Best hot tub for the money

Get into relaxation mode with the best hot tubs for your backyard. Whether you’re looking for bubble therapy that will help to soothe sore muscles or a space of your own to unwind with your family and close friends on a Friday night, a home hot tub is a great way to treat yourself. With features such as jets and low-pressure systems for different massage therapies, you’ll be primed to let go of any tension and fully unwind.

The best hot tubs might have a rep for being a pricy addition to your backyard, but a good-quality hot tub doesn't necessarily have to cost an arm and leg. More premium models may cost $16,000 or so, but there are many more budget-friendly options that are easy to run and still have good energy efficiency to keep running costs low. For the cheapest of them of all, the best inflatable hot tubs (opens in new tab) are a great entry-level option into the home hot tub world. 

Depending on how many people will be sharing your bubbles at one time, a smaller model will also cost less. Hot tubs generally range between two-person and eight-person models, so if you want to make sure no one’s left out, you’ll want to account for all the family members (or visitors) that will be joining you.

If you’re planning on making one of the best hot tubs the center of your party or evening drinks, many models come with atmospheric LED lights, drink coolers and integrated sound systems to blast party (or relaxing) tunes. The hot tubs in our round-up also come in many different colors and styles, making them easy on the eyes too.

For another addition that will help to treat any joint pain and aid relaxation, check out our guide to the best swim spas (opens in new tab).

The best hot tub brands

1. Sundance Spa: Best hot tubs overall 

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The best hot tub brand overall, with premium features and plenty of choice

Specifications

Price range: Entry level - luxury

Sizes: 2 person to 8 person hot tubs

Energy efficient models: Yes

Reasons to buy

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UV-C sanitation and water features

Reasons to avoid

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Mostly premium and luxury models

Sundance Spas offers the best hot tub features, from standard built-in smart capabilities to its adjustable Fluidix jets. Though most of Sundance’s models fall in the premium and luxury price ranges, the brand does offer a good variety of spas
across the entry- and mid-level price ranges in small, medium and large tubs. 

Even the less expensive models come with multiple shell, cabinet and cover color options, as well as premium features such as UV-C water sanitation and waterfalls that many other companies charge as upgrades. 

All Sundance hot tubs are compatible with the SmartTub mobile app, though this requires a paid subscription after the first year - a bit of a bummer. 

• Read our Sundance Spas Hot Tubs review (opens in new tab)

2. Master Spas: Best hot tubs for value

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The best hot tub company for people seeking a budget spa

Specifications

Price range: Entry level - luxury

Sizes: 2 person to 8 person

Energy efficient models: Yes

Reasons to buy

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Many entry and mid-priced hot tubs 

Reasons to avoid

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Few customization options

Made in the U.S., Master Spas’ hot tubs offer a good mix of unique standard features and desirable upgrades, especially in the entry-level and mid-level price ranges. The brand has 21 hot tub models, 13 of which fall into the entry-level and mid-level price ranges, and all of which are made in the US. 

These hot tubs span all sizes and represent four product lines: Clarity, Healthy living, Twilight, and the Michael Phelps Legend series. Master Spas offers several premium features standard in all models, including waterfalls and a unique bio-magnetic therapy system to relieve aches and pains. 

Master Spas also has the best hot tub upgrade options, including both UV-C and ozone sanitation options, a Wi-Fi module and Bluetooth audio. 

• Read our Master Spas Hot Tubs review (opens in new tab)

3. Jacuzzi: Best luxury hot tub company

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If you're a fan of luxury living, Jacuzzi has the best hot tubs for you

Specifications

Price range: Budget to luxury

Sizes: 2 person to 9 person hot tubs

Energy efficient models: Yes

Reasons to buy

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Iconic brand, with a great reputation

Reasons to avoid

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Limited customization options

Considered by many to be the most iconic hot tub brand, Jacuzzi has a range of 26 hot tubs to choose from. Despite its transparent pricing tiers, it is undeniable that you’ll find buying a Jacuzzi tub a lot easier if you have a larger budget. The brand has only two hot tubs in its most budget range, but five in the luxury range. The brand offers hot tubs in two seater models, but it goes up to nine seaters, which is the best option for those hoping to entertain friends and family in their new hot tub. 

Jacuzzi was founded to offer hydrotherapy for those suffering with arthritis, but these tubs also come with an attractive exterior and numerous color options. Although there’s no explicitly energy-saving hot tubs, Jacuzzi designs its tubs to preserve the heat from the motor and use this to warm the water. The jet system uses a mix of air and water to provide high-pressure massages, and the jet placement targets key muscles from your neck to your legs. 

The Jacuzzi warranty depends on the tub you buy, but they go up to ten years on the shell structure, and five years on the electrical system. It’s not the best we’ve seen, but this is a pretty standard industry coverage. 

• Read our full Jacuzzi review (opens in new tab)

4. Bullfrog Spa: Best hot tubs for massage

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A hot tub company that will give you the best massages

Specifications

Price range: Mid-range - luxury

Sizes: 2 person to eight person (seats)

Energy efficient models: Yes

Reasons to buy

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JetPak system with interchangeable jets 

Reasons to avoid

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No salt water or UV sanitation options

Bullfrog Spas’ unique JetPak Therapy System lets you customize your massage with 18 options that each target a different type of massage therapy. Though most hot tubs offer some degree of customization when it comes to color options and even upgradeable features, Bullfrog Spas lets you pick exactly what kind of jets and massage therapy to put in each seat in your new hot tub. 

The interchangeable JetPaks, available for most models of Bullfrog Spas hot tubs, give you 16 seat back options for each seat in your spa that require less tubing and are more energy efficient than many spas on the market. 

Though Bullfrog does sell hot tub models without the JetPak system, the interchangeable jets and customization options are really the big selling point of this brand. Aside from the pre-set models, Bullfrog also enables you to design your own completely custom spa. If you're feeling tense, stiff and sorely in need of a full body massage in water, these are the best hot tubs for you. 

• Read our Bullfrog Spas Hot Tubs review (opens in new tab)

5. Hot Springs: Best hot tubs for two people or more

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Some of the best hot tubs for small spaces

Specifications

Price range: Entry level to luxury

Sizes: 2 person to 7 person hot tubs (seats)

Energy efficient models: Yes

Reasons to buy

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Five small hot tubs

Reasons to avoid

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Fewer shell color options

Hot Spring has 20 hot tub models, five of which are built for two or three people. Most of the hot tub manufacturers we evaluated have only three models, so Hot Spring offers a better selection of small spas. Three of these spas are part of the brand’s Hot Spot collection, which fall into the value price range and have 10-17 jets. 

The other two are premium-priced spas from Hot Spring’s top tier Highlife collection and have 14 or 22 jets. Hot Spring also has 10 medium hot tubs and five large spas with various price ranges, all of which come equipped with energy-saving features and are certified by the California Energy Commission.

• Read our Hot Spring Hot Tubs review (opens in new tab)

6. PDC Spas: Best hot tubs with a large capacity

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This swim spa company also makes some great large capacity hot tubs

Specifications

Price range: Entry-level - luxury

Sizes: 2 person to 7 person

Energy efficient models: Yes

Reasons to buy

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Good variety of price points

Reasons to avoid

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Not the largest range

PDC Spas has a great selection of hot tub and spa combos, but it also creates some of the best hot tubs with a large capacity that we have reviewed. There's 16 hot tubs in total. The company has two three-person hot tubs, and it has eight models which fit either six or seven people. Each of these hot tubs come with different features and star in a different range of PDC's hot tub series. 

There's three ranges of hot tubs to choose from. The LifeStyle Series is the most affordable of the group, with the Premium Series bridging the gap to the most premium Luxury Series. These tubs come with a 35-year warranty, but the LifeStyle hot tubs get a comparably weaker 10-year coverage. 

• Read our PDC Spas Review (opens in new tab)

7. Marquis Spas: Best hot tubs with built-in features

The hybrid hot tubs are sure to impress

Specifications

Price range: Mid to luxury

Sizes: 2 person to 7 person (seats)

Energy efficient models: Yes

Reasons to buy

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Corner and circular models also available

Reasons to avoid

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No specific prices on the website

Founded in 1980, Marquis Spas has come a long way since its launch. The brand is known for creating beautifully-looking hot tubs that create a luxurious experience, have a focus on hydrotherapy, and come with an extensive range of customization options available. Whether it’s an amped-up audio system you want fitted, LED lighting or aromatherapy options, no upgrade is out of bounds with Marquis Spas. 

The brand has five collections with more than 20 models available within its range, each of which come with a free cover. The price range for these tubs begin at around $7,000 and can go past $20,000 all depending on if you customize your tub and what model you choose from the different collections. This puts Marquis Spas’ hot tubs in the mid-range price tag category.

When it comes to Marquis Spas USPs, we’d have to say it’s the brand's take on hydrotherapy, self-cleaning and skin therapy. Marquis Spas has built a high flow therapy system that is built into all its collections. This system delivers as much water as possible at a low pressure – so users can enjoy a relaxing experience whilst soothing muscle discomfort. 

Marquis Spas' dedication to hydrotherapy can also be seen in their relationship with the charity Make A Wish. The brand helps children suffering from critical illnesses with hydrotherapy treatments, with $50 from each purchase going toward this worthy cause. 

A handful of Marquis Spas come with ConstantClean technology, that automatically runs cleaning cycles for a super fresh soak every time. While its MicroSilk program helps to gently exfoliate your skin with each dip. 

• Read our Marquis Spas review (opens in new tab)

8. Cal Spas: Best hot tub company for the biggest range

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A top-rated hot tub company with the biggest range of spas

Specifications

Price range: Entry level - luxury

Sizes: 2 person to 7 person hot tubs

Energy efficient models: Yes

Reasons to buy

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51 models and multiple shell colors

Reasons to avoid

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Overwhelming options for features and models 

If you’re looking for range, Cal Spas has the largest number of hot tub models of manufactures in this guide. In total, the manufacturer has 51 hot tub models each of which come with several colors to choose from. These also come in a range of shapes, including oval options, triangle-shaped styles and the more traditional square-shaped designs. 

Cal Spas also come with plenty of upgrade options too, so you can tailor your tub to your exact style, taste and needs. But while this means there is a Cal Spas hot tub for every home, this means it can be a little overwhelming when it comes to finding your dream tub. If you’re searching for a Cal Spas hot tub online, it’s hard to directly compare models without speaking to a representative. 

So what makes Cal Spas stand out? Out of all the other hot tub companies we researched, this US-based brand is the only manufacturer that offers a saltwater hot tub sanitation option, along with UV-C and ozone options. Other stand-out features include a special hydrotherapy system called the Fountain of Youth. 

This feature creates tiny bubbles to increase the amount of oxygen in the water, giving it a silkier feel and encouraging cell and collagen regeneration – hence its name. While another selling point exclusive to Cal Spas is its Adjustable Therapy seat. This lets you adjust your hydrotherapy by controlling the power and type of jet blast.

• Read our Cal Spas Hot Tubs review (opens in new tab)

9. ThermoSpas: Best hot tubs for customizable jets 

ThermoSpas Hot Tubs

You can design your ThermoSpas hot tub to suit your hydrotherapy needs exactly, with hundreds of jets and contoured seats.

Specifications

Price range: Mid to luxury

Sizes: 2 person hot tubs to 7 person (seats)

Energy efficient models: Yes

Reasons to buy

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Great warranties across their tubs

Reasons to avoid

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No pricing information online

ThermoSpas was founded in 1983 and prides itself on giving its customers a truly customized hot tub experience, with a big emphasis on hydrotherapy. We say this because the brand offers more jets than any other manufacturer, with up to 125 jets already fitted on certain models. For reference, most hot tub companies offer around 20 jets per tub, while ThermoSpas offers around 70. This makes ThermoSpas ideal for those suffering from arthritis or sore and achy muscles.

Personalization is key with ThermoSpas. The brand gives you the option to build your own tub – which is unheard of in the world of hot tubs. This means you’ll only ever pay for the features you want. Whether it’s LED lighting, beverage coolers, less seats or more jets. 

Let’s talk about the features. Perhaps one of the best and most innovative design features to come from ThermoSpas is its Total Control Therapy. This feature allows each person in the tub to have total control over the jets within their own seat to help you feel relaxed at the click of a button. 

ThermoSpas also offers free onsite inspections to ensure your tub is in tip-top condition. Plus ThermoSpas tubs come with an extended warranty with a 10-year assurance on all plumbing parts. Price-wise, ThermoSpas range from between $4,000 to around $22,000. But the size, add-ons and upgrades will dictate how much cash you part with. 

• Read our ThermoSpas review (opens in new tab)

10. Catalina Spas: Best hot tubs for customization

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Catalina Spas has plenty of options for jazzing up your home hot tub

Specifications

Price range: Mid-range - luxury

Size: 3 person hot tubs to 8 person (seats)

Energy Efficient models: Yes

Reasons to buy

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A large variety of features 

Reasons to avoid

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No specific pricing info 

Catalina Spas was established in 1978, and has a lucrative history of providing hot tubs and swim spas across the nation. They have two ranges of tubs available, with their more affordable Classic line containing six different hot tub models, alongside eight more Luxury tubs. 

This is quite a sparse selection compared to other leading hot tub brands, but there is an added bonus with Catalina Spas: each of these hot tubs have a standard set of features, even in the Classic collection, including stainless waterfalls, LED lighting and Bluetooth speakers. 

All of Catalina Spas’ hot tubs are made within the US, and they have plenty of cabinet color and tile options to choose from too, if you have a specific color palette or style in mind. For all the customization options you could ever want, Catalina Spas is worth checking out. 

• Read our full Catalina Spas review (opens in new tab).

11. Intex Hot Tubs: Top-rated inflatable hot tubs for all budgets

Intex Inflatable Hot Tubs

If you want a quality inflatable hot tub, look no further than Intex

Specifications

Price range: Cheap to mid-price

Sizes: 2 person to 6 person hot tubs

Energy efficient models: Yes

Reasons to buy

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Cheaper hot tubs for 2-6 people 

Reasons to avoid

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Not as powerful as others here

Intex is one of the most popular inflatable hot tubs brands in America, and makes a range of superb tubs for couples and families. The cheapest Intex hot tub, the SimpleSpa Bubble Massage, has an MSRP of $824.99, while the flagship model, the PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe Set, is priced $1,799.99. 

Intex hot tubs are built to last longer than the average inflatable, and utilize tougher materials to help them withstand plenty of use outdoors - and in different climates too. You’ll find that Intex uses 3-ply puncture-resistant material on many of its hot tubs, and reinforces them with horizontal beams to ensure they don’t flop over if you rest against the sides or sit on them. 

As for the bubbles, Intex is well known for its use of bubble jets, fitting its top-rated model, the PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe Set, with 140 individual bubble jets. These work together to provide a relaxing water-based massage, and while they aren’t as powerful as the jets used on other models in our guide, for the money they’re effective at soothing aches and pains. 

In short, if you don’t have the space or budget for one of the models made by the very best hot tub brands featured above, yet you want in on the soothing spa tub action, an Intex inflatable hot tub is a smart choice. 

• Read our Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa review (opens in new tab).

Still unsure which is the best hot tub for you? Fill out this quick Buyer Zone survey to view customized recommendations...

How to choose the best hot tub for you

Before buying a hot tub, there are some key considerations you need to make to ensure you choose the right one. It’s a subjective process - everyone’s space, taste and budget is different. Here are the key things to think about to make sure you buy the best hot tub for you… 

How big should a hot tub be?

Make sure you choose the right hot tub size by considering, firstly, how many people will be using it, and secondly, the space you have available. Small hot tubs will fit two-three people; larger hot tubs can fit eight or more. Most hot tub manufacturer’s websites list both the dimensions of each hot tub and how many people can sit comfortably within the tub, so you can be sure you're picking the right size. 

Hot tub therapy options

The number of jets in the tub, in addition to the placement and type of hydrotherapy the jets deliver are important features to think about when purchasing a hot tub. Hot tub manufacturers use different techniques to imitate a variety of massage types from deep tissue to light caress. 

Some use a combination of water and air, some use high-pressure and others use high-flow jets. If you want a full-body massage, look for a hot tub with lounge seats and leg or feet jets. Some spa models combine hydrotherapy and aromatherapy for a more relaxing experience. 

Hot tub build quality

When shopping, look into the materials used in the hot tub’s construction. Most hot tubs use an acrylic interior shell supported by a frame made of either treated wood or metal and surrounded by a wood or synthetic cabinet. As long as it isn’t exposed to elements, the frame should last the lifetime of your hot tub, no matter what it’s made of. 

Pay more attention to the hot tub’s insulation, as this directly affects operating costs. A poorly insulated spa costs more to heat because the heater has to run more to keep water at a set temperature, and overworking the components can lead to early malfunction. 

Getting a well-insulated hot tub is particularly important in locations that reach low temperatures. To this end, look for a full-foam insulated hot tub rather than a model with partial foam insulation or one that just uses a thermal wrap. 

Chlorine vs salt water hot tubs: Which type is right for you?

Spa water purification plays a vital role in the health of your hot tub, and whichever one you choose, it will need to be maintained, so it’s important to get to know the difference between these two types. 

Chlorine has been used to keep hot tub water clean for decades, and helps to eliminate bacteria and other nasties from the water in your tub. Chlorine (a combination of oxygen and hydrogen in water) usually comes in a liquid or dissolvable solid form, and is effective at killing salmonella, bacteria, some viruses such as influenza, and E.coli. 

Sounds good, right? Yes, but chlorine in hot tubs also has some drawbacks. Firstly, it smells. Secondly, while weak, hydrochlorous acid is still an acid so it can irritate your eyes and skin. It also needs a lot of upkeep, so you’ll have to test your chlorine level at least once a week, but far more if you use it regularly. You’ll also have to test the pH level of the water. Thankfully, many of the best hot tub brands package their tubs with water care kits, with full instructions included, making it easy for you. 

Any hot tub can become a salt water hot tub if you add a salt chlorine generator. Salt water hot tubs have far less salt in them than seawater, and are regarded by some to be a more natural solution. Some salt water systems claim to clean and sanitize your hot tub water for up to a year, so you can soak and forget about that side of things.

The benefits of a salt water hot tub include increased water softness and buoyancy, and how it’s far gentler on your skin and eyes compared to chlorine. It doesn’t smell either, and it’s cheaper to run and maintain overall compared to a chlorine system.

However, there are some salt water hot tub disadvantages to note, and these include an initial higher cost on the saltwater system, and the higher risk of corrosion to any metal parts in your hot tub. The water temperature also needs to stay about 60℉ to work effectively when killing microorganisms, which could push up the cost of your energy bills.

How much do the best hot tubs cost?

Hot tub prices: How to get a rough idea

Do your homework. We’d recommend viewing a hot tub in person, if possible, to do a wet test. It is best to try the hot tub out before buying it, as the moulded seats are designed for an average size person and if you are on the smaller or taller size these seat can become uncomfortable. 

However, there are lots of features to consider when buying a hot tub, from seating style (do you want lounge-style seating, therapeutic seats or cool-down seats?) to jet type, the water filtration system (salt, ozone or UV-C?) and more. Try to choose an energy-efficient hot tub, too. Here are some areas to think about...

How much does a good hot tub cost?

The cost of a hot tub can be anywhere from $3,000 for a budget-priced tub to over $16,000 for a top-of-the-line spa with custom upgrades. Generally, inflatable hot tubs are the cheapest; above-ground hot tubs are more moderately priced; and in-the-ground hot tubs are the most expensive. 

Your budget will dictate which options are available to you, so first consider how much you have to spend on your new hot tub. Also, it's a good idea to research how much a certain hot tub might cost to run and maintain (and make sure you choose an option with a lifetime guarantee).  

Hot tub manufacturers rarely list the prices of hot tubs online because there are several factors that affect the price of each sale, including geography, dealer promotions and even the time of year. Of course, this also allows retailers to negotiate a higher price with people who don’t have good bartering skills. 

Many hot tub companies will categorize their selections into price ranges: budget, entry-level, mid-level, premium and luxury. However, some won't provide price guidelines unless you enquire. Bear in mind that the final price of your hot tub might differ significantly from the price of the tub itself, after you've included any upgrades or extras, installation and operating costs. 

Are hot tubs expensive to run? 

How much it costs to run a hot tub depends on your situation. Your running costs will depend on your energy supplier, where you live, and your hot tub of choice, as well as how often you plan on enjoying those gorgeously warm bubbles. Obviously, the bigger your tub, the more capacity it can hold, meaning the more energy it will use to heat the water. 

If you want to avoid hefty bills, take some time to consider exactly which size of hot tub is right for you, so you can prevent potentially unused space from racking up running costs unnecessarily.

Better insulation is the key to energy efficiency, so choose a reliable hot tub manufacturer who goes the extra mile with their materials to ensure heat stays inside. That includes insulation within your tub’s shell as well as the cover you choose for whenever it’s out of use. 

Another external factor that will affect your hot tub running costs is your location, as energy prices vary across states, as well as climates; in colder places, your hot tub will have to work extra hard to maintain a warm water temperature. 

Maintenance is an essential part of owning a hot tub, and the cost of cleaning materials is also worth factoring in when it comes to finances. Whilst some tubs have self-cleaning systems, others require traditional bottled chemicals to be added in on a regular basis, which in turn creates monthly expenses. 

If your hot tub dreams are dampened by the idea of regular cleaning, then self-cleaning systems may not cost too much more than buying products each month to keep your appliance in good shape and are worth investigating. 

Which hot tubs have the best warranty?

Investing in a hot tub for your home will bring boundless fun and relaxation into your home, but how can you feel reassured about your purchase for years to come? A sturdy warranty will give you peace of mind when it comes to your tub, and mean that there’s help on hand if you run into a range of issues. 

In the top-rated brands we looked at, warranties can stretch from one year to 35 years and often, the type of warranty attached to a tub will depend on how high-end it is. For example, a luxury range of tubs within the PDC brand has a 35-year warranty to back it up, so that you can feel reassured when splashing the cash that there’s a hefty guarantee to back your purchase up. Other brands offer a blanket warranty on all of their models, such as ThermoSpas, which will provide cover for ten years after purchase. 

Taking the plunge and installing a hot tub is a major financial decision, so it’s well worth factoring in a good warranty for your purchase. Be sure to look at the small print of any guarantee too and suss out whether it covers the shell, plumbing parts, or the whole model. 

What you should know before buying a hot tub

Plan where you want to put your hot tub

Where will you hot tub go? This will be a major factor in deciding which type of hot tube to get and the features you'll need, so plan the location of your hot tub carefully. If you are placing a hot tub outside, it is best to choose a model that holds heat well, so you’re not wasting energy by constantly reheating it. 

You might also want to consider the view, the distance from your house, and even how visible you will be to your neighbors. If you are placing your hot tub indoors, you might want to choose an area that is well ventilated so condensation doesn’t damage your home. 

Hot tub filtration and sanitation

The filtration and water sanitation systems in your hot tub keep the water sparking and clean. Spa models use different combinations of chemicals, filters, ozone and UV-C light to make sure your water stays clean. 

Most of the models we evaluated use multiple filters to remove dirt and small debris from the water. Many also offer ozone or UV-C sanitation options as standard installation or upgrades. These systems eliminate or neutralize bacteria as well. 

The best hot tub upgrades and extras to consider

When it comes to getting the hot tub of your dreams, upgrades and extras can make a real difference. So whilst jets and pumps are essential, there’s also a bunch of add-ons available to take your comfort to the next level. Unsurprisingly, one favorite among hot tub users is Bluetooth-connected speakers, because everyone wants to blast out their favorite tunes as they soak. 

That, plus LED mood lighting that you can change to create different types of ambience. These aesthetic features will definitely get your hot tub party off to a great start, and get your guests into the spirit of fun and relaxation.

If you like the convenience of controlling your appliances from your phone, then naturally the best hot tub for you is one with smart features. For example, luxury hot tubs often have touch screen controls so you can get your temperature and cleaning settings just right, as well as compatibility with your smartphone, so you can control your hot tub from wherever you are. If you don’t want to lift a finger when it comes to your tub, also look out for models with self-cleaning programs to make maintenance a breeze.

Waterfalls and water features are other additions that can add real pizzazz to your new hot tub, with the look and sound of running water adding a further element of peace and relaxation. And don’t forget about making space for snacks too, with cup holders and coolers available for those who like to keep both their food and beverages close to hand while relaxing in an outdoor tub.

Hot tub appearance

Most of the hot tubs we reviewed come in multiple shell and cabinet styles, with manufacturers offering more options for higher-tier product lines. Though not necessarily the most important aspect of your hot tub, appearance does play a role in the relaxing effects of your spa. Choosing a shell and UV-resistant cabinet in colors that blend in with your backyard creates a more laid-back setting, rather than an eye-sore. 

What’s the environmental impact of owning a hot tub? 

There’s no denying how the best hot tubs can quickly turn your backyard into a peaceful oasis, but the eco-minded among you might be wondering about the environmental effects of your new purchase on the planet. As with keeping running costs low, having a lesser environmental impact is all about good hot tub maintenance.

The less frequently you need to drain and refill your tub the better, so keep a good routine when it comes to adding sanitizers and cleaning fluids, as they will keep your water in better condition for longer. The same goes for regular maintenance of your hot tub filter, which is the way to keep detritus out of your water.

Though some environmentally-minded folks may already have homes powered by solar panels, getting a new hot tub may inspire you to think about where your energy comes from and push you to invest in a more eco-friendly source. And as with expenses, well-performing insulation and appropriate sizing (ie, picking the best hot tub size for how many of you will regularly use it) can do wonders when it comes to not draining energy resources.

Proper handling of waste materials is another step you can take on a journey to having a more sustainable hot tub. Be sure not to empty any chlorinated/chemically altered water into clean water supplies, and recycle chemical-free water from your tub by using it to water your plants or to clean your decking. For the sake of the planet and your backyard, it’s also worth being cautious about disposing of hot tub water onto grass, as any chemically treated water may kill off your luscious lawn.

Are hot tubs safe? 

Purchasing a hot tub will be sure to inject fun into your home, and given that they are maintained properly, they shouldn’t be a cause for concern when it comes to health. Keeping a routine of cleaning will prevent hot tubs from becoming a prime place for bacteria to grow. 

That includes checking the disinfectant level and adding chlorine at regular intervals, as well as keeping checks on the pH of the water. Your hot tub manufacturer should provide you with all the necessary information when it comes to cleaning, but if you’re ever in doubt when it comes to the cleanliness of your water, take precautions and don’t use it until the problem is remedied. 

Aside from cleaning, there are practical things, such as showering before each use, that you can do to limit the bacteria entering the tub’s water. You should also never enter your tub if you have symptoms of infection or illness, and wait until you’ve been symptom-free for at least 48 hours until you do so. 

Molly is the Staff Writer for the Home Section at Top Ten Reviews, joining the team after finishing college. When she's not writing she enjoys baking and embroidery, as well as getting stuck into a good book. She now enjoys writing about kitchen appliances, gardening tools, and will even dip her toe into writing about fridges and ovens.