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By Steiners

7 Key Questions

How to Buy a Hot Tub

Dec 15, 2021 | 3:18 PM

Thinking about buying a hot tub, but not sure where to start? We can help! Here are some of the most important things to think about before you start shopping.

Are you wanting a hot tub mostly for fun and relaxation or primarily for therapeutic benefits? Maybe both?

If it’s relaxation, then jets are less important. You can just keep it simple and look for a soaker tub such as a “plug-and-play”. However, if you are looking for therapeutic benefits—a way to relieve the aches and pains from work or work-outs—then you will want a hot tub with lots of jets – the more, the merrier! You’ll also want to have a wide variety of jet styles and types, targeting the lower back, the shoulders, the feet, etc.

Do you want your hot tub inside or outside?

If inside, a plug-and-play tub would do fine. Many people find that they enjoy their hot tub more when it’s outside. For best results outdoors, a 220-volt system is best. An acrylic hot tub running on 220V will ensure that the heater can keep the water nice and toasty in colder temperatures. It actually costs less to run a hot tub on 220V as it won’t have to “work overtime” to keep the water hot.

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How many people will be using the tub?

Whether you are wanting your hot tub for the whole family, for socializing with friends or just for the two of you, we recommend going a little bigger. This will give you more depth and roominess, but also a greater variety of jets.

What features should you look for? What about a built-in stereo?

When it comes to features, think about the first question (WHY you want a hot tub) and make sure you your hot tub has features that deliver the benefits you are looking for. We generally don’t recommend the extra “bells and whistles” such as a built-in s as these simply add to the cost and are prone to breakdowns. If you’re wanting some music while you enjoy your hot tub, simply bring Bluetooth speaker outside with you for just a fraction of the cost!

Should you go with a salt-water or a chlorine system?

Due to health concerns with the “salt-water” or sodium bromide systems, Health Canada has banned the use of sodium bromide and has recommended that all sodium bromide or “salt” systems be deactivated and removed. For more information on this, click here.

Should you consider buying used?

Buying used can definitely save you some money. However, as with anything else, buyer beware. Before buying, we highly recommend that you see the hot tub full of water, hot and running. And if the price seems too good to be true, there is probably a reason why.

Where should you buy your hot tub?

We might be a bit biased here, but in our opinion, the most important feature of your hot tub is your dealer! Choose a dealer who makes you feel comfortable and at ease, knowing that they will come through for you when you really need them.