Look for "gentle weeping" from seals, mineral deposits (white crusty spots), or damp insulation. Leaks in fully insulated tubs are notoriously difficult and expensive to fix.
Buying a used hot tub is a journey that starts with the hunt for a bargain and ends with—hopefully—a long, warm soak. what to look for when buying a used hot tub
Ask the seller to remove the side panels so you can see the "guts". Look for "gentle weeping" from seals, mineral deposits
Before shaking hands, ask the seller about the tub's pedigree: What to look for when buying a used hot tub? Ask the seller to remove the side panels
When you first approach a pre-owned hot tub, you are essentially looking at its life story.
Turn them on high. Ensure every jet is actually firing with strong pressure. Weak flow could mean air blockages or brittle, failing internal plumbing. The Deep Dive: Under the Panels