For most people, cost plays a large role in whether or not they own a hot tub. Often, people assume that a high-quality hot tub is outside of their budget, and they don’t even consider it. Others believe that they can purchase a low-end, cheap model and get the same results as a top-of-the-line spa. However, smart consumers do their research and plan their hot tub purchase so they can get the best quality product at the best price, which is why you’re here. For more information about hot tub cost, maintenance cost, and hot tub finance options, check out the sections below.
Hot tub prices vary according to size, model, and accessories, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $2,000 and $18,000 on your initial purchase. The more you invest in your hot tub up front, the more included features, like durability and energy efficiency. A higher-end model will last much longer than a cheaper model and will save you money over time on maintenance and upkeep.
When estimating hot tub cost, you’ll also need to figure in chemicals (about $20-$40 per month), filters (about $45 each), and replacement covers. You’ll most likely need to replace your cover between four and six years after your purchase, and you can plan to spend approximately $500 for a new cover. Finally, you’ll need to include the cost of running the spa. Bullfrog Spas is the leader in energy efficiency, with an estimated monthly cost of $11.81, compared to other companies which can be as high as $18.80 per month.
When you live in areas with colder weather, your hot tub will have to work harder to stay warm, which will result in higher energy costs. Make sure the hot tub you choose includes full-foam insulation and an advanced water delivery system, like the ones made by Bullfrog Spas, and avoid perimeter system insulation and excessive pipes and tubes. It is also wise to get a hot tub cover that is durable, fits snugly, and is strong enough to hold the weight of a heavy snowfall. Learn more about the best hot tubs for cold climates.
If you don’t have the full amount saved to cover hot tub costs, or you don’t want to use it all at once, there are several hot tub finance options available. One benefit to hot tub financing is that you are able to spread out the cost over time, which allows you to get the hot tub and features you really want. As with any big purchase, you want to gather information about all your hot tub finance options before choosing one, so you can be sure you are making the best choice for you.
Hot tubs can be financed through the dealers themselves, which is great because you can finish the approval process quickly. A personal loan is another great way to go, and allows you to compare rates before committing. You can also use a home equity loan or a HELOC. Both of these involve using the equity of your home as collateral for your hot tub cost, but a HELOC works more like a credit card with a spending limit, where a home equity loan has a predetermined total given in one lump sum.
As you conduct your research for buying a hot tub remember to also look at customer ratings to get trustworthy online reviews to make sure you are getting a great product. Get started choosing the hot tub of your dreams by visiting Robert Allen Pools and Spas today. Don’t forget to ask about our energy efficient Bullfrog Spas hot tub models.
If you own a pool, you know how exciting it is once spring rolls around. That means the weather starts to warm up and it’s time to get ready to jump into the pool. But knowing how to open a pool in the spring is important.
Think about it: Your pool has been sitting untouched for several months. If not maintained and opened properly, it won’t be ready for that first swim. For those of you who enjoy a special DIY project, we’ve put together these simple steps to getting your pool ready for spring.
You can’t get to your pool before taking off the cover. But before you do, it’s important to clear the cover of debris. This might seem like a no-brainer, but many people think they can get away with just removing the cover, causing leaves and sticks to enter the pool water.
If you have a solid pool cover, water and ice might have accumulated over the winter months. Pump out this water so it doesn't enter your pool. Simply use a wet-vac to remove the moisture. Remember to keep your cover tight so it’s easier to remove water and other debris.
Mesh covers don’t need intensive cleaning and you can just rinse them. No matter what you use, avoid pressure washers as they can damage any pool cover.
When you winterized your pool, the return lines were blown out to remove water. You might have also added any antifreeze or ice compensator into the pool’s skimmer. Now, it’s time to reverse that process.
First, remove all the winterizing plugs from return lines and the ice compensator from your skimmer.
Then, evacuate any antifreeze by turning the handle on your multiport valve to waste. This will push everything to the waste line as the pump is running. You’ll then want to clean out the cartridge filters—or replace them—and replace the return fittings along with any old filters.
Your pool should already have water in it from when you properly winterized it, but you probably lost water over time due to evaporation. It’s important to bring water levels up to halfway up your skimmer—just use a garden hose.
This last step includes checking your filter, priming the pump, and making sure the water is clean. Pool owners must ensure the chemicals in the pool are properly added, as this is critical to the health and safety of the pool and those who swim in it. There are numerous YouTube videos to help you properly balance the pool’s chemicals.
To learn more about preparing your pool and how to open it during spring, give us a call. We’re experts in pool maintenance and can help you learn more about properly caring for your pool. And if you’re in any of our service areas, come see us to see how we can help.
