What Is The Difference Between New, Used and Ex-Display Hot Tubs?
The hot tub market has grown significantly in the past few years and this does not make choosing the right hot tub any easier for the consumer. Before getting as far as brand or model selection, it is important to consider more general questions. Why would you buy new vs. used? What is the benefit of choosing an ex-display model? In this blog post we will look at the differences between new, ex-display and used hot tubs and the benefits and drawbacks of each choice.
New Hot Tubs
Buying a new hot tub is pretty self-explanatory. With a new hot tub you should get a comprehensive warranty, the latest innovation and a product that is unused (aside from factory testing) when it arrives at your house. When you see a hot tub for sale it is important to look beyond obvious factors such as price and number of jets and to ask questions that will impact your ownership long-term. For more on what to ask before buying a hot tub, see our post: 5 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Hot Tub.
Benefits of Purchasing a New Hot Tub
- Comprehensive warranty
- Brand-new product
- The latest innovation
Drawbacks of Purchasing a New Hot Tub
- Higher pricing
- Longer lead times
See our range of energy-efficient, luxury Hot Spring Spas here.
Ex-Display Hot Tubs
An ex-display hot tub is a hot tub that has been opened and shown on display at a hot tub showroom or show. These hot tubs may have been filled for testing or could have been kept dry while on display. These models can significantly vary in age with some floor models being on display for 2+ years in some cases. With an ex-display hot tub the buying journey is the same as when you are buying a new hot tub but once you have identified an ex-display model, it is then important to find out the history and specific information on that spa. All reputable retailers will test ex-display models before delivery to ensure that there are no underlying issues with the hot tub. The important benefit of buying an ex-display hot tub from a retailer is that you will get full support and a warranty backed by a company who can honour this.
Benefits of Purchasing an Ex-Display Hot Tub
- Saving on the purchase price vs. new
- Retailer support and backup
- Tend to be ready for delivery faster than some new models
Drawbacks of Purchasing an Ex-Display Hot Tub
- Smaller warranty periods
- Generally older models, which means less new features/innovation.
Used / Pre-Owned Hot Tubs
Purchasing a second hand hot tub is a great way to save money on a good quality hot tub. For brands with long parts availability, the risk of purchasing a used hot tub is quite low as you can be sure to source parts. The risks of purchasing a pre-owned hot tub privatley are similar to doing this with a car in that you do not get any retailer support, it is a private agreement and quality can not be guaranteed. If you purchase a pre-owned unit from a hot tub retailer you will most likely get a small warranty period, will know the full history of the unit and you can ensure support with the your purchase. Purchasing a used hot tub is a great way to save money and a great way to buy a better brand or better spec than you had planned with the same budget.
Benefits of Purchasing a Pre-Owned Hot Tub
- Huge savings on high spec. hot tubs vs. new
- With established brands, strong parts availability adds longevity to ownership
- Tend to be ready for delivery faster than some new models
Drawbacks of Purchasing a Pre-Owned Hot Tub
- Smaller warranty periods
- Generally older models, which means less new features/innovation
As mentioned in the three comparisons, the quality of the retailer is one of the most important aspects when purchasing a hot tub whether it is new, ex-display or used. A good quality retailer will support a hot tub ownership journey for many years.
