Buying a Hot Tub — What to Know Before You Commit

A hot tub is a significant purchase and there's a lot to consider beyond the initial price. This guide covers the practical questions we get asked most often — not to sell you anything, but to help you make a decision you won't regret.

Where will it go?

This is genuinely the most important question and it's worth spending time on before looking at models. Things to consider:

• Access: A hot tub needs to reach your garden. Standard hot tubs are 2–2.4m wide. Can you get it through your gate or side passage? Most tubs can be craned over a house if needed, but this adds cost.
• Base: Hot tubs require a solid, level base capable of supporting 1.5–3 tonnes (water plus tub plus bathers). Concrete slab or reinforced paving is ideal. Decking requires structural engineering if it's not purpose-built for hot tub use.
• Electrical supply: Most UK hot tubs require a dedicated 32A or 40A supply with RCD protection, installed by a Part P certified electrician. This needs to be close to the installation point.
• Privacy and screening: Consider sight lines from neighbours and the road before committing to a location.

How much does a hot tub cost to run?

A common figure quoted is "£1 per day" but reality varies significantly. A poorly insulated tub in an exposed location without a heat pump can cost £150–£200 per month. A well-insulated tub with a heat pump in a sheltered location costs £20–£50 per month. The initial purchase price is often less than the 5-year running cost.

What size and seat count do you actually need?

More seats does not mean more value. A 7-seat tub is large and expensive to heat when you use it with 2 people. Consider:

• How many people actually use it regularly — not maximum capacity on special occasions
• A 4-person tub in regular use gives a better experience than a 7-person tub that's always half empty
• Smaller tubs heat faster, cost less to run, and are easier to maintain

Acrylic vs inflatable

Inflatable hot tubs are significantly cheaper upfront (£300–£1,000) but cost more to run (poor insulation), have weaker jets, a shorter lifespan (3–5 years), and are less satisfying to use. An acrylic tub is a 10–20 year purchase with the right maintenance. If you're committed to regular use, it's worth spending on an acrylic tub.

Things to look for when buying

• Insulation: Full foam insulation throughout the cabinet, not just a layer on the shell
• Pump quality: Balboa and Waterway are the most reliable brands. Avoid unknown-brand pumps.
• Control system: Balboa or Gecko control systems have good engineer support and part availability. Some cheaper tubs use proprietary systems with no repair pathway.
• Warranty: 5 years on shell, 2 years on equipment is standard for quality tubs
• Local support: Who will service it? Make sure there's a local engineer who knows the brand before you buy.

New vs second-hand

Second-hand hot tubs can be excellent value but carry risk. Ask for service history, test it with water in situ before purchasing, and budget for a full service and water change immediately after purchase. Be wary of tubs that are being sold because they "keep breaking down".

If you're considering a purchase and want an honest opinion, feel free to call us — we're happy to advise without any sales pressure.