What To Ask Before Buying A Hot Tub

You've decided to take the plunge: This summer, you'll while away your evenings, wine glass at hand, in a steamy, bubbling hot tub. But before you hire an electrician and start moving the flower beds to make room for your luxurious backyard spa, here are five key questions to ask when shopping for a model to suit your needs. 

How much will it cost?

A good tub runs between $7,000 and $9,000 before tax. That should get you everything you need, including room for three to seven people, a cover, delivery and setup. Other costs, such as a gravel or concrete base ($750 to $1,000) and the electrical hookup ($500 and up) are extra. To run an efficient tub year-round, expect an increase of $350 to $500 on your electrical bill.

What's the tub made of and how powerful is its circulating system?

Look for a tub made of fibreglass-backed acrylic, not ABS plastic, because it's stronger, says Tim Wilson, a hot tub sales representative at Mermaid Pools in Ottawa.

When it comes to the circulating pump, he says ask about "design" (or "true") horsepower: It should be roughly one horsepower for every five to eight jets. Make sure the pumps and jets are accessible for repair.

What about the warranty and after-sale service?

Joe Corke, a hot tub sales representative at Purewater Total Home Leisure in Ottawa, says it's important to ask: Is the warranty full or pro-rated, does it cover parts, labour and travel to your home, and does it start from the day of sale or the day of delivery?

Make sure the acrylic lining, which cannot be replaced, has at least a 20-year warranty. Look for three years and up on pumps, heater and other components. Ask who does the servicing. A retailer with in-house technicians is best.

Can I try before I buy?

Bring your swim suit for a trial dip. At the very least, climb into a dry tub and make sure it feels right.

"When you're sitting in the tub at home," said Corke, "you're not turning to the person next to you and saying, 'I love the filtration system!' You should be saying, 'Wow, this feels awesome!' "

How much maintenance is involved?

Maintenance is do-it-yourself: weekly addition of bromine to keep the water sanitary, regular balancing of pH, alkalinity and other levels, replacing the water every three or four months, and an annual flushing of water lines. Creams, makeup and perfumes upset the water balance, causing foam and cloudiness. A quick shower before going in the hot tub is a good idea.

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