If you’ve spent thousands of dollars on your hot tub, you’re probably counting on your hot tub lasting for many years.
But how long do hot tubs actually last, and what can you do to extend the lifespan of yours?
Typically, a hot tub’s longevity depends on its quality:
● Low-end hot tubs made with cheap materials can last for about five years.
● Mid-range hot tubs made with high-quality materials can last for about 10 years.
● High-end hot tubs made with premium materials can last for about 20 years.
Let’s look at hot tubs’ longevity a little closer, and also find out how you can make your hot tub last longer.
What Determines Hot Tub Longevity?
As mentioned above, low-end hot tubs tend to have the shortest lifespan, and may only last for five years or less.
While “low-end” might make you think “low-price,” that isn’t necessarily the case. Hot tubs of all price points can be low end, depending on a few different factors:
● Materials: Cheap materials are less durable than their higher-quality counterparts, and can be more easily damaged.
● Manufacturing/assembly: Hot tubs that are improperly assembled are more likely to have long-term issues.
● Brand reputation: Hot tubs made by disreputable brands often have short lifespans.
● Warranty: An insufficient warranty will fail to cover any future issues that may arise.
Knowing this, it becomes clear that even the most expensive hot tubs can be classified as the low end if they have sub-par materials, questionable manufacturing/assembly processes, a poor reputation or inadequate warranties.
So, when you’re shopping for a hot tub, always choose one that:
● Is made of high-quality materials.
● Uses reliable manufacturing and assembly processes.
● Has an established reputation.
● Has warranties for the structure, shell, major components, plumbing, and labor.
If you do, your hot tub is likely to last for ten years or more.
How You Can Make Your Hot Tub Last Longer
Regardless of whether your hot tub is low- or high-end, there are several things you can do to extend its lifespan by months or even years.
Maintain the Filtration System
Your hot tub’s filtration system is absolutely vital to its long-term health. Plus, it does much more than keep your hot tub clean: It also ensures that your hot tub’s heater and pump are functioning properly.
If your hot tub’s filtration system becomes clogged, that can put extra strain on the heater and pump. That’s because both the heater and pump rely on a steady flow of clean water to operate efficiently.
By simply regularly cleaning and replacing your hot tub filter, you can prevent your hot tub’s most important components from being unnecessarily damaged.
Also, make sure to keep your hot tub water’s chemicals at the right levels: Properly sanitized water will keep all of your hot tub parts working well for longer.
Click here to learn how to clean your hot tub filters. Or, click here to read our Hot Tub Chemicals Guide.
Keep Weather at Bay
Harsh weather conditions can quickly degrade the appearance and integrity of your hot tub. If severe enough, they may even shorten your hot tub’s lifespan drastically.
For instance, freezing or below-freezing weather can cause water to freeze inside your hot tub and its components, which is likely to cause irreversible damage.
On the other hand, prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade, damage and even crack your hot tub’s surfaces.
To avoid this, you’ll need to do two things:
1. Invest in a high-quality hot tub cover to protect your hot tub from rain, snow, and sunlight. Bonus: A good hot tub cover will also help your hot tub heat up faster and retain heat more efficiently.
2. Protect your hot tub from freezing by either draining it completely or keeping it hot and running continuously throughout the winter.
If you’re looking for a top-quality hot tub cover, take a look at our selection here. Or, if you’re wondering how much it will cost to run your hot tub during the winter, check out this blog post.
Clean Your Hot Tub Regularly
Basic, regular cleaning can reduce the effects of normal wear and tear. Best of all, cleaning your hot tub on a consistent basis won’t take much of your time, and will help you avoid more extensive cleaning sessions in the long run.
To keep your hot tub clean, simply wipe down exposed surfaces with a gentle cleaner and a soft cloth every week or so.
You’ll also want to perform a deep cleaning every month or two by draining the hot tub completely and giving its entire interior a thorough wipe-down.
During your regular cleanings, be sure to always use a proper cleaner. You’ll need to completely avoid cleaners that are abrasive, ammonia-based or citrus-based cleaners, which can all damage the hot tub’s surfaces.
Also stay away from household cleaners, which can leave a dulling residue and cause your water to foam.
Instead, try wiping down your hot tub with a solution of distilled white vinegar and water.
For more tips on how to prolong your hot tub’s life, check out our Hot Tub Maintenance and Upkeep article.
With a high-quality spa and good maintenance practices, you can keep your hot tub running like new for many years to come.
To find high-grade and affordable hot tubs that will provide you and your family with years of enjoyment and relaxation, browse our selection of top-notch spas.
