Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Hot Tub

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Hot Tub

Buying a hot tub is a significant investment, and it's essential to make an informed decision to ensure years of relaxation and enjoyment. However, there are common mistakes that potential hot tub buyers often make. In this guide, we'll highlight these mistakes and provide insights on how to avoid them.

1. Neglecting Research

One of the most common mistakes is not doing enough research. Some buyers rush into a purchase without understanding the different hot tub options available, their features, and what to expect in terms of maintenance and operating costs. Take the time to research various hot tub brands, models, and their specifications.

2. Not Considering Location

The location of your hot tub is crucial. Failing to plan where you'll place it can lead to inconvenience and even regret. Consider factors like available space, privacy, accessibility, and whether you want an indoor or outdoor hot tub. Plan the location carefully to maximize your enjoyment.

3. Ignoring Insulation

Proper insulation is essential to keep your hot tub energy-efficient and maintain water temperature. Some buyers overlook the importance of insulation, which can result in higher energy bills. Choose a hot tub with quality insulation to ensure it retains heat effectively.

4. Not Testing Before Buying

It's crucial to test a hot tub before making a purchase. Many dealers offer "wet tests" where you can try out the hot tub to assess comfort, jet placement, and overall satisfaction. Skipping this step can lead to disappointment if the hot tub doesn't meet your expectations.

5. Focusing Solely on Price

While price is a significant factor, it shouldn't be the only consideration. Choosing the cheapest hot tub without considering its features, quality, and long-term costs can lead to regrets. Balance your budget with the value you'll receive from the hot tub.

6. Overlooking Maintenance Requirements

Hot tubs require regular maintenance to stay clean, safe, and functional. Some buyers underestimate the maintenance involved, leading to neglect and potential problems down the line. Be prepared to invest time and effort in hot tub care or consider automated systems like Sundance Spas' SmartTub™ for easier maintenance.

7. Not Checking Warranty and Dealer Support

Review the warranty offered by the manufacturer and the support provided by the dealer. Failing to understand warranty coverage and dealer assistance can be a costly mistake if issues arise. Choose a hot tub with a solid warranty and a reputable dealer known for excellent customer service.

8. Not Considering Seating and Jet Placement

The comfort of seating and the placement of jets are essential factors for your hot tub experience. Ensure the hot tub you choose has seating that accommodates your needs and jets that target areas you want for relaxation or
hydrotherapy.

Avoiding these common mistakes when buying a hot tub can save you time, money, and potential disappointment. Take your time to research, plan your hot tub's location, consider insulation, test before buying, balance price and value, be prepared for maintenance, check warranty and dealer support, and pay attention to seating and jet placement. By doing so, you'll make a well-informed decision and enjoy your hot tub for years to come.

Explore Spas

SDS_880_Cameo_Platinum_FlintGray_Iso.png

880™ Series

Cameo® – 880™ Series

(6)

Seating:

5-6

Seats

Lounge Seat
Fluidix Jet
SmartTub System
Therapy & Recovery
Energy Efficient
$$$$
MSRP$24699
Product Details

Swim Spas

Sundance 12 Splash™

(6)

Seating:

6-8

Seats

Therapy & Recovery
$$$$
MSRP$27299
Product Details

680™ Series

(6)

Seating:

5-6

Seats

Lounge Seat
Therapy & Recovery
Energy Efficient
$$$
MSRP$
Product Details
SDS_880_Cameo_Platinum_FlintGray_Iso.png

880™ Series

Cameo® – 880™ Series

(6)

Seating:

5-6

Seats

Lounge Seat
Fluidix Jet
SmartTub System
Therapy & Recovery
Energy Efficient
$$$$
MSRP$24699
Product Details

Swim Spas

Sundance 12 Splash™

(6)

Seating:

6-8

Seats

Therapy & Recovery
$$$$
MSRP$27299
Product Details

680™ Series

(6)

Seating:

5-6

Seats

Lounge Seat
Therapy & Recovery
Energy Efficient
$$$
MSRP$
Product Details

Buyer's Guide

Start exploring the features Sundance® spas have to offer, and learn how to make spa time a focal point in your journey to share meaningful moments with the people you love.

Explore Spas

Swim Spas

Sundance 13 Stream™

(6)

Seating:

6-8

Seats

Therapy & Recovery
SmartTub System
$$$$
MSRP$31599
Product Details
SDS_880_Aspen_Platinum_Ironwood_Iso.png

880™ Series

Aspen® – 880™ Series

(6)

Seating:

7-8

Seats

Fluidix Jet
Energy Efficient
Therapy & Recovery
SmartTub System
$$$$$
MSRP$29899
Product Details
SDS_Alicia_Platinum_Graphite_Iso.png

680™ Series

Alicia™ - 680™ Series

(6)

Seating:

2-3

Seats

Lounge Seat
Low Profile
Energy Efficient
$$$$
MSRP$9499
Product Details

980™ Series

Claremont® – 980™ Series

(6)

Seating:

5-6

Seats

Lounge Seat
Low Profile
Energy Efficient
Fluidix Jet
SmartTub System
SunCooler
$$$$$
MSRP$30299
Product Details

Related Articles

Couple leaning on the hot tub

Buying Guides

How Long Do Hot Tubs Last? Exploring Their Lifespan

Family enjoying a hot tub together

Buying Guides

Are 2-Person Hot Tubs Worth It?

Women enjoying a relaxing hot tub

Buying Guides

Sundance vs Jacuzzi Pricing: Which Hot Tub Brand Fits Your Budget?

Parents and kids enjoying hot tub

Buying Guides

What Hot Tub Has the Most Jets? Top Models Compared

Family bonding in luxury hot tub

Buying Guides

Buy Now, Pay Later Hot Tubs: Best Deals & Financing Options

Couple unwinding in backyard hot tub

Buying Guides

One Person Hot Tubs: Compact Options & Prices (Featuring Sundance® Spas)

Friends unwinding in outdoor spa

Buying Guides

Step In Hot Tub: Easier Entry for Comfort & Safety

Relaxing spa experience with friends

Buying Guides

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Move a Hot Tub Safely

Happy couple soaking in hot tub

Buying Guides

Sundance Dover Hot Tub Review: Compact Luxury for Two

Couple enjoying a hot tub together

Buying Guides

The Best Hot Tubs for Cold Climates

Women unwinding in backyard hot tub

Buying Guides

Exploring the Best Rectangular Hot Tubs

Swim spa backyard setup

Buying Guides

Eco Friendly Swim Spas: Sustainable Choices for Your Home

Outdoor swim spa scene

Buying Guides

Best Luxury Swim Spas for 2026

swim spa in winter

Buying Guides

Small Swim Spa Ideas for Compact Backyards

swim spa in cold weather

Buying Guides

Dual Temp Swim Spas: Swim, Soak, and Save Space

Person soaking in hot tub

Buying Guides

Sundance® Spas Hot Tub Costs Explored

2 persons Hot Tub

Buying Guides

Understanding the Cost of a 2 Person Hot Tub

Family soaking in hot tub

Buying Guides

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Hot Tub

Hot tub water close up

Buying Guides

Crucial Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Hot Tub

Spa Jets

Buying Guides

How to make the most of your visit to any hot tub store

Close up spa hot tub water

Buying Guides

Best Rated Hot Tubs: Which Are Rated the Best?

Hot tub interior close up

Buying Guides

Top Hot Tub Brands of 2026: Reviews & Comparisons

Spa control screen

Buying Guides

Installing a Hot Tub on Deck: What to Know

Hot tub jet system

Buying Guides

Which Hot Tub Brand Is Most Reliable?

Hot tub jet bubbles

Buying Guides

Which Hot Tub Is the Most Energy Efficient in 2026?

Swim Spa in backyard

Buying Guides

Costco Swim Spa: Prices, Pros & Cons, and Better Alternatives in 2026

Backyard swim spa

Buying Guides

How Much Does a Swim Spa Weigh?

Swim Spa in the cold

Buying Guides

Swim Spa Tubs: Best Models & Buying Guide

Family in outdoor hot tub

Buying Guides

Smallest Hot Tub: Compact Sundance® Spas for Small Spaces

Family Fun in outdoor hot tub

Buying Guides

Best Hot Tub 6 Man: Reviews, Sizes & Prices

Small patio hot tub setup

Buying Guides

How to Cool a Hot Tub: Make Summer Soaks Refreshing, Not Overwhelming

Spa at night

Buying Guides

Sundance Prado Hot Tub Review: Entry-Level Quality and Value

Spa Filter

Buying Guides

The Best Hot Tubs on the Market

Family Fun in a Spa

Buying Guides

10-Person Hot Tub: Dimensions, Features, and Planning Guide

Happy couple soaking in hot tub

Buying Guides

Used Hot Tub Buying Guide

Happy couple soaking in hot tub

Buying Guides

How Much Should You Spend on a Good Hot Tub?

Women socializing in outdoor spa

Buying Guides

Discovering the Best 2-Person Hot Tubs from Sundance® Spas

Under water spa seats

Buying Guides

Choosing the Right Hot Tub Seats: A Guide to Comfort and Relaxation

Man in hot tub alone

Buying Guides

Fluidix® Jets vs. Caldera® Spas' Hot Tub Jets

Spa beverage cooler

Buying Guides

A Comprehensive Guide to 6-Person Hot Tubs

Couple enjoying spa time in hot tub

Buying Guides

Finding Sundance® Spas Near You

Family enjoying a hot tub together

Buying Guides

Choosing the Right Hot Tub Size: What You Need to Know

Luxury hot tub

Buying Guides

Hot Tub Dimensions: A Comprehensive Guide to Size and Space Considerations

Checking spa water

Buying Guides

Top 5 Essential Features for Quality Hot Tubs

close up on spa jets

Buying Guides

What To Do When Visiting A Hot Tub Store

Spa on a deck

Buying Guides

Should I Buy a Used Hot Tub?

Woman in hot tub

Buying Guides

Understanding Hot Tub Height: Why It Matters in Your Hot Tub Shopping Journey

Hot tub on deck

Buying Guides

Hot Tubs with the Lowest Cost of Ownership: A Comprehensive Guide

Hot tub interior close up

Buying Guides

What to Expect at a Hot Tub Store: A Comprehensive Guide

Spa Filter

Buying Guides

The Best Hot Tub for Cleaning: Top Choices for Easy Maintenance and Hygiene

Empty hot tub

Buying Guides

Choosing the Perfect Hot Tub for Your Backyard Retreat

Woman in luxury spa alone

Buying Guides

Finding the Perfect Above-Ground Hot Tub: A Comprehensive Guide

Family in backyard hot tub

Buying Guides

The Best Three-Person Hot Tubs for 2026: Elevate Your Relaxation with Sundance® Spas

Hot tub water jets

Buying Guides

Finding the Perfect Hot Tub with Underwater Jets: A Guide to Sundance® Spas

outdoor hot tub

Buying Guides

Consumer Reports' Top Picks: The Best Hot Tubs for a Relaxing Soak

Couple in a Hot Tub

Buying Guides

The Best Spa Tubs for Two for a Relaxing Retreat

Large Hot Tubs

Buying Guides

Exploring the Best Large Hot Tubs: A Guide to Sundance® Spas

Large Luxury Spas

Buying Guides

Discovering the Finest Large Luxury Spas

Person relaxing in hot tub

Buying Guides

What Hot Tubs Are Made in the United States?

Woman enjoying hot tub

Buying Guides

The Best 9-Person Spas for Spacious Comfort

Hot tub in daylight

Buying Guides

Discovering the Best Hot Tubs for Clean and Healthy Water: Sundance Spas®

Outdoor swim spa

Buying Guides

The Top Hot Tubs for Athletes: Features for Enhanced Recovery

Hot tub interior close up

Buying Guides

Your Comprehensive Buying Guide to Hot Tubs: Choosing the Perfect Spa Experience

Women on the phone

Buying Guides

Exploring Hot Tub Financing

Spa Speaker

Buying Guides

Top Hot Tub Brands: A Comprehensive Review of the Best Manufacturers in the Market

Swim Spa That Cover

Buying Guides

The Essential Guide to Hot Tub Covers: Benefits, Types, and Maintenance

Family in backyard hot tub

Buying Guides

Finding the Best Hot Tub Deals: Exploring Hot Tub Sales Near Me

Stone surround hot tub

Buying Guides

Hot Tub Prices Explained: Understanding Costs and Value for Your Relaxation Investment

Women in Swim Spa

Buying Guides

Indulge in Luxury: Exploring the Best Large Hot Tubs

Family enjoys A spa

Buying Guides

Considering a Used Hot Tub? Know What to Look For

Luxury spa cooler setup

Buying Guides

Discovering the Perfect Spas for Socializing and Gatherings

Friends socializing in outdoor hot tub

Buying Guides

Choosing the Right Spa

Friends socializing in outside of the hot tub

Buying Guides

Understanding 4-Person Hot Tub Costs and Features

Luxury hot tub in backyard patio

Buying Guides

Understanding Hot Tub Costs: A Guide to Different Spa Options

Hot tub with LED lighting at night

Buying Guides

The Versatility and Convenience of Portable Hot Tubs