Even in a shifting economy, swim spas and hot tubs present strong sales opportunities as consumers invest in affordable luxury at home. Offering multiple uses for relaxation, hydrotherapy, and even aerobics, these investments go a long way. There are also various ways to market them to users of all abilities and needs, elevating the luxury experience further.

Here are considerations to make when selling swim spas and hot tubs to customers:

Design

Portable swim spas are a great selling point as, depending on the model, they offer the best of both worlds: an area for swimming and exercise, along with a space to enjoy relaxation and hydrotherapy.

Acrylic-shell models are a popular choice for portable hot tubs. Customers can select from various models that accommodate anywhere from two to three people up to more than eight. Entry-level hot tubs typically feature between 10 and 20 jets, while premium or high-performance models can have between 60 and more than 100 jets. These hot tubs also come with insulated cabinetry, automated or time-controlled heating systems, and a thermal hardtop cover, making them ideal for comfortable use throughout the seasons.

Accessibility

Slip-resistant materials and grab rails are integral to a safe experience. Users should be able to access hot tubs from all sides. For both products, there should be easy controls to adjust the water temperature and the intensity of the jets.

Swim spas and hot tubs typically have raised walls, ledges, or steps that users must navigate when entering. The ease of access can differ based on whether the unit is installed above ground, partially recessed, or surrounded by a deck. For customers requiring assistance, both portable and fixed lifts and hoists can significantly improve accessibility. These devices may include features such as automatic operation, battery power, waterproof controls, or a combination of these options, tailored to the user’s needs.

Jets

While these are essentials for swim spas and hot tubs, the types of jets can make a product unique, and there are many options that customers can explore. For hydrotherapy, resistance jets work best. Within this category are cluster, rotational, directional, whirlpool, air, and seat jets.¹ Massage seats and footwell jets are also additional options.

Offering a variety of jet types within a single swim spa allows professionals to tailor the experience to meet diverse customer needs. For example, an oversized model might include upright seating with targeted jets for back massage, a full-length bench for a complete hydrotherapy experience, and high-performance swim jets for fitness training. These multifunction setups add value to clients seeking relaxation and exercise features in one unit. However, it is important to account for the increased demand on the system; more jets will require additional pumps and power considerations during installation.

Digital controls

An adjustable water and air flow feature is a key selling point for performance and comfort. Users can manually or app-control resistance levels for hydrotherapy or fitness routines, accommodating various strengths and mobility needs. This enhances customer satisfaction and broadens market appeal.

Customers will always appreciate a self-cleaning feature. Who wants to stand and manually work in extreme heat or cold weather? A self-cleaning function, operable from the user’s app on their mobile device, can activate any built-in vacuums, skimmer, and filtration system and make maintenance easy.

Water features

Elaborate water features such as fountains and waterfalls, or even small details, can enhance the esthetic and experience of a swim spa or hot tub.

Additional elements to consider are LED lighting, with the option to change colours and adjust brightness and patterns, and integrated audio systems, with either an in-built control panel or through app controls.

Particularly for swim spas, aromatherapy diffusers/canisters can be infused. Packaging them with different salts and scents can enhance the appeal of a swim spa.

Add-ons

A cover is essential for homeowners with a pool, swim spa, or hot tub. It protects the structure from the elements and keeps dirt and debris out, offering numerous benefits.

Swim spa and hot tub owners should have the option to purchase a cover to their liking—whether automatic, roll-on, or hardtop. An additional feature to consider is offering customers insulated covers, as these are optimal for maintaining water temperatures.

To give customers a more luxurious feel, consider offering swim spas and hot tub models with options such as LED cup holders, ergonomic chairs, seats, and benches.

Services

Retailers can strengthen customer relationships and add lasting value by pairing swim spas and hot tubs with various services, including installation, setup, and ongoing maintenance. By employing skilled technicians for in-house services, retailers can minimize dependence on third-party providers, simplifying support processes and enhancing the overall customer experience. This convenience boosts customer satisfaction, encourages repeat business, and cultivates strong brand loyalty over time. Mobile apps, where customers record data about the swim spa and hot tub automatically or manually, can help service providers troubleshoot issues quickly and even virtually at times; however, offering in-person service calls is something customers likely expect.

Moreover, a lifetime warranty goes a long way (literally and figuratively). Providing customers with that additional security will put them at ease about owning a swim spa and hot tub.

Staycation at home

Swim spas and hot tubs represent affordable luxury, offering customizable features, various design options, and easy maintenance. Certain materials can blend seamlessly with the desired esthetic of the customer’s backyard or pool area.

Explore these options and share them with customers. Consider selling different sizes of swim spas and hot tubs to appeal to customers with various incomes and become a part of creating a dreamy oasis in backyards. The more customizable a product is, and the more variety it offers, along with services
and warranties, the more likely customers will return to a business and remain loyal.

Notes

¹ Learn more about hydrotherapy jets.