When it comes to buying a hot tub, price often takes center stage. You see an ad for cheap hot tubs promising luxury for less, and it’s tempting to jump on the deal. But before you do, it’s worth asking: what are you really paying for?

At RnR Hot Tubs and Spas, we’ve helped hundreds of Calgarians discover that a cheap hot tub can end up costing far more than they expected. From higher energy bills to constant repairs, the hidden costs can add up fast.

Let’s explore the costs and how choosing a high-quality hot tub can save you money, time, and frustration in the long run.

10 HIDDEN COSTS OF CHEAP HOT TUBS

While that low price tag might grab your attention, it rarely tells the whole story. The truth is, cheap hot tubs often come with compromises that aren’t visible at first glance. Many buyers are also tempted by “too-good-to-be-true” deals on used tubs from Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace.

While the idea of saving money is appealing, these pre-owned hot tubs often come with hidden issues, such as leaks, worn-out pumps, or outdated electrical systems, which can cost hundreds or even thousands to fix. 

Plus, there’s usually no warranty, no service history, and no way to know how well the tub was maintained. Before you buy based on price alone, it’s worth understanding where manufacturers (and past owners) may have cut corners and how those shortcuts can cost you more over time.

Thinking about buying used? Here’s what to check first. 

Before you pick up that “great deal” from Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace, take a closer look. Ask the seller how old the hot tub is, if it’s ever leaked, and whether the pumps and heater still work properly. 

Inspect the shell for cracks, test all the jets, and make sure the electrical system meets current safety standards. Keep in mind that used hot tubs rarely include a warranty or local service support, which means any repairs come out of your pocket.

If you’re unsure, the experts at RnR Hot Tubs and Spas can help you assess the condition of a used spa or recommend reliable, energy-efficient alternatives that fit your budget without the risk. 

We offer refurbished hot tubs that have been professionally repaired by our service team. Stock moves quickly, so come in to the showroom today to see what we have available.

Now let’s dive into the 10 hidden costs of purchasing a cheap hot tub.

1. The Sticker Price Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story

That low upfront price might look attractive, but it rarely tells the whole truth. Many cheap hot tubs are built with low-quality materials, weak insulation, and unreliable components.

Sure, you might save a little upfront, but those savings often vanish once you start paying for extra maintenance, higher energy use, and early replacement parts.

It’s like buying a discount mattress: it seems fine at first, but before long, you’re uncomfortable and ready to replace it.

Pro tip: a well-built hot tub lasts 10–20 years. A cheap one might not make it past five.

2. Poor Insulation = High Energy Bills

Calgary winters are tough. When temperatures plunge, your hot tub’s insulation determines whether you enjoy cozy soaks or sky-high utility bills.

Budget tubs often use minimal insulation that can’t hold heat efficiently. As a result, your heater works overtime, your pump strains, and your energy bill spikes.

Quality hot tubs from RnR use Northern Exposure® Insulation System to retain heat and reduce strain on your equipment. The result? Lower operating costs and a consistently warm soak, even when it’s -20°C outside.

Key takeaway: Good insulation saves you hundreds every year.

3. Cheaper Materials = More Repairs

When manufacturers cut corners, they cut durability too. Cheap hot tubs often feature thinner shells, plastic cabinetry, and low-grade pumps. These parts can crack, warp, or fail within a few years.

Common repair costs include:

• Heater replacement: $400–$1100+
  
• Leaks and plumbing fixes: $300–$1200+
  
• Pump or jet replacement: $150–$1200+
  
• Control system replacement: $800–$1,500+
  

By comparison, high-quality models from trusted brands are built with steel frames, quality parts, and have better warranties. They perform reliably year after year.

4. Weak Jets, Weak Experience

Hydrotherapy is one of the best parts of owning a hot tub, but many budget models fall flat here, too. They use smaller pumps and fewer jets, leading to weak water pressure and uneven massage.

Instead of that deep, therapeutic hydrotherapy experience, you get a lukewarm bubble bath.

Premium hot tubs are engineered for balance and power. Strategically placed jets and ergonomic seats target your muscles the way real hydrotherapy should.

That’s the difference between sitting in warm water and truly relaxing.

5. Some Warranties Leave You Unprotected

When you buy a cheap hot tub online or from a big-box store, the warranty often looks good on paper, but the fine print tells a different story. Some dealers don’t have service technicians to even offer warranty work or have the parts for the work that needs to be done. Not only that, if you purchase from Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace, there will be no warranty.

Many cover parts but not labor. Some require you to pay shipping for returns or repairs. Others are void if you move the tub yourself.

At RnR Hot Tubs and Spas, we offer comprehensive warranties through trusted manufacturer, Vita Spa. And because we’re local, our expert technicians handle everything from installation to service calls and warranty claims. No shipping or guesswork required.

That’s real peace of mind.

6. High-Maintenance Water Care

If you think water care is the same across all tubs, think again. Cheap models often use basic filtration systems that require constant cleaning and chemical balancing.

Without proper circulation or advanced sanitizing systems, your water can quickly become cloudy or develop odours.

Our premium hot tubs feature ozone systems and UV-Ozone systems that keep water crystal clear with minimal effort. You’ll use fewer chemicals, save time, and enjoy consistently clean water.

Because the less time you spend maintaining your hot tub, the more time you spend relaxing in it.

7. No Support When You Need It

Buying a hot tub online might save you a few dollars, but what happens when something goes wrong?

Many discount brands don’t have service departments, and parts can be impossible to find once the company disappears. That means you’re left to troubleshoot and repair everything on your own, if it can be fixed at all.

With RnR Hot Tubs and Spas, you get ongoing support. Our service technicians offer installation, maintenance, and repairs throughout Calgary and surrounding areas. We keep parts in stock and stand by the brands we sell.

You’re never on your own.

8. Short Lifespan, Big Waste

The lifespan of a cheap hot tub is short. Sometimes just three to five years. After that, it’s often cheaper to replace the entire spa than to fix it.

By contrast, a quality model can last up to 25 years with proper care. That’s fewer replacements, less waste, and far more value for your investment.

When you choose a premium hot tub, you’re not just saving money, you’re reducing your environmental footprint too.

9. The Value of Buying Local

Another hidden cost of cheap, imported tubs? You miss out on local expertise and personalized service.

As a local Calgary business, RnR Hot Tubs and Spas understands the unique challenges of our climate. We’ll help you choose a model built for Alberta winters, install it safely, and provide expert aftercare.

Buying local also means supporting a business that supports the community and one that’s here for you long after installation day.

10. Cheap Today, Expensive Tomorrow

A hot tub should be a source of relaxation, not frustration. But when it’s constantly breaking down, losing heat, or eating up energy, that dream fades fast.

The truth is, cheap hot tubs often cost more in the long run. Between energy waste, repairs, poor performance, and early replacement, your “bargain” purchase can turn into a never-ending expense.

A quality hot tub from RnR is an investment that pays off daily. With reliable comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term savings.

Buying a cheap hot tub might feel like a smart decision in the moment, but the hidden costs tell a different story.

When you invest in a quality, energy-efficient hot tub from RnR Hot Tubs and Spas, you get lasting comfort, expert service, and true value for your money.

Our Calgary-based team is ready to help you find the perfect model for your lifestyle and budget. We’ll walk you through energy efficiency, water care, and long-term maintenance, so you can soak stress-free for years to come.

Because cheap isn’t really cheap when it costs your comfort.

Visit our Calgary showroom or explore our premium Vita Spa collection online at rnrhottubs.com. Let’s find a hot tub that’s built to last, so you can relax without regret.

You can visit us at Bay 8 –  5700 Barlow Trail SE in Calgary.

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.