We know that buying a new hot tub is a huge investment and deciding which one to buy can also cause a few headaches. But, assuming you could find one in France, could buying a second-hand hot tub save you any money?
Buying used could save you money initially. However pre-owned doesn't always mean pre-loved, and you could end up buying a tub that needs costly repairs. Occasionally I have seen used tubs advertised on Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Gumtree and few other auction and selling sites. There are more available on UK sites than French ones but then you'd have the extra cost of bringing it over to your home in France. In fact, even if you did find one in France the cost to transport something as large as a hot tub might not save you very much anyway.
What to look out for
Many people try to sell their old tubs on eBay, etc., and I'm sure the prices will seem very reasonable when you consider that our best-selling hot tub, the Burford Deluxe is 5187,00€. So while it might be possible to find a used tub in good condition through one of the selling sites, I'd definitely recommend checking it over yourself before parting with any of your hard-earned cash. And by the way, I'm not just talking about wood-burning tubs, but electric spas and inflatables as well.
Take your time
When you arrange your viewing give yourself plenty of time to give the tub a good going over. Ask when it was last used, how long it's been stored, if not in situ, and personally I'd also want to see the tub completely filled and heated to optimum temperature (around 40° Celsius / 104° Fahrenheit). So arrange in advance for the seller to fill it up. This is a good way to make sure it's in good condition and not leaking. And if it's electric it will prove that it's still heating up and hopefully maintaining the required water temperature. I wouldn't recommend buying a used hot tub that had been sat around outside, empty and unused in all kinds of weather. Electric tubs in particular could suffer from expensive electrical or plumbing issues. With a wooden tub the wood could be rotten so it's really important to take your time inspecting it.
Sad stories to tell
Finally, don't forget to check the cover. If it's cracked or mouldy replacing it will also be expensive. And if they have neglected the hot tub cover, it's more than likely they won't have looked after the tub very well either. If only they could talk... I'm sure some hot tubs would have very sad stories to tell. For some, their only downfall was to grow too old and for others, they heater stopped working and accidently burst their pipes.
So, if you're unsure and the seller offers to drastically reduce the price because you've noticed a few 'scuff marks', think once, think twice. And if you can't resist a bargain make sure you factor in the price of any repairs and servicing before you bite their hand-off!
Advantages of buying new.
Well, apart from having a brand-new, spotlessly clean, unused wood-fired hot tub that includes a 12 month manufacturers warranty.. let me think. When you buy new from Hot Tubs In France your new tub is delivered and installed where you want it and doesn't need any costly repairs or maintenance. The boilers are new so they're more efficient, and therefore less expensive to run. And while Tim is setting it up, one or both of us will be telling you how to use it so that you get a long, enjoyable bathing experiences for years to come. You are making a very wise investment when you buy a Cotswold Eco Tub. The hand-crafted, light-weight design, is made to the highest possible specifications, and will probably last you 10 years or more.
New or Used?
To sum it up then, you should only buy a used hot tub that has been thoroughly examined in-person and checked for leaks, plumbing, mould, cracks and/or electrical issues. Otherwise, the 'savings' are simply not worth the costly expense of repairs and maintenance if you have a bought a damaged or energy-inefficient tub. Whereas on the other hand, if you choose to buy a new hot tub you will have peace of mind, great customer service, and one of the best wood-burning, eco-friendly tubs that money can buy. You'll also be joining our family of happy hot tub owners.
"We bought a hot tub just before lockdown and couldn’t be happier with the service provided and the tub itself. No more scary electric bills (we had an electric run jacuzzi before this, and were shocked at what it cost to run!) The tub heats to 38 degrees in about 2 hours, depending on the temperature it is at start up of course. But we couldn’t be more pleased with it and with all the help we got from Nicola and her husband. We would totally recommend a hot tub to anyone considering buying one."
Ali and Dominic Lunn
Come and see us
We're always happy to offer help on advice on choosing a tub, and how and where to set it up. Don't forget, we're at the Christmas Fair in Lessac 16500, on 14th November from 10am, where we'll be showcasing the Burford Deluxe eco tub. There will be artisan stalls selling lots of beautiful, handmade items to complete your Christmas shopping. If you can't make it to Lessac why not call and see us at Hot Tubs HQ near Limoges? Send us an email, and we can arrange a private demo of our home tub for you. Viewings are appointment only, so please make sure you email us to arrange a date, because we would hate for you to have a wasted journey.
Contact Nicola or Tim at Hot Tubs In France. Call direct on 0749 19 46 84 or email hottubsinfrance@gmail.com
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