Our experts at Creative Energy answer your frequently asked questions about hot tub costs, maintenance, cleaning and use.
How much does a hot tub cost to operate?
Besides the initial cost of the hot tub, another deciding factor in whether to purchase a hot tub or not is ongoing operating cost. And again, that answer really depends on a few factors: which brand/model you purchase, which water care system you choose, how often you use your spa, and where you live (climate and cost for electricity).
Hot Spring has a nifty energy calculator you can use to get a ballpark estimate of monthly operating costs in your area.
Furthermore, you’ll need to take into account the cost and use of chemicals to treat your water, which you should do regularly. Water care chemicals typically cost $10 to $20 a month, but this largely depends on how often you use your hot tub.
Can we use our hot tub year-round?
Absolutely. Winter, spring, summer, or fall, hot tubs are the perfect way to relax and unwind any time of year.
How much does a hot tub cost?
If you’re in the market for a hot tub, one of the biggest deciding factors for which model you choose or even whether you decide to get a hot tub or not is price. How much will it cost? Unfortunately, the answer depends. The sale price of a new spa can range anywhere from $4,000 to $20,000 and more. However, remember that while this may be a steep initial cost, your new spa will last for many, many years with proper care, which is a worthwhile investment.
Do you have a service department?
We sure do! Our Richmond service center services all of the Bay Area including San Francisco, South Bay and the North Bay. Our technicians offer a variety of services including on-site repair and maintenance, parts ordering and professional cleaning services. Request a technician today.
How long will my hot tub last?
Many factors affect the lifespan of a hot tub including the upkeep and durability. Cheaper hot tubs may only last up to 5 years, mid-tier between 10-15 years, and luxury models up to 20 years. However, proper maintenance and water care will extend the life of your spa, so a cheaper, well-maintained hot tub will last longer than a neglected luxury one.
How do I keep my hot tub water clean?
Keeping your hot tub clean both enhances your soaking experience every time and extends the lifespan of your hot tub. And to do that, you need to regularly clean your hot tub, its cover, and treat your water regularly with the correct chemicals.
If you’re not sure how to care for your hot tub, we have quite a few hot tub how-to videos showing you step-by-step how to take care of your hot tub. Plus, we wrote a comprehensive guide on how to treat your spa water. But if you need professional help, you can also schedule a cleaning service.
How much maintenance will my hot tub require?
When considering purchasing a hot tub, many people worry about ongoing care and maintenance. Thankfully, today’s hot tubs from Hot Spring and Fantasy Spas are easier to take care of than ever before. Water care takes as little as 5 minutes a week and filter care as little as 15 minutes a month.
What is the difference between a hot tub and a spa?
The words “hot tub” and “spa” are often used interchangeably and for the most part, they can be used interchangeably. But there are some distinctions. A hot tub, for instance, is a type of spa: an above-ground portable spa specifically. Hot tubs are completely self-contained vessels, so all the plumbing and electrical are built inside the cabinet.
A spa, on the other hand, can be either above-ground and portable (a hot tub), or in-ground like at a hotel or gym. In-ground spas are usually attached to in-ground pools and require a lot more energy and maintenance.
Can I finance my hot tub?
We offer multiple hot tub financing options with approved credit to our customers.
How often should I drain my hot tub?
Whether you use your spa regularly or once in a blue moon, there will come a time when the water won’t look quite as clean or clear as it should be. If the water is balanced and you’ve been following our recommended steps for water care, then it may be time to drain it and start over.
For those using traditional water care, you will likely need to drain and refill your hot tub anywhere from 3-4 times a year. If you choose a saltwater system however, you may only have to drain and refill your spa 1 time yearly (again with proper water care).
How often should I clean my filter?
Your hot tub or spa will have anywhere from 1 to 5 filters that do need to be cleaned on occasion. We recommend you periodically clean your filters once a month and do a deep clean every few months. Check out this step-by-step video tutorial on how to clean your hot tub filters from our own Creative Energy service technicians.
How often should I clean my hot tub?
A clean hot tub means clean water which means a much more enjoyable soak. How often you clean your hot tub will depend largely on two factors: how often you use your hot tub and what water care system you use. But ideally you should:
- Test you water weekly and treat it accordingly based on the readings from the test
- Clean your filters at least once a month
- Drain, deep clean, and refill your hot tub once every few months for a traditional water care system and once a year for a saltwater system
I have an old hot tub and I’m interested in buying a new one to replace it. Do you accept trade-ins?
Absolutely. Feel free to visit one of our showrooms in San Rafael, San Mateo or Concord to reserve a spa of your choice. During your reservation, we can discuss scheduling a time to come out and appraise your old spa. Otherwise, if you’re unsure of which model you want, feel free to contact us to discuss your options.
Do I need special plumbing or wiring to install my hot tub?
Hot tubs are portable, completely self-contained spas with all of the plumbing and electrical built into the cabinet. When it comes to your plumbing, the only thing you will need is a hose to fill up your new hot tub.
For your electrical, if you own a 110V hot tub, all you have to do is plug it into any normal outlet. For a 220V hot tub, there is a bit more setup necessary. Mainly, you will need to work with a certified electrician to ensure you have enough electricity to power your new spa and run the appropriate wires from your panel to the hot tub. Your dealer can help you understand the pros and cons of the two electrical configurations and can explain the specific electrical requirements for the model you choose.
What size hot tub should I get?
The size of your hot tub is an important decision that really depends on how you plan to use it, who will be using it, and how many seats you will want/need. Thankfully, Hot Spring and Fantasy Spas hot tubs come in a wide range of sizes and configurations so there is sure to be an option just right for you.
If you’re not sure what model is best for you, why not schedule a free private test soak? Come to one of our Bay Area showrooms and try out your dream hot tub before you buy it to get a feel for the size and configuration.
When will my new hot tub arrive?
When your new Hot Spring spa arrives will depend on our current inventory. If we have your exact model in the cabinet and shell colors you ordered, delivery usually happens within 1 week of purchase. Our staff will schedule a day that works best for you to come, deliver and install your new hot tub, free!
However, if we don’t have your exact model and specifications in stock at our warehouse, we will have to custom order it from the manufacturer, Hot Spring. And delivery timeframes for manufacturer ordered hot tubs will depend on availability which means anywhere from 2-3 weeks.
How long will it take to install my new hot tub?
We are more than happy to deliver and install your newly purchased hot tub free of charge. Our staff will schedule a day that works best for you to come out and set up. Installation itself will only take 2-3 hours, however, this does not include the time to fill or heat up your new spa. Also, please note that it is your responsibility as the owner to prepare the installation site BEFORE delivery and installation, as well as have all electrical work completed if you’ve purchased a 220V model.
