Jets, fountains, and LED lighting...oh my! How do you know which hot tub to buy?
A good hot tub is versatile: providing health benefits, a private paradise to unwind, and a perfect place to kick back with family and friends. When pursuing a hot tub there are a few areas you’ll want to consider that will affect long-term durability. The last thing you want is to put all of your money into the perfect tub and only get a few fun years out of it.
Here are some of the factors you should focus on:
Decide Where It's Going
It’s crucial to plan when hunting for the right hot tub. Where you choose to take a dip will determine the size of the tub you can buy and whether you need to arrange for outdoor or indoor use.
A concrete-poured base is perfect for outdoor use. Indoor use, however, means you’ll need to prepare a room that can ventilate the chemicals, protect from moisture, and handle the plumbing. Just be sure to find a hard, flat surface that’s strong enough to hold the weight of a water-filled tub.
Choosing a Shell Type
Materials aren’t just about fancy looks; they determine the weight and longevity of a hot tub. Two of the most common materials used are rotational-molded shells and molded acrylic.
A plastic shell (rotational-molded) is the cheapest option and comes standard for an entry-level tub. Due to the plastic interior and exterior, it’ll be much lighter to move to another location if you want to use it at a friend’s party or need to relocate. Shells at this level will have fewer features but come equipped with everything you need to hop right in and enjoy.
Molded acrylic is the most common spa shell material. While it’s a pricier option, it’s the most durable material if you want longevity. Tubs featuring these high-gloss shells have a wide range of jets and water features you can dream of for hours but don’t forget to focus on the quality of materials so that the internal parts last longer.
Many units come with partial foam insulation, covering the outside of the spa shell. If you want to cut down energy costs even further, you can consider springing for full-foam insulation that will cover the interior wall as well. A well-insulated hot tub keeps heat in and cuts operating costs over time.
Voltage Options
Since 110 volts is the standard voltage for home electrical outlets, buying a hot tub that runs on 110 volts will be the cheapest and easiest option. You can plug it right in and enjoy!
On the other hand, the 220-volt option will provide more firepower to your jets and heat the water faster, but that added power will cost you. You’ll need to hire an electrician to equip your house with a 220-volt outlet.
Other Factors to Consider
A few other factors that will influence the cost are:
- Quality manufacturing: High-quality internal working parts will ensure reliability and energy efficiency.
- Installation: The installation can be as cheap as installing an electrical outlet to a full re-plumbing.
- Dealership: Your location makes a difference in the price of materials used.
How Much Will A Hot Tub Cost?
While there are always more whistles and bells you could add—LED lighting, more jets, a sound system, a pool cover, etc.—a good hot tub will typically start at $4,000 and can run up to $11,000 or more, depending on the size, materials, add-ons, and location you plan to use it.
Investing in a hot tub brings the vacation to you! If you're looking for a great hot tub for a fraction of the price, contact our experts! They can help you find the perfect choice for you.