Are you on a quest for the perfect hot tub? It can be overwhelming with the number of brands on the market. And searching for the "best" of anything is a bit misguided because the best of one thing for one person might be different for another person based on their individual needs.
First, determine your must-have features
Start by figuring out your must-have features for a hot tub. Think about size, seating, functionality, colour, etc. Our hot tub quiz can help you cover all the bases. Full disclosure: we only carry Hydropool hot tubs, and we love them for several good reasons that we'll cover.
Next, do your brand research
What separates the best hot tubs from the rest? Here are some things you'll want to consider:
- Experience and reputation. How long has the manufacturer been around? Hydropool, our main squeeze, has been in business since 1970 and made its initial splash in the commercial swimming pool industry, a market with specific standards and demands for quality. In 1978, Hydropool became one of Canada's first hot tub retailers. Today, their products are sold in more than 60 countries!
- Quality. You'll want to purchase a hot tub that will last you through the seasons and years. Hydropool's award-winning hot tubs are built for Canadian winters, and it's common for them to last 15 years or more.
- Locally-grown. Buying local is a priority for Buds and another reason to love Hydropool, whose hot tubs are manufactured in Mississauga, and that includes parts and accessories. Locally made means that products don't have to travel far to reach our customers, and techs don't have to travel far for training.
- If you want something new, you have to stop doing something old. You have to innovate! Another reason to love Hydropool who has always pushed the industry to be better. They manufactured the world's first carbon-neutral hot tubs and swim spas and have rigorous standards to sell products in California.
- You'll want your hot tub to be energy-efficient so you can save money on utilities and for the sake of the environment. Hydropool's energy-efficient filtration system filters 100% of the water every 15 minutes, so the hot tub doesn't have to operate as often to filter the same amount of water.
Read more reasons to love Hydropool.
Once you've selected your brand, narrow down your selection
Okay, so you decided you love Hydropool (just kidding!). Once your brand is covered, you can review the options based on your must-have features. The primary features we'll discuss are based on size and function.
You want a hot tub for larger family use and entertaining
In this case, we recommend at least a 6-seater to accommodate a family or group comfortably. Our favourite 6-seaters are:
Hydropool Serenity 6800
This ultra-spacious hot tub comfortably fits 6 to 7 people, foregoing the lounger to maximize seating and socializing. There's a style of seat to suit every taste, plus four personalized wellness zones for the ultimate hot tub experience. Easy-to-access non-slip steps are built right into the interior of the hot tub.
Hydropool Self-Cleaning 695
With this hot tub's high-capacity footwell, one of the largest in the industry, you can comfortably fit 7 in a compact 7' x 7' space. The corner seats provide targeted massage for the back, calves, neck, and wrists, and you can choose from 35 or 50 jets.
You want a hot tub for smaller family use and gatherings
If this is the case, we'd recommend a 3 to 6-seater hot tub. Here are our favourites:
Hydropool Self-Cleaning 495
Two loungers in this hot tub mean you double the fun, double the comfort…and a compact hot tub that fits four people without a game of footsie. Thanks to the no-float lounger design, your centre of gravity is low, so you stay comfortably anchored in the seat, no matter how much you let go of your stress.
Hydropool Self-Cleaning 570
This hot tub is the evolution of Hydropool's bestselling hot tub of more than 30 years. The no-float lounger plus four-seat model maximize ergonomics and comfort. With its spacious interior and multi-level seating, the 570 is roomy enough to treat you and your friends like royalty. At the same time, its European styling makes it a beautiful addition to anyone's castle.
Hydropool Serenity 6600
This hot tub offers a luxurious and spacious spa with all the bells and whistles (without stressing your budget). Furnished with two captain seats and four personalized massage zones, this hot tub provides a soothing hydromassage experience you'll pine for every day.
Once you've picked your model, decide on any add-on packages
An add-on package is optional, but we have recommendations that we consider worthwhile.
Tranquillity Package
The tranquillity package is a no-brainer if you want to use your hot tub for relaxation, hydrotherapy, peace and quiet; you get the idea. This package includes Hydrofall pillows for soothing relaxation, clears headaches, and provides tranquil sounds that will put you in zen mode. Also included are deluxe LED lighting and garden effects for an added ambiance that lights your entrance to the tub in the evenings and will complement your lovely landscaping lights.
WHICH HOT TUB IS BEST FOR YOU?
Take our quick quiz to find out and unlock a towards your purchase.
RELATED ARTICLES
Treating Foaming in a hot tub
In its most formal application, contrast hydrotherapy involves alternating between immersion in hot and cold water. It’s a practice with growing popularity among athletes and health enthusiasts for its many reported benefits.
Why You Should Drain Your Hot Tub Regularly (And How To Do It)
Why You Should Drain Your Hot Tub Regularly (And How To Do It) Having a hot tub can be one of the most low maintenance ways to add a little more fun and relaxation to your life. Modern hot tubs can be enjoyed with relatively small amounts of care. In general, we tell homeowners to…
Can Your Hot Tub Do This? Discover the Coolest Hot Tub Tech of 2024!
Can Your Hot Tub Do This? Discover the Coolest Hot Tub Tech of 2024! In 2024, hot tubs aren’t just about soaking in warm water-they’ve become high-tech relaxation hubs with features that enhance your experience like never before. If you haven’t upgraded your tub recently, you’re in for a treat. Let’s explore some of the…
Benefits of In-Person Shopping for Hot Tubs, Pools & Swim Spas
We know that online shopping can be convenient. But at Buds we still believe that hot tubs, swim spas and pools, not to mention their parts and supplies, are best shopped for in person.
So while you might start your shopping journey online, we hope that you’ll take the chance to visit us in store before finally making your purchase.
There are many reasons why we think brick-and-mortar stores like Buds are the smart choice for customers.
Check out our top reasons and let us know if you agree!
Treating Pseudomonas in a Hot Tub
How to treat Pseudomonas in a Hot Tub What is Pseudomonas? Pseudomonas is a skin infection resulting from exposure to contaminated spa water. Loss of sanitizer level and the temperature of the spa both pose as a breeding ground for this bacterium. Characteristics of Pseudomonas Pseudomonas is most commonly seen as an inflamed skin rash.…
Treating Phosphates in a Hot Tub
How to Treat Phosphates in your Hot Tub Phosphates are a naturally occurring mineral in all water, however if they reach high levels they can cause issues in your spa. One issue that can occur is not being able to maintain a sanitizer level as the phosphates consume bromine or chlorine. It can also lead…
Treating Biofilm in a Hot Tub
How to Treat Biofilm in your Hot Tub What is Biofilm? Biofilm in hot tubs refers to a complex community of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces and form a slimy, protective layer. Biofilm can develop on various surfaces within a hot tub, such as the walls, pipes, and filters. IMPACT Reduced effectiveness of sanitizers: The…
How to Drain your Serenity Hydropool Hot Tub
How to drain your Serenity Hydropool hot tub ** Your spa should be drained approximately every 8-12 weeks depending on the amount of chemicals added and the use it gets. 1 Start by turning off the air controls and ensuring there is water coming out of all the seat jets (move diverters to middle/neutral position,…
How to Drain your Self-Clean Hydropool Hot Tub
How to drain your self-clean hydropool hot tub Steps to Draining your Self-Clean Hydropool You will need 2 garden hoses, one for draining and one for filling. Your spa should be drained approximately every 12 weeks depending on the amount of chemicals added and the use it gets. Remember to have your water tested monthly.…
How to Measure Your Hot Tub Cover
How to measure your Hot Tub Cover How to Measure Your Hot Tub Cover This guide will help you measure your spa or hot tub cover so that it will fit perfectly. Even if a covermanufacturer has your spa on file, take the time to measure and be sure. Measuring your Spa Skirt measurement The…
Hot tub winterization guide
how to prepare your hot tub for the winter Winterizing your hot tub properly is extremely important to ensure that all the lines and equipment do not freeze and crack over the winter. Drain spa as per normal procedure. Remove pillows, the skimmer basket and the filter(s) from the canister. Chemically clean your filter(s) with…
Hot Tub Filter Cartridge Cleaning
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR Hot Tub Filter Cartridge When should a filter cartridge be cleaned? For hot tubs, establish a routine cartridge cleaning schedule based on the amount of spa usage. This should include rinsing the cartridge weekly (or more frequently with heavy use), as well as using Rapid Action Filter Cleanse every 4-6 weeks. …
Helpful tips when maintaining your spa!
HELPFUL TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN MAINTAINING YOUR SPA! ATTENTION NEW HOT TUB AND SWIM SPA OWNERS: We recommend bringing a water sample to Bud’s Spas & Pools before adding any chemicals and/or before entering your hot tub for the first time. Test Strips Test strips are a great tool to help you maintain…
The Surprising Benefits of Contrast Hydrotherapy
In its most formal application, contrast hydrotherapy involves alternating between immersion in hot and cold water. It’s a practice with growing popularity among athletes and health enthusiasts for its many reported benefits.
What’s the deal with plug-and-play hot tubs?
A morning soak in your hot tub is the best way to start your day. Experience the benefits of stress relief, relaxation, mental clarity and more!
Can Hot Tubs Really Help You Lose Weight?
A morning soak in your hot tub is the best way to start your day. Experience the benefits of stress relief, relaxation, mental clarity and more!
Buyer Beware! Think Twice About Going to A Hot Tub Expo
Beware of the travelling hot tub shows and expos. We review the red flags to be aware of and why you’ll never see Buds at one!
The Benefits of a Morning Soak in Your Hot Tub
A morning soak in your hot tub is the best way to start your day. Experience the benefits of stress relief, relaxation, mental clarity and more!
