Best Hot Tub Brands

We compared 11 companies and chose the top hot tubs

    • Cal Spas
      4.3(868)
    • Marquis Spas
      4.3(868)
    • ThermoSpas Hot Tubs
      4.5(466)

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      The hot tub industry is a competitive market with several major players — but we’re here to help you find the best model. Our research team vetted 12 hot tub companies that are rated by thousands of ConsumerAffairs reviewers. Read on for tips on how to choose the best hot tub by comparing prices, spa features, warranties and customer experiences.

      Our top picks for hot tub brands:

      • Park Avenue by ThermoSpas
      • Round Patio Series by Cal Spas
      • Twilight Series 8.25 by Master Spas
      • Rendezvous Discovery by Marquis Spas
      • Triumph by Hot Spring Spas
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      Our picks for hot tub models

      We started with a list of the 12 hot tub brands above. To narrow it down, we excluded companies with fewer than 100 total verified reviews on our site. We then ranked the remaining companies by overall satisfaction rating. Once we determined our picks for the top five brands, the ConsumerAffairs research team compared models and picked one favorite for each.

      Our pick for ThermoSpas
      Park Avenue

      thermospas park avenue
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      Five-person hot tub highlights
      • Customizable shell and cabinet colors
      • Lounge and therapy seats
      • Up to 118 jets
      • 20-year structural warranty

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      The Park Avenue comes with all the standard features you expect from top hot tubs brands, and there’s plenty of options for upgrades. The ozone filtration package is a great add-on for those who plan to use the tub every day because it cuts back on the amount of chemicals needed. You can also find deluxe LED lighting packages and personal jet controls.

      What we like
      Heaters on the Park Avenue are made with titanium components, which are supposed to last longer than other materials. We also like that it has dual therapy seats on opposite sides and a deep footwell, plus pillow jets for neck and shoulder relief.

      The tub is made with a continuous-cast acrylic shell and includes a full insulation system, high-output filtration and a 2-pound density cover. The spa comes in five shell colors, with four choices for cabinets.

      Warranty
      For this model, ThermoSpas provides a 20-year structural warranty and a 10-year warranty for the shell surface. Electronics and equipment replacements are also covered for 10 years. There is also a three-year warranty on the cabinet.

      Our pick for Cal Spas
      Patio Series

      cal spas patio series
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      Six-person hot tub highlights
      • Full foam insulation for increased efficiency
      • Bench and lounge contour seats
      • 11 total jets
      • Five-year structural warranty

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      Cal Spas reviews over the last year suggest that customers are happy with the quality of their tubs and their value and style. We like that the Patio Series is made with a patented seven-layer laminate system, reinforced with steel and wood for a strong shell.

      What we like
      Standard features include 10 adjustable stainless steel jets and one turbo whirlpool jet, Bluetooth speakers, LED lighting and an electronic control panel. This model comes with a 5.5-kW titanium WhisperHot heating system. The Pure Silk water purification system is also available.

      Patio Round hot tubs come with a plug-and-play cord, which makes them easy to set up. The shell comes in white or silver, with more options available through the deluxe color upgrade package. The cover comes in gray or brown.

      Warranty
      Cal Spas provides a five-year structural warranty for hot tubs. The Patio Round comes with a two-year warranty on the finish. Parts and labor are also covered by a two-year warranty. The cabinet warranty is only for one year.

      Our pick for Master Spas
      Twilight Series 8.25

      master spas twilight series
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      Seven-person hot tub highlights
      • Neck and foot massage jets
      • Contour seating
      • 47 total jets
      • 10-year structural warranty

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      Some of the happiest Master Spas customers praise the Twilight Series for its water therapy benefits. The TS 8.25 comes with the Master Force biomagnetic therapy system and stress relief neck and shoulder seat. It features LED lighting, with options for Wi-Fi controls, a sound system and quiet flow pumps.

      What we like
      EcoPur charge water filtration is standard, and you can upgrade to the company’s trademarked water management system, Mast3rPur, which uses ozone, UV light and filtration to sanitize the hot tub. The optional QuietFlo Water Care System filters and circulates water when the spa is not in use, keeping it clean and warm for when you want to use it.

      You can choose from three shell colors and five skirt colors. Positive reviews also note that Master Spas installers are courteous and professional.

      Warranty
      Master Spas provides a 10-year structural warranty and a five-year warranty on the shell surface. Equipment, plumbing and jets are covered by a three-year warranty. There’s a five-year warranty on the DreamStone skirting and a lifetime guarantee for DuraMaster Polymer skirting.

      Our pick for Marquis Spas
      Rendezvous Discovery

      marquis spas rendezvous discovery
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      Two-person hot tub highlights
      • Great for tight spaces
      • Deep therapy seating
      • 14 total jets
      • Five-year structural warranty

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      Marquis is one of the most recommended hot tub brands on our site. We like that the Rendezvous Discovery’s corner design makes it easy to install in small spaces, like a deck or patio. It comes with a waterfall fountain and Bluetooth-enabled speakers. The jets are positioned to target your lower, middle and upper back, plus feet and neck.

      What we like
      Its low-maintenance sanitation system incorporates smart software to automatically clean water after a soak. The tub comes with a 120-volt plug, but you can choose to upgrade to 240 volts for a higher flow rate.

      This model is available in four different shell colors and features an upgraded, durable cabinet material. It is the only one in the Celebrity series available with ash and espresso choices for the cabinet. However, due to this model’s high demand, availability may be limited in your area.

      Warranty
      All Marquis Celebrity series hot tubs come with warranties to cover the structure for five years, the plumbing and equipment for two years and the nonwear components for one year.

      Our pick for Hot Spring Spas
      Triumph

      hot spring spas triumph
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      Four-person hot tub highlights
      • Salt-system ready
      • Lounge seating
      • 27 total jets
      • Seven-year shell surface warranty

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      The Triumph comes with 27 jets total, including 18 directional hydromassage jets. Hydrostream jets provide a constant powerful flow, and directional massage jets are easy to adjust for targeted relief. The cabinet comes in six colors, and there are five color options for the shell.

      What we like
      We like that this tub is salt-system ready, meets California Energy Commission efficiency standards and packs serious massage power. Triumph also features the Hot Spring exclusive Moto-Massage DX jet, which sweeps up and down to target your back. Plus, precision jets work together in a cluster to target the back, neck and calves.

      Hot Spring includes a wireless control panel and cover. Optional features include sound systems, cover lifters and steps.

      Warranty
      Like other hot tubs in the Highlife series, Hot Springs provides a seven-year warranty on the shell surface and five-year coverage on plumbing, heaters and cabinets. There’s a two-year warranty on light assembly and a year of coverage on the wireless remote control battery.

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        How to choose a hot tub

        Start by figuring out your budget so you know where to start looking. Next, think about what you want out of your hot tub experience — how you intend to use the tub will determine the features you want to look for.

        1. Figure out your budget

        Upfront costs to purchase and install a hard-shell hot tub range anywhere from $2,000 to $18,000. If your budget is under $2,000, start by looking online for hard-shell portable or inflatable tubs, sometimes referred to as soft tubs. (You don’t need to hire an installer for either of these types of hot tubs.)

        Bargain hot tubs have a cheaper price tag, but energy-efficient models are a better investment because they are less expensive to run and require less ongoing maintenance. If you plan to enjoy the tub for many years, paying a little more upfront might be worth it to you.

        Keep in mind that you can negotiate hot tub prices — the first price you see online or in a showroom isn’t always the best you can get. Dealers also offer financing specials and promotions, such as 0% financing or low interest rates. Additional low-cost options include purchasing a used or refurbished hot tub, though doing this requires a bit more research and caution to ensure you’re getting a legitimate product.

        Don’t forget to factor in ongoing costs, such as chemicals and maintenance, to your budget. Typically, it costs around $1 a day to operate a hot tub. Some of the new energy-efficient hot tubs only cost about $20 per month to run.

        2. Decide what size and features you want

        Choose the size of your hot tub based on the number of people who will use it. Large hot tubs are better for entertaining, but smaller tubs are better for relaxing or intimate experiences.

        Hot tubs designed to accommodate two to three people are considered “small.” Most small hot tubs are approximately 3 feet high, 6 feet wide and 5 feet long, holding about 300 gallons of water. Large hot tubs, which can fit up to eight people or more, are usually about 4.5 feet high with a diameter of 6 feet and hold up to 850 gallons of water.

        Consider which hot tub benefits are most important to you when choosing features. For example, hydrotherapy massage jets are great for reducing pain and inflammation. If you’re more interested in entertainment, look into LED lighting packages, stereo setups and lounge seating.

        Different hot tub styles can complement the environment and set the tone for bathers. For instance, exterior cabinets (the part that everybody sees) are available in a variety of materials, colors, patterns and textures. Remember, a hot tub is meant to be a seamless addition to your home decor, and the style and design of the shell and cabinet should reflect your personality and aesthetic.

        Something to keep in mind

        A brand might say a hot tub is made for five or six people, but pay attention to the dimensions. In general, an 83-inch by 83-inch model can comfortably fit about four adults — three if someone is using the “lounger.”

        3. Compare hot tub models and reviews

        As with most big purchases, it’s smart to make a list of three or four brands that appeal to you. Make notes of options that stand out, such as particular cabinet designs, styles of jets or seating arrangements.

        Once you have your short list, you can learn a lot by reading reviews. Look out for red flags related to installation, warranty or customer service. With a hot tub, you don’t usually have to communicate with customer service unless something goes wrong.

        To get the best deal, compare prices from multiple dealers and keep an eye out for promotional discounts. Retailers typically host sales each season, so you might wait to see if the price on a particular model you like goes down. You can also sometimes find great hot tub deals at state fairs or home and garden shows. Usually you will find the best pricing in fall and winter.

        Look for companies that offer a warranty in case something goes wrong. It’s even better to “try it before you buy it.” If possible, visit a hot tub showroom and schedule a test soak.

        4. Complete hot tub installation

        Most hot tubs are fairly easy to get up and running with professional installation. Above-ground hot tubs are commonly placed on a concrete slab or reinforced deck. The location just needs to have enough structural strength to support the tub when full of water and people.

        Decide where you want the tub to go before the delivery day. When picking a spot, consider your comfort and convenience. For instance, if you live in an area with cold, snowy winters, try to put the spa close to a door for easy access. If you have long stretches of warm months, under a gazebo might be a better place.

        If your tub is going to be installed by a professional, here are a few tips to make the process a bit easier:

        • Check the width of sidewalks, doors or gates that could cause obstruction.
        • Check for overhead issues, including rain gutters or overhanging branches.
        • Remove obstacles like plants, outdoor furniture or outdoor grills.

        You might also need electrical access, depending on how much voltage the tub requires. Check your local building codes and zoning laws to be sure they allow for the installation of hot tubs without a permit.

        5. Shop hot tub accessories and upgrades

        Picking the right hot tub is only half the game — the other half includes outfitting the tub with the right accessories and safety measures for guests. Accessories like covers, spa pillows and steps improve the functionality and appearance of your hot tub. Accessories can be purchased at any time, so you don’t have to get everything all at once.

        • Hot tub cover: Hot tubs usually come with a standard cover, but for tubs that are left unattended for long periods, such as those in a second home, a coverall can significantly increase the life of the hot tub and the tub surround. Spa covers help lock in the hot tub’s heat to reduce water evaporation, which lowers owners’ energy costs. Consider a solar-powered cover for possible additional savings on energy costs.
        • Cover lifter: Hot tub covers can be heavy and difficult to put on and take off. A cover lifter makes it easy to lift heavy hot tub covers.
        • Spa pillows: Spa pillows, headrests and cushions are an inexpensive way to make your hot tub even more comfortable. Hot tub pillows are usually made of rubberized plastic, with suction cups to hold them in place.
        • Spa steps: Being submerged in a bubbling hot tub is a relaxing way to end the day, but getting into the hot tub can be a challenge. Hot tub steps with anti-slip material reduce the danger of accidental falls. Spa steps are portable stairs that make getting in and out of your hot tub easier. Most of the top hot tub brands also sell spa steps that seamlessly blend into the exterior.
        • Hot tub surrounds: Many companies sell modular components so you can add benches, seating, tables and storage around your hot tub. Surrounds are a smart alternative if you don’t already have a deck for your hot tub.
        • Cup holders: Hot tub cup holders are waterproof and inflatable. If your hot tub doesn’t come with standard cup holders, aftermarket cup holders are a smart way to prevent spills.
        • Spa lighting: Even if you opt out of built-in lighting features, you can add aftermarket light strips that create a colorful environment. Many lighting accessories for hot tubs are solar-powered and float.
        • Gazebo or pergola: A gazebo or pergola increases your hot tub’s privacy. A gazebo is a free-standing structure with a roof. Pergolas are open structures with vertical posts and open-lattice roofing.

        » COMPARE: Best hot tub covers

        Where to buy a hot tub

        How long do hot tubs last?

        Bargain and inflatable hot tubs have a shorter life span of five to 15 years. A quality hot tub lasts anywhere from 10 to 20 years if properly maintained. Overall, how long your hot tub lasts depends on the quality of its materials, the construction and how well it is taken care of.

        A good water filtration system helps keep your hot tub water clean, healthy and safe. Still, all hot tubs require water care, filter replacements and regular cleaning. Traditional hot tub water care requires you to manually add sanitizers to the tub about once a week.

        No matter which approach to hot tub water care you choose, it’s essential to keep your spa covered when not in use. Following a maintenance schedule ensures your hot tub lasts as long as possible:

        • Each week, test the spa water.
        • Deep clean the spa’s filter monthly.
        • Every two to four months — depending on use and water quality — drain the spa, deep clean the filter and refill the hot tub with fresh water.
        • Replace the hot tub filter annually.

        How much do hot tubs cost?

        Depending on what type of tub you get and whether you opt for any add-ons, you might spend as little as $300 (for inflatable models) up to around $25,000 for the tub itself. If the tub requires installation, budget a few hundred to a few thousand for this labor.

        And then there’s the ongoing cost of hot tub ownership. Though these costs can vary, you can expect to spend anywhere from $700 to $1,600 a year on required maintenance and repairs.

        » MORE: How much does a hot tub cost?

        Is a hot tub worth the cost?

        Hot tubs can be very pricey, but many reviews on our site say shelling out the money for a hot tub was worth it — like Juan from Washington, who wanted a hot tub because it “really helps decompress some of the muscles that tightened up and contribute to nerve compression.” He said having a hot tub at home was “very convenient” for him — and that it saved him trips to the gym just to use the hot tub there.

        FAQ

        What is a hot tub?

        A hot tub is a portable container of water used for relaxation or hydrotherapy. Unlike a bathtub, hot tubs are usually placed outdoors and can accommodate up to eight people at a time. The first hot tubs were cauldron-like chambers heated with hot stones. These days, hot tubs are warmed with electrical resistance heaters and have built-in jets that create a massage-like effect. The basic components of a modern hot tub are the body, pump and filter.

        In-ground hot tubs are generally referred to as spas, though many in the hot tub industry use the terms interchangeably. Some of the most common types of residential hot tubs and spas include:

        • Inflatable hot tubs: Inflatable hot tubs are compact and affordable but come with fewer features than sturdier portable spas made of acrylic or unicast tubs. Inflatable hot tubs are usually made out of latex or vinyl.
        • Portable hot tubs: Unlike inflatable hot tubs, portable hot tubs are usually made out of durable acrylic and have a more extensive selection of available features. Though portable hot tubs are movable, they can be difficult to relocate without the help of a professional hot tub service technician.
        • Plug-and-play hot tubs: Plug-and-play hot tubs are portable hot tubs that operate at 110 volts. They draw between 500 and 1,500 watts and can be plugged into a standard outlet. Plug-and-play hot tubs are popular because they are easy to install and great for relaxing or entertaining.
        • Rotomolded hot tubs: A rotomolded tub and its surrounding cabinet are manufactured as a single functional unit. Also known as unicast hot tubs, rotomolded hot tubs are durable and can have features like molded seating and decorative lighting. However, they usually don’t have as many jets as higher-end hot tubs.
        • Swim spas: Most swim spas come with most standard hot tub features, such as heated jets, but can also be used for exercise. For more information, read our guide on the best swim spa brands.
        How does a hot tub work?

        Some consumers are surprised to learn that filling a hot tub doesn’t require any plumbing — all hot tubs can simply be filled with an outdoor water hose. Once a hot tub is filled with water, electrical resistance heaters warm the water to between 100 and 104 degrees. A pump forces water through an intake hose to circulate. A valve diverter then directs the heated water through the jets.

        Water pumps power the hot tub jets. Like car motors, spa pump motors have horsepower, which describes how much power the motor can provide. Hot tub spa pump motors range from 110 to 240 volts. The type and number of pumps you need depend on the jet power, the speed you want and the energy you expect to consume.

        Some hot tubs have more than one pump to deliver various functions, such as controlling jet power to particular seats. Circulation pumps continuously circulate water to clean and heat the hot tub. No-bypass filtration with circulation pumps sucks unfiltered water back through the pump and then redistributes it through the jets.

        What chemicals do I need for a hot tub?

        The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that owners use chlorine and bromine as primary sanitizers. Some mineral sanitizers can be combined with an oxidizer (ozone with silver ions and MPS, a nonchlorine compound) to help reduce microorganisms.

        How much is a two-person hot tub?

        Two-person hot tubs start between $2,000 and $5,000. Many people consider two-person hot tubs the perfect entry point because they're small, cheap and easy to maintain. For more information, read about the best hot tubs for two.

        What is the difference between a hot tub and a Jacuzzi?

        A hot tub is any tub with massaging jets. Jacuzzi is a brand of hot tub. Jacuzzi manufactures hot tubs and other spa products, including bathtubs and showers.

        What is hydrotherapy?

        Hydrotherapy is the use of water for health benefits. Water-based spa treatments use high-pressure jets to massage muscles and stimulate circulation. Sometimes, hydrotherapy is referred to as “hydropathy” or “water therapy.” Generally, these therapies combine heat, buoyancy and jet massage to relieve back, neck and joint pain as well as sore muscles, arthritis and other health conditions.

        Many people feel relief from anxiety, stress and insomnia after soaking in warm water. Other than hot tubs, hydrotherapy methods include sitz baths, steam baths, Watsu, saunas and contrast therapy. According to the principles of hydrotherapy, hot water helps remove waste from the body by activating sweat glands, while cold water helps blood flow.

        Will health insurance pay for a hot tub?

        Sometimes. Depending on your insurance provider and policy, health insurance might cover the purchase of a new hot tub if your doctor has prescribed hydrotherapy to treat a medical condition like arthritis, joint injuries or poor circulation.

        What is the environmental impact of a hot tub?

        Both the manufacturing and operation of hot tubs affect the environment. Modern hot tubs are more environmentally friendly than those made as recently as 10 years ago. Still, all hot tubs require water and energy to work.

        We think it’s always smart to get the most eco-friendly hot tub for your budget. You save on energy costs over time and minimize adverse effects on the environment. A secure cover also helps reduce heat loss. The top energy-efficient hot tubs utilize full foam insulation.

        Are hot tubs a good investment?

        The return you get on investing in a quality hot tub is worth it if you enjoy it and use it enough. However, hot tubs aren’t a good investment in the traditional sense — a hot tub’s value doesn’t increase over time, and it’s unlikely you’ll earn income with a residential hot tub.

        Not sure how to choose?

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