Many people dream of owning their very own hot tub. It’s like having a personal oasis, providing relaxation, therapeutic advantages, and a touch of luxury, right in your own backyard. But it’s important to understand all the costs involved before you invest in one. You want to make sure you can afford it after all.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through all the aspects to consider when it comes to buying and owning a hot tub, from the exciting initial purchase to the day-to-day operational expenses.
Factors that Affect the Price of a Hot Tub
Quality
Higher-quality parts, materials, and craftsmanship can greatly influence the cost of a hot tub. However, high-quality hot tubs also tend to be more energy-efficient, longer lasting, and require fewer repairs. Cheaper hot tubs will struggle to maintain water pressure and heat at the same time.
Features
Hot tubs come with both functional and aesthetic features including silent pumps, jet systems, and premium water care systems. Luxury hot tubs may also come with the following:
- Drink Storage: The Sundance® Spas’ 980™ Series, comes equipped with a SunCooler™ cold storage area right in the lounge deck so drinks are at an arm’s reach.
- Water Features: Hot tubs may come equipped with a combination of waterfalls, such as the AquaSheer™ waterfall found on Sundance® Spas.
- LED Lighting: LED lighting can be incorporated in the footwell, the cabinet, and waterfall to create ambiance and provide chromotherapy benefits.
- Bluetooth Speakers: Bluetooth speakers allow you to access your music from your smartphone, tablet, or other Bluetooth-enabled device so you can set the mood for any gathering.
Number of jets
The amount of jets and the type of jets in a hot tub can also impact price but they also enhance your therapeutic experience. In Sundance® Spas, for example, many owners are fond of the Fluidix “Intelli-Jet” featured on all 980™ and 880™ Series spas. It offers three different ways to adjust power and two distinct massage styles. A vigorous straight stream will provide a direct impact deep tissue massage while adjusting the jet to horizontal will create a pulsing, wave-like stream for a lighter massage.
Silent Injector Jets are another favorite. They produce soothing bubbles into the water but can also diffuse SunScents™ fragrance for aromatherapy.
Warranty
Warranties are often overlooked in purchase decisions. The length and coverage of your hot tub warranty may affect the upfront cost. A comprehensive warranty can help you save money in the long run and provide you peace of mind.
Installation Cost
It’s extremely important that the base on which your hot tub will rest on can uniformly support its weight without shifting or settling. The base should be smooth, flat, and level. If you don’t have a flat surface, you’ll want to have a concrete pad or deck installed or invest in a synthetic spa pad that can be placed on a smooth flat surface.
Before your hot tub is delivered, it’s also necessary to set up the electrical components.
If the hot tub is 240V it will need to be hard wired to the power supply. If the hot tub is 120V, it can be plugged into a dedicated grounded outlet using the 10’ GFCI cord supplied with the hot tub.
Monthly Operational Costs
Maintaining your hot tub involves ongoing expenses that should be factored into your budget as well. These include:
- Water Care Costs: Basic hot tub water maintenance (using bottled chemicals) costs about $20 per month, depending on the water system you choose.
- Energy Costs: Most highly insulated hot tubs can cost around $25 to $40 per month to run.
Conclusion
A good hot tub is more than just entertainment, it is a part of your lifestyle. It’s important to compare prices and research before purchasing a hot tub. Also, look into financing options. Many hot tub dealers offer financing, including All Seasons Pools & Spas! We partner with Wells Fargo Outdoor Solutions to help you get into the hot tub of your dreams.
Once you’ve done extensive research and test soaks, you may come to find that it’s not worth just shopping for the lowest-priced hot tub.
If you want an exact price on a hot tub, visit your local hot tub dealer. They’ll be able to give you a clearer idea.
At All Seasons Pools & Spas, we want to help you with all of the stages in your hot tub buying journey. Give us a call, email us, or drop by any one of our locations. We’re always ready to give you all the details you need to make the right hot tub decision!