This entire question can be summarized into 3 words: Satisfying Your Needs.

Every person is different. Everyone has different needs to fulfill. You should write down what qualities in a hot tub AND the dealer (not just the brand name) that are important to you and then prioritize them. Is the lowest price your largest need? Maybe getting the best therapeutic massage tops your list? Do you just want somewhere to go that brings your family closer together as a meeting place?

Here are a few “need factors” that may be tops on your list:

Lowest Price
Durability/Warranty Length (Fine Print with service call expense?)
Number of Pumps
Energy Efficiency (cost per month)
Number of Seats/Size of Tub
Seating SPACE & foot well room (bottom of tub)
Lounger – 2, 1 or none?
Lighting – LED or Fiber-Optic
circulation pump
Number of Jets
Type of Jets and quality of therapy
Wood or synthetic cabinet (thickness)
ABS bottom to prevent rotting
Steel or wood support structure
Quiet running because it is right outside your back door
Dealer comes well recommended and is an active BBB member in good standing
Who will be doing the repairs (if any)
The strength of the spa manufacturer – will they be around next year?
Stereo – brand, sound, features & warranty
Type of acrylic
Type of plumbing (glued or clamp)
Easy access Plumbing (4 sides removable/full insulation vs air lock system)
Brand Name
Where does the dealer store the tubs (inside or outside (exposed to elements, freeze, thaw)?
Does the dealer have alot of tubs that are missing parts (pumps, jets, etc)?

Once you get your list finalized, you will have a pretty good indicator as to what really matters to YOU and will help you sift through all of the internet information and product catalogues that you will receive during your quest for the perfect tub.

If you travel around town collecting information from local spa dealers, a HUGE thing to keep in the back of your mind is that you will be married to them for the duration of your warranty on the tub. The fine print on the warranties will also hurt your chances of getting proper, full service coverage for the duration of the warranty as well. Use your gut feelings when trying to determine if someone or the deal is too good to be true or on the flip side of the coin, if they treat you poorly or like a number. Are they known to be a “fast cash grab” company or do they actually care about your well being once you sign the paperwork? Do they sell new tubs or refurbished/blemished tubs? Do they bring tubs to other towns and sell them out of booked arenas as a You are spending a lot of money. Do you really want a tub that may or may not work once they deliver it to your house?