What is an Inflatable Hot Tub?

Inflatable hot tubs have become increasingly popular recently. They have a number of advantages over a traditional hot tub but they are also very different and there are some drawbacks as well. So, what is an inflatable hot tub, how does an inflatable hot tub work and should you consider buying one? I decided to do some research and this is what I found out:

So, what is an inflatable hot tub? An inflatable hot tub is a portable tub made from vinyl rather than acrylic which regular hot tubs are constructed from. They’re inflated using a pump and can then be deflated and put away for easy storage if they’re not being used. This makes them a perfect option for anybody who has limited space.

These days, inflatable hot tubs have become increasingly popular. However, why are so many people choosing them over regular alternatives? Do they really offer all of the features that a standard spa does? What kind of capacity do they have? Are they simple to use and set up?

Let’s have a look at some of these questions and more in detail.

A Complete Overview Of Inflatable Hot Tubs

Who doesn’t love the idea of relaxing at home in a luxurious hot tub? However, if you just don’t have sufficient space for a permanent spa or can’t afford one, an inflatable spa could be the perfect solution. An inflatable hot tub can be set up almost anywhere so long as a power outlet is nearby and the surface it’s sitting on is flat. It’s possible to set one up in your garden, indoors or even when you go camping!

While inflatable hot tubs don’t offer quite the same features as a regular hot tub, they do offer hot and bubbly water. They are also a cheaper alternative to a permanent hot tub, making them more accessible as an option for people on a budget keen to have some fun in the hot water.

In brief, an inflatable spa offers users an experience that is similar to a regular hot tub, however, there’s no need to make permanent changes to your home. Also, since they’re relatively easy to set up yourself, there’s no need to pay for somebody to professionally install them. Even better, since you can deflate them and pack them away if they’re not being used, they won’t take up permanent valuable room on your deck or patio.

Almost all inflatable spas are round in shape, but there are a few square versions available to buy too. Both square and round models are available in a range of sizes for between two and six people, although they’re a tighter-fit for bathers than a standard permanent hot tub. In general, a square tub will offer a little more space for users than a round tub.

No matter which kind of inflatable hot tub you purchase, it’ll usually come with its own groundsheet to lay on the surface where the spa is going to sit. This offers some protection for the base of the hot tub both from changes in temperature and from debris on the ground. It usually will also come with a lid or cover to place over the tub if it isn’t in use. This will keep any debris from falling into the tub and it will also help to keep the water in the tub warm.

What Sort Of Jets Do You Find In Inflatable Hot Tubs?

Regular hot tubs have water jets that shoot out strong streams of water. Usually, these are combined with air jets to make even more bubbles. An inflatable spa won’t usually have water jets. However, it will have about 100 to 200 air jets.

Some inflatable hot tub brands do feature water jets, but you still won’t find as many as you would in a standard spa. However, they still offer users a different kind of experience when compared with air jet-only models, so consider this when choosing which model to buy. Bear in mind though that if you are looking for a hot tub that will offer hydrotherapy benefits you will need to buy a traditional tub.

How Does An Inflatable Hot Tub Heater Work?

You cannot buy a hot tub without a water heater. Every inflatable model comes with one. Both traditional and portable hot tubs operate at a maximum temperatire of 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius), although many users opt for a temperature of around 100-102 degrees Fahrenheit (37-39 degrees Celsius).

Your inflatable hot tub needs to be set up near to a power socket so it can be plugged in, since this is the way in which the heater obtains its operating power. It takes around 12 – 24 hours for the tub to get to the right temperature for use, and once it has reached its optimal temperature, you have to keep the water at this temperature by covering up the tub when it isn’t in use, and by using outdoor elements like shrubs and privacy screens to help prevent the water from evaporating and cooling.

The heater itself is very simple and works in a similar way to a domestic kettle. Water is surrounded by a heating element which, when switched on, heats up and heats the water. The warmed water is then pumped into the hot tub and cold water returned for reheating.

All hot tubs have a thermostat which enables you to maintain the water at the temperature that you find most comfortable and also prevents overheating.

How Does An Inflatable Hot Tub Pump Work?

In any type of inflatable hot tub, its pump will be the most important and hard-working component. It circulates the water and features a built-in air blower to inflate the tub and power the air jets.

In most cases, the pump and heater come together in one enclosed unit with a control panel set on top. Typically, there is a mains cable with a built-in Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) which protects users from electric shocks. This enables users to plug their inflatable spa into any indoor or outdoor power socket.

Because of the amount of power drawn though, you have to make sure that the hot tub is the only applicance on its assigned break as this will prevent the breaker from flipping while you’re enjoying your warm water.

What Advantages Do Inflatable Hot Tubs Offer?

There are many advantages when it comes to selecting an inflatable hot tub. These include:

• Portability – you can use your hot tub anywhere so long as you have a flat, even surface and suitable power socket.
• Storage – you can store them away when they’re not being used to save on space.
• Affordability – they’re more affordable than a permanent hot tub.
• User-Friendly – they can be set up quickly and easily with no need to hire a professional.

What Disadvantages Are There To Inflatable Hot Tubs?

If you choose an inflatable spa, there are some downsides to bear in mind. These include:

• Noise – an inflatable hot tub will be noisier to run compared with a standard model.
• No seating – an inflatable tub won’t come with inbuilt seating. That means you need to purchase seating separately or sit on the tub’s bottom.
• Filters – the filters won’t last as long when compared with those used in standard hot tubs.

Related Questions

Can you purchase extra accessories for an inflatable hot tub? While an inflatable hot tub is quite basic when compared with regular permanent spas, it’s still possible to purchase accessories that make them more comfortable to use and more attractive.

You can purchase seating that you can put in the tub, as well as inflatable headrests and cushions for more comfort during use. It’s also possible to find drinks trays and holders to attach to the top or sides of the tub, or even LED lights to add to your tub to change the atmosphere and ambiance.

Must I still sanitize my inflatable hot tub? You may be tempted to forgo using chemicals in your inflatable spa, especially if you’re only going to be using it for short periods of time. Yet, you still need to ensure the water is kept clean and safe.

Keeping bacteria and contaminants out of the tub is equally important in portable spas as it is in permanent ones, so you must ensure you use test strips and chemicals as your tub’s manufacturer recommends. Should you fail to do this, there are several health issues that could arise including rashes or even life-threatening problems like Legionnaire’s Disease.

Where am I able to set up my inflatable hot tub? Your inflatable spa can be set up in any spot that is flat and even, and that is strong enough to hold the combined weight of the tub, bathers and water. Portable spas are suitable for setting up indoors and outdoors, but since they are heavy when full you need to keep this in mind when selecting a place.

Also, consider the site of your tub if you’re going to use it when the weather is cooler. The majority of inflatable hot tubs are designed so that they operate correctly at any temperature over 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius), however, at those temperatures, the pump and heater are likely to struggle to function properly.

Your tub needs, therefore, to be sheltered from inclement weather. By adding extra insulation or an enclosure around it, or by setting up your tub in an outbuilding or garage, you can use your tub for longer.