{"id":11068,"date":"2022-04-02T16:59:40","date_gmt":"2022-04-02T15:59:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/businessfinancenews.com\/?p=11068"},"modified":"2022-04-02T17:07:03","modified_gmt":"2022-04-02T16:07:03","slug":"what-to-look-for-in-a-hot-tub","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/businessfinancenews.com\/hot-tub\/what-to-look-for-in-a-hot-tub\/","title":{"rendered":"what to look for in a hot tub"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n

<\/img><\/p>\n

Buying your first hot tub can be nerve-wracking. It\u2019s also easy to get burned by an eager hot tub salesperson. So here are the 23 crucial things to know before buying your first hot tub.<\/p>\n

Additionally, while the tips below are based on my hot-tub buying experience, I also polled my audience for their tips, regrets, and frustrations and got an overwhelming response.<\/p>\n

Here are those poll results:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
What They Wish They Knew Before Buying<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\nPercentage of votes<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Wish <\/b><\/strong>they had bought one sooner<\/td>\n58%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Money & time <\/b><\/strong>spent on chemicals<\/td>\n19%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
The total expense <\/b><\/strong>of purchase & installation<\/td>\n12%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
How much it cost <\/b><\/strong>in beer & cigars<\/td>\n5%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Regret <\/b><\/strong>over not better researching what brand to buy<\/td>\n5%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Wish <\/b><\/strong>they had gone to a better dealer<\/td>\n2%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

1. What you need to know before buying a hot tub?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

We\u2019re getting into all of the main things you need to know in this article.<\/p>\n

But the biggies break down into a few simple categories:<\/strong><\/p>\n

    \n
  • How do I get the best price on a hot tub?<\/strong><\/li>\n
  • Where will I put my hot tub?<\/strong><\/li>\n
  • How do I get power to my hot tub?<\/strong><\/li>\n
  • What are the ongoing costs of owning a hot tub?<\/strong><\/li>\n
  • How do I maintain my hot tub?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    You should not walk into a hot tub showroom until you at least have a basic understanding of both the questions and the answers to those things.<\/p>\n

    Luckily, we\u2019re diving into all of the details on each of those questions, as well as the natural follow-up questions here.<\/p>\n

    I\u2019ve owned 4 hot tubs over the past 15 years and I\u2019ve learned a lot along the way. That knowledge has mostly been from making mistakes.<\/p>\n

    So check out all of the questions and answers below to hopefully avoid making some of those same mistakes.<\/p>\n

    Looking to get a quote on a new hot tub?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Save time and receive multiple quotes for hot tubs from all the best-known brands!<\/p>\n

    I have arranged with BuyerZone.com to provide free quotes from all the best hot tub manufacturers \u2013 with no obligation to buy. Simply complete BuyerZone\u2019s request form below.<\/p>\n

    <\/img><\/p>\n

    2. What kind of hot tub should I get?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    There are a few different types of hot tubs, such as:<\/p>\n

      \n
    • Inflatable hot tubs<\/strong><\/li>\n
    • In-ground<\/strong> (permanent) hot tubs<\/li>\n
    • Portable hot tubs<\/strong> (wood frame and acrylic shell)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      But then within those categories, especially with so-called portable ones, there are several different price levels.<\/p>\n

      So the budget should be your first consideration, along with whether or not you plan to live in your current home for a while.<\/p>\n

      If you\u2019re currently renting, then absolutely, no question, I would get an inflatable hot tub. But that\u2019s also true if you tend to move a lot.<\/p>\n

      While they are called portable, portable hot tubs aren\u2019t easy to move, and it\u2019s not just a question of moving it to a new home. You also have to think about the foundation you set it on and how you\u2019ll connect it electrically.<\/p>\n

      Lots of disposable income and living in your forever home? Simple. Get an in-ground hot tub.<\/p>\n

      Most of us, however, will likely get a portable hot tub. So just expect to see pricing tiers similar to this:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
      Type of Hot tub<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\nStarting Price Range<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\nTop of Price Range<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Entry Level<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\n$2,000.<\/td>\n$4,000.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Mid Level<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\n$5,000.<\/td>\n$8.000.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      High End<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\n$9,000.<\/td>\n$12,000.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
      Luxury<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\n$13,000<\/td>\n$18,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

      3. Is it OK to buy a used hot tub?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

      Absolutely! In fact the 3rd of the 4 hot tubs I\u2019ve owned, I bought used and fixed up.<\/p>\n

      I did save some money that way, but I also ran into some headaches I hadn\u2019t anticipated. Before I had this website, I wrote an article detailing the refurbishment process of that hot tub.<\/p>\n

      So take a look at that article here<\/strong> on my original website Middle Class Dad.<\/p>\n

      The nutshell version, however, is (unless you\u2019re buying a plug-in hot tub) you should expect to:<\/p>\n

        \n
      • Pay $300-$500 just to move it<\/strong> (locally)<\/li>\n
      • Check your nearest outdoor breaker panel<\/strong> and make sure you have 1 double slot open<\/li>\n
      • If you don\u2019t have any slots open<\/strong>, it could be thousands of dollars to pay an electrician<\/li>\n
      • An electrician may still charge $500<\/strong> to run power from the panel to the hot tub disconnect box<\/li>\n
      • Have the seller show you the hot tub full of water<\/strong>, powered on and functioning<\/li>\n
      • Be prepared to potentially have to replace the heater, pump, and blower<\/strong> (which I detail in the above-linked article)<\/li>\n
      • Google the make and model of the hot tub to make sure you can still get parts<\/strong> (especially if it\u2019s older)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Here\u2019s a shot of my previous hot tub (wood siding temporarily off), which I bought for $150 and fixed up.<\/p>\n

        <\/img><\/p>\n

        4. Do you need a concrete slab for a hot tub?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

        No! A concrete slab is probably the most ideal surface for a hot tub to sit on. But it\u2019s not the only option. I\u2019ll get into details on the other options in the next section.<\/p>\n

        A concrete slab, however, is ideal because:<\/strong><\/p>\n

          \n
        • It\u2019s usually totally level<\/strong><\/li>\n
        • Concrete is not going to be damaged from the weight, water, weather, or chemicals in your water<\/strong><\/li>\n
        • It is permanent and won\u2019t need to be replaced<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          For concrete, do make sure you wait at least 30 days after pouring the concrete before setting a hot tub on it.<\/p>\n

          I get into greater detail on concrete and alternative surfaces (including some inexpensive DIY options) in this recent article<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

          Just click that link to read it on my site.<\/p>\n

          5. What does a hot tub need to sit on?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

          Well, I talked a lot about concrete in the section above.<\/p>\n

          But of all the hot tubs I\u2019ve owned, none have sat on concrete. The hot tub at my last house I just set on pavers as you see here.<\/img><\/p>\n

          You know. The ones at Home Depot that are cheap and usually gray and red. CLICK HERE<\/strong> to see them on the Home Depot website.<\/p>\n

          You can also buy them online and then pick them up at your convenience at the location nearest you.<\/p>\n

          But hot tubs also go great on wooden decks.<\/strong><\/p>\n

          That\u2019s how 3 of the 4 hot tubs I\u2019ve owned have been. You just have to make sure your deck can take the weight. If it\u2019s less than 2 feet off the ground, it\u2019s probably fine.<\/p>\n

          But whether it is or not, check out this recent article<\/strong> where I walk you through how to check your deck. And I show you exactly how to reinforce yours if needed.<\/p>\n

          Just click that link to read it on my site.<\/p>\n

          6. Are salt water hot tubs better?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

          Better is subjective. Most of the hot tubs in the world are not salt water.<\/p>\n

          I\u2019ve owned 4 and never once had a salt water hot tub. In fact, I don\u2019t think I\u2019ve ever even been in one. That being said, they are growing in popularity. Why?<\/p>\n

            \n
          • They tend to be gentler on the skin<\/strong><\/li>\n
          • You don\u2019t use as much chlorine or bromine in the water<\/strong><\/li>\n
          • They can go longer between water changes<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

            It\u2019s also worth pointing out that the water in a salt water hot tub doesn\u2019t taste like the ocean.<\/p>\n

            You can buy a salt water hot tub (which tends to be more expensive). But you can also retrofit any hot tub to be a salt water tub fairly easily with a kit you can get on Amazon.<\/p>\n

            Check out this recent article<\/strong> to see that kit and to learn more about the pros and cons of salt water hot tubs.<\/p>\n

            \n

            Who else is enjoying their @hotspring_spas by Regina today? Are you taking some personal time to yourself to recharge? #wellness #reginapoolsandspas #hotspringspas #hottub pic.twitter.com\/BX3uFgHAfr<\/p>\n

            \u2014 Regina Pools & Spas (@ReginaPools) April 28, 2020<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

            7. What is the best hot tub for the money?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

            This one is pretty subjective.<\/p>\n

            The best-known brands include Jacuzzi & Sundance (technically the same company), Master Spas, HotSpring Spas, just to name a few. If money is no object, I\u2019d probably get one from HotSpring Spas.<\/p>\n

            They are super quiet and you have their CoolZone option<\/strong> which allows you to not just lower the temp but actually have it be cool in the summer (or any temp you like). They also have an A+ rating with the BBB.<\/p>\n

            However, if you\u2019re on a budget and can\u2019t afford to spend $15,000 on a hot tub, I would consider one from Essential Hot Tubs.<\/p>\n

            Essential Hot Tubs are available from Amazon with free delivery. CLICK HERE<\/strong> to see my favorite hot tub they have on Amazon. It is currently under $2,500 and seats 7 people!<\/p>\n

            It\u2019s the kind you just plug into a regular outlet. But you also have the option to hardwire it to a 220\/240 volt circuit which helps on your electric bill.<\/p>\n

            It\u2019s also a great way to get something nicer than an inflatable hot tub without spending a small fortune!<\/p>\n

            8. What is the best time of year to buy a hot tub?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

            This one is a no-brainer.<\/p>\n

            Just like with cars, the last few months of the year are the best time to buy a hot tub from a showroom. Why?<\/p>\n

              \n
            • It\u2019s coming into their slow season <\/strong>(winter)<\/li>\n
            • They are also wanting to make room for next year\u2019s models<\/strong><\/li>\n
            • The salesperson will be more apt to negotiate or throw-in extras<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

              How much can you save?\u00a0 Well, that depends on a few factors. Luckily, I detail all of that in a recent article<\/strong> that walks you through the process.<\/p>\n

              Just click that link to read it on my site.<\/p>\n

              9. What is a good price for a hot tub?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

              The average customer pays about $7,000 for a hot tub that fits 4-8 people.<\/p>\n

              But some, like the one on Amazon<\/strong> I mention in greater detail below, is well under $3,000 and can just be plugged into a wall outlet.<\/p>\n

              But here is the general range of prices depending on which level of quality and features you want.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
              Type of Hot tub<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\nStarting Price Range<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\nTop of Price Range<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Entry Level<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\n$2,000.<\/td>\n$4,000.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Mid Level<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\n$5,000.<\/td>\n$8.000.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              High End<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\n$9,000.<\/td>\n$12,000.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Luxury<\/b><\/strong><\/td>\n$13,000<\/td>\n$18,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

              10. What is the most reliable hot tub brand?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

              The best-known brands include Jacuzzi, Sundance, Master Spas, HotSpring Spas, just to name a few.<\/p>\n

              My current hot tub, which was here when we bought the house, is by Master Spas.<\/p>\n

              I\u2019m not 100% sure of how old it is. But I\u2019d bet it\u2019s 8-10 years old. It\u2019s still in fantastic shape!<\/strong> The only repair I\u2019ve had to do is replacing some worn rubber gaskets in the PVC pipes on either side of the heater (a $4.00 part).<\/p>\n

              The head pillows probably need to be replaced too. But it works great and looks great too. But I think you\u2019d be just fine going with any of the brands I listed above.<\/p>\n

              11. What is the difference between a hot tub and a Jacuzzi?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

              Nothing. Jacuzzi is simply a brand of hot tub. Some would also say they are the originators of the portable hot tub.<\/p>\n

              But unlike a lot of hot tub companies, they also make bathtubs and other jetted tubs.<\/p>\n

              But Jacuzzi, the last name of the brothers that started the company, is simply a well-known brand of hot tub.<\/p>\n

              \n

              He\u2019s got the sleazy car salesman look down.
              <\/br>
              \nTune in now for #Matilda, EST\/CST. pic.twitter.com\/VMCA5XU9kf<\/p>\n

              \u2014 Freeform (@FreeformTV) March 2, 2018<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

              12. Can you negotiate hot tub prices?\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

              The short answer is yes. Hot tub dealers are a lot like car dealers (including some that are occasionally a little slimy).<\/p>\n

              Hot tubs can be marked up as much as 100%.<\/strong><\/p>\n

              So just know that walking into a showroom. You have a LOT of options when it comes to hot tubs, and if 1 dealer won\u2019t budge, another one probably will. Or at least they should throw in a few freebies.<\/p>\n

              Remember too, you don\u2019t just need the hot tub. You also need:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                \n
              • Delivery<\/strong> (is it free? Do they set it curbside or exactly where you want it?)<\/li>\n
              • Stairs to the hot tub<\/strong><\/li>\n
              • A good-quality insulated cover<\/strong><\/li>\n
              • Chemicals<\/strong><\/li>\n
              • A hot tub disconnect box and electrical work<\/strong> (do they\/can they provide that?)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                If they won\u2019t budge on price, at least get them to provide most of the above for free or at a substantially reduced price.<\/p>\n

                Check out all the factors that make hot tubs so expensive, AND what you can do to reduce some of those factors in my recent article<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

                After all. In most cases, you\u2019re going to be spending several thousands of dollars. So it pays to save a little bit where you can!<\/p>\n

                13. Are Costco hot tubs any good?\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n
                \n

                Please tag the middle class fancy account. I\u2019d like to tell them about our hot tub from costco. pic.twitter.com\/yAcPeLf5rf<\/p>\n

                \u2014 \ud835\udc09\ud835\udc0f (@johnthenpaul) August 9, 2019<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

                <\/br>
                \nCostco sells a few different and lesser-known brands of hot tubs. Those primary brand names i9nclude:<\/p>\n

                  \n
                • Aquaterra<\/strong><\/li>\n
                • Divine Hot Tubs<\/strong><\/li>\n
                • Evolution Spas<\/strong><\/li>\n
                • OC Hot Tubs<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                  The good news is that most rate between 3 and 4.5 stars. The worst-rated one currently on their website is one from OC Hot Tubs at 2 stars. However, that company does have others on the Costco site as high as 4-stars.<\/p>\n

                  But overall, the other brands on the Costco site have better reviews and a lot more of them.<\/p>\n

                  It\u2019s worth noting, however, that none of the brands they sell have a page listed with the Better Business Bureau<\/strong>. That doesn\u2019t necessarily mean they are bad or low-quality. But in this current day and age, most businesses do have a BBB rating.<\/p>\n

                  So it\u2019s curious. It\u2019s also worth noting that on the listings I looked at, the delivery time was 6 to 8 weeks.<\/p>\n

                  14. Are hot tubs expensive to maintain?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                  Not really is the short answer.<\/p>\n

                  Here is a breakdown of the typical expenses in a year:<\/p>\n

                    \n
                  • Sanitizer<\/strong> (chlorine or bromine) \u2013 You\u2019ll add maybe half a cup, 2-3 times a week depending on how often you use it<\/li>\n
                  • Shock<\/strong> (chlorine or non-chlorine) \u2013 Added weekly, about a quarter cup<\/li>\n
                  • Chemicals to adjust pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness<\/strong> \u2013 As needed weekly<\/li>\n
                  • Filters<\/strong> \u2013 rinsed monthly, chemical soak quarterly, replaced every 12-24 months<\/li>\n
                  • Water costs<\/strong> \u2013 You\u2019ll change your water (anywhere from 300-600 gallons) every 3-4 months in most cases.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                    So expect to spend a few hundred dollars a year in most cases, not counting electricity. I\u2019ll get into electricity costs below.<\/p>\n

                    \n

                    https:\/\/t.co\/7Gwm9XdmXy<\/p>\n

                    \u2014 Middle Class Dad (@middleclassdad1) June 1, 2020<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

                    15. How much does your electric bill go up with a hot tub?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                    Generally speaking, most hot tub owners see their electric bill go up $20-$30 per month.<\/p>\n

                    Occasionally it can be as high as $50\/month more. Why such a large range? That depends on a few factors such as:<\/p>\n

                      \n
                    • The quality of the hot tub<\/strong><\/li>\n
                    • How well yours is insulated<\/strong> (the cheaper the hot tub the cheaper the insulation)<\/li>\n
                    • The size of the heater<\/strong> (smaller=less energy efficient)<\/li>\n
                    • If yours is a 110v that simply plugs into a wall outlet<\/strong> (those are more expensive to operate as they are less energy efficient)<\/li>\n
                    • If you have a good-quality insulated cover<\/strong> and keep it closed when not in use<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                      16. Are 110 hot tubs any good?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                      Yes is the short answer. In fact, one of my favorite brands of hot tub that you can buy on Amazon make 110v hot tubs that can just plug into a wall outlet.<\/p>\n

                      They have fantastic reviews and most of their models can also later be upgraded to 220v (more energy efficient) later if you wish.<\/p>\n

                      Essential Hot Tubs is the brand I like. CLICK HERE<\/strong> to see my favorite 110v hot tub they have on Amazon. It comes with free shipping and is currently just over $3,000 and seats 6 people!<\/p>\n

                      It\u2019s a great way to get something nicer than an inflatable hot tub without spending a small fortune!<\/p>\n

                      \n

                      https:\/\/t.co\/NT2CSFSGOw<\/p>\n

                      \u2014 Middle Class Dad (@middleclassdad1) June 1, 2020<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

                      17. Can you plug a hot tub into a regular outlet?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                      \u201cRegular outlet\u201d may not be the same at your house as it is at mine. But probably yes; you can typically just plug your 110v\/120v hot tub into a standard outlet.<\/p>\n

                      Here are the things to check though:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                        \n
                      • You need an outlet that goes to a 15 amp breaker<\/strong> (or higher) \u2013 most outlets are 15 amp<\/li>\n
                      • Don\u2019t have anything else permanently plugged into that same outlet<\/strong><\/li>\n
                      • A 20 amp breaker is better,<\/strong> especially if you need to use the 2nd receptacle for anything else<\/li>\n
                      • The outlet should be a GFCI breaker<\/strong> (meaning it has an internal breaker that trips if it gets wet or has a disruption to the circuit)<\/li>\n
                      • You want it close to the hot tub<\/strong>, but not so close that it will get splashed<\/li>\n
                      • Do not use an extension cord\u00a0<\/strong>(most come with a 15-foot cord)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                        18. How often should you change the water in your hot tub?\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                        Most people tell you every 3 months.<\/p>\n

                        However, it also depends on:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                          \n
                        • How often you use the hot tub<\/strong><\/li>\n
                        • The number of people that typically soak at one time<\/strong><\/li>\n
                        • If you are diligent about keeping the water sanitized<\/strong><\/li>\n
                        • How often you clean and change the filters<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                          If you\u2019re diligent about chemicals and filter maintenance, and it\u2019s just you and 1 or 2 other people using it a couple of times a week, you probably can go 4 or more months in-between water changes.<\/p>\n

                          But you can also go off of how clear the water is, how it smells, and if you find yourself having to add sanitizer and shock more frequently.<\/p>\n

                          I get into exactly how to change the water, and how to gauge when it\u2019s time for you to change your water in this recent article<\/strong>. While you can just hook up a garden hose to drain yours (which takes hours), in that article, I show you how I drain mine in just 15 minutes!<\/p>\n

                          Just click that link to read it on my site.<\/p>\n

                          \n

                          Watch this black bear beat the heat in a Vancouver pool and hot tub http:\/\/t.co\/HS1Y2Lpfvk pic.twitter.com\/8udZghGAnU<\/p>\n

                          \u2014 UPROXX (@UPROXX) August 19, 2015<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

                          19. How long does it take to heat up a hot tub after filling it up?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                          Another great question.<\/p>\n

                          After all, aside from when you first fill a new hot tub, you\u2019ll also be refilling it every time you change the water. Most hot tubs will take anywhere from 3 to 8 hours to reach their top temperature (104\u00b0 is the max temp).<\/p>\n

                          Factors involved in how long it takes to heat include:<\/p>\n

                            \n
                          • The temperature of your garden hose water (can be anywhere from 55 to75\u00b0)<\/li>\n
                          • If you keep the lid closed and jets on while heating (you should do both)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                            20. Does a hot tub add value to a house?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                            In short, unless you added an in-ground hot tub, AND your prospective home buyer likes hot tubs, it\u2019s not really adding a lot to your home\u2019s value.<\/p>\n

                            As I\u2019ve mentioned, I\u2019ve owned 4 hot tubs (including the one I have now).<\/p>\n

                            When I sold the previous 3 houses, 2 of those buyers got rid of the hot tub I left behind. In fact, one of those 2 had me remove it as part of our contract.<\/p>\n

                            The last house we sold, however, the buyer was adamant that we not only leave the hot tub but that I made sure it was in perfect working order (it was).<\/p>\n

                            All of those were so-called portable hot tubs and not in-ground.<\/p>\n

                            But they not only didn\u2019t really add much to the property value<\/strong>, but they were also a minor detraction in 2 of the 3 cases. So don\u2019t buy a portable hot tub thinking it will add value like a kitchen remodel or in-ground pool.<\/p>\n

                            Buy it because you plan to use and enjoy it.<\/p>\n

                            \n

                            Wanted: Volunteers for a study on hot tubs and blood pressure.<\/p>\n

                            UO researchers are exploring heat therapy as a route to better health, and volunteers are needed to either relax in a hot tub or ride a stationary bicycle in this @NIH-funded study. https:\/\/t.co\/bprtDZddwS pic.twitter.com\/YS8kBqWedt<\/p>\n

                            \u2014 University of Oregon (@uoregon) February 25, 2020<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

                            21. Does turning down hot tub save money?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                            In short, keeping it permanently set below 100\u00b0 will likely save you (literally) a few dollars a month on your electric bill.<\/p>\n

                            Remember, the average hot tub owner pays between $20-$30 per month on their electric bill. So we\u2019re not talking about a lot of money.<\/p>\n

                            I actually keep mine set year-round to 98\u00b0. I like being able to soak longer (at 104\u00b0 you shouldn\u2019t soak longer than 15 minutes at a time). But with a toddler who loves hot tubs, I also don\u2019t want her soaking in super-hot water either.<\/p>\n

                            Plus, we live in Texas where it\u2019s almost always hot. So lower is better for us.<\/p>\n

                            What you DON\u2019T want to do is be constantly lowering and raising the temperature<\/strong> after each use. Just like with your home\u2019s AC system, it\u2019s more energy efficient to maintain a constant temp than it is to lower it every time you get out and then crank it back up every time you want to get back in.<\/p>\n

                            That will cost you more, and you\u2019ll have to wait for it to heat up before getting in.<\/p>\n

                            \n

                            When your kids accidentally leave the hot tub heating on, and your house is not smart enough to tell you. pic.twitter.com\/lDhYWDXZZQ<\/p>\n

                            \u2014 Ari Jaaksi (@jaaksi) May 2, 2016<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

                            22. Are you supposed to leave your hot tub on?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                            Yes is the short answer.<\/p>\n

                            As I mentioned above, turning it down (or off) every time you get out and then up (or on) every time you\u2019re ready to soak is incredibly energy-inefficient. It will cost you a lot more, AND you\u2019ll have to wait for the hot tub to heat up.<\/p>\n

                            Hot tubs heat around 3-6\u00b0 per hour.<\/strong> So if you let the water temperature drop to 75\u00b0, it could take upwards of 5 hours to get back up to 104\u00b0. By then, you\u2019ll have long forgotten about it and moved on to something else.<\/p>\n

                            However, if you\u2019re going on vacation for more than 3 weeks<\/strong> or if you leave your home for the winter, I would power it down and drain it. If it will be cold while you\u2019re away, make sure and follow these steps in my recent article<\/strong> on how to winterize it.<\/p>\n

                            That way your hot tub shell and pipes will be protected from freezing (and cracking). Just click that link to read it on my site.<\/p>\n

                            23. How long do hot tubs last?
                            <\/br>
                            \n<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                            The million-dollar question!<\/p>\n

                            On average, most portable hot tubs last around 15 years. But yours could last a lot longer if you maintain the water chemistry and filters well. Even longer if you are handy enough to change out pumps and heaters.<\/p>\n

                            I\u2019ve swapped out all the equipment on a hot tub before, knowing nothing about it. It\u2019s really not that hard. If you do that, yours could last a really long time.<\/p>\n

                            On the other hand, with poor maintenance, it could end up beyond repair in as few as 7 years. And even shorter lifespans for inflatable hot tubs.<\/p>\n

                            Check out all the factors, including proven steps you can take to maximize the lifespan of yours, in my recent article<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

                            Just click that link to read it on my site.<\/p>\n

                            Final thoughts<\/strong><\/h2>\n

                            In this article, we took an in-depth look into hot tubs and all the things you need to be aware of before you buy your first one.<\/p>\n

                            Hot tubs are a major expense, often costing several thousands of dollars.<\/p>\n

                            Then there is the surface you\u2019re putting it on, electrical costs to hook it up, and ongoing maintenance expenses. You don\u2019t want to make a decision this large without first looking at all of the consequences and costs.<\/p>\n

                            I\u2019ve owned 4 hot tubs in my life, and with each one, I learned new lessons. But they also bring me and my family and friends a lot of enjoyment too.<\/p>\n

                            Looking to get a quote on a new hot tub?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

                            Save time and receive multiple quotes for hot tubs from all the best-known brands!<\/p>\n

                            I have arranged with BuyerZone.com to provide free quotes from all the best hot tub manufacturers \u2013 with no obligation to buy. Simply complete BuyerZone\u2019s request form below.<\/p>\n

                            <\/img><\/p>\n

                            Interested in a specific brand? Check out these articles\/reviews on my site<\/strong><\/h3>\n

                            I look at Better Business Bureau scores, reviews, and complaints. And I look at Google and\/or Yelp reviews too. But I also look at how long the company has been in business and if someone else actually owns the brand.<\/p>\n

                            Just click the link to read all the pros and cons of each brand:<\/p>\n

                            Balboa Hot Tubs<\/strong><\/p>\n

                            Clearwater Spas<\/strong><\/p>\n

                            Beachcomber Hot Tubs<\/strong><\/p>\n

                            Cedar Hot Tubs <\/strong>(the whole concept \u2013 not brand specific)<\/p>\n

                            Sundance Spas<\/strong><\/p>\n

                            Sunrise Hot Tubs<\/strong><\/p>\n

                            Bullfrog Spas<\/strong><\/p>\n

                            Home and Garden Hot Tubs<\/strong><\/p>\n

                            Hudson Bay Hot Tubs<\/strong><\/p>\n

                            Hydropool Hot Tubs<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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