On average, a hot tub can last anywhere from 5 to 20+ years. The two factors that affect the lifespan of a tub are the quality of the materials of the spa itself and how well it is maintained. Therefore, it’s important to choose the highest quality hot tub you can afford and plan to take good care of it to ensure it lasts for years to come. 

How to Extend the Life of Your Hot Tub

Hot tubs today are a little different than first generation models that had a single pump and only a few jets. Modern tubs include many features like multiple motors, countless jets, wifi, lighting, sound, etc. While these bells and whistles are awesome they do make for a more complex system, especially if things go wrong. A hot tub built with high quality parts and components will last the longest regardless of its extra features. 

A well maintained tub will also last much longer than one that hasn’t been regularly cared for. Maintaining your water pH is crucial to spa care and longevity as acidic water can harm equipment and be harmful to human skin. In addition to regular testing, if you notice any cloudiness to your water you should change it and thoroughly clean your spa. 

Filters are the lunges of your hot tub and the harder they are forced to work, the less efficient they become and will subsequently wear out faster. In addition to regular cleaning and replacing parts like filers, using a hot tub cover will help keep dirt and debris out of your tub and reduce possible strain on your tub mechanics. A cover also protects your tub from damaging UV rays and also creates a safe barrier to keep children and pets out. 

How Long Do Different Hot Tub Parts Last?

The shell and outer cabinet of a hot tub can easily last 20-30 years with little maintenance required. The cabinet, also called the surround or skirt, was traditionally made of wood, but is now usually made of composite materials that better resist damage and rot. Look for a shell that is made of a strong material that won’t be prone to cracking as it ages. A well made shell and cabinet can last for decades. 

The average lifespan for hot tub pumps and heaters is a little hard to gauge because they’ll be impacted by how much the spa is used, and how well the water pH is maintained. With good care, the system should last around 10 years. What will often need replaced soonest are the seals which will break down quicker in acidic water. Heaters and pumps that are constantly exposed to unbalanced water will only last a few years. 

Poorly treated water will also cause jets to break down quicker; in a well cared for system, jets should also last around 10 years. While jets are fairly inexpensive to replace, maintaining water balance is the key to keeping all of your tubs’ mechanical parts in good working order. Covers are important safety accessories and will also help protect the water and moving parts of your spa, but they do have a much shorter life expectancy, around 3-5 years. 

The best way to extend the life of your hot tub is to take good care of it. If you have questions give us a call at 970-879-4390 or contact us here.