Hot Tub Buying Guide

Shopping options: Local Dealer

Choosing just the right hot tub can be an involved process, but the actual purchase can be simple. First, you need to figure out where you will shop. You have a few options when it comes to purchasing a hot tub. Before you can slip into the soothing massaging waters and feel those tensions of the day fall away to the pulsing jets, you need to buy one. So, will you choose the local spa dealer? Will you choose the large big box store? Or will you purchase your hot tub online? Well, each has its advantages and disadvantages. It's up to you to decide what makes the most sense for you. Read on and weigh out the pros and cons of each to make the best decision for your hot tub purchase.

Shopping at a local dealer has many advantages. One advantage is location - they are local. They are more invested in your community and therefore, customer service will be of utmost importance to them. The staff at the local hot tub dealer will be very knowledgeable about the spas they sell. They will know the differences between the brands and the features. You will, most likely, get some expert advice in the selection of your tub. You will have access to many of the most highly rated brands in the industry. And you'll have the personalized attention you need to find you the perfect tub for you. Their job is to get you to purchase a tub. As with any salesperson, beware of their techniques. This is a highly emotional purchase. A hot tub is not a necessity - it's a luxury and you can be lured into a purchase that may not be the best fit for you overall. Go into that dealership armed with as much knowledge as you can. Have your questions ready and know your budget and wants. The staffs expertise will then be able to guide you and not manipulate you.

Maybe even more importantly, you will have a place to go if you have any issues with your spa. Even the most highly rated brands have occasional problems and when you purchase from the local dealer you can depend on them to support their product. They will often service themselves any issues you have. If you do have a problem with your tub, you will be dealing directly with the people from whom you purchased the tub. This contact can be invaluable. A personal relationship with your hut tub dealer can and will save you time and frustration and often money.

And of course, you will be able to test out your hot tub before you purchase. You must sit in the tub to know if it's the right tub for you. And that doesn't mean getting in when it's empty. Do a wet test. Yep, take your swimsuit or go back when it's convenient for you and get on in. Take your time and figure out if it's the one for you. You want this hot tub to be the best tub for you and your needs. Judge the space. Now that you are in it, does it seem like the right space for who you will use the tub. Will your family and friends fit comfortably?

Are the seats comfortable? Does the water reach your shoulders? Is your head and neck supported? Don't just hop from seat to seat. A seat my be comfortable for a minute or two, but your soaks will be much longer than that. Relax your body into the seats just as you will do when it is yours. Try each seat. Does the lounger allow you to relax and lounge or are you sliding down and working hard to stay in a good position? You want to be comfortable and relaxed while sitting in your hot tub, that is the only way to maximize the benefits of the hot water and jets.

Are the controls easy to use, located in a convenient spot. You want to be able to reach the controls and navigate them easily. Having to get up from your comfortable position to adjust the temperature or jets or lights or accessories is burdensome and that is exactly the opposite of why you're looking at a hot tub in the first place. The tub is to be a place where your burdens float away.

Do the jets do exactly what you want them to do? The jets massaging water should address all your major muscles groups, so make sure they do. Do you like the power of the water? Are the jets adjustable not only directionally but also in power? Be sure to test the jets massaging action in each and every seat.

You feel the power of the water's massaging jets, but can you hear it? Consider the noise the hot tub makes. As you sit in the tub does the sound of the heater, filter and water circulating distract you or is it a quiet soothing hum.

Try out the accessories. Explore the tub's water features. Is there a sound system for you to fiddle with while you relax? Oh, and don't forget the foot well. Is there enough space in the foot well for the feet of all the people who may be sitting in there with you when the tub is yours? Playing footsie or sitting up on your feet isn't exactly relaxing. Make sure there is ample space for your toes to relax as well.

Stay awhile. Your hot tub purchase is a large one. It is an investment in you and you want to be sure you make the right choice. And you might as well get a good relaxing hydrotherapy session enjoying the benefits of the water's heat, buoyancy and massage while you test out your potential tub.

Not only will the local dealer provide you with the opportunity to conduct your on-site wet test, a local dealer will honor the hot tub's warranty coverage. They care about their reputation and want you to be happy with your purchase. Delivery and set up is often available through your local dealer as well. This is, of course, an important consideration. If you can't get your hot tub home and set up, you can't use it. If you can't enjoy the hydrotherapy you are so looking forward to, well, this has all just been a waste of time.

One possible disadvantage to shopping at the local dealer is price. Often their prices are the highest. They are providing personal service and expertise. They are available for follow up questions, for servicing and to cover warranty issues. Can you place a value on this? Honestly, it is up to you. What kind of price tag would you place on that? Your answer to that question will guide your decision when picking where to purchase your tub.