Hot tubs are often a significant purchase, and buyers are naturally concerned about how long they will last.
The life expectancy of a hot tub is largely dependent on two factors: quality and maintenance. Understanding these two factors will help you make the best possible purchase decision for your lifestyle.
Cost
Many factors can impact the cost of a hot tub, including size, materials, and brand. Generally, smaller hot tubs are more affordable than larger ones, so it’s worth shopping for the best deal on a new one.
The cost of a hot tub includes the tub itself, as well as installation and any other associated costs. If you plan to install your own hot tub, make sure you get multiple estimates from reputable companies.
A professional installer can determine the best location for your new hot tub and how large of a spa pad you’ll need to accommodate it. This will depend on your yard’s existing foundation and electrical wiring.
You may also need to build a foundation for the hot tub to rest on, such as a concrete slab or pavers. The foundation will also need to be strong enough to support the weight of a whirlpool tub, which can easily weigh several hundred pounds.
Depending on the type of hot tub, annual maintenance can add up to $500-$1,000. This includes chemical testing, filter cleaning, and water balance adjustments.
While some homeowners are comfortable tackling these tasks independently, most opt to have a professional do them regularly.
If your tub is in a remote location, it may also have to be delivered and installed, which can add another $3 per mile to the overall cost. Additionally, if you have to hire a crane to get the tub over your house and into the backyard, the cost can climb up to $300-$1,000.
Finally, the size of your hot tub and its seating capacity will also factor into its price. Choosing the most suitable size for your home and family can help you maximize its function and value while keeping costs low.
There are many different types of hot tubs, from small, round wooden models to elaborate whirlpool units. Some tubs have simple bench seating, while others are shaped like an infinity pool or equipped with high-powered jets and blowers. Some models even offer built-in speakers or a TV. If you’re looking for the ultimate hot tub experience, it’s wise to choose a model with advanced features, such as LED lighting and hydro-therapy massage jets.
Environment
The life expectancy of a hot tub can be affected by the environment around it. This is because the hot tub will be exposed to a wide variety of environmental conditions over time. Some of these conditions can be detrimental to the hot tub, while others can increase its longevity.
Water quality is the first environmental factor that can affect a hot tub’s life expectancy. A low-quality water supply can cause a number of problems, including corrosion and discoloration. In addition, the water may also become too alkaline or too acidic, which can be bad for the appearance of your hot tub.
This is why choosing a hot tub containing fresh, pure water is important. This can be done by purchasing a hot tub that uses an ionizer or one that is built with natural water-purifying technology.
A healthy water supply can help extend the life of your hot tub and prevent costly repairs in the future. For example, if you have a water supply with a high level of chlorine or bromine, these chemicals can harm aquatic life and make the environment less safe for swimming.
Another factor that can impact the life expectancy of your hot tub is the materials it is made from. Many manufacturers are now using materials that are more sustainable and eco-friendly. In addition, some are using energy-efficient pumps, filters, and alternative cleaning and sanitizing methods.
Some of these environmentally friendly practices include using recycled plastic, wood-free construction, and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. They are also working to reduce their carbon footprint by incorporating solar power into their products.
Lastly, some of these companies are now using smart technology in their hot tubs and spas to help reduce their energy consumption and costs. These technologies can allow you to monitor the temperatures of your hot tub, set specific water settings, and control the jets from a remote location.
Besides being a great way to relax and unwind, a hot tub can also be used for therapeutic purposes. Whether you are suffering from an injury or chronic pain, a hot tub can be a fantastic tool for relief and healing. It can also be helpful in reducing stress, which can contribute to a number of health issues.
Maintenance
Whether you have an outdoor or indoor hot tub, it needs regular maintenance to keep it working well. This is essential for the health of the people using it and the equipment and for extending its lifespan.
In addition, maintaining a hot tub can save you money in the long run by reducing energy costs. This is especially important in places with high electricity prices since you can use it at off-peak hours to save on your power bill.
The best way to ensure your hot tub is in tip-top shape is to perform a little bit of routine maintenance every day, week, and month. These simple tasks will help you get the most out of your spa without spending a fortune on repairs down the road.
- Check water chemistry twice a week.
This is a good time to shock your water or add chemicals that de-scale and sanitize the water.
- Give the filter a chemical rinse once a month or quarterly.
Keeping your filters clean is a crucial part of hot tub maintenance, as they play an important role in ensuring the quality of the water in your spa. This is particularly important if you live in an area that has high mineral content in the water.
- Flush the plumbing lines sporadically, as needed.
The plumbing in your hot tub can become clogged with calcium, lime, body oils, and other debris. This can lead to discolored water and reduced jet pressure. A line flush is a quick and inexpensive solution that can help restore your hot tub’s water to its best possible condition.
- Inspect and clean the shell and cover of your hot tub once a month.
Inspecting and cleaning the shell of your hot tub is an essential maintenance task for anyone who has an outdoor hot tub. This will ensure that cracks, gouges, or dents are spotted and repaired before they become big problems.
Performing these simple and quick maintenance tasks will help you enjoy your spa for many years to come. It is also a great way to ensure the quality of your water and prevent costly repairs down the line.
Repairs
Repairing a hot tub can be a frustrating experience. It can also be expensive if you don’t fix issues promptly, which is why it’s important to catch problems early on. The key is to address them quickly so that you can save money and enjoy your spa for years to come.
The main components of a hot tub include the water heater, pumps, control systems, and plumbing. Each of these components plays a crucial role in the function of your spa, so it’s essential that they work properly at all times.
If you notice that your hot tub’s temperature is not staying consistent, it may be time to call a technician. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including a failing pump or a broken water heater. It can also be a sign of a more serious issue, such as a faulty control board or a clogged filter.
Another potential issue that may require repair is if your hot tub’s jets are not working correctly. It’s best to have a professional take a look at the jets and find out why they’re not working correctly so that the problem can be fixed promptly.
This can be a difficult repair to perform yourself, as it requires access to the motherboard of your hot tub. The motherboard controls the various functions of your hot tub, such as the jets and water flow. It’s also responsible for the safety of your spa, so it needs to be repaired by a qualified technician.
A technician will need to remove one or more panels from your tub to access the motherboard and replace it with a new one, which can cost between $150 and $450. They’ll need to check the wires and connectors to ensure they’re connected properly, and they may need to solder individual parts of the board that have been damaged.
The repair price will depend on the type of repair needed and whether it’s a simple or complicated task. Depending on your home’s location, a repair worker may need to drive a long distance to get to your home, which could increase the cost of the repair.
