A soothing soak in a hot tub after a long day at work: It’s the perfect way to
spend an evening.
Hot tub hesitance often relates to questions of cost. If you’re worried about the
price of those bubbles, dive into this guide on the Costs of Hot Tub Ownership
— you will be surprised to learn that a hot tub can be affordable on almost any budget!
Choosing
a Hot Tub
Hot tubs vary from entry-level inflatable plug-and-play models to highly customized luxury tubs outfitted with the latest and greatest technology. The wide range of product and variables in local dealer pricing makes it impossible to give an exact price for a particular tub.
A more basic model will have few features and shortened durability, while pricier hot tubs are loaded with accessories and should last at least a decade. Not sure which option is right for you? Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect from each option:
Plug and Play – Unpack this model from the box, place it on a flat
surface, fill it with water, and you’re ready to start enjoying soothing soaks.
These basic models only require standard 110V electrical connection, so you won’t need to hire an electrician to do more expensive, fancy wiring. The downsides to these low voltage tubs are:
· There are very few jets and typically they aren’t very powerful
· You cannot run the jets and heater at the same time
· These tubs require more electrical power to heat
If you’re searching for a hot tub for hydrotherapy needs,
these aren’t the best choice for you.
Premium– Moving up the price range, premium models boast upgraded features like numerous powerful jets, impressive filtration systems, ozonators, energy
efficient features and all-weather cabinets with sealed/enclosed bottoms. These
tubs are made of shiny and highly durable acrylic or even stronger high-density polyethylene, unlike the rotationally molded plastic of less-expensive models.
Luxury – For the top of the line, invest in a luxury model. These are the most energy efficient and durable models on the market. They include the premium hot tub features along with plenty of high-tech features like high number of jets, powerful pumps, Bluetooth controls, and mood-enhancing features like multicolored lighting and water features. A hot tub with thick insulation will cost you less to run each month than a less expensive — and less insulated — option.
Installation
Costs
Fixed costs for setting up a hot tub vary, depending on if you’re a die-hard DIY-er or more of a hire-it-out type. No matter what type of hot tub you buy, you can expect to incur these installation costs:
Delivery:
Typically, this cost depends on size, location and accessibility. Customers do
have the option to pick the tubs up themselves if they have the means to
transport it.
Platform:
You’ll want a completely level and flat deck or a sturdy platform made of
concrete or gravel to support your hot tub. Keep in mind, though that decking
may not be strong enough for larger models. Hot tubs are very heavy: when
filled with water, some weigh up to 6,000 pounds–the bigger the hot tub, the
heavier it is!
Electrical work: Plug-and-play models don’t require special wiring, but if you want more powerful jets, you’ll need increased voltage. If you purchase a 220v powered hot tub, hire an electrician to run the wiring and install a GFCI switch box. Your local dealer may have recommendations for experienced and affordable electricians to connect your hot tub electricity. Also be aware of any insurance, HOA or county requirements. You may need a special permit to install a hot tub on your property so be aware of those costs too.
Operating
Costs
Although the bulk of the cost of your hot tub comes from purchase and installation, there are a few other costs to keep in mind — like power and maintenance:
Electricity/Natural Gas: The cost to heat your hot tub each month depends on your local electric/natural gas rates as well as how often you use the hot tub. Keep in mind that the energy efficiency of a hot tub depends on its quality. Less
expensive hot tubs have little insulation, resulting in higher electric bills each month of use.
Water:
Proper maintenance requires you to test frequently, adjust chemicals when needed and clean your filter when necessary. Most important, drain and clean your hot tub every three to four months. Water is the cheapest thing in the tub refilling should only add $1-$2 to your monthly water bill.
Chemicals:
It’s important to maintain proper chemical balance and cleanliness in your hot
tub’s water. You’ll need to add hot tub chemicals such as a sanitizer (chlorine
or bromine tablets), oxidizer (spa shock), pH up (soda ash), and alkalinity
increaser (sodium bicarbonate). Use testing strips or a testing kit to determine when and what quantities of these chemicals are necessary.
Service:
If you want white-glove service, you’ll pay extra for it. It is also impossible to keep a hot tub balanced by only checking/adding chemicals once a week. This is why it’s important to do your homework and become familiar with chemicals and the functions of a hot tub.
Warranty:
Warranties differ between hot tub manufactures. Less expensive hot tubs may
offer no warranty at all. Premium and higher end models have warranties for
their shells, cabinets, parts and retailer’s labor.
Insurance:
Generally, the hot tub will be covered under your homeowner’s insurance. To be
sure, notify your homeowner’s insurance of your hot tub addition. Depending on
your plan/insurance company the premium may slightly increase.
If you’ve made it this far, things may seem a tad overwhelming. In all reality, the process of purchasing and setting up a tub is fairly simple with proper guidance. You can go from browsing models to rejuvenating soaks in little to no time at all.
When you’re ready to find the perfect hot tub or if you have any questions just let us know! We’ve got the best pricing, selection and customer service around!
When you’re ready to find the perfect Hot Tub, visit:
Marina Pool, Spa and Patio at 7777 West Jewell Avenue, Lakewood.
303-985-0077. www.marinapoolspaandpatio.com