How to Sell Hot Tubs During the Slow Season Without Discounting Yourself to Death

How to Sell Hot Tubs During the Slow Season Without Discounting Yourself to Death

When showroom traffic slows down, many spa dealers default to heavy discounts. The problem? Deep price cuts train customers to wait, crush margins, and devalue premium brands. The better approach during slow months is value-based selling—especially on add-ons, accessories, and safety upgrades that improve the ownership experience without eroding the core spa price.

Here’s how top-performing dealers keep sales moving even when foot traffic is light.

Reframe the Conversation: From “Buying” to “Preparing”

Slow seasons are ideal for customers who want time to plan. Instead of pushing urgency, shift your sales language toward preparation and readiness.

Phrases like:

  • “Now is the best time to build the right setup”

  • “This is when most customers upgrade their spa environment”

  • “You’ll be ready the moment the season turns”

This positions the purchase as thoughtful, not reactive.

Sell the Complete Spa Experience (Not Just the Shell)

Customers don’t just buy hot tubs—they buy ease of use, safety, and confidence. This is where accessories shine.

One of the easiest low-resistance add-ons to sell during slow months is spa steps, especially when framed correctly. A high-quality step like PowerStep Spa Step isn’t an upsell—it’s a necessity:

  • Safer entry and exit

  • Cleaner water (less debris tracked in)

  • Better visual presentation in the yard or showroom

  • Immediate usability for all ages

When customers visualize daily use, accessories sell themselves.

Bundle Without Discounting

Instead of cutting spa prices, create value bundles:

  • Spa + cover lifter + steps

  • Spa + steps + water care starter kit

  • “Ready-to-Use Package” pricing

These bundles preserve margin while increasing perceived value. PowerStep works especially well here because it’s a visible, tangible upgrade customers immediately understand.

Use the Showroom as a Silent Salesperson

During slow months, fewer customers means more time to stage your showroom properly. Every filled spa should have:

  • Water in it

  • Lighting on

  • Steps in place

A spa without steps feels unfinished. A spa with PowerStep in front looks complete, safe, and intentional. Many customers won’t ask about steps—but they will notice when they’re missing.

Train Your Team to Sell Confidence

Slow seasons reward calm, confident salespeople. Encourage your team to:

  • Ask lifestyle questions

  • Walk customers through ownership routines

  • Demonstrate safe entry and exit using steps

  • Emphasize long-term comfort over short-term price

When the sales approach feels consultative, customers buy—even when they weren’t planning to.

Get at it!

Selling during slow months isn’t about urgency or markdowns. It’s about education, preparation, and completeness. By focusing on the full spa experience—and highlighting smart essentials like PowerStep Spa Step—you protect margins, elevate the sale, and build trust that lasts long after the season picks up again.

 

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