best hot tub brands

With so many top-rated hot tub brands on the market today, choosing one for your home can be challenging. As you begin to research the best hot tubs and spas, you will quickly realize there are dozens of companies out there that provide an excellent experience in selecting, purchasing, and installing a hot tub in your backyard that you will enjoy for years to come.

So what is the best approach to finding the best product for your needs? Modernize experts explored this question in order to help homeowners make an informed and confident decision when choosing a hot tub for their home. We looked at a variety of factors that matter to homeowners the most as they invest in their health and home. When choosing to upgrade your backyard experience, start with this list of the best hot tub brands. You can’t go wrong with solid quality.

Best hot tub brands at a glance

Best Hot Tubs for Homeowners in 2022

Our list of the 10 Best Hot Tub Brands is based on comprehensive market research by the home improvement experts at Modernize. Our rankings are based on six main criteria determined to create the best overall hot tub experience for a homeowner – material and quality, cost, sizing availability, amenities, energy-efficiency, and warranties.

1

  • Hot tubs for larger groups
  • Luxury amenities available
  • Lifetime warranty for interior molding


Average Cost to Install


$5,000 – $15,000


Number of Seats


3-10

Bullfrog Spas

Bullfrog Spas offers five series of spas to choose from, from affordable to elite luxury, with the price tags to match. With a variety of 17 interchangeable jet packs, full foam insulation in an acrylic shell, and waterfalls and remotes as just a few of the optional features, this company launched in 1996 is a leader in the industry. Today you can expect seating for three to ten people at a price range of between $5,000 and $15,000. Their limited warranty includes coverage of the lights, audio, and ozone system for 1 year; the cover for 3 years; equipment, cabinets, and jets for 5 years; and the shell for 7-10 years. They also offer a lifetime warranty for their trademarked EnduraFrame interior molding.

2

  • The original name in hot tubs
  • 8x more durable than fiberglass hot tubs
  • Patented water/air technology


Average Cost to Install


$6,000 – $17,000


Number of Seats


2-6

Jacuzzi

The original name in hot tubs and spas, Jacuzzi launched in 1956. Jacuzzi has made a name for itself as a luxurious, long-lasting option. For instance, the brand uses an exclusive molding system to create acrylic shells that are eight times stronger than fiberglass options. The patented 50/50 water/air ratio turns the jets into targeted massage therapy, a hallmark of all Jacuzzi hot tub systems. Configure your tub for anything from two to six seats, including lounge seat options, with hydro-massage as a standard. Jacuzzi also offers energy-efficient options to help homeowners expand the lifespan and lower operational costs for their hot tub. Expect to pay between roughly $6,000 and $17,000, with prices going up depending upon additional options. Warranties offered by Jacuzzi are limited, lasting between 3-10 years depending on the part of the hot tub.

3

  • Five top-rated series of hot tubs
  • Affordable, long-lasting option
  • 10-year shell structure warranty


Average Cost to Install


$4,000 – $16,000


Number of Seats


2-7

Sundance Spas

With five series of spas to choose from, long lasting acrylic shells and a patented jet design that allows for a wide variety of uses, Sundance Spas offers numerous bells and whistles – such as massage jets, underwater lighting, smart device syncing, and energy-efficient models – at an affordable price point. Launched in 1979, it’s a long-term leader in the hot tub and spa business. Sundance Spas are designed with outdoor living and durability in mind, featuring a highly durable shell. Expect prices from $4,000 to $16,000, as well as seating for between two and seven adults. Warranties offered by Sundance range between 1 year for cabinets and 10 years for shell structure.

4

  • Up to 125 jets
  • Customizations available
  • 20-year structural warranty


Average Cost to Install


$5,000 – $19,000


Number of Seats


2-10

ThermoSpas

Choose from seven pre-made options, select your seating capacity within those options, or design your own tub – this is all possible with ThermoSpas. Operating since 1983, the spas use continuous cast acrylic and patented panels and insulating blankets to keep the spas as energy efficient as possible. Simple tubs and their accessories can range from the affordable for a small family to the more luxurious therapy spas that accommodate many needs. Energy-efficient models include multi-layered modular insulation as well as energy-efficient hot tub covers. With up to 125 jets and seating for two to ten people, ThermoSpas is known for offering the most customization in the business. ThermoSpas comes in at number 4 in our rankings because they offer one of the best warranties in the industry, with a robust 20-year structural warranty. Expect to pay between $5,000 and $19,000 for a new hot tub.

5

  • Budget-friendly brand
  • Good for comfort and energy-efficiency
  • 10-year shell structure warranty


Average Cost to Install


$2,500 – $16,000


Number of Seats


1-8

Caldera Spas

With three series and dozens of options ranging from affordable to luxury, Caldera Spas offers something for every budget. Going strong since 1976, the acrylic and fully insulated tubs offer a wide variety of amenities, including waterfalls, lighting features, music systems, customizable jets, and energy-efficient insulation and heaters. These hot tubs are a blend of comfort, design, performance and energy efficiency. Warranties differ based on the Caldera series and model – they range from 1 year for sound systems to 10 years for the shell. Caldera hot tubs seat from one to eight people, and cost in the range of $2,500 to $16,000.

6

  • 20 hot tub models to choose from
  • Low operational costs
  • Energy-efficient insulated foam layers


Average Cost to Install


$3,000 – $16,000


Number of Seats


2-7

Hot Spring

Made of acrylic and thermoplastic and fully insulated with layers of dense foam, products from Hot Spring have been going strong since 1977. There are currently three lines of spas with two to seven seats and a total of 20 options to choose from; those options can be further customized. Hot Springs also offers energy-efficient models, such as their Limelight Collection and Highlife Collection, as well as expert guidance on lowering operational costs. For those who don’t like maintenance, the Freshwater Salt System helps cut down on the time spent making sure the spa is in good shape. Expect to pay between $3,000 and $16,000. Hot Springs’ limited warranty covers components for 5 years.

7

  • Top-rated brand by customers
  • Luxury amenities, like waterfalls and LED lights
  • Thermo-pane energy-efficiency


Average Cost to Install


$7,000 – $20,000+


Number of Seats


2-7

Catalina Spas

Among the most popular options on the market, Catalina Spas focus on both luxury and therapy for users. Each spa is individualized for the customer and offers a variety of options in their Classic and Luxury lines. Waterfalls, LED lighting, remote spa controls and a self-extinguishing fire feature are among some of the potential amenity options. Catalina Spas’ thermo-pane system provides energy-efficient insulation to help lower operational costs. Seating from two to seven occupants, these spas range in price from $7,000 to $20,000 or more. Catalina’s limited warranty covers plumbing for 3 years, components (such as electricity) for 5 years, surface for 5 years, and structural support for 10 years. Read their warranty closely, as stipulations involve prorated coverage and voided coverage in certain instances.

8

  • Swim spas available
  • High-quality Icynene foam insulation
  • Multiple models to choose from


Average Cost to Install


$4,000 – $15,000


Number of Seats


1-8

Master Spas

Founded in 1978, Master Spas features innovative hot tubs at every price point, as well as swim spas. Acrylic shells and full cabinet Icynene foam insulation make these long-lasting, energy-efficient hot tub options. Encompassing four brands and offering seats for anywhere from one to eight people, Master Spas also offers the features you’ve come to expect from high-quality tubs, including lighting options, stereo features, individual control of jets and more. Expect to pay between $4,000 and $15,000. Master Spas offers competitive limited warranties, which range in duration based on the hot tub brand.

9

  • Swim spas available
  • Low cost installations
  • Durable acrylic shell and foam insulation


Average Cost to Install


$4,000 – $8,000


Number of Seats


1-10

Marquis Spas

Launched in 1980 and partnered with numerous celebrities to tout the benefits of their spas, Marquis Spas offers dozens of hot tubs and a handful of swim spas. Some potential features and amenities include entry lights, an all-weather package, and a DuraBase foundation for the acrylic shell and full cabinet foam insulation, all at affordable prices. With hot tubs for one to ten people, expect prices in the roughly $4,000 to $8,000 range. Marquis Spas offers a limited warranty ranging from 1 year for parts to 5 years for the fiberglass structure. Make sure to look closely at the warranty, as parts of their warranty is voided if homeowners do not use a Marquis Spas branded hot tub cover.

10

  • Affordable price points
  • Hydro-massage jet technology
  • Durable FiberSteel construction


Average Cost to Install


$3,000 – $20,000


Number of Seats


3-7

Cal Spas

Established in 1978, Cal Spas offers hot tubs at price points from quite affordable to very luxurious. The acrylic shells are surrounded by either shell or full cabinet insulation. The exclusive adjustable therapy system offers targeted muscle relief through hydro massage. Unique jet options (including adjustable jets for energy-efficiency), handsome surrounds and FiberSteel construction underneath make these spas built to last. With up to 94 individual jets and seating for between three and seven people, and even more for swim spas, expect a cost range of $3,000 to $20,000. Cal Spas offer limited warranties ranging from 1 year for cabinets to 5 years for the shell’s structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors determine the best hot tub brands?

To choose the best hot tub brands, Modernize experts looked at the variety of seating configurations, customization options, affordability, warranty, and the reputation of the manufacturer. However, what determines the best hot tub brand for you is the one that has the features that best suit your needs and priorities.

Are there any hot tub brands to be avoided?

If a hot tub brand doesn’t offer a service agreement or warranty, has bad customer reviews, or doesn’t offer energy-efficient technology options, it’s best to steer clear.

Should I look for an energy-efficient hot tub?

Absolutely! Not only does energy efficiency help the environment, it also helps you when it comes to lowering utility costs related to running the hot tub.

What should I expect to pay for the hot tub installation?

The cost to install a new hot tub depends on the type of hot tub – in-ground vs. portable or above-ground, the number of seats, materials, and more. Small above-ground hot tubs have the lowest installation costs at an average of $3,000. Larger hot tubs will naturally cost more. Larger in-ground hot tubs can cost between $9,000 – $20,000 or more for installation, depending upon the complexity of the job. Keep in mind that customizations typically drive up the overall price. Modernize provides ample budgeting tips for homeowners preparing for a hot tub installation.

What is the typical lifespan of a hot tub?

A good quality hot tub can last for up to 20 years. Lower quality tubs might last for five years or more. Keep in mind that good maintenance is the key to longevity of the tub.

Should I get an in-ground or portable (aka above-ground) hot tub?

If you already have a pool, an in-ground hot tub might be a good idea, as it would fit the aesthetics of your backyard and might be easier to install. If you have a great patio with a sturdy slab and a good source of shade, a portable above-ground hot tub might be more to your liking.

How can I find a reliable hot tub installer?

Finding the best hot tub for you is a challenge, but once you have, it’s time to install it. That’s where Modernize comes in. We can connect you with local contractors who have the experience and professionalism to install your in-ground or above-ground hot tub. Contact us to discover the contractors in your area who can get the ball rolling on your new backyard addition!

Ready to get free quotes from local contractors?


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