Hot Tub Buying - Other Considerations?

So your buying a hot tub, you have searched the web narrowed it down to 3-5 dealers and make a plan to wet test each make to see what fits your requirements. It all sounds great and this is definitely the right way to start the buying process, what people don't think to ask is the important questions once they get to the showrooms.

These include...

• Why do you sell this make?
• How long have you been selling this make?
• How long have you been selling spas?
• How many brands have you sold in this time?
• What else does the company do?
• What happens to me and the warranty should you go out of business?
• Where are the main distribution company, how long have they been dealing with the product and will they service my tub under warranty if you don't?
• What does my warranty cover, is it pro rated?
• Do I pay up front for warranty work then claim back from the manufacturer?
• Can I go to any dealer to get service work done?
• How long has the salesman/women been selling the brand? how long has he/she been in the spa industry?
• Does he/she own a tub if so what make and why?
• What other brands would they sell if they didn't sell this brand?
• Can you arrange for me to speak to one of your existing customers?

I'm sure there are others, the point being it's as important who you buy the tub from as it is the tub itself. A warranty is only as good as you have a dealer and that dealer can be contacted, a dealer who shows little loyalty to brands may decide to ditch you once they stop selling the brand you have bought from them so be wary.

These are of course guidelines to aid you in making the best choice when buying a spa, if something doesn't quite add up or there answers don't fill you with confidence then walk away, no matter how much they offer to 'knock off' the price!