Are you thinking about buying a hot tub? For whatever reason—be it the way hot tubs are used by our favorite TV characters or the “money-saving” tips that well-meaning people share—you’ve undoubtedly heard a few myths about hot tubs. As you dive in to research, let us bust 7 of the most common hot tub myths for you so you can shop for spas with all the right information!
Hot Tub Myth #1: Hot Tub Maintenance is Expensive
Are you worried that you’re going to have to shell out big bucks each month to care for your hot tub? Don’t be! Most months it only takes test strips and a moderate amount of chemicals to care for your water. On average, your monthly cost for hot tub maintenance will probably be about $20. Then, occasionally, you’ll need replacement supplies, like filters and cartridges.
Hot Tub Myth #2: Hot Tub Maintenance is Time Consuming
When you sit in your hot tub, you want the water to be pristine, so cleanliness is definitely a top priority. However, your hot tub does most of the work for you. A hot tub’s filtration system, combined with the water sanitizer you add, will clean your water. All you’ll need to do regularly is check the water with test strips, add the appropriate chemicals, and clean the filters as needed (typically every few weeks). Then, most spas will need a deeper clean every 3-4 months. You’ll drain the water, clean your spa, and refill it.
Hot Tub Myth #3: A Hot Tub Will Jack Up Your Energy Bill
This is a case of “you get what you pay for”. A low-quality hot tub with cheap components and poor insulation will translate to a high utility bill. However, a high-quality spa uses less energy than you might expect. If you purchase an energy-efficient hot tub and keep it covered with a nicely-insulated cover when not in use, you can expect your monthly energy bill to increase by only $15-$20 on average.
Hot Tub Myth #4: Swimming Pool Chlorine Tablets Work Just Fine in Hot Tubs
Nope, nope, nope! Bad idea. You only want to use water chemicals designed to operate in spas. Your hot tub water will be over 100℉ most of the time, and non-spa water care chemicals are NOT designed to take the heat. And while we’re talking about water care, that brings us to…
Hot Tub Myth #5: All Spa Chemicals Work the Same
You might find cheap hot tub chemicals at the Big Box Store or online, but they’re cheap for a reason. Many of them are watered down or low-quality. So, while you might pay less upfront, you need to use a larger quantity or add chemicals more often. In the end, you spend more money. Instead, always buy spa chemicals from a spa dealer like The Pool People. Your hot tub will thank you!
Hot Tub Myth #6: More Jets = A Better Hot Tub
We know you want a great hydromassage when you slide into your hot tub. Don’t believe myths that say more jets is the way to get it. Several factors matter, such as:
- Jet Placement: 100 tiny jets can’t give you the massage that a well-placed set of larger jets can provide. That’s why we recommend you try out your hot tub before you buy. Even sitting in a dry hot tub will give you a good idea where the jets will hit your back, neck, or shoulders. Better yet, let us set you up with a test soak! We can professionally fit you to the hot tub that is perfect for your needs. That way, you’ll know for sure that the jets are going to provide the exact hydromassage you’re craving.
- Jet Action: Did you know not all jets work the same? Some jets rotate, some pulsate, and others sweep up and down your back. It’s important to understand what type of jet action the hot tub you’re interested in provides. Of course, just like with jet placement, a test soak allows you to experience it for yourself and discover what feels best to you.
- Water Output: A hot tub might have a lot of jets, but if it doesn’t have high water output, the spray coming out of each jet will be weak. Water output is something to discuss with your spa dealer, for whichever model you’re considering.
Hot Tub Myth #7: Hot Tubs are Just for Relaxing
Okay, let’s be real, one of the reasons you’re going to LOVE owning a hot tub is how relaxing it is to enjoy a soak after a hard day of work. But, that’s not the only hot tub benefit! Your new hot tub will also:
- Help you sleep better
- Relieve stress
- Ease anxiousness
- Lower blood pressure
- Increase circulation
- Decrease joint pain
- Help sore muscles recover faster
- Increase your flexibility
- Improve symptoms from chronic conditions like arthritis
- Provide a place to build relationships with family and friends
- And so much more!
Now that you know what myths not to believe about hot tubs, are you ready to learn more? Visit any of The Pool People locations and we’ll answer any other questions you might have about spas. When you are ready, we have the ideal hot tub to perfectly fit each and every one of your needs!
