Soaking in a hot tub under the starry desert skies is the perfect way to relax and unwind. But if you don’t know where to start, things like comparing costs and selecting features can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, finding the perfect hot tub doesn’t have to be difficult. We put together this comprehensive guide that tells you everything you need to know before buying a hot tub. Let’s get started!
Step 1: The Research Phase
Before you buy a hot tub, it’s important to do a little research. One of the first steps is identifying what you want to get out of your hot tub. How often do you plan to use it? How many people will be using it at once? Do you want any special features? Here are three important factors to consider.
Purpose
Hot tubs can offer many different benefits. Which ones do you hope to enjoy the most? Are you looking for relaxation, hydrotherapy, or a space for socializing? Will you use it regularly? Understanding how you want to use your hot tub will help you select the right features.
Size and Shape
Hot tubs come in a variety of shapes and sizes. You’ll need to consider the space you have to work with and how many people need to fit inside.
- Small hot tubs (5.5 square feet) fit around 2-3 people
- Medium hot tubs (7 square feet) fit around 4-6 people
- Large hot tubs (up to 9 square feet) fit around 7-8 people
Features
There are a wide range of features that can enhance your tub in different ways. For instance, investing in high quality insulation will help your hot tub retain more heat better, leading to lower utility costs. Choosing a hot tub with more jets—especially if they’re adjustable—can create a more relaxing experience. Features like waterfalls or bubblers can make your personal oasis even more serene. Other features to consider include water filtration systems, lighting, and seating configurations.
Step 2: Visiting a Showroom
Seeing a hot tub in person can really help you narrow down your choices. If you’re in Arizona or Nevada, check out one of our local showrooms. Our expert team will help you match your preferences to the most suitable models, so you can choose the best one.
When you visit a showroom, make sure to:
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- Test the Features: Sit in the hot tub to assess its comfort, seat depth, and layout.
- Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask the sales team about things like heating efficiency, water care systems, installation, additional features, and anything else. These questions are very important for finding the perfect hot tub.
- Book a Wet Test: The best way to evaluate jet power and overall hot tub experience is to try before you buy. Ask your dealer if you can book a wet test, where you can try soaking in the tub for a few minutes to experience its features.
Step 3: Preparing a Space
Now that you found the perfect hot tub, you need to figure out the best place to put it. Make sure to choose a space that has privacy, a stable surface, and easy access to water. Keep in mind that hot tubs are very heavy when full, so your foundation must be strong enough to support the weight.
Concrete pads, reinforced decks, or spa pads may be required to provide the needed support. You’ll also need to confirm that your space has easy access to electrical outlets that meet your tub’s power requirements.
Step 4: Purchase and Installation
After you’ve selected the perfect hot tub and confirmed that your space can accommodate it, you’re ready to buy. Here’s what to expect during purchase and installation.
Purchasing a Hot Tub
- Financing Options: Many dealers offer financing plans to help make your hot tub more affordable. You can discuss the available payment options before finalizing your purchase.
- Accessories and Add-Ons: You may also want to purchase accessories like a hot tub cover, stairs, water treatment kits, or other accessories at the time of purchase.
- Delivery Details: Don’t forget to confirm the delivery timeline and ask any questions you have about preparing the site for installation.
Hot Tub Installation
- Delivery: Make sure the pathway to the installation site is free of obstacles like closed gates, low-hanging branches, or narrow spaces.
- Positioning: The delivery technicians will position the hot tub in the designated space, and check to make sure that it is level and secure.
- Electrical Hookup: Many hot tubs require professional electrical work. You may need to hire a licensed electrician to connect the spa to its power source.
- Filling and Testing: Once installed, the technicians will fill the hot tub with water and test all the systems to confirm they are working correctly.
Step 5: Performing Regular Maintenance
Keeping your hot tub in peak condition is essential for extending its lifespan and keeping it working and ready to use. Your dealer can recommend products and maintenance advice based on your specific hot tub model.
Hot tub maintenance includes things like:
- Testing and balancing the water chemistry
- Cleaning or replacing water filters
- Keeping the cover and shell clean
- Scheduling periodic maintenance checks
Ready to Start Your Hot Tub Shopping?
If you’re ready to add a hot tub to your home, look no further than Sunset Spas. As the #1 hot tub and swim spa dealer in the Southwest, we offer a variety of high quality tubs and accessories, as well as expert advice. Plus, we’re offering an exclusive $500 off coupon on any new hot tub purchase for a limited time.
Visit a showroom near you today, or contact us with any questions about purchasing one of our tubs.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (1/8/2025). Photo by Jonathan Borba on Pexels
