Thinking about adding a hot tub to your backyard but feeling overwhelmed by all the things you’ve heard? You’re not alone. There’s a surprising amount of misinformation out there regarding hot tub ownership—everything from high costs and complicated upkeep to winter-use myths and concerns about water cleanliness.

At RnR Hot Tubs and Spas, we’ve heard it all. And we get it, buying a hot tub is a big investment, and you want to make sure you’re making the right choice. However, too often, we see people holding back from an experience that could genuinely enhance their health, relaxation, and overall quality of life. All because of outdated or flat-out false information.

That’s why we’re setting the record straight.

In this post, we’re debunking the most common hot tub myths we hear from customers—and providing you with the real facts so you can make an informed decision with confidence. Whether you’re still in the dreaming stage or ready to take the plunge, let’s clear up the confusion and get you one step closer to your perfect soak.

6 HOT TUB MYTHS THAT ARE STOPPING YOU FROM IMPROVING YOUR HEALTH AND BACKYARD

It’s easy to dismiss the idea of owning a hot tub when myths and misinformation cloud the picture. But the truth is, a hot tub can be one of the best investments you make for your health, your lifestyle, and your backyard. From relieving muscle tension and improving sleep to creating a space for connection and calm, hot tubs offer benefits that go far beyond a simple soak.

Still, we hear it all the time: “They’re too expensive to run,” or “They’re a hassle to maintain.” These common misconceptions stop people from experiencing the true value a hot tub can bring. So, before you let those doubts win, let’s take a closer look at the six biggest hot tub myths that might be holding you back and why it’s time to rethink them.

Myth #1: Hot Tubs Are Too Expensive to Run

Truth: Today’s hot tubs are more energy-efficient than ever. With well-insulated covers, efficient pumps, and smart control systems, the monthly cost to run a hot tub can be surprisingly low, especially if you choose a quality model.

Modern hot tubs are designed with energy conservation in mind. Our Vita Spa models come with Northern Exposure® insulation system, energy-efficient heaters, and programmable settings that allow you to control temperature and filtration cycles to suit your schedule. This means your hot tub isn’t constantly running at full power, but instead working smarter to maintain your desired temperature with minimal energy use.

Using a properly fitted, high-quality cover also plays a major role in heat retention, especially in colder climates like Calgary. It helps trap heat and reduce evaporation, so your system doesn’t have to work as hard, saving you money in the long run.

It’s a small price to pay for daily relaxation, pain relief, and wellness benefits, especially when you compare it to the cost of massage therapy, gym memberships, or other self-care routines.

Investing in a well-built hot tub from a reputable dealer like RnR Hot Tubs and Spas ensures that you’re getting a system designed to be both luxurious and efficient. So don’t let the fear of high power bills stop you from bringing comfort home. With the right setup, running a hot tub can be both affordable and rewarding.

Myth #2: Hot Tub Maintenance Is a Full-Time Job

Truth: Maintaining a hot tub is easier than most people think. With automated systems and modern water care solutions, most owners spend just a few minutes a week checking chemical levels and cleaning filters. 

We get it, when people hear “water chemistry,” their eyes glaze over. But the reality is, today’s hot tubs are designed to make maintenance simple, not stressful. With user-friendly digital control panels, UV/Ozone systems, and high-quality filtration, keeping your water crystal clear takes far less time than you’d expect.

At RnR Hot Tubs and Spas, we make it our mission to ensure you feel confident from day one. When you purchase a hot tub from us, you don’t just get the spa, you get our full support. We walk you through exactly how to care for your hot tub with step-by-step guidance, tailored to your specific model and lifestyle. From balancing chemicals to rinsing filters, we teach you what to do, when to do it, and how to do it right.

Prefer a more hands-off approach? We also offer expert water care services, including professional maintenance plans, water testing, and troubleshooting support, so you’re never left guessing. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or want us to handle it all, we’ll help you create a routine that fits your schedule and keeps your water sparkling clean.

Hot tub maintenance doesn’t have to be a burden. With the right tools, knowledge, and support, it becomes just another small ritual that brings you closer to relaxation.

Myth #3: Hot Tubs Are Unsanitary

Truth: Hot tubs have come a long way in terms of water cleanliness and safety. When properly maintained, your hot tub can be a clean, healthy, and inviting space that you can feel confident soaking in, day after day.

The key is consistency and the right system. With effective filtration, quality sanitizers like chlorine or bromine, and a simple maintenance routine, your hot tub water can stay fresh and crystal clear with minimal effort. Filters trap dirt and debris, while sanitizers neutralize bacteria and contaminants, keeping your water safe for everyone in the family.

At RnR Hot Tubs and Spas, we help take the guesswork out of water care. We’ll show you exactly how to keep your water balanced and clean, and we even offer free water testing and expert support whenever you need it. We also carry advanced options like ozone and UV purification systems in our Vita Spas that we carry, which help sanitize your water naturally and reduce your reliance on chemicals. These systems break down contaminants at a molecular level, leaving your water cleaner and gentler on your skin.

So if you’ve been hesitant because of cleanliness concerns, know that with the right setup and support, maintaining clean, clear hot tub water is simple—and incredibly satisfying.

Myth #4: You Can’t Use a Hot Tub in the Winter

Truth: Winter is one of the best times to enjoy your hot tub. There’s nothing quite like sinking into warm, steamy water while snowflakes swirl through the air around you. It’s the ultimate contrast. Crisp winter skies above, total body relaxation below.

At RnR Hot Tubs and Spas, we carry models that are specifically built to thrive in Canadian winters, including Vita Spa hot tubs equipped with the innovative Northern Exposure® Insulation System. This three-layer thermal barrier system reflects radiant heat back into the spa while protecting it from the cold, dramatically improving energy efficiency and performance in freezing temperatures.

Not only does Northern Exposure® help your hot tub maintain its ideal temperature with less energy use, but it also makes your spa more comfortable and consistent to use, even during a deep freeze. The result? Lower operating costs, better insulation, and a reliable soak every time you step in.

Whether you’re recovering after a day of shoveling snow, soothing winter aches and pains, or simply looking for a peaceful moment under the stars, your hot tub becomes a cozy, inviting escape all season long. Just keep the cover on when not in use, check your water level, and enjoy the benefits of a spa that’s made for the Canadian climate.

With the right setup, like a Vita Spa with Northern Exposure, you don’t just survive winter. You soak your way through it.

Myth #5: All Hot Tubs Are Basically the Same

Truth: Not all hot tubs are created equal. There can be a huge difference between models when it comes to build quality, energy efficiency, jet performance, durability, and long-term value. At RnR Hot Tubs and Spas, we’re proud to carry premium hot tubs that are engineered for excellence because we believe your wellness investment deserves more than “good enough.”

One of the brands we trust most is Vita Spa. With over 40 years of experience in crafting innovative, high-performance hot tubs, Vita Spa continues to lead the industry with advanced technology, premium materials, and thoughtful design. These are not your average hot tubs. They’re wellness tools, built to support your body, mind, and lifestyle.

What sets Vita Spa apart?

• Northern Exposure® Insulation System: A multi-layer barrier that reflects heat back into the spa, maximizing efficiency and keeping energy costs low, even in harsh Canadian winters.
  
• Steel Sub-Structure: Instead of traditional wood frames, Vita Spa hot tubs use a galvanized steel frame for added strength, durability, and rust resistance.
  
• Smart Touch Control Panels: Easy-to-use digital interfaces that let you manage everything from temperature to lighting with precision.
  
• Therapy-Focused Jet Design: Jets are strategically placed for targeted muscle relief and customizable hydrotherapy sessions.
  
• CleanZone® Water Management: Advanced ozone and UV systems that help keep your water cleaner, longer, with less chemical use.
  

At RnR, we don’t just sell hot tubs. We provide full-service support from consultation and delivery to ongoing maintenance and education. We’ll help you choose the perfect model for your needs, set you up for success with personalized guidance, and be here for you long after your first soak.

When you invest in a Vita Spa from RnR, you’re choosing more than a hot tub. You’re choosing proven performance, lasting comfort, and a team that truly cares about your experience.

Myth #6: Hot Tubs Are Just for Relaxation

Truth: While hot tubs are undeniably great for relaxation, that’s only scratching the surface of what they can offer. A high-quality hot tub is a powerful wellness tool with a wide range of physical, emotional, and even social benefits.

Regular soaking can help reduce muscle tension, speed up recovery after workouts, ease joint pain, and improve circulation. The warm water and hydrotherapy jets stimulate blood flow and help loosen tight muscles, making hot tubs a favorite for athletes, active families, and anyone dealing with chronic pain or arthritis. Many users also report better, deeper sleep after an evening soak, thanks to the calming effect on the nervous system.

But the benefits go beyond the physical.

In today’s always-on, tech-saturated world, a hot tub can also become a sacred space for mental clarity and connection. It’s a place to unplug, de-stress, and be fully present. Whether you’re soaking solo to decompress after a long day or gathering with family and friends under the stars, hot tubs create opportunities for real, meaningful moments, without screens, noise, or distractions.

We believe your hot tub should support your whole well-being. That’s why we carry brands like Vita Spa, which are designed with therapeutic jet placements and ergonomic seating to help you get the most out of every soak, whether you’re looking to recover, reconnect, or just breathe deeply for a few quiet minutes.

So yes, hot tubs are relaxing, but they’re also so much more. They’re a daily dose of wellness, right in your own backyard.

DON’T LET MYTHS STAND IN YOUR WAY

Buying a hot tub is a big decision, but it shouldn’t be confusing. If you’ve been on the fence because of things you’ve “heard,” we hope this helped clear the water a bit.

Got more questions or concerns? Come visit us at RnR Hot Tubs and Spas in Calgary, or book a consultation with our expert team. We’re happy to help you find the perfect spa for your lifestyle, with zero pressure and full transparency.

Servicing all makes and models, including Vita Spa, American Whirlpool, and Maax Spas.

Now servicing Calgary, Airdrie, Strathmore, Okotoks, High River, Chestermere, Invermere, Banff, Canmore, Radium, Golden, and the surrounding areas.