This blog gives guidelines to avoid pitfalls that can result in a disappointing hot tub experience. Although we strongly recommend HotSpring as the leading worldwide brand, we make every effort to remain impartial when advising customers.
Based on our UK and worldwide experience, we know that whilst many people buy wisely, some make poor buying decisions. That’s one reason why, generally speaking, we would advise a measure of caution before deciding where to invest your trust, as well as your time, and of course, your money.
A number of people find disentangling the hot tub industry a confusing business. Brand names don’t necessarily indicate quality, as they would in more familiar markets, such as cars, where the differences are obvious between a Morris Minor, a Mini and a Maserati. Like cars, many hot tubs these days look similar.
And let’s face it, when all is said and done, they are basically tubs of bubbly water – so why do is there such a huge variation in price? Some hot tubs are available as online imports, whilst others require a showroom visit, with the associated time and effort that might entail.
With so many brands and models to choose from, what’s the secret of hot tub happiness?
One great way to establish brand awareness is to ask anyone you know who owns a hot tub. Most owners are happy to discuss their particular brand.
Here are some helpful questions to help you narrow your choices down:
1. How helpful and informative were sales staff when you first were considering your hot tub?
2. Did anyone pressure you into buying?
3. How much research did you do before buying your hot tub?
4. What other brands would you recommend?
5. What’s the history of the company you bought from?
6. Why did you buy your brand?
7. What’s the service and back up like?
8. If you do have a problem or issue, how is it dealt with?
9. Would you recommend your brand? If so, why? If not, why not?
10. If you had to choose again, would you still buy your
brand? If not, which brand would you buy, and why?
Consider these questions as guidelines, or prompts for a frank and open discussion.
For those of us who don’t know any hot tub owners, ask the hot tub company whether they can recommend customers you can talk to.
There are also a number of excellent publications available -one of the most popular being WhatSpa magazine. In addition, the Internet can provide guidance through a range of blogs and forums. And of course you are always welcome to post any questions or comments here, and we will do our best to answer them.
Put these strategies together, and you will be able to narrow your choices down to two or three showrooms, which you can visit and explore things in more depth. (We would urge you never to buy online.)
With these guidelines in place, we feel confident you will unlock the secret of hot tub happiness, and be merrily bubbling for years to come.
