Hot Tub Buying Guide
A comprehensive guide to purchasing, installing, and maintaining your hot tub
Finding Your Perfect Hot Tub
Owning a hot tub offers a myriad of benefits, including:
- Relaxation:
Immersing yourself in warm water can soothe both body and mind, providing a tranquil escape from the stresses of daily life. - Stress Relief:
The combination of warm water and massage jets can help to alleviate tension in muscles, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. - Hydrotherapy:
The therapeutic effects of hydrotherapy can aid in relieving muscle aches, improving circulation, and even providing relief from certain medical conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. - Social Benefits:
Hot tubs provide a space for socialising and connecting with friends and family. Whether hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening with loved ones, a hot tub can enhance social bonds and foster a sense of community.
Before investing in a hot tub, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and thoughtful consideration to ensure you select the right model that meets your needs and preferences.
Everything you Need to Know
Your ultimate resource for everything hot tub-related. From purchasing guides to installation advice and maintenance tips, we’ve got you covered. Our goal is to offer you independent and comprehensive information to assist you in making an informed and hassle-free decision when shortlisting your ideal hot tub.
Buying a Hot Tub
Dive into the world of hot tubs with confidence as we guide you through the buying process, ensuring you make the perfect choice.
Hot Tub Installation
Embark on your hot tub installation journey with ease, as we provide expert guidance to help you set up your hot tub.
Maintaining a Hot Tub
Effortlessly maintain your hot tub’s pristine condition with our expert tips and tricks, ensuring uninterrupted relaxation for years to come.
Buying a Hot Tub
Choosing the right size hot tub means considering both your regular needs and the space you have available.
- Determining Your Needs:
- Regular Usage: Consider how many people will be the primary and most frequent users of the hot tub. Do you envision solo relaxation, intimate couples’ soaks, or social gatherings?
- Occasional Use: Account for those times when you might have additional guests. A hot tub that comfortably seats four might feel cramped if you occasionally entertain a group of six.
- Measuring Your Space:
- Designated Area: Measure the length and width of the space you have available for your hot tub.
- Clearances: Remember to factor in additional space around the hot tub for access to equipment, getting in and out, and for lifting the cover on and off.
- Delivery Path: Carefully measure doorways, gates, and the path to your desired installation site. This ensures the hot tub can be physically manoeuvred into its final position.
Important Considerations:
- Seat Design: Some hot tubs have a bench-style design, while others have individual sculpted seats or loungers. Bench seating may fit more users, but sculpted seats provide better body support.
- Footwell Space: Ensure there is adequate room in the footwell area, particularly if users will be taller.
- Oversizing? It’s generally better to choose a hot tub slightly larger than you think you need to avoid feeling crowded and to accommodate unexpected guests.
Extra Tips:
- Some manufacturers offer hot tubs with distinct seating areas at different depths. This caters to various heights and preferences.
- Visualise your hot tub in the space by marking out its dimensions on the ground with tape or rope.
Understanding the different types of hot tub jets and their strategic placement is key to getting the most out of your hydrotherapy experience.
Types of Jets:
- Directional Jets: These provide a focused stream of water that can be aimed at specific muscle groups for a targeted massage effect.
- Rotating Jets: These jets spin, delivering a circular massaging motion that covers a wider area. They are excellent for relieving tension in large muscle groups like shoulders and back.
- Pulsating Jets: These jets provide a rhythmic on-and-off water flow, resulting in a kneading-like massage sensation.
- Specialty Jets: Some hot tubs offer additional jet types such as volcano jets (a powerful upward blast from the hot tub floor) or neck and shoulder jets providing focused massage to those specific areas.
Number and Placement:
- More isn’t always better: A balance between the number of jets and the power of the hot tub’s pump(s) is crucial. Too many jets with a weak pump will result in a less satisfying massage.
- Targeted Therapy: Hot tubs strategically place different types of jets throughout the seating area to target various parts of the body. Consider which muscle groups you’d like to focus on.
- Customisation: Some high-end models allow for jet customisation, letting you adjust the water pressure or even turn specific jets on and off
Important Tip: When trying out hot tubs, pay close attention to the types of jets, their placement, and the strength of the massage they provide. Don’t just focus on the total number!
Proper insulation is one of the most critical factors in determining your hot tub’s operating costs, particularly in regions with temperature extremes.
How Insulation Works
- Trapping Heat: Insulation acts as a barrier that slows down heat transfer. A well-insulated hot tub minimises heat loss from the water through the shell and cabinet, helping maintain your desired temperature with less energy expenditure.
- Reducing Heater Strain: Good insulation means your heating system doesn’t have to work as hard or run as frequently, saving electricity and extending the lifespan of the heater.
Insulation Types and Climate Considerations
- Full-Foam Insulation: Spray-foam insulation is injected into the entire cabinet, filling all gaps and spaces. This is considered the most energy-efficient option for all climates, but especially crucial for colder regions.
- Partial-Foam Insulation: Foam insulation is applied strategically between the shell and cabinet, leaving some air gaps. This method still offers benefits but is less effective in extreme cold.
- Reflective Insulation: Reflective foils or barriers are sometimes used with other insulation types to reflect radiant heat back towards the hot tub.
Climate-Specific Recommendations:
- Cold Climates: Full-foam insulation is a must for optimal energy efficiency, reducing the impact of frigid temperatures on your electricity bill.
- Mild Climates: Partial-foam insulation might suffice if your region sees only occasional cold snaps.
- Hot Climates: Insulation still plays a role in preventing your hot tub from overheating in warm weather, reducing the strain on pumps and cooling systems.
Additional Tips:
- Hot Tub Cover: A well-fitting, high-quality cover is an essential partner to good insulation. It prevents heat loss from the water’s surface, where the most evaporation occurs.
- Cabinet Construction: A well-designed cabinet helps contain the heat radiating from your hot tub, further maximising the benefits of your insulation.
Remember: Investing in high-quality insulation might increase the initial cost of your hot tub, but the energy savings over its lifetime make it a worthwhile choice.
While the core purpose of a hot tub is relaxation and hydrotherapy, many models offer an array of additional features designed to enhance the overall ambience and enjoyment.
- Lights:
- Mood Setting: LED lighting systems can create a variety of colours and effects, setting the perfect atmosphere for a calming soak or a lively party.
- Safety: Underwater lights improve visibility for nighttime use.
- Sound Systems:
- Built-In Speakers: Stream music from your devices via Bluetooth or integrate with your home sound system for the ultimate immersive experience.
- Waterproof Options: For less sophisticated setups, opt for waterproof portable speakers that can be placed near your hot tub.
- Water Features:
- Waterfalls: The soothing sound of cascading water and its gentle massage effect add another sensory element.
- Fountains: Decorative fountains offer both visual and auditory enjoyment.
- Aromatherapy:
- Dedicated Systems: Some hot tubs have built-in compartments for releasing essential oil scents into the water.
- DIY Options: You can even create your own aromatherapy by adding safe essential oils directly into the hot tub water.
Essential or Luxury?
Before getting swept away by all the exciting features, consider these points:
- Budget: Each additional feature increases the cost of your hot tub. Prioritise the basics (size, insulation, jets) and then allocate the remainder of your budget for your most desired upgrades.
- Lifestyle: Are you looking for a tranquil retreat? Simple lighting and a gentle water feature might suffice. If you love entertaining, a sound system and dazzling light show might be perfect.
- Maintenance: Some features require additional cleaning and care. Be sure you’re prepared for their upkeep.
Tip: Many hot tub brands offer package deals where certain features are bundled together, sometimes at a more attractive price than adding them individually.
t’s vital to set a realistic budget for your hot tub project to avoid surprises and ensure long-term enjoyment. Remember, the purchase price is just one piece of the financial puzzle.
Price Ranges for Hot Tubs
- Basic/Entry-level: For smaller hot tubs with fewer features and standard equipment, you could expect to pay between £3,000-£6,000.
- Mid-range: Expect a wider range of sizes, more jet configurations, upgraded features, and enhanced insulation in the £6,000 – £10,000 range.
- Premium/Luxury: High-end hot tubs with advanced features, exceptional design, and top-tier materials will often start around £10,000 and can easily exceed £20,000.
Beyond the Purchase Price: Factoring in Additional Costs
- Installation:
- Site preparation: Ground levelling, electrical work, and any necessary permits.
- Delivery and setup: Costs can vary based on the size of your hot tub and the complexity of accessing your chosen location.
- Running Costs:
- Electricity: The main ongoing expense, heavily influenced by insulation, usage, and your local electricity rates.
- Water: Initial fill and regular top-ups due to evaporation and water changes.
- Maintenance:
- Chemicals: Sanitizers, pH balancers, and other water care products.
- Filters: Regular cleaning and periodic replacements.
- Professional Services (optional): Some owners opt for professional hot tub maintenance services for convenience.
Setting Your Budget
- Determine your priorities: Size, features, and brand reputation all drive price. Decide where you’re willing to compromise if needed.
- Get accurate quotes: Obtain installation estimates from electricians and contractors.
- Calculate estimated running costs: There are online resources to help predict your energy usage based on your hot tub model, climate, and frequency of use.
- Build in a buffer: It’s wise to set aside a small contingency fund for unexpected repairs or replacements.
Important Note: Financing options may be available for hot tubs, allowing you to spread the cost over time.
Choosing a hot tub isn’t just about features; the company behind it matters greatly for both the quality of the product and your peace of mind.
Researching Reliable Brands
- Industry Reputation: Look for brands with a history of producing long-lasting, reliable hot tubs. Read online reviews, forums, and consumer reports for unbiased opinions.
- Local Dealers: Speak to reputable hot tub dealers in your area. They often have valuable insights into which brands excel in customer satisfaction and after-sales support.
- Manufacturer Websites: Explore the websites of potential brands. Look for signs of innovation, quality materials, and comprehensive customer support.
Understanding Warranties
A strong warranty from a reputable company offers significant protection for your investment. Pay close attention to:
- Coverage:
- Shell Structure: Ensure the acrylic shell has a lengthy warranty against leaks, cracks, and major fading.
- Equipment: Pumps, heaters, and control systems should be covered for a reasonable period (typically 1-5 years).
- Labour: Some warranties may include labour costs for a limited period if repairs are required.
- Exclusions: Understand what is NOT covered, such as cosmetic blemishes, damage from improper usage, or chemical imbalances.
- Transferability Should you decide to sell your hot tub in the future, a transferable warranty can be an attractive incentive for buyers.
Tips:
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your hot tub dealer for detailed explanations of the warranty terms and the process for making a claim if needed.
- Documentation: Keep your warranty paperwork and proof of purchase in a safe and accessible location.
Hot Tub Installation
Understanding the steps involved in hot tub installation will ensure a smooth process and prevent costly surprises.
Choosing the right location for your hot tub will greatly influence how much you use and enjoy it. Consider these crucial factors:
- Accessibility:
- Ease of Use: Can you easily reach your hot tub from your house, especially in colder months? A long, slippery walk might deter you from using it regularly.
- Equipment Access: Ensure there’s sufficient space around the hot tub for a technician to access pumps, controls, and other components for maintenance or repairs.
- Privacy:
- Screening: Can you position your hot tub to shield it from neighbours’ views? Consider fences, privacy screens, or strategic landscaping to create a secluded oasis.
- Overlook: Avoid placing your hot tub directly under second-story windows where you might feel overlooked.
- Ground Support:
- Solid Foundation: A filled hot tub is extremely heavy. It requires a level, structurally sound base like a concrete pad, reinforced decking, or a specialised hot tub pad.
- Drainage: Consider how excess water from rainfall and splashing will drain away from your chosen site.
- Proximity to Electrical Outlets:
- Dedicated Circuit: Hot tubs require their own dedicated electrical circuit with GFCI protection, installed by a qualified electrician.
- Safe Distance: Ensure adequate distance between the hot tub and the electrical outlet for safety reasons.
Additional Considerations:
- Sunlight vs. Shade: Do you want a sunny spot or is shaded relief sometimes welcome?
- Trees: Avoid placing your hot tub directly under trees that shed leaves, sap, or debris.
- Local Regulations: Check if your area has any rules about hot tub placement, noise ordinances, or permit requirements.
Tip: Visualise! Use a hose or rope to outline the dimensions of your chosen hot tub model on the ground to get a true sense of the space it will occupy.
A proper foundation is absolutely essential for the safety and longevity of your hot tub. Here’s a breakdown of the most common choices:
- Concrete Pad:
- Strength and Durability: A poured concrete pad offers exceptional support and can withstand even the largest hot tubs filled with water.
- Permanence: This creates a dedicated, fixed location for your hot tub.
- Professional Installation: Typically requires hiring a contractor for pouring and levelling the concrete.
- Reinforced Decking:
- Aesthetics: If you have an existing deck, reinforcing it might allow for seamless integration of your hot tub.
- Structural Considerations: Consult a structural engineer or builder to ensure your existing deck can withstand the weight of a filled hot tub.
- Accessibility: Consider how equipment underneath the deck will be accessed for repairs.
- Specialised Hot Tub Base:
- DIY-Friendly: Modular plastic bases consist of interlocking panels filled with gravel. These are often a more manageable project for homeowners.
- Ground Preparation: The area still needs to be level and well-compacted to support the base.
- Weight Capacity: Ensure the base you choose is rated to handle the size and water capacity of your hot tub.
Important Considerations:
- Sloping: Your foundation should include a very slight slope (approx. 1cm per metre) to facilitate water drainage.
- Local Regulations: Some areas may have building codes with specific requirements for hot tub foundations.
- Future Plans: If you think you might relocate your hot tub in the future, a specialised base offers more flexibility than a concrete pad.
Tip: Always consult with the hot tub manufacturer for their specific recommendations regarding foundation types and specifications.
Hot tubs have significant electrical demands, and ensuring proper installation is critical for both safety and the optimal performance of your hot tub.
- Dedicated Circuit:
- Safety: Hot tubs must NEVER share a circuit with other appliances or outlets. They require their own dedicated circuit with the appropriate amperage rating.
- Sizing: Your hot tub’s specifications will determine the necessary circuit size (e.g., 20-amp, 30-amp).
- GFCI Protection:
- Lifesaving Technology: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection is mandatory. This device will immediately shut off power if an electrical fault is detected, preventing the risk of electric shock in a wet environment.
- Installation: The GFCI protection can be incorporated either at the circuit breaker in your electrical panel or at a dedicated GFCI outlet near the hot tub.
- Professional Electrician:
- Expertise: Unless you are a fully qualified electrician, ALL hot tub wiring MUST be carried out by a certified professional.
- Compliance: An electrician will ensure your installation adheres to the UK’s electrical codes and any local regulations.
- Warranty: Improper wiring can void your hot tub’s warranty.
Additional Considerations:
- Distance from Water: Specific regulations in the UK dictate the minimum safe distance between your hot tub and electrical outlets.
- Weatherproof: All outdoor wiring and outlets must be rated for exterior use and appropriately protected from moisture.
- Permits: Check with your local authorities whether any permits are required for hot tub electrical installations.
Important Note: Incorrect electrical wiring can pose severe hazards, including fire and electrocution. Always prioritise safety by employing the services of a licensed electrician.
Planning for hot tub delivery is essential to avoid unexpected complications on the day your hot tub arrives. Consider the following:
- Access Assessment:
- Pathways: Measure the width of all gates, doorways, and paths the hot tub will need to pass through. Consider any tight turns or obstacles.
- Height Restrictions: Check for overhead impediments like low-hanging branches, power lines, or roof eaves.
- Surface Conditions: A smooth, level path is ideal. Assess whether the ground can handle the weight of the hot tub and any necessary moving equipment.
- Delivery Methods:
- Standard Delivery: Most hot tub companies offer kerbside delivery or placement on a readily accessible area of your property.
- Specialised Equipment: If access is limited, a crane might be required to lift the hot tub over obstacles or onto your chosen site. Ask your dealer about this service and associated costs.
- Communication is Key:
- Clear Instructions: Provide your hot tub dealer with detailed information about your site, including photos if possible.
- Delivery Day Contact: Ensure you exchange contact details for coordination on the day of delivery.
Crane Considerations:
- Cost: Crane services add to the overall delivery expense. Obtain quotes in advance.
- Site Suitability: The crane needs a stable area to operate and sufficient clearance for its boom to manoeuvre.
- Permits: In some areas, a permit may be required to temporarily close a street if the crane needs to be positioned there.
Tips:
- Be Present: If at all possible, be there during delivery to guide the movers and address any on-site issues.
- Preparation: Clear the delivery pathway and your chosen hot tub site in advance for a smooth process.
Maintaining a Hot Tub
With a simple routine, you can ensure your hot tub stays crystal clear and provides years of enjoyment.
Maintaining proper water chemistry is the single most important factor in keeping your hot tub inviting and safe. Here’s what you need to know:
Essential Testing:
- pH: Measures how acidic or alkaline your water is. The ideal range for hot tubs is 7.2 – 7.8. Imbalanced pH can cause skin irritation, affect sanitiser effectiveness, and damage hot tub components.
- Alkalinity: Alkalinity acts as a buffer, helping to keep your pH stable. Low alkalinity can lead to fluctuating pH levels. Aim for a reading between 80 – 120 ppm (parts per million).
- Sanitiser: Sanitisers (chlorine or bromine) are crucial for killing bacteria and preventing algae growth. Maintaining the proper sanitiser level based on your hot tub’s volume is essential.
Products Needed:
- Test Strips or Digital Metre: Easy-to-use test strips or a digital metre provide quick readings of your water chemistry.
- Chemicals:
- pH Increaser/Decreaser: Adjusts pH levels up or down.
- Alkalinity Increaser: Raises total alkalinity if needed.
- Sanitiser: Chlorine or bromine tablets, granules, or liquid options.
- Shock Treatment: A periodic shock with a non-chlorine oxidiser helps eliminate contaminants and keeps your water sparkling.
Tips:
- Test Frequency: Test your hot tub water 2-3 times per week, and more often with heavy usage.
- Record Keeping: Log your test results to track patterns and make adjustments more efficiently.
- Follow Instructions: Always adhere to the specific dosage recommendations and safety precautions on your hot tub chemical products.
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining a hygienic environment and extending the life of your hot tub components.
Filters (Cleaning vs. Replacement Schedule):
- The Heart of Filtration: Your hot tub’s filters trap debris, body oils, and other contaminants.
- Cleaning: Rinse your filters with a hose every week or two, and perform a deep cleaning using a filter cleaning solution every 1-2 months.
- Replacement: Even with regular care, filters need replacing. Most manufacturers recommend replacement every 12-24 months, depending on usage.
Hot Tub Cover Maintenance
- Protection and Insulation: Your cover protects the tub from debris and helps retain heat.
- Gentle Cleaning: Regularly wipe down the cover with a mild cleaning solution formulated for vinyl. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Conditioning: Protect the cover from UV damage and fading with a vinyl protectant product a few times a year.
- Lifting: Invest in a cover lifter to make removing and replacing the cover easier, reducing wear and tear.
Additional Cleaning Tasks:
- Waterline: Wipe away any scum or residue that builds up around the waterline of your hot tub.
- Shell: Occasionally, a deeper clean of the hot tub shell may be needed. Use a specifically designed hot tub surface cleaner.
Tips:
- Shower Before Entering: Encourage bathers to rinse off before using the hot tub to reduce the amount of dirt and lotions entering the water.
- Store Chemicals Safely: Always keep hot tub chemicals in their original containers, tightly sealed, and out of reach of children and pets.
Even with diligent water care, periodically draining and refilling your hot tub is crucial for maintaining optimal water quality. Here’s what you need to know:
Frequency Recommendations:
- General Usage: For most hot tubs, draining and refilling is recommended every 3-4 months.
- Heavy Use: If your hot tub gets frequent use, you may need to drain and refill more often, perhaps every 2-3 months.
- Signs It’s Time: If you notice any of the following, it’s a good indication it’s time for a refresh:
- Difficulty maintaining clear water, even with proper chemical adjustments
- Persistent foaming
- Unpleasant odours
The Process (Briefly):
- Turn off power: Disconnect the hot tub from electricity.
- Drain: Locate the drain valve and attach a hose for directed water removal.
- Clean (Optional): While empty, it’s a good opportunity to give the hot tub shell a deeper clean if desired.
- Refill: Use a garden hose to refill the hot tub. Some filters can assist in removing minerals from your tap water for easier water balancing.
- Rebalance Chemistry: Test and adjust your water chemistry as needed when the tub is refilled.
Tips:
- Water Conservation: Check if your local area offers rebates or if there are ways to reuse the drained water responsibly (e.g., for watering plants).
- Scheduling: Align your draining and refilling with a filter replacement cycle for convenience.
Important Note: Always consult your hot tub owner’s manual for specific instructions, as some models may have unique procedures.
If you live in a region of the UK where temperatures regularly dip below freezing, winterising your hot tub is crucial to prevent damage to its components. Here are the essential steps:
- Plan Ahead: Don’t wait until the first frost. Aim to winterise your hot tub before temperatures consistently drop below freezing.
- Full Drain: Thoroughly drain all water from the hot tub, including:
- The Main Tub: Locate the drain valve(s).
- Plumbing: Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove water from pipes, pumps, and jets. Disconnect plumbing unions if recommended within your hot tub’s manual.
- Clean and Dry:
- Filters: Clean your filters and store them in a dry place indoors for the winter.
- Interior Shell: Wipe down the hot tub’s interior to remove any residual moisture.
- Antifreeze: If recommended by your hot tub manufacturer, add a non-toxic plumbing antifreeze to prevent any remaining water trapped in equipment from freezing. Follow product instructions carefully.
- Cover Securely: Fit your hot tub cover and ensure it’s securely strapped down to withstand winter weather. If heavy snowfall is common in your area, consider adding additional support under the cover to prevent collapse.
Additional Considerations:
- Remove Accessories: Drain and store away any removable accessories like waterfalls or fountains.
- Electrical: Consult your manual and consider having an electrician disconnect your hot tub’s power supply for the winter, especially if it won’t be in use at all.
- Professional Services: Some hot tub companies offer professional winterisation services for convenience and peace of mind.
Important Note: Always refer to your hot tub owner’s manual for specific winterisation instructions tailored to your model.
Essential Tips for Hot Tub Shopping
- Try Before You Buy
Consider “wet tests” at showrooms to experience different hot tubs.
- Local Regulations
Check for any permits or electrical code requirements in your area.
- Safety
Educate yourself about hot tub safety, especially regarding children and water temperature.