With the rising popularity of at-home wellness, more people are considering installing hot tubs in their backyards. Hot tubs can provide great relaxation and health benefits. However, they also require a significant upfront investment. So the key question is, are hot tubs a good investment? There are several factors to consider when determining if a hot tub purchase makes financial sense. This includes purchase and installation costs, ongoing maintenance needs, energy usage, home resale value, and personal enjoyment. With proper research and planning, hot tubs can be a wise investment that provides years of use and enjoyment. But buyers should carefully weigh the pros and cons before making this major home addition.
Research hot tub models and costs thoroughly
The first step is researching the different types of hot tubs on the market, from portable models to permanent in-ground spas. Costs can range from a few thousand dollars for an inflatable or acrylic tub to over $10,000 for a customized spa with special features. Consider the size, seating capacity, jet power, tech features, and quality of materials when comparing models. Higher end hot tubs will generally last longer but are more expensive up front. Installation is another major cost, averaging $3,000-$5,000 for built-in spas. Carefully calculating the total investment for the hot tub model you want is key.
Factor in ongoing hot tub maintenance
Hot tubs require regular maintenance to keep the water clean and equipment functioning properly. This includes draining and refilling the tub, cleaning filters, adding chemicals, and making any needed repairs. For basic portable hot tubs, expect to spend 30-60 minutes per week. Fancy in-ground spas with more jet features require closer to 10 hours monthly. Costs for chemicals and replacement parts can add up too. Consider any physical limitations for doing hot tub maintenance yourself or added costs to hire a service.
Consider energy costs for heating
Heating water for a hot tub’s use requires a lot of energy. For a typical 400-gallon tub, expect to pay $50-$100 per month in electricity costs depending on your utility rates. Many hot tub owners invest in covers to help retain heat when not in use. You may also consider solar heating panels to offset some traditional energy use. Check with local utilities for rebates on energy efficient tubs or related equipment.
Calculate increased home value from hot tubs
Adding a hot tub can increase a home’s resale value, but generally not enough to recoup the full investment. According to remodeling experts, a hot tub may return 50-70% of the project cost at resale. More expensive custom spas or those with add-ons like gazebos may recover a higher percentage. Consider if you plan to stay in the home long enough to enjoy the spa and realize some added value.
Consider personal health and enjoyment benefits
For many hot tub buyers, the personal relaxation, health, and family enjoyment benefits are a primary reason to invest in a home spa. Hydrotherapy massage can relieve pain and stress. Time spent bonding with loved ones is precious. There is real mental and emotional value in creating a beautiful backyard oasis. If you will use the hot tub frequently, finding pleasure in it may outweigh the costs for some buyers.
In summary, hot tubs can be a wise investment for homeowners who research models, weigh costs, plan for maintenance, and consider personal use and enjoyment. Those willing to make the upfront expenditure and regular care commitment can benefit from years of use. But hot tubs are not suited for everyone’s budget or lifestyle.