10 Spa Buying Steps to Guide Your Purchase

1. Develop a plan. Once you’ve made the decision to purchase a hot tub, you’ll need to explore exactly what it is you want in a spa and how it will fit into your lifestyle. What will you use it for, and how often? Where will it go? Indoors? Outside? Is electricity easily accessible where you choose to install the spa? Examining your needs will help you make a more informed decision.

2. Determine your budget. It’s important not to skimp and go with a cheaper hot tub model just because it’s less expensive. Typically, it costs less for a reason, and you’ll only wish you had upgraded when you made the initial purchase. That being said, you don’t have to go top of the line to get a model that gives you everything you want. Decide how much you can spend and keep that number in mind as you research brands and talk with dealers. As a good rule of thumb, a well-equipped five-person hot tub costs, on average, around  $6,000. Smaller models  can be found for as little as $2,000 while deeper models with more jets and additional seats can be $10,000 or more.

3. Do your homework. Not all spas are created equal. There are literally hundreds of hot tub models to choose from, and each has its own unique advantages. Request information from a number of manufacturers to compare brands and similarly-sized models. Ask friends and other hot tub owners about their models. Ask dealers for their opinions. Which leads us to…

4. Find a reputable (and close) dealer. Your dealer is going to be your closest ally, long after you’ve made your purchase. Gather references from friends and family, and check any dealer’s standing with the Better Business Bureau. Because you’ll likely buy chemicals and other accessories from your dealer, choose someone close to home.

5. Cover your bases. Some towns require permits for installation, and, as is the case with pools, many municipalities have strict safety ordinances (fences, locking gates, locking covers, etc.) that must be followed. Check with local officials to see what needs you may have to address.

6. Narrow your choices. Once you have an idea of what’s available and a few brands you are interested in, you’ll need to narrow down your options even further. A good way to do this is to closely examine what you want. Will you use it mostly for its therapeutic benefits, or do you want something more for recreational relaxing? How many jets do you want, and what size of hot tub best fits your needs? In answering these questions, you should be able to pare you list down to a handful of worthy choices.

7. Take a soak. This is, perhaps, the most important rule of all. Once you have a few hot tub models in mind, go to a dealer and try out the different units on your list. Dealers are more than happy to let you experience the different options. Pay special attention to how comfortable the seating is. Are the jets positioned where you want them? Is there plenty of legroom? Your dealer should be on hand to answer any questions you have. But don’t worry, he won’t join you in the hot tub, and you can schedule your test soak after the showroom is closed or in a private testing room.

8. Don’t forget accessories. Today’s spas come with add-ons that make it possible to never have to get out of the water. Well, almost never. Waterproof iPod® docking stations, flat panel televisions, remote control therapy jets, collapsible steps, LED lighting. The list goes on and on. Decide what extras you want so you can customize your spa right from the start, and incorporate these accessories into your budget.

9. Save money (and the environment). Make sure your hot tub is well insulated. For models that use foam insulation, make sure its high-density. Also look for models with multi-speed pumps and those than can heat water using heat generated from the pump. Whenever the hot tub is not in use, keep it covered with a thick, insulated cover (if your model doesn’t include a cover, make sure to purchase one when you buy your spa). The more heat you can conserve and reuse, the less energy you have to consume.

10. Feel good in your skin. Today’s hot tub models come in just about any shell and cabinet color you can imagine. The majority of shells are acrylic—in multiple patterns and finishes-- though you can also find companies that use other materials, such as stainless steel. Only a few companies use wood for cabinets, but for those who still crave that natural look, maintenance-free plastic comes in numerous varieties to mimic natural wood or stone. Whether you want natural wood or maintenance-free plastic, cabinets are available for any aesthetic.