost?
Look for a dealer who is willing to come to your home to make sure you are able to fit your desired hot tub at no hassle to you.
Download Our Buyer's Guide
Research Manufacturers
Safety Standards
Make sure the hot tub you are interested in is UL listed like any other electrical appliance. The UL listing states the product is safe to use and meets the required safety standards. All of our hot tubs are UL listed and meet all safety standards.
Hot Tub Components
Research the overall quality of the different components that go into your spa. Components to check for are: spa shell*, internal frame, exterior cabinet material, heater, pumps, blower, filtration system, insulation and cover.
*Spa shell is a critical component as it needs to be strong enough to withstand regular weight and impact from users and water.
Cost of Operation
Make sure the model you choose meets the industry energy standards. The method and type of insulation, quality of cover, and type of energy saving components are what make your hot tub as energy efficient and cost effective as possible.
Ease of Maintenance
A hot tub designed for easy maintenance will save you time and money. Please keep in mind, a hot tub, like any other appliance, will require regular maintenance and replacement parts from time to time. This is completely normal and nothing to be worried about.
Warranty
The length of a warranty is just as important as the manufacturer that is supporting the warranty. A good rule of thumb is to make sure that the manufacturer has been in business long enough to support the warranties they are providing.
Customer Service
Find a manufacturer that requires their dealers to service the product as well. Be mindful of where you install your hot tub to ensure easy access for servicing the internal components, this will save you money in the long run when your hot tub needs service.
What Questions Should you ask Yourself?
Focus on your desires and envision how they can be achieved by owning a hot tub. Are you looking for a place to relax, the perfect place to connect with others, a place to entertain your friends, or warm-water therapy that promotes health benefits? No matter what, it’s all about you.
Preferences for your hot tub selection. What size and shape will work best for your needs?
Consider the special features available in a hot tub. How many jets will you need or want? What about Bluetooth stereo, touch screen controls, waterfalls and illuminated controls? Are programmable filter cycles and automated sanitizing systems a must? Do you want multiple seating options in your spa, maybe a lounge seat or deep seats for tall hot tub users.
From deck to patio, there’s a hot tub for almost any setting. Decide on the hot tub features that will enhance your hot tub environment. Will it run quietly and efficiently? What landscaping or fencing will need to be done to complete the picture?
Consider affordability. With hundreds of styles and options to choose from, there’s truly a hot tub for every budget. These days, hot tubs are more cost-effective in both time and money than ever before! Energy efficiency and ease of maintenance are key when calculating your cost of ownership.
Got everything you need to start shopping?
Print our helpful shopping checklist to make sure you are prepared before heading over to your nearest dealer!
hot tub shopping checklist
