Hot Spring Spas Reviews

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About Hot Spring Spas

Hot Spring spas and hot tubs have been manufactured in Vista, California, by Watkins Wellness since 1977. Hot Spring’s portable saltwater hot tubs include soothing massage features and a variety of jet options. The company also offers saltwater systems and energy-efficient models. Find accessories, including replacement covers, cover lifters and furniture, on its website.

Pros
  • Customizable features
  • Energy-efficient models
  • Range of price tiers
Cons
  • Limited warranty
  • Sold only through local dealers

Helpful Reviews

Big Sky, MT
Verified purchase
This is our third Hot Spring spa, and we have a few gripes, but nothing catastrophic. Since we live at a huge resort/ski area, it's a must. My wife decided it would be nice to add...

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Longview, TX
Verified purchase
We bought our Hot Springs hot tub from the local dealer in Longview, TX in 2013. We have been surprised how low the maintenance costs have been over these 12 plus years. We have h...

Read more

About Hot Spring Spas

Hot Spring Spas’ hot tubs use a variety of massage and hydrotherapy features, including rotating and directional jets, to provide owners with a therapeutic and relaxing experience. Those looking to lower their utility costs gravitate to Hot Spring Spas because the company’s SmartJet system is specifically designed to conserve energy. All of the company’s tubs are certified by the California Energy Commission and SpaSearch.

Hot Spring Spas prices

Entry-level Hot Spot Spas from Hot Spring start at $6,999 for a two- or three-person hot tub. The Limelight Collection and Highlife Collection cost $8,999 and up for premium and luxury tubs.

Prices vary based on added features, hot tub size, installation costs and taxes. Hot Spring Spas suggests reaching out to a local authorized dealer for the most accurate pricing.

Hot Spring Spa hot tubs

Hot Spring Spa offers three collections of hot tubs: Hot Spot Spas, the Limelight Collection and the Highlife Collection. Available features for the spas include wireless remote controls, large power indicator lights and patented pump shrouds as well as Hot Springs’ dual Freshwater Salt and Ozone systems.

  • Highlife Collection: All Highlife Collection models — Grandee, Vanguard, Sovereign, Envoy, Aria, Prodigy, Triumph, Jetsetter and Jetsetter LX — come with multiple jet configurations, Tri-X filters, customizable lighting and multilayered foam insulation. Hot Springs manufactures the Highlife Collection with polymer and ABS-backed acrylic shells to create a strong and durable product. Select models also include sculpted seating, such as the captain’s chair included with the Highlife Collection’s Envoy model.
  • Limelight Collection: The Limelight Collection features five models: Prism, Pulse, Flash, Flair, and Beam. All models include a variety of jet styles and fit from four to seven people. With a full-color LCD screen, a power indicator light that shows when the hot tub is ready, exterior lighting and optional wireless entertainment, the Limelight Collection offers all of Hot Spring’s best features without the hefty price tag.
  • Hot Spot Spas: The most popular Hot Spot models — Tempo, Relay and Rhythm — come with a variety of seating, lighting and massage jet options. The Relay includes lounge seating, cushioned headrests and LED lights that can be dimmed for a relaxing nighttime soak. Select Hot Spot models can fit up to seven people, and every model includes multiple jet configurations, an insulated cover and the option to add wireless entertainment.

Hot Spring Spa maintenance

Hot Spring Spas’ Ozone system with MPS and silver ions makes water care easy — tubs with this system only require weekly maintenance. The saltwater systems found in Hot Spring Spas’ Limelight and Highlife Collection require even less attention and offer up to a full year of sanitation. With the FreshWater Salt System, small amounts of salt are converted into chlorine to flush out any bacteria or germs within the water.

It’s important to rinse out hot tub filters once a month to avoid any clogging. The company recommends you perform a deep clean every three to four months. The patented Tri-X filters featured in the Highlife Collection are dishwasher safe, which makes them easier to clean. Depending on the amount of use, the company recommends that you drain and refill your hot tub three to four times per year. Once drained, you can clean the spa shell.

Hot Spring Spas warranty

Hot Spot Spas come with a five-year warranty on their no-leak shell and a two-year warranty on components, including the MotoMassage jet and no-fault heater. The LED light assemblies in the Tempo, Relay and Rhythm models also come with a two-year warranty.

The Limelight Collection and Highlife Collection come with a seven-year warranty on the no-leak shell and a five-year warranty on components and Everwood cabinet material. The wireless remote control battery included in the Highlife Collection comes with a one-year warranty. Local authorized dealers can explain additional warranties.

Hot Spring Spas’ hot tubs must be serviced by an authorized technician or you run the risk of voiding the warranty.

Hot Spring Spas FAQ

How much do Hot Spring Spas cost?

Most hot tubs from Hot Spring Spas start at $6,999. A premium hot tub for four adults with a FreshWater Salt System, multicolor lighting, an LCD control panel and FiberCor insulation costs between $9,000 and $10,000. Hot Spring Spas’ prices vary based on features, size and local taxes.

How long do Hot Springs hot tubs last?

At a minimum, most Hot Spring Spas hot tubs last five years. A well-maintained hot tub can last 20 years or more.

How do I connect my Bluetooth to my Hot Spring hot tub?

Connecting a Bluetooth to your Hot Spring hot tub is easy — simply select “Blue” or "Bluetooth" as the source on your hot tub’s audio setup menu and pair your device by choosing “My spa” on the device menu. Hot Springs’ Bluetooth speaker system has a range of up to 30 feet.

How often does Hot Spring Spas have sales?

Hot Spring Spas offers sales throughout the year. Most authorized dealers clear out their inventory during the fall, which is a good time to shop for deals and promotions.

What is the ACE Salt Water System?

The ACE Salt Water System is available in Hot Spring Spas’ Highlife Collection, Highlife Collection NXT and Limelight Collection hot tubs. This system uses small amounts of salt in the water and converts it to chlorine so that the hot tub’s water stays fresh and sanitized without the use of bottled chlorine.

Still have questions?

Are Hot Spring Spa hot tubs worth it?

Hot Spot Spas offer a value-priced and budget-friendly option with all of the Hot Spring’s best features — energy-efficiency, FiberCor insulation, the Freshwater Ozone System and FROG @ease in-line cartridges. For hot tub owners looking to upgrade their hot tub, the Limelight Collection provides a premium hot tub with dual FreshWater Salt and Ozone systems, colored lighting and FiberCor insulation. The Highlife Collection combines all the best features of these collections into a line of sleek and luxurious hot tubs.

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Hot Spring Spas Reviews

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    Page 1 Reviews 0 - 10
    Customer ServiceCoveragePriceMaintenance

    Reviewed May 7, 2026

    We've had 2 Grandee's since 1991. The first one did pretty well reliability wise. We replaced it in 2006, but I can't remember specifically what was wrong when we replaced it. The 2nd model was the next generation Grandee with a few subtle improvements - notably the silver ion cartridge as an augmentation for the sanitized. My general opinion is they've been relatively trouble free over those last 35 years, but I'm currently dealing with a leak for the first time. I got curious about how much I've spent on repairs for the last 35 years, and it's about $2700 total (excluding chemicals, filter replacements, replacing a few worn out covers, etc.). The majority of expense has been on the newer model. We keep this spa running 24x7, although we just use it sporadically. We're in the mid Atlantic, so we get all 4 seasons (sometimes it feels like we can do that in one day - lol).

    I'm hoping the leak we're experiencing is an easy to fix issue, but the dealer is not available to fix for about 6 weeks - due to it being the opening of pool season. That said, the way it was explained to me, It may require multiple trips, which can get to be expensive. First I have to refill the spa before they get here. The problem may require emptying it, which is a 2nd trip. If they can't figure it out from there, it has to be refilled and use a dye to find the leak which requires a 3rd trip, plus parts, and labor... so I can easily see us just tossing it and replacing it if the initial visit doesn't diagnose the problem.

    Overall we've been pretty satisfied with the Grandee, from a comfort and water maintenance standpoint. Our water chemistry has been pretty stable, and the filtration system is highly effective using the silver ion system. That said, we have also put up with some feature reliability issues that we've allowed to go unattended. One of the 2 exterior primary jet buttons doesn't work, so we've relied on the interior control panel. The temp. readout on the outside of the spa is barely readable, but I rely on a separate wifi sensor (Thermoworks node) which is highly reliable. The timed jet button for adding chemicals is a hard press, but it works.

    I'll say this for the heater - it's never more than a degree out of setting based on our calibrated thermometer. And typically it's always within a few tenths of a degree unless we have severely cold weather (mid 20º or less over a long time - then it might be off by 0.5º or even 1º. Hot weather it will sometimes get it over the set temp by a degree or two, but 95% of the time it's +/-0.1º. The last several years we've had a control panel fail, a heater go out, a moto massage jet go out, and a pump. That's mostly all after we hit the 12-15 year mark. I would recommend this spa from this manufacturing date (2006), but can't say how the quality of components is on recent units. I'm leaning yes, but I'd like to get more typical responses and not just complaints to get an idea.

    Thanks for your vote!
    Hot Spring Spas
    Response from Hot Spring Spas

    Thank you for sharing your experience; 35 years with your spas really shows the care you’ve put into them. We’re sorry you’re dealing with a leak and the wait for service; we know that’s frustrating. Please know we’re here for you and can be reached at 800-999-4688. We want to support you so you can continue enjoying your spa comfortably for many more years.

    Your long-term satisfaction truly matters to us.

    Vanessa-Customer Care

    Verified purchase
    Customer Service

    Reviewed Feb. 17, 2026

    This is our third Hot Spring spa, and we have a few gripes, but nothing catastrophic. Since we live at a huge resort/ski area, it's a must. My wife decided it would be nice to add the Connect option, so as to be able to adjust the temp from a chairlift, etc. For $1,000.00, I could hire a full-time boy to respond to a text or call to up the temp.

    The software is a joke. You'd think that we're at DEVCON III, asking for the launch codes for the ICBMs. I have to call support about once a month, as I infrequently use it, but can't log in, and am presented with the "Demo" option... Hire programmers that have not only a firm working knowledge of the language, as well, test robots such as myself, rather than the authors, and by the bye, how much "security" do we need to protect our hot tub temp??

    Thanks for your vote!
    Hot Spring Spas
    Response from Hot Spring Spas

    Thank you for sharing your spa review. I apologize for the frustrations you've experienced with the app. We recently launched a new version along with updated hardware, which may be causing the issues.

    For assistance, please get in touch with our service team at CustomerService@Watkinsmfg.com or call 800-999-4688. You can also provide your contact information, and we'll reach out to you to discuss solutions.

    We want your spa ready whenever you need it.

    Vanessa - Customer Care

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      PriceMaintenance

      Reviewed Jan. 10, 2026

      We bought our Hot Springs hot tub from the local dealer in Longview, TX in 2013. We have been surprised how low the maintenance costs have been over these 12 plus years. We have had no major costs - just normal supplies. Overall, we have been very pleased with its performance.

      Thanks for your vote!
      Hot Spring Spas
      Response from Hot Spring Spas

      Thank you so much for sharing your review! I’m genuinely delighted to hear that you’ve been enjoying hot tub therapy for 12 years. It truly is a wonderful way to nurture your well-being, and I completely understand how important it is to have a spa that’s both easy to use and maintain.

      I wish you many more wonderful years of happy hot-tubbing!

      Vanessa - Customer Care

      Profile pic of the author.
      Customer ServiceCoverageTechPricePunctuality & SpeedMaintenanceStaffTransparencyValue

      Reviewed Dec. 1, 2025

      Updated on 04/28/2026: Watkins contacted another dealer and told me they would fix my tub. In the Spring the dealer came out and checked it. They told me the heater they gave me was the wrong part and not recommended by Watkins. He also found several leaks from the other main jets. He told me they would contact Watkins to get approval. Watkins denied the repair. This is now the 2nd year without the tub and now it is out of warranty. Worst premium item I have ever bought. Watkins doesn't stand by their product. Would never recommend.

      Original review: This purchase was my biggest mistake. Received tub during Covid 2020. First year ran good. Next year started to leak. They sent out a repair guy and replaced a jet. One at a time the other jets started to leak. At the beginning of my 5th year I had several leaks. The guy came out again (125.00 a shot) and said he would order the parts including a leaking heater. Months went by. Never heard from him. Contacted the dealer and was told the parts were in. The dealer contacted the repairman and he refused to come and fix it. By this time my warranty was to expire in a couple of weeks and was getting cold, live in Michigan.

      The dealer also lost the parts. I was told they were tagged in my name. The dealer did reorder the parts and gave them to me at no charge. By then I had to winterize the tub and wait until spring to get fixed. Of course I will be responsible for paying the technician. Lost over a year's use. Not worth the money. I could have bought two cheaper tubs for what I paid.

      Thanks for your vote!
      Hot Spring Spas
      Response from Hot Spring Spas

      I'm sorry to hear about your experience and appreciate you sharing your concerns. I understand how frustrating this situation is, and your feelings are valid. We work closely with local dealers to promptly address leaking issues in spas. If you need assistance, please get in touch with our Customer Care team at 800-999-4688.

      I've noted your message for future reference. Your satisfaction is important to us, and we're here to support you.

      Vanessa - Customer Care

      Verified purchase
      Customer ServicePricePunctuality & SpeedMaintenance

      Reviewed Nov. 25, 2025

      We are very upset that the heating element in our 3 year old Rhythm is broken after very gentle use. Having spent over $15k for a brand new tub 3 years ago, we find it a sign of bad workmanship that major components are a) breaking and b) no longer under warranty. We are now at the mercy of our distributor's very busy schedule, with several weeks between notification, a separate expensive call out to confirm what we know is the problem, and now waiting on a solution. This is a nightmare. I wish we didn't have to complain online about something so basic as having a working device, but here we are. When I submitted this request to Hot Springs, I got an automated email saying "We are currently experiencing a high volume of inquiries and there may be a delay in response of up to 5 business days or more."

      Thanks for your vote!
      Hot Spring Spas
      Response from Hot Spring Spas

      I understand how frustrating unexpected issues can be.

      While heaters typically last longer, their lifespan can be affected by hard water and chemical balance. We recommend regular spa care to extend your heater's life.

      The Hot Spot spa heater has a 2-year warranty, learn more about your warranty here:

      https://www.hotspring.com/owners/warranty

      I am glad you are in contact with our team and that your heater has been replaced.

      Vanessa- Customer Care

      Verified purchase
      CoveragePriceMaintenanceStaff

      Reviewed Sept. 22, 2025

      I purchased the top of the line Hot Springs Grandee with the ACE system in 2014. When the tub works it’s great, unfortunately the problems started very shortly after purchase. Aside of the mechanical issues, the ACE system costs around a $800 a year to keep running. The first thing to go was the primary pump. Fortunately replaced under warranty. Then the first moto massage. Replaced under warranty. Then the second moto massage. Also replaced under warranty. Eventually both of them broke again but were no longer under warranty. Then the control for the fountain broke. Not covered. The heater. Not covered.

      The circulator pump. Not covered. This last year we have been dealing with numerous leaks. The local dealer, who no longer carries Hot Springs, told me there was an issue with the glue used for the year my tub was manufactured. They also told me they had poor experience with the rep for Watkins and that’s why they stopped carrying their hot tubs. I am at the point where I have drained the tub and am shopping for a replacement. I think Hot Springs owes customers who purchased tubs in the years where there was a manufacturing defect with the glue assistance with replacement.

      Thanks for your vote!
      Hot Spring Spas
      Response from Hot Spring Spas

      Thank you for sharing your experience. I'm sorry to hear your enjoyment of the spa has been affected.

      I understand how frustrating it is when a hot tub doesn't meet expectations. Please know that if there's a defect, we'll reach out to affected owners and rectify the issue. I apologize for any confusion.

      Despite the challenges, I hope you enjoyed your time in the spa overall. I wish you the best in finding one that suits your needs.

      Vanessa-Customer Care

      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 22, 2025

      Wow, I just spent a boatload on a Hotsprings (Relay) a week ago. I was told 6 weeks for delivery but after reviewing these reviews, I think I may cancel the order. $10k+ is a lot of money for a HotTub and I would expect top quality.

      Thanks for your vote!
      Hot Spring Spas
      Response from Hot Spring Spas
      I understand that buyer's remorse can be a real concern, especially for a purchase as significant as this. It's a big decision, and I want you to feel confident in it.

      While this site has some reviews, I encourage you to also explore reviews from customers in your area. Your dealer may even help you connect with local spa owners for an honest conversation. You can also find a variety of reviews on the Hot Spring Spa website.

      Thank you for sharing your concerns. We are here to help.

      Vanessa CS

      Profile pic of the author.
      Verified purchase
      Customer ServicePriceStaff

      Reviewed Aug. 11, 2025

      Nothing but problems. This is the second time the tub has leaked, and the third time it will be removed from our property in less than five years. The manufacturer Watkins refuses to contact and the last issue resulted in an electrical failure during the leak. They are not honoring their warranty. The Moto jets replaced three times and the countless issues with salt system electronics. This is the 11 call out in 4 years on a tub worth close to 19k. The dealer is doing a relatively good job, but their technician left insulation missing during the last repair and the tub was only back five days before it leaked again. If you have a choice, do not choose a Hot Spring.

      Thanks for your vote!
      Hot Spring Spas
      Response from Hot Spring Spas

      Hi Theresa,

      Thank you so much for your review! I completely understand your frustration with your spa, and I’m really sorry to hear that it hasn’t met your expectations.

      I’ll be sending you a direct message with my email shortly. If you could share some details about your spa and the dealer you’ve worked with, it would really help us assist you with the warranty process.

      I truly appreciate your patience, and I’m excited to work together to resolve this!

      Vanessa-Customer Care

      Customer ServicePriceStaff

      Reviewed June 27, 2025

      I have owned Hot Springs Spas for some 20 years, both Grandee models. The first one was a fantastic spa. Few service issues, cosmetics wore well - performed great overall. I wish I could say this for the new one. We have a 2022 Grandee which in three years has suffered the following issues:

      ~ Failed Control Panel
      ~Failed main jet pump
      ~Failed recirculation pump
      ~Warped side panels (were replaced and already appearing warped again)
      ~Cosmetic "crazing" on the shell - (Hot Springs blames the cleaner I used, specifically designed for hot tubs)
      ~Plastic base pan underneath equipment bay is warped, allowing leaves, etc. to accumulate inside.

      ~And now - leaking around the lens for the underwater lighting.

      Today I received a call from Texas Hot Tubs, explaining the 5 year warranty does not include the lens, they only have a 2 year warranty. Awaiting a call back from their service manager now. Suffice to say, I am very disappointed with Hot Springs Spas. The quality of this wildly expensive hot tub is sub par at best. Buyer beware - this is not the Hot Springs Spas of yester-year.

      Thanks for your vote!
      Hot Spring Spas
      Response from Hot Spring Spas

      Mark, I appreciate you sharing your concerns, and I’m sorry that your spa experience has not met your expectations, especially compared to your previous Hot Spring Spa.

      Thank you for contacting Customer Service. We’re committed to addressing your concerns, and a representative will contact you shortly.

      I appreciate your understanding. We look forward to working with you soon.

      Vanessa - Customer Care

      Customer ServiceTechSales & MarketingPriceBilling

      Reviewed March 10, 2025

      Called Hot Spring for a leak in my hot tub. Before they even came out to look at what was going on the bill was already up to 179 dollars. I know where the leak is and it is an easy fix. The support from them after the sale is a joke. I am 15 to 20 minutes from them and they are wanting to charge a trip plus a $119 dollar service charge. Before even looking at it.

      Thanks for your vote!
      Hot Spring Spas
      Response from Hot Spring Spas

      Hello Ken,

      I appreciate your understanding and patience regarding the situation with your spa. I apologize for the frustration caused by the lack of prior information about the travel fee.

      Our spas typically come with a 5-year warranty on both parts and labor. However, please note that travel fees, which apply regardless of distance, are generally the spa owner's responsibility.

      If you require assistance, call us at 800-999-4688.

      Thank you once again for your understanding.

      Vanessa R.

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      Hot Spring Spas Company Information

      Company Name:
      Hot Spring Spas
      Year Founded:
      1977
      Website:
      www.hotspring.com