How to Choose the Best Hot Tub Brand in 2024

Planning a backyard revamp with a new hot tub on the docket? Great news! There’s never been a better time to upgrade your outdoor space with this luxurious classic. Of course, there have never been quite so many options on the market, either. To help you narrow it down, we’ve created our guide to choosing the best hot tub brand in 2024.

Sure, we might be a bit biased, but our expertise also means we recognize the best around us better than most.

How to Choose the Best Hot Tub Brand 

A hot tub is a big purchase: you’ll use it often, you may be paying it off over the course of a few months or years, it requires regular maintenance, and it’s likely to last you at least a couple of decades. 

There are also seemingly countless options on the market right now for those looking for a hot tub, which can make the entire process feel overwhelming. 

Because of this, it’s important to know just what to look for and what questions to ask when purchasing a hot tub. But what exactly makes a hot tub brand, ‘the best’? Good question. Let’s take a look at what to look for when choosing a hot tub dealer.

What to Look for in the Best Hot Tub Brand:

• Manufacturing standards & quality control
• A commitment to energy efficiency
• Customer service & communication
• Great reviews
• Hot tub delivery time
• Industry recognition
• Accessibility and location
• Reliable warranties

The best hot tub brands have mastered these aspects so that your purchase, installation, and relaxation experience is a breeze. 

1. Manufacturing Standards

High standards shouldn’t just be for the product, they should carry through every part of the manufacturing process. Before choosing a hot tub brand to trust, investigate their production process. Make sure they don't skimp on things like insulation or maintenance features.

Our hot tubs undergo a series of compliance tests and quality control reviews before earning the Wellis stamp of approval. Accountability, supply-chain transparency, and quality materials help ensure that a Wellis hot tub is user-friendly, environmentally friendly, and a good investment overall.

2. Energy Efficiency 

In the past few decades, energy efficiency and responsible consumption have become top priorities for many buyers and manufacturers. 

In response to this demand, the best hot tub brands of today have emphasized the energy-saving capabilities of their products, finding new ways to make the most with the least. 

An energy-efficient spa is one that consumes less energy, reduces air and water pollution, conserves resources, and does a small part to create a healthier environment. Plus, they can keep your energy costs lower, saving you money in the long run. Energy-efficient spa features might include covers and cabins made of insulating components, smart controls, and state-of-the-art pumps to circulate the water. 

Wellis, for instance, is currently working to create the world’s most energy-efficient spa: the most luxurious experience with little-to-no environmental impact, so you can relax without worry.

3. Customer Service 

The product is only half of the battle when it comes to the criteria for the best hot tub brand. The other half? The company itself. The way a brand treats its customers is a huge reflection of the overall ethics and competency of the manufacturer. 

Make sure lines of communication are open. You may want to reach out to your hot tub dealer for dealer-specific hot tub services, help with choosing a hot tub model, or any other general questions. A friendly representative should be easy to contact either via phone or email. Your rep should make you feel welcome and listened to; if they don’t, then something might be off. 

4. Read Customer Reviews

Word of mouth has long been the best marketing tool in any brand's back pocket. Positive feedback from your own neighbors serves as a kind of promise that the brand you are looking into has already been vetted by consumers like you, with good results. 

Take the time to look into customer reviews for the hot tub brands you are looking into, and take note of the pros and cons of each. You may also want to look into the Better Business Bureau rating of each, to be sure they are highly rated and accredited.

5. Hot Tub Delivery

One thing that differentiates luxury hot tubs is supply chain obstacles. Many hot tub manufacturers are delayed by 6-12 weeks, and others are unable to even offer a timeline for delivery. The best hot tub brand will have taken this into account and planned for these delays.

At Wellis, we want you to dive into your luxury hot tub experience as fast as possible! That's why we have taken steps in our sourcing, manufacturing, and shipping processes to ensure timely delivery. This is one more reason that Wellis is named among the best hot tub brands in America.

6. Industry Recognition

When consumers and industry experts agree on a product, chances are it's a good one. A quick Google search can tell you which industry awards and recognitions a brand may have achieved that set them apart.

For example, in 2022, Wellis was even awarded the WhatSpa? Best Buy award, and a WhatSpa? Approved recognition, adding to their decades' worth of accolades and customer satisfaction ratings that set them apart.

7. Find the Best Place to Buy Hot Tubs for Sale Near You

Sure, you can go online and purchase a hot tub fairly quickly, but is that really the wisest way to do your spa shopping? Oftentimes, the answer is no. 

When possible, we recommend purchasing directly from the manufacturer's store, or from local, specialized retailers. Going to these smaller centers allows you to get first-hand information about the brand you are looking at, ask any questions you might have about manufacturers' specifications, and get advice on the best way to install the tub in your space. 

While a big box store or online retailer might just drop the tub off and wish you luck, a specialized retailer will work with you for an efficient and stress-free installation. Whether you need help picking out the perfect product for you, quick and easy delivery, or have questions even after the fact, the right hot tub dealer will be there every step of the way. 

8. Check Out Warranties 

While a hot tub can, when taken care of, last decades, parts are likely to wear out or need repair at some point. To be prepared when this happens, familiarize yourself with the hot tub warranties available for each brand and individual product. 

Some brands offer warranties that are more comprehensive as you move up in their product lines, while others offer blanket warranties for all products. Often, brands will offer varying lengths of warranties for various parts. For instance, they might offer a lifetime warranty against structural issues, a seven-year warranty for surface damage, and a five-year warranty for mechanical, plumbing, and electrical parts.

If an issue arises within the period of time that the warranty covers, you’ll be able to contact the dealer to take care of it often at no cost. This is another reason it may be best to purchase directly from the manufacturer's showroom: Smaller, less reputable dealers may not have the same longevity as the others, and if they go out of business you’re left with no one to hold accountable for your warranty.

What questions should I ask when buying a hot tub?

Once you've decided on what you consider to be the best hot tub brand, it's time to look at the goods. When shopping to find the perfect hot tub, here are some questions to keep in mind:

• How much space do I have for a hot tub? 
• What do I plan to use it for most often?
• What additional features would I like?
• What is my budget?
• How much time and money will upkeep and maintenance take?
• What warranty does the model have? 
• What does the delivery and installation process look like?

Keeping these questions in mind can make weighing your options a bit easier.

The Best Hot Tub Features

When choosing the best hot tub brand, you'll want to make sure their collections come standard with quality hot tub materials - but that they also offer a variety of customization options. You'll also need to have a few questions in mind when researching models and brands.

What to Look for in the Best Hot Tubs:

• Shell materials & style customization
• Premium polyfoam insulation
• Hydrotherapy jets
• Water pumps
• Filtration systems
• Sanitization control
• Ergonomics & comfort
• Seating capacity

1. Shell Materials & Style

The shell is the exterior of the hot tub. You'll likely want to customize the look of your hot tub. The best hot tub brands will let you customize the colors and styles to suit your preferences.

Beneath the surface, the best hot tub brands also have perfected the art of engineering hot tub materials. A true luxury spa shell is constructed of materials that provide excellent temperature control, reduced energy costs, and premium audio insulation.

Wellis is one of the leading luxury hot tub manufacturers, providing Poli-Max™ reinforced shells on all their spas, including the Peak Line, CityLine, and MyLine series. The outer surface is treated with antimicrobial acrylic. That is backed by the ABS polymer layer for strength and durability. All this is supported by robotically applied polyurethane to provide additional strength and stability, as well as optimal thermal insulation.

2. Polyfoam Insulation

The Wellis line of luxury hot tubs features polyfoam insulation, as opposed to the single-layer spray foam insulation used in many other spas on the market. Polyfoam is superior due to its triple-layer construction, holding heat in while also repelling the cold air from outside.

Additional benefits of polyfoam insulation include its non-allergenic properties, resistance to mildew, resistance to condensation, resistance to bacteria, odorless, lightweight and flexible, excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties, and CFC-free technology.

3. Hydrotherapy Jets

There seems to be a misconception that the number of jets in a hot tub correlates to the quality of the hot tub itself—but that’s not necessarily true. The quality, effectiveness, and placement of the jets matter just as much as the amount of jets there are.

Look for a hot tub with a variety of jet types when shopping for your tub. For instance, a large, massaging jet for shoulders and back, directional jets for arms, legs, and other tired muscles, and a jetstream or foot massaging jet for sore feet.

You should also consider the ratio of total seating capacity to the number of jets. A hot tub that seats eight with 50 jets has a less impressive individual-to-jet ratio than a four-seater with 30 jets. 

4. Water Pumps

Pumps on a hot tub have two functions. The first; to circulate water through the heater and filter. The second; to power the jets. On most older models and some newer ones, two separate pumps are used: Smaller size pumps to circulate the water, and more powerful ones to push the water through the jets for a hydrotherapy experience.

However, the best new models feature a two-speed pump. This means that the same pump circulates the water and powers the jets. This pump is not only just as effective as two separate pumps, but it is also a low-cost option.

The low-speed mode provides energy- and cost-efficient circulation for filtration and heating, while the high-power mode can be turned on to power the jets. Many top-of-the-line products use a variable-speed pump. This motor, similar to the ones used in hybrid cars, is quieter and produces less vibration and heat, which not only enhances user experience but preserves the life of the tub itself. 

5. Filtration Systems

There are two main types of filtration systems used by most hot tub manufacturers—standard hot tub filtration or circulation pump filtration. Standard hot tub filtration systems use the larger jet pump to circulate and filter the water, often on a self-timer system. This can sometimes be a more cost-effective option, as it is found on many low- to mid-price range tubs.

However, we recommend the circulation pump filtration system. This system uses a smaller pump to continuously filter the water, and in the long-run costs less to run than the alternative. When shopping for a hot tub, don’t  be afraid to ask questions about the filtration system.

Even some circulation pump systems occasionally need the help of a larger jet pump, which will drive up the operating costs a bit. A circulation pump filtration that does not need those jet pumps is the best bet.

6. Sanitation Systems

Sanitation systems keep the water safe by killing water borne germs. Traditional sanitization methods rely mainly on regular treatment of the water with chemicals such as chlorine or bromine. While those are still required occasionally, many hot tub brands are looking to technology to come up with ways to keep chemical use to a minimum. Wellis spas use a UV-C system to treat the water in the hot tub several times a day. The UV-C light is lightweight, compact, effective, and easy-to-use, all while consuming minimal power to run. 

7. Ergonomics

A hot tub should make you feel more comfortable, more at home, and more relaxed—so ergonomics should never be overlooked. The term “ergonomics” refers to the comfort and ease-of-use of a product, and the best hot tubs on the market keep this quality in mind from the get-go.

Premium hot tub brands include details like multi-level seating, adjustable jets, easy-to-reach control panels, and intuitively placed jets. 

So whether you’re 6-foot-4 or 4-foot-11, whether you want to focus on working out your neck or your lower back, or whether you want an intense massage or a light touch, your hot tub has you covered.  

8. Hot Tub Seating Capacity

The best hot tub brands know that one size doesn't fit all. They offer a wide range of widths and lengths to accommodate all spaces and homeowners. Whether you're looking for a cost-effective P&P hot tub, or you want an 8-person hot tub for entertaining, the best hot tub brands will have multiple options for hot tub seats, hot tub features, and more, so you can choose the best setup to level up your lifestyle.

Luxury Hot Tub Features & Upgrades

Though the basics are the building blocks of the best hot tubs, they are just the beginning. Additional features can really push some brands far above others, helping them stand out in a crowded market. 

1. Audio Systems

Many industry-leading hot tub manufacturers include built-in audio systems in each of their products. These consist of a set of speakers built into the cabinet of the hot tub, which can be programmed through the control panel or through smartphone/WiFi set-ups. 

2. Aromatherapy

The best hot tub brands will create their hot tubs with the user in mind. That's why some of the Wellis hot tub models have aromatherapy built into the hot tub shell. This creates a spa-like wellness experience in every use.

3. Lighting Systems

Nearly all hot tubs include basic lighting for night-time use, but some take this feature into the future with colored LED lighting systems, ambient lighting options, and more.

4. Water Features

You might be thinking, “Isn’t a hot tub a water feature itself?”. Well, yes. But in the name of luxury, some manufacturers have added fountains and other impressive water features to their products. This makes your spa or swim spa a relaxing centerpiece of your backyard, whether you’re in it or not. 

5. Smartphone Controls & Hot Tub Apps

Smart homes are all the rage, and the hot tub isn’t getting left behind. In many modern hot tub brands, you can control and monitor your hot tub with a hot tub app! Those that feature WiFi set-up can usually be paired with a smartphone app to allow remote control of the tub's temperature, water features, lighting, circulation systems, and sound system.

6. Thermal Hot Tub Covers

The thermal hot tub covers manufactured by Wellis offer the highest level of thermal insulation available, keeping energy costs at the absolute minimum. These covers feature marine-grade UV-resistant outer covers, with a sloped top surface so that water runs off easily and quickly. This prevents the most common problems among other hot tub covers, which hold water that eventually seeps into the cover leading to permanent sagging, mold and mildew, and weight damage.

What Defines a Luxury Hot Tub?

What is the difference between a “luxury hot tub” and any other spa? More importantly, what’s the best brand of luxury hot tubs you can invest in? Luxury hot tubs are differentiated from entry-level and mid-range spas by several qualities:

• Luxury hot tubs provide hydrotherapy in the form of jets, located in all the seats of the hot tub, including upright seats and loungers. Usually, there are additional jets in the footwells, and other strategic hydrotherapy points along the interior of the tub.
• Luxury hot tubs feature elegant designs that look good as well as offering superior functionality.
• Luxury hot tubs are designed with high-quality insulation, making it easier to keep the water hot, even in cold weather. This lowers energy consumption, while also providing a more comfortable soak.
• Luxury hot tubs come with standard features well above what’s provided on lower-end spas.
• A better variety of optional features and accessories are generally available for luxury hot tubs and spas.

About the Wellis Spa & Hot Tub Brand

Now that you know what makes up the best hot tub brand and what hot tub features to look for, let's look at who Wellis Spa is and what makes it one of the best hot tub brands in the world.

Though the company was founded in 2003, and is already the largest hot tub manufacturer in Europe, they have only recently begun to expand into the US market. Now, their high quality hot tubs, high standards for safe and fast delivery, and constant technological advancements have made them a force to be reckoned with on this side of the pond. 

What Makes Wellis One of the Best Hot Tub Brands in 2024?

Wellis hot tubs are among the best because of their commitment to quality in each and every category listed above. Not only does their catalog include a wide variety of sizes and types of hot tubs and swim spas, they also offer plenty of standard and optional features when it comes to lighting and audio systems, water features, and more. 

The innovative approach Wellis has taken to its spas has raised the bar for the entire industry. Each tub is well insulated with our signature polyfoam insulation on the side cover and subfloor. This insulation type is not only better for the environment, but it is also more effective, making Wellis spas the perfect fit for even the coldest climate. 

Wellis also uses a revolutionary water sanitization system: a UV-C system in which germicidal UV light rays are used to disinfect the water. 

Plus, every one of Wellis’ hot tubs utilizes the Gecko control system, which can be easily integrated into the available WiFi and touch screen control system, so users can easily customize the water features, jet settings, color therapy lighting, and audio system. 

Wellis Spa Models 

Wellis Spa USA is best known for its four product lines: 

• MyLine: The entry-level line from Wellis, these are designed comfort, family, and affordability in mind. They include large, open seating, built-in loungers, and easy-to-install plug & play options. Wellis features plenty of options in this line, including the Hercules, Leo P&P, Leo Scandi Pack, Libra, Orion P&P, and Taurus. 
• CityLine: The perfect balance of value for the money and premium quality, CityLine tubs offer many luxury options at affordable prices. The London model and Paris model are both CityLine Wellis products. 
• PeakLine: The products in the premium line of Wellis hot tubs include the full line of options and accessories and sleek style to create the ultimate hydrotherapy experience with no need for compromise. These include the Mont Blanc model, the Monte Rosa model, and the Olympus model. 
• SwimLine: Add an option for exercise when you opt for a swim spa from their SwimLine collection. These swim spas include state-of-the-art features in both the hot tub zone and the swim zone. The Amazon W-Flow model, Danube W-Flow model, and Rio Grande W-Flow model make up the Wellis SwimLine. 

Whether you’re looking for a simple plug & play option, an in-deck installation for a seamless and modern look, or a ton of room and features for relaxing, entertaining, and exercising, Wellis is a go-to brand for homeowners and industry experts.  

Olympus Hot Tub

As many as 9 people can comfortably relax in the Olympus hot tub that meets the highest needs. You may also enjoy the beneficial effects of warm water in this hot tub with 7 seats, 2 recliners, and a bevy of jets, ensuring a massage experience greater than ever before.

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Lugano Life Hot Tub

The Lugano Life hot tub features 5 spacious seats and a full sized lounger, all equipped with powerful massage jets to provide unmatched hydrotherapy.

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Milano Life P&P Hot Tub

The Milano Life P&P hot tub provides 4 comfortable seats and an incredible lounger, making it one of the most capable plug and play hot tubs for sale

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Contact Us For Your Wellis Spa

When looking for the best hot tub brand in 2024, Wellis should be at the top of your list. After decades as a leader in the European luxury hot tub market, Wellis has mastered mindful and eco-friendly hot tub manufacturing, while delivering exceptional service. 

Whether you just want to stop by the showroom for a test soak, talk to an expert about your specific project, or are ready to take the plunge on purchasing a spa of your own, Wellis has the answers you’re looking for. 

Check out our location finder to get the details on your local Wellis USA Dealer, and get started with the best hot tub brand today.