When Do Hot Tubs Go On Sale At Costco? (Deals End Soon!)

Imagine sinking into bubbling, warm water after a long day, muscles relaxing, stress melting away. A hot tub can transform your backyard into a personal oasis, a place to unwind and recharge.

Costco is a major player in the hot tub market, offering quality spas with membership perks, solid warranties, and a customer-friendly return policy.

But here’s the catch: hot tub deals at Costco don’t last forever. The 2025 sales opportunities are fast approaching, and you need to be prepared to snag the best price.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to score a fantastic hot tub deal at Costco. I’ll cover:

Typical sale periods: When to expect the deepest discounts.
Hot tub types: What Costco usually offers.
Prep tips: Getting ready to buy.
The Costco process: Navigating membership, buying, and returns.
Maximizing value: Getting the most bang for your buck.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Section 1: Understanding Costco’s Hot Tub Offerings

Costco’s hot tub selection can vary depending on the time of year and location, but you’ll generally find a mix of different types. Let’s break them down:

Portable Hot Tubs: These are typically above-ground, self-contained units that are easy to install. Just fill them with water, plug them in, and you’re good to go. They often feature jets, filtration systems, and digital controls.
Inflatable Hot Tubs: These are the most budget-friendly option. They’re easy to set up and take down, making them ideal for temporary use or smaller spaces. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of a traditional hot tub, they still offer a relaxing soak.

Note: Costco typically does not carry in-ground hot tubs.

Popular Brands at Costco

Costco partners with several reputable hot tub brands. Here are a few you might encounter:

Coleman: Known for their affordability and ease of use. Coleman hot tubs are a popular choice for first-time buyers.
Lifesmart Spas: These spas often emphasize energy efficiency and innovative features. They tend to offer a good balance of quality and price.
Evolution Spas: A Costco exclusive, they are made by Watkins Wellness (makers of Hot Springs and Caldera Spas) and offer a very good value in terms of features, warranty and price.

Customer Reviews Matter: Before you fall in love with a particular brand, do your homework. Check out online reviews from other Costco members to get a sense of their experiences with the hot tub’s performance, reliability, and customer support.

Features to Look For

When browsing Costco’s hot tub selection, pay attention to these key features:

Jet Configuration: The number, type, and placement of jets will affect the massage experience. Look for a variety of jet types to target different muscle groups.
Seating Capacity: How many people do you want to comfortably accommodate? Consider both the number of seats and their layout.
Energy Efficiency: Hot tubs can use a significant amount of electricity. Look for models with good insulation, energy- efficient pumps, and features like a thermal cover to minimize heat loss.
Water Care Systems: Many hot tubs now come with advanced water care systems, such as ozonators or UV sanitizers, which can reduce the amount of chemicals you need to use.
Control Panels: A user-friendly control panel is essential for adjusting temperature, jets, and other settings.
Lighting and Sound Systems: These features can enhance your hot tub experience.
Steps and Cover Lifters: These accessories make it easier and safer to get in and out of the hot tub and to remove the cover.

Exclusive Models and Limited-Edition Hot Tubs

Keep an eye out for hot tubs that are exclusive to Costco. These models often offer unique features or a particularly good value. Costco may also offer limited-edition hot tubs from time to time, so it’s worth checking their website or visiting your local warehouse regularly.

Section 2: When Do Hot Tubs Typically Go On Sale at Costco?

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty: when can you expect to find hot tub deals at Costco? While Costco doesn’t publish a specific sales calendar, we can look at historical trends to get a good idea.

Here’s a breakdown of the most likely sale periods:

Spring (March-May): As the weather warms up, people start thinking about outdoor living. Costco often offers discounts on hot tubs during this time to entice buyers who are eager to enjoy their backyard oasis. Look for sales around holidays like Memorial Day.
Summer (June-August): While not as common as spring sales, you might find some deals during the summer months, especially around the Fourth of July.
Labor Day (Early September): This is another popular time for hot tub sales. Retailers often offer discounts on outdoor products as the summer season comes to an end.
Fall (October-November): As temperatures drop, people may be less inclined to buy a hot tub. However, this can also mean deeper discounts as retailers try to clear out inventory.
Black Friday (Late November): This is one of the biggest shopping events of the year, and Costco often participates with deals on a wide range of products, including hot tubs.
Winter (December-February): This is generally the slowest time for hot tub sales, but you might find some clearance deals as retailers try to make room for new inventory.

Historical Trends and Pricing Patterns

Based on past years, here are some patterns I’ve observed:

Discounts: Expect to see discounts ranging from $200 to $1,000 or more, depending on the model and the sale.
Inventory: Inventory levels tend to be higher during the spring and summer months, so you’ll have a wider selection to choose from. However, the best deals may be found when inventory is lower, as retailers try to clear out older models.
Price Fluctuations: Prices can fluctuate throughout the year, so it’s a good idea to track the prices of the models you’re interested in. This will help you determine whether a particular sale is a good deal.

Costco Member-Only Sales and Promotional Events

Keep an eye out for special events like “Costco Member-Only Sales” or other promotional events that might affect hot tub prices. These events are often advertised in Costco’s monthly mailer or on their website.

Timing for Best Deals

In my experience, the best time to buy a hot tub at Costco is during the off-season, such as late fall or winter. You might not have as many models to choose from, but you’re more likely to find a deep discount.

Section 3: How to Prepare for Buying a Hot Tub

Buying a hot tub is a significant investment, so it’s important to do your homework before you take the plunge. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:

Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a hot tub. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of installation, accessories, and ongoing maintenance.
Measure Your Space: Make sure you have enough space for the hot tub you want to buy. Consider the dimensions of the hot tub itself, as well as any necessary clearances for access and maintenance.
Consider Features: What features are most important to you? Do you want a lot of jets, a specific seating configuration, or advanced water care system? Make a list of your must-have features.
Understand Maintenance Costs: Hot tubs require regular maintenance, including cleaning, water testing, and chemical treatments. Research the costs associated with these tasks so you know what to expect.
Research Models: Once you have a good idea of what you’re looking for, start researching specific models. Read online reviews, compare features, and check prices at different retailers.
Read Reviews Carefully: When reading reviews, pay attention to both the positive and negative comments. Look for patterns in the feedback. Are there recurring complaints about a particular issue?
Negotiate (If Possible): While Costco’s prices are generally fixed, it doesn’t hurt to try to negotiate, especially if you’re buying multiple items or paying in cash.

Hot Tub Maintenance and Operational Costs

Don’t forget to factor in the ongoing costs of owning a hot tub. These can include:

Electricity: Hot tubs use electricity to heat the water and run the pumps. The amount of electricity you use will depend on the size of the hot tub, the climate, and how often you use it.
Water: You’ll need to refill your hot tub periodically, depending on how often you use it and how well you maintain the water chemistry.
Chemicals: You’ll need to use chemicals to sanitize the water and keep it balanced. The type and amount of chemicals you use will depend on the water care system and the water quality in your area.

Improving Negotiation Power

While Costco is not known for negotiation, here are a few tips:

Know the Market Price: Research the average market price for similar models at other retailers. This will give you a baseline to compare against.
Bundle Purchases: If you’re buying other items at Costco, such as accessories or maintenance supplies, you might be able to negotiate a discount on the entire purchase.
Ask About Financing: Costco often offers financing options for large purchases. If you’re planning to finance your hot tub, ask about the interest rates and terms.

Section 4: Navigating Costco’s Buying Process

Okay, you’ve done your research and you’re ready to buy. Here’s what you need to know about navigating Costco’s buying process:

Become a Costco Member: You’ll need to be a Costco member to purchase a hot tub. There are different levels of membership, so choose the one that best fits your needs.
Online vs. In-Store Buying: You can buy hot tubs both online and in-store at Costco. Online buying offers convenience, while in-store buying allows you to see the hot tub in person.
Delivery Options: Costco typically offers delivery for hot tubs. Be sure to check the delivery options and any associated fees.
Installation Services: Some Costco locations may offer installation services for hot tubs. Ask about this when you make your purchase.

Costco Membership Benefits

Being a Costco member has several benefits when purchasing a high-ticket item like a hot tub:

Competitive Prices: Costco is known for its competitive prices, so you’re likely to get a good deal on a hot tub.
Generous Return Policy: Costco has a very generous return policy, which can give you peace of mind when making a large purchase.
Warranty Options: Costco often offers extended warranty options for hot tubs.

The Purchasing Process

Here’s a step-by-step guide to the purchasing process:

Research Models: Start by researching the hot tub models available at Costco.
Visit a Warehouse or Shop Online: Visit your local Costco warehouse or shop online at Costco.com.
Compare Prices and Features: Compare the prices and features of different models.
Read Reviews: Read online reviews from other Costco members.
Make Your Purchase: Once you’ve decided on a model, make your purchase.
Arrange Delivery and Installation: Arrange for delivery and installation, if necessary.

Return Policy and Warranty Details

Costco’s return policy is generally very generous, but it’s important to understand the specifics for hot tubs. Be sure to read the fine print and ask any questions you have before you make your purchase.

Section 5: Tips for Maximizing Your Hot Tub Purchase

You’re almost there! Here are a few final tips to help you maximize your hot tub purchase at Costco:

Time Your Purchase: As we discussed earlier, the best time to buy a hot tub at Costco is during the off-season or during a major sale event.
Combine with Other Offers: Look for opportunities to combine your hot tub purchase with other offers, such as cash-back rewards or financing deals.
Consider Accessories: Don’t forget about accessories like covers, steps, and maintenance kits. These can often be purchased at Costco as well.
Compare Models and Features: Take the time to compare different models and features to ensure you’re getting the best choice for your individual needs.
Utilize Costco’s Resources: Costco offers a variety of resources to assist with decision-making, such as online comparison tools and customer service representatives.

Beneficial Accessories

Here are some accessories that can enhance your hot tub experience:

Cover: A good cover will help to keep your hot tub clean and insulated, saving you money on energy costs.
Steps: Steps make it easier and safer to get in and out of the hot tub.
Maintenance Kit: A maintenance kit will provide you with the tools and chemicals you need to keep your hot tub clean and balanced.

Resources and Tools Offered by Costco

Take advantage of the resources and tools offered by Costco, such as:

Online Comparison Tools: Use Costco’s online comparison tools to compare different hot tub models.
Customer Service Representatives: Contact Costco’s customer service representatives if you have any questions or concerns.

Conclusion

Buying a hot tub is a big decision, but it can be a rewarding one. By being informed about sale timings, preparing thoroughly, and navigating Costco’s buying process effectively, you can find the perfect hot tub for your needs at a great price.

Remember, the 2025 sales period is approaching quickly, so don’t delay! Start your research now and be ready to take advantage of the best deals when they become available.

Don’t be afraid to take the plunge and create your own backyard oasis. With a little planning and effort, you can enjoy the relaxation and rejuvenation of a hot tub for years to come.

When Do Hot Tubs Go On Sale At Costco? (Deals End Soon!)