Nothing beats relaxing in your hot tub after an intense workout at the gym or a stressful day at the office. Backyard hot tubs also provide an amazing spot for you and your family and friends to unwind and converse. If you’re thinking about searching around for used hot tubs for your home, you’re on the right track.
However, before purchasing a refurbished hot tub, there are a couple of considerations you ought to make before signing off on anything.
1. Make Sure it Works
If you’re not careful, buying used hot tubs could cost you in the long run, especially if they have an underlying problem. This is why it’s important for you to see it in action before buying it.
Confirm that all the topside controls, jets, lights, heater, and all the pumps work. Stick around for a few minutes and make sure no curious noises are coming from the spa. The tub should make a low humming sound; if it doesn’t the pump is probably not working right and may cause future problems.
2. Check the Cartridge Filter
When buying used hot tubs, it’s important to look at their cartridge filters. Ask the previous owner to show where the tub’s filter is located and inspect it thoroughly. If the filter is torn or worn out, keep in mind that you’ll have to replace it.
While this may not be very expensive, the filter’s condition should give you insight into how well the spa was cared for in the past. If it’s dirty and in disrepair, the maintenance and upkeep of the tub may have been inadequate. Don’t buy such a tub as you may have to make repairs and replacements in the future.
3. Look at the Hot Tub’s Thermostat
Before you buy that used hot tub, it’s incredibly important to check its thermostat. If it isn’t working properly, you must factor in fixing or replacing it, or steering clear of the tub altogether. Using a hot tub with a faulty thermostat is dangerous since you won’t be able to tell the water’s exact temperature.
The tub’s thermostat should record temperatures ranging from 100 to 104 degrees. If this isn’t the case, and you’re sure the thermostat is in perfect condition, then the tub’s heater may have a problem.
4. Are the Seals Leaking?
You can’t soak up in a leaking hot tub, can you? When buying a used backyard hot tub, make sure to check its seals aren’t leaking. If they are, make a mental note to have them replaced too. You should also check the tub’s motors for evidence of prior leaks or calcium stains.
5. Don’t Buy a Tub that Hasn’t Been Used in a While
As a general rule, when buying used hot tubs, avoid buying one that hasn’t been used any time recently. Such a tub harbors all sorts of issues. Its electrical parts may have been corroded, its pumps may be rusty and its seals dried out. Restoring it to its original state may be very costly and time-consuming.
6. Consider the Tub’s Size
Before buying a used hot tub, you ought to think about the size you’re looking for. How many people will use the tub at each point? A small 2-3 person hot tub is quite cozy and would be very ideal for solo late-night soaking or for a romantic date night.
However, if you plan to do lots of backyard entertaining, you may have to opt for something much bigger.
Buying used hot tubs may be a risky venture if you aren’t keen. This is why you should pay close attention to whether the tub is functioning as it should be, whether all its dials and controls work and whether its heater, thermostat, and pumps are all in perfect condition.
This way you’ll be convinced you’re making a sound purchase before writing the check.
