Hot Tub Shopping

**forHISglory** · 07-23-2010, 10:53 AM

We are shopping for a hot tub. Just want a very small one for 2 or 3 people. Any advice?

**Russ** · 07-23-2010, 11:11 AM

I have one.
I would first look for a used one on CraigsList in your area.

You say 2-3 people but if I was to do it again I would get the smallest one possible. You are going to be in it for a max of 20-30 minutes MOST of the time, not having parties.

If you decide to buy new, go look at a lot of different brands. Tell them you are shopping so you are looking for the best deal. Read reviews! Do not trust what they tell you, especially about other brands. Some stores will actually let you try them out in their showroom.

In the heat of summer, mine is off. Best time to use it, IMO, is when it is about 10*F outside.

**Mom2-3** · 07-23-2010, 11:20 AM

Do you have the foundation laid down? What about the electrical? Permits(if applicable)?

I found that all of that setting up cost quite a bit more than expected.

**Russ** · 07-23-2010, 11:25 AM

Agreed on the set up costs. Although I did plan on upgrading my elec anyway when I got my tub so it worked out.
As for the foundation, I think it is minimal if you are only getting a 2-3 person tub.

Electrical reminds me..
I believe there are some models out there that are just the plug in type. From what I read (years ago), they were under powered and are not very efficient. This may have changed. Again, research.

**pollypurebred39** · 07-23-2010, 05:26 PM

We're big into research before we buy anything. We even researched our used car so well we ended up getting it for almost 1/2 what the dealer was asking for it. The car dealer said something to me about how my DH sure knew how to get the best deal. LOL!

Research pays off, here's a few sites you might want to look through.

Hot Tub Spa Buyer's Guide, Spa Ratings, Hot Tub Ratings, Hot Tub Spa Manufacturer Directory and Links, Hot Tub Spa Dealers, Rate Hot Tub Spa Brands,spam! It is better fried than typed Hot Tub Spa Ratings, Best Hot Tub Spa, Hot Tub Spa Makers, Hot Tub Spa Manufacturers, Hot Tub Manufa

Hot Tub Spas Ratings, Best Rated Home Spa - ConsumerSearch

Recomended Spa / Hot Tub Brands Spas and Hot Tubs Recomended by the Professionals

ENJOY YOUR NEW HOT TUB!!!!!

**Libby** · 07-23-2010, 05:31 PM

fHg - I wish you lived closer b/c you could have ours. It came with the house when we bought it over 10 yrs ago and well we've used it 10 times I think? Its great for 2 people or 3 'very friendly' people

Beachcomber.

What surprised me the most was how much energy/hydro it used as well as the upkeep costs. Never thought it'd be that much.