Maybe you’re scrolling through social media on your phone and see an ad, or perhaps you have heard the advertisement on the radio while driving to work. No matter where you have seen it, we’ve all seen them: an ad for a hot tub expo or super sale at the Ford Idaho Center down in Boise, or Expo Idaho
The ads always seem to advertise impossibly good deals, 50-70% off supposed “retail price,” discounts in the thousands! Are they for real, or is it just a marketing gimmick? Let’s break down their tactics.
Before anything else, make sure to check who the event is hosted by. Is it a local company? An out-of-town company doing a traveling show? If an out-of-town company hosts the show, you may want to consider passing it up; here’s why!
High-Pressure Sales Tactics:
Some expo environments are designed to create urgency — bright lights, “limited-time” signs, and persuasive sales reps encouraging you to sign today. These tactics can make it easy to overlook important details like warranties, delivery, or hidden fees.
Take a breath and remember: you’re in control.
A reputable company will give you time to think, compare options, and even sleep on it before making a purchase.
If a salesperson insists that a deal will “disappear by the end of the day,” that’s a red flag 🚩. The best hot tub dealers know that thoughtful buyers become happy customers — and happy customers spread the word.
💡 Pro Tip: Never sign or swipe your card under pressure. A trustworthy dealer will respect your pace and answer every question before you commit.
Research Exhibitors In Advance:
Not every company that sets up at an expo is reputable. Some are traveling dealers that disappear once the event ends, making warranty claims or service requests nearly impossible to resolve.
Before you go, take a few minutes to research the exhibitors and brands you’ll see at the show:
🔍 Pro Tip: Look for authorized dealer listings on brand websites. If a company’s name isn’t there, they’re not approved to sell or service that brand — and that’s a big red flag.
Unrealistic Promotions:
While expos often boast exclusive deals and discounts, be cautious of promotions that seem overly generous. Some may have hidden costs or conditions that are not immediately apparent. Read the fine print and ensure you fully understand the terms of any promotion before committing.
💡 Pro Tip: Reputable hot tub dealers rarely mark up prices just to discount them later. If you see dramatic price cuts, it’s often just a marketing tactic — not a true savings.
While the prices at hot tub expos may seem like good deals, they’re often higher than those offered year-round by reputable local dealers like Love’s Hot Tubs.
Quality vs. Quantity:
A large showroom packed with hot tubs might look impressive — but more options don’t always mean better value. Many expo events focus on moving inventory quickly, not on matching you with the right model for your needs.
Instead, focus on proven brands and dealers with long-term reputations for reliability, energy efficiency, and after-sales care. One high-quality spa that fits your lifestyle will always be worth more than a dozen “discounted” models that fall short on performance or support.
💬 Remember: A trustworthy dealer will prioritize fit and longevity, not just price or flash.
Check For Genuine Products:
Some expos may feature off-brand or low-quality models that look similar to name brands but aren’t built to the same standards. Always ask for manufacturer documentation or proof that the exhibitor is an authorized dealer for the brand they’re selling.
Take a close look at build quality — shell material, insulation, and jet fittings — and don’t hesitate to ask questions about where the spa was made and what parts are covered under warranty. If the sales team can’t answer confidently or avoids specifics, that’s a warning sign.
💡 Pro Tip: A genuine hot tub will always come with a serial number, a branded user manual, and a verifiable manufacturer’s warranty — not just the company selling it.
Verify Warranties And After-Sales Support:
Hot tubs from traveling expos often come with limited or unreliable warranty coverage — and once the show packs up, it can be nearly impossible to reach someone for help. That’s why it’s essential to verify who will handle your warranty and service after your purchase.
Before you buy, ask:
Who provides warranty repairs — the manufacturer or the seller?
Is there a local service center or technician available nearby?
Are parts and labor both covered, and for how long?
Is the warranty transferable if you sell your spa later?
🛠️ Pro Tip: A reputable local dealer will walk you through the warranty in writing and explain what’s covered in plain language. If you can’t get clear answers or the warranty details feel vague, that’s a sign to step back.
Educate Yourself On Industry Standards:
Knowledge is your best protection against flashy marketing. Before visiting an expo or making a purchase, take time to learn the basics of hot tub construction, energy efficiency, and safety standards.
Look for spas that meet recognized benchmarks, such as:
Energy efficiency certifications (like the California Energy Commission standards)
UL or ETL safety listings for electrical compliance
PHTA membership or certification, showing adherence to national pool and hot tub standards
When you understand what quality looks like, it’s easier to spot when something doesn’t add up. The more informed you are, the harder it is for sales tactics or inflated “discounts” to sway your decision.
💡 Pro Tip: Bring a short checklist or take notes during expos — the companies that welcome your questions are usually the ones worth trusting.
Take Your Time:
A great hot tub is a long-term investment, not an impulse buy. If you feel rushed, pause. A reputable dealer will encourage you to compare models, read the warranty, and sleep on it before signing. Bring notes, ask follow-ups, and take photos of models you like so you can review them later without the sales buzz.
Quick pause checklist:
Step away for 10–15 minutes and discuss privately.
Re-read the warranty, delivery/installation, and return policy details.
Verify the out-the-door price (tax, crane fees, electrical, cover, steps, chemicals).
Ask for the quote in writing with an expiration date you’re comfortable with.
💡 Pro Tip: If a “today-only” discount disappears the moment you leave, it wasn’t a real value. The best dealers stand by their pricing tomorrow, too.
What To Do Instead
Skip the hype and focus on what really matters — confidence, clarity, and connection. Take your time, do your research, and buy from people who will still be there when you need them.
You deserve a hot tub that brings you joy for years to come — not stress or regret. When you shop local, ask questions, and trust your instincts, you’ll find the right fit without the pressure or gimmicks.
Why Local Matters
When you buy local, you’re not just buying a hot tub — you’re gaining a trusted partner. Love’s Hot Tubs offers free delivery, professional installation, and responsive customer care. Our team lives right here in the Treasure Valley, so you’ll always have real people to call when you need support.
We take pride in helping our community relax, reconnect, and create memories at home — one soak at a time.
Trust Your Instincts:
At the end of the day, you know when something doesn’t feel right. If a deal seems too good to be true, if a salesperson avoids your questions, or if you feel rushed instead of respected — those are signs to pause.
Buying a hot tub should feel exciting and stress-free, not overwhelming or uncertain. When you work with a reputable company, you’ll feel comfortable asking questions, confident about your purchase, and supported every step of the way.
Listen to that little inner voice — it’s there to protect you. Trust it. A trustworthy dealer will welcome your curiosity, provide clear answers, and never pressure you to decide on the spot.
💡 Pro Tip: The right company doesn’t just sell you a hot tub — they help you choose the perfect one for your lifestyle, budget, and long-term happiness.
The Love’s Hot Tubs Promise
Your best investment is one that comes with confidence and care. At Love’s Hot Tubs, we believe buying a hot tub should be simple, transparent, and enjoyable — never stressful or rushed. When you choose local, you’re not just getting a spa; you’re gaining a trusted partner dedicated to your comfort, wellness, and peace of mind.
Visit our Emmett showroom to explore our curated selection of hot tubs and swim spas, meet our friendly team, and experience the difference that true local service makes. We’re proud to serve the Treasure Valley with honesty, expertise, and a passion for helping you create your perfect place to relax, reconnect, and recharge.
References
Better Business Bureau (BBB) – Research company reputation, customer reviews, and business accreditation.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)- Learn about consumer rights, fair advertising, and how to avoid scams.