Three Things You Must Know Prior To Buying A Hot Tub
1) No Spray Foam Insulation, Ever!
Spray foam can absorb and retain water, which can reduce its ability to insulate and keep the hot tub warm. If the foam gets wet, it needs to be removed and replaced. You must regularly check for wet spots and leaks inside the hot tub cabinet and repair any leaks before they get worse. Spray foam insulation might seem like a quick and effective solution for insulating your hot tub, but it's actually a poor choice for these additional reasons:
Accessibility and Maintenance Issues
Blocked access: Spray foam completely encapsulates the hot tub's components, making it next to impossible to access and repair plumbing or other parts if they malfunction.
Increased repair costs: Any necessary repairs become significantly more expensive and time-consuming due to the difficulty of accessing the problem area.
Performance and Safety Concerns
Overheating: Spray foam can trap heat, causing components like pumps and heaters to overheat and fail prematurely. Further, spray foam insulation has gaps which allows the heat to escape that will clearly raise your electric bill for hot tub operation.
Mold and mildew growth: The warm, damp environment created by a hot tub is an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew. Spray foam will trap moisture, accelerating this process and making it difficult to clean and remove.
Pest infestation: Spray foam creates an attractive nesting place for pests like termites, rodents, and insects. Once inside, they will cause damage to the hot tub and its components, guaranteed
Environmental/Health Impact
Chemical release: Some types of spray foams release harmful chemicals during the curing process or when exposed to high temperatures.
Health risks: Spray foam insulation can pose health risks to homeowners and installers if they are exposed to the hazardous chemicals in the foam. These chemicals can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues. Installers often wear respirators, gloves, and protective clothing to protect themselves
2) No Wooden Frame for your Hot Tub
Most hot tubs are constructed with wooden frames. While wood offers good insulation properties, its performance in the harsh environment of a hot tub is far from ideal.
Constant Exposure to Moisture
The constant exposure to water, chemicals, and fluctuating temperatures causes wood to deteriorate rapidly.
Rot and Decay: Over time, wood is susceptible to rot, mold, and mildew, compromising the structural integrity of the hot tub. We have seen hot tubs with wooden frames last less than three years from purchase as the weather greatly affects the integrity of the structure.
Pest Infestation: Wooden frames attract pests like termites and rodents, further damaging the structure.
These factors combined significantly reduce the lifespan of a wooden hot tub frame.
In contrast, stainless steel frames offer a superior alternative. Their resistance to corrosion, rust, and decay ensures long-lasting durability. Additionally, stainless steel is impervious to pests, maintaining the hot tub's structural integrity and hygiene.
While the initial cost of a stainless-steel frame might be slightly higher, the long-term benefits in terms of durability, maintenance, and overall lifespan make it a far more economical and sustainable choice for hot tub construction.
By investing in a stainless-steel frame, hot tub owners can enjoy their relaxation without worrying about the underlying structure deteriorating over time.
3) Warranty-Don’t be fooled by Empty Promises
When investing in a hot tub, the warranty is often an overlooked but crucial factor. It's a promise from the manufacturer about the product's quality and the company's commitment to your satisfaction. Unfortunately, many companies use warranty terms as a marketing ploy, offering enticing "lifetime" warranties that are essentially meaningless.
While a lifetime warranty sounds appealing, the reality is that many companies offering such deals often neglect after-sale service. This can leave you high and dry when issues arise, forcing you to absorb costly repairs out of pocket. It's essential to look beyond the warranty's duration and scrutinize the details of the coverage.
A company that stands behind its product with a solid warranty indicates high-quality manufacturing. A reliable warranty is backed by efficient and responsive customer service, ensuring your issues are addressed.
Remember, a warranty is only as good as the company that stands behind it. Don't be misled by empty promises. Choose a hot tub and a company that values your satisfaction long after the sale.
