Nothing beats a hot tub. Soaking in the warm, bubbly water coursing through the tub will turn a lousy day into a winner.
If you want to purchase a hot tub from Costco, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s look at the best time to buy a hot tub from Costco – when they’re on sale.
Savvy shoppers know – the best time to buy something is when it’s on sale. For hot tubs sold through Costco, that’s typically in Q4 or early Q1 (that’s fall and winter if you’re not one for retail jargon).
This is when Costco is trying to clear its inventory to pave the way for the new models of hot tubs.
We’ll review a few tips in this article, like purchasing a floor model for a steep discount, monitoring the prices, purchasing on Black Friday, and tracking pricing through an app. But then, let your computer do the work for you!
We’ll also explore the two brands offered by Costco, what to expect with shipping and setup, and discuss if an inflatable hot tub is right for you. Onward!
Buying a hot tub from Costco can seem daunting – the price tags are hefty, and delivery and setup can be challenging.
Follow the tips in this guide to make the most of your experience, and ensure you get the best deal on your hot tub possible.
When Do Costco Hot Tubs Go on Sale?
Again, the typical months that hot tubs at Costco go on sale are in the fall and early winter. Costco is trying to unload the backstock of inventory to make room for newer hot tubs.
However, price drops are unexpected, and hot tubs can go on sale anytime.
On Black Friday, Costco drops their hot tub pricing (often by thousands of dollars). If you can wait till the next Black Friday rolls around (or Cyber Monday – the price can drop then, too), do so. It may save you boatloads of money.
Here are some methods to help you get your hands on a hot tub at rock-bottom prices:
1. Buy a Floor Model
If your local Costco has hot tubs on display, you’re in luck. They can often be purchased for less than the retail asking price. That adds up to savings for you.
Unfortunately, many Costcos don’t offer floor models for sale. Hot tubs are large by nature and take up a lot of floor space. In addition, their large size and weight make them difficult to move and deliver.
Often, hot tubs are only available to purchase from Costco online.
But don’t worry. We also have tips for saving money when buying your hot tub online.
2. Monitor and Wait
While the fall and early winter are typically the best times to buy a hot tub from Costco, prices fluctuate and may go on sale throughout the year.
If you’re seriously considering buying a hot tub, check the Costco website weekly and monitor the prices. If you see a price drop, be prepared to pounce on it.
3. Use an App To Track the Price
Several apps can monitor the pricing of items for you. Download the plugin on your computer or smartphone, and put the app to work for you.
For example, have it monitor the prices of hot tubs and Costco and alert you of any price drops.
4. Use a Deals Site
Alternatively, several websites track deals. They will inform you if there are any codes that you can enter for additional savings. They also can alert you to deals as they happen.
Using a deals site is a terrific way to score additional savings on a hot tub.
What Brands of Hot Tubs Does Costco Sell?
There are two brands of hot tubs sold by Costco right now. They vary slightly, so research and pick the best model that fits your needs.
1. Evolution
Evolution is a company exclusive to Costco – you won’t find their hot tubs for sale anywhere else. They distribute hot tubs throughout North America, and their models vary in features and size. So do your homework and select the right hot tub for you.
2. Aquaterra
Aquaterra is another company that is available exclusively through Costco. Their manufacturer makes other brands, but the Aquaterra brand is only available through Costco.
They have several models that vary in capacity and features, so dig in and discover which is best for your needs.
Shipping Your Hot Tub
If you’re purchasing your hot tub through the internet, anticipate a 3-5 week wait for it to arrive.
In addition, the delivery will be curbside – the freight company will not carry your hot tub to its final destination. You’ll need to recruit neighbors or friends or hire a moving company.
The hours that your hot tub will be delivered are between 8-5, Monday through Friday. You’ll need to call the shipping company to schedule an appointment, and you’ll need to be home to inspect the hot tub and sign for the delivery.
Additional Things To Remember
A few things are worth noting if you take the plunge and purchase a hot tub from Costco.
1. Electric
The pump and heating elements in hot tubs are electric. They require 220 amp power to run. If you don’t have an electrical disconnect run where your hot tub is going, you’ll need to contact an electrician and have one installed.
Adding a 220 power line is an additional cost you’ll need to factor in before purchasing a hot tub.
2. Where Are You Putting Your Hot Tub?
The ideal location for hot tubs is a concrete pad. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to contact a concrete company to have one installed. This will present an additional cost that you’ll need to factor in.
Hot tubs weigh several hundred pounds before water is added to them. After they’re filled with water, they weigh thousands of pounds.
Since they’re so heavy, if you plan to put your hot tub on your deck, you’ll need to reinforce it. Again, contact a local contractor to price this out, but this presents an added cost.
Hot tubs require a hard, level surface. Therefore, they should not be installed on the grass or ground near your home.
3. Costco Doesn’t Do Hot Tubs Servicing
If your hot tub requires servicing, Costco won’t help – they don’t serve hot tubs. Instead, you’ll need to contact a local hot tub or spa company for fixes. Some consumers elect to purchase directly from a local company because of this.
Additionally, hot tubs aren’t covered by Costco’s 90-day return policy. So if you buy it, it’s yours for keeps.
Is a Costco Hot Tub Right for You?
Now that you’ve got more information, it’s time to determine if a Costco hot tub is the right choice for you.
If you’re looking for the least expensive option, you may be swayed to purchase your hot tub from Costco.
Their prices are unbeatable, particularly if you can snag a hot tub while it’s on sale. However, a local dealer might be a better alternative if you’re looking for a long-term warranty and a company that will service your hot tub.
Wherever you decide to purchase your hot tub, you’re bound to get years of joy soaking in the hot, bubbly water. So pour yourself a drink and relax in your hot tub, knowing you’ve invested in your happiness.
