Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Hot Tub

Investing in a hot tub can transform your lifestyle—whether you're seeking stress relief, better sleep, muscle recovery, or quality time with loved ones. But with so many models, sizes, and features on the market, it's easy to make missteps that cost you time, money, and long-term satisfaction.

Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid when buying a hot tub, so you can make a confident, well-informed decision.

Max Piggott

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Hot Tub

Investing in a hot tub can transform your lifestyle—whether you're seeking stress relief, better sleep, muscle recovery, or quality time with loved ones. But with so many models, sizes, and features on the market, it's easy to make missteps that cost you time, money, and long-term satisfaction.

Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid when buying a hot tub, so you can make a confident, well-informed decision.

1. Not Considering How You’ll Use It

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is choosing a hot tub without thinking through how it will be used.

Ask yourself:

  • Will it be used for relaxation, therapy, entertaining—or all three?

  • Will it primarily be used by 2 people or a large family?

  • Do you prefer deep hydrotherapy massage or a more social, open-seating layout?

👉 Why it matters: The wrong seating layout, size, or jet configuration can turn your dream spa into an underused regret.

2. Underestimating Size and Access Requirements

It’s tempting to go with the biggest hot tub you can afford, but bigger isn’t always better.

  • Can the hot tub fit through gates, doors, or side paths?

  • Do you have enough clearance for cover lifters and maintenance access?

  • Is your foundation level and strong enough to support the spa?

👉 Why it matters: Delivery day surprises like “It won’t fit through the gate” can lead to delays, added costs, or needing to swap your tub entirely.

3. Overlooking Running Costs and Energy Efficiency

Many buyers focus on upfront costs and overlook the long-term operating expenses.

Consider:

  • Does the spa have high-quality insulation?

  • Is the cabinet well-sealed to trap heat?

  • Does it support energy-saving heat pump technology?

👉 Why it matters: A cheap spa with poor insulation may cost hundreds more per year to operate—and you won’t know it until the bills start arriving.

4. Ignoring Water Care and Maintenance Systems

Don’t fall for “low maintenance” claims without checking the facts.

  • What filtration system does it use?

  • Does it support ozone, UV, or salt water sanitation?

  • How easy is it to drain, clean, and replace filters?

👉 Why it matters: A hot tub that’s hard to clean or prone to water problems will quickly become a chore—not a joy.

5. Not Buying from a Reputable Brand or Dealer

Buying a hot tub from an unknown brand might save you money upfront, but it can be risky.

Ask:

  • Is there a warranty and local support?

  • Can you get replacement parts easily?

  • Are there verified customer reviews?

👉 Why it matters: A hot tub is only as good as the company behind it. You want long-term peace of mind, not a disappearing act when something goes wrong.

✅ Final Thoughts

Avoiding these five common mistakes can make all the difference between a hot tub that delivers daily bliss and one that causes ongoing frustration.

When you're ready to take the plunge:

  • Think long-term

  • Ask the right questions

  • Choose trusted brands like Canadian Spa Company with proven performance, energy efficiency, and world-class support

Need help choosing the right hot tub?
Get in touch with our team or explore our best-selling models designed to fit every lifestyle—from compact urban spas to feature-packed family favourites. 

Call us on 01293 824094

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