Hot Tub Buyers Guide

The Definitive Hot Tub Buyers Guide 2024

Are you looking to buy a Hot Tub for your home? A Hot Tub can be a fantastic addition to your outdoor space, providing an enjoyable, relaxing, and therapeutic experience for you and your family but which are the best Hot Tubs? With so many options available it can be daunting, so we’ve put together this extensive Hot Tub Buyers Guide. We’ll walk you through all the essential factors to consider, everything from choosing the right size and features, to understanding the installation process and maintenance requirements, so you can buy the best Hot Tub for you.

Our advice is built upon over 15 years in the Hot Tub industry, and not just in sales. We began as a Hot Tub servicing and repairs company so we know what gives the best Hot Tub experience, and more importantly what causes expensive problems.

Hot Tub in a garden
Hot Tub in a garden
American Whirlpool Hot Tub

Research is Key

Before diving into the amazing world of Hot Tubs, it’s essential to spend some time doing thorough research. By gathering the necessary information, you can make an informed decision and ensure that the Hot Tub you choose is not only within your budget, but also meets your specific requirements and won’t fail after only a few years.

Start by exploring reputable local retailers who have Hot Tub showrooms and specialise in Hot Tubs rather than risking unreliable online only companies. A good Hot Tub retailer will offer “Wet Tests” allowing you to try out the Hot Tub for at least 15-20 minutes before purchase. After all, would you buy a car without first taking it for a test drive? Two completely different Hot Tubs can look very similar in pictures. To really see the difference and the quality you need to see them in person. A physical store will also provide high-quality customer service to ensure a smooth buying experience, as well as excellent aftercare support for peace of mind. Many also offer Hot Tub finance if required.

Look for retailers that are members of BISHTA the only UK Hot Tub trade association and have to abide by a strict Code Of Ethics, and if they are approved by WhatSpa, the UKs leading independent Hot Tub magazine.

Choosing Your Hot Tub

Exploring The Different Types Of Hot Tubs

Hot Tubs come in lots of shapes, sizes, and specifications, each with their own unique features and benefits. Understanding the different types can help you narrow down your options so let’s explore some of the most popular types of Hot Tubs available:

Hard Shell Hot Tubs

Hard shell Hot Tub in a garden

Hard Shell Hot Tubs are the most traditional and widely recognised type of Spa. They are known for their durability, innovative Hot Tub features, and luxurious designs. These Hot Tubs have a solid construction, internal heating system, and often have a wide range of Massage Jets. Hard shell Hot Tubs can offer excellent insulation, a large amount of seating configurations, and additional innovative features. They are the most popular choice for those seeking an economical, high-quality, long-lasting Spa.

Inflatable Hot Tubs

Inflatable Hot Tub

An Inflatable Hot Tub is a cheaper and portable alternative to Hard Shell Hot Tubs. These Spas are made from PVC or vinyl and can be inflated and deflated as needed. They are lightweight and can be set up on any level surface. Inflatable Hot Tubs not only have very few features and Jets, they don’t have any insulation, so while the initial cost to buy is considerably less, they are extremely expensive to heat and run.

Wood-Fired Hot Tubs

Wood Fired Hot Tub

For those seeking a more rustic experience, Wood Fired Hot Tubs are often seen as a good alternative. These Spas are heated using a wood burning stove or heater, and are typically made from soft woods such as cedar or redwood. They lack the features that other types of Hot Tub have including those at entry level such as jets. Even with regular monitoring of the fire it can be very difficult to regulate the temperature.

Not suitable for business use

From years of experience in Hot Tub servicing and repairs, our advice if you want the best Hot Tub is to avoid cheap Far Eastern made Hot Tubs. While they are often attractively priced, they don’t last very long, are very unreliable, can be hard to get parts for, and usually have poor insulation (or not at all which makes them expensive to run). The best Hot Tubs and best Hot Tub brands are all American built.

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