Unless you have access to a gym or apartment complex with a hot tub, it’s likely that you probably don’t own one. First and foremost, they are expensive, but more importantly, they can take up a lot of space which can be problematic for those with space constraints.
For some people, the thought of using an inflatable hot tub is enticing because it can help relax and unwind after a long day, but are they actually worth it?
Ahead, we spoke with a plumbing expert about all things related to inflatable hot tubs from price and materials to whether or not you it’s worth investing in one.
What Is an Inflatable Hot Tub?
According to Steven Bahbah, managing director of Service First Plumbing, an inflatable hot tub is a portable spa typically made of multi-layered, durable PVC or vinyl material with rigid walls capable of containing hot water pressure.
“Being soft-sided, you can deflate and store it if you are space-challenged or would like to only use it for part of the year,” he says. “The shell is designed to be puncture-resistant, yet it is comfortable to sit in.”
How Much Do Inflatable Hot Tubs Cost?
The price of an inflatable hot tub can vary based on the size, material and brand. “Depending on the brand and size, you’ll pay somewhere between $400 and $1,500,” Bahbah says. “If you find one under $400, beware, it may not hold up or heat well.”
The price of an inflatable hot tub may also vary on where you are buying from. For example, you might be able to find more savings at a place like Walmart compared to a specialty store.
How Long Do Inflatable Hot Tubs Last?
The longevity of an inflatable hot tub depends on how well it’s maintained, the material it is made from and how often it is used. In general, they last approximately two to five years in most circumstances. “That is, if you take care of it, keep it clean, keep it out of the sun, and keep it off of rough surfaces,” says Bahbah.
Are Inflatable Hot Tubs Safe?
According to Bahbah, inflatable hot tubs are safe. “From a safety standpoint, they’re insulated so the water never actually touches the heat and cannot burn you,” he says. “It’s safe as long as you are using the manual and it’s plugged into a GFCI outlet.”
Inflatable Hot Tub Pros and Cons
Pros
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Portable
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Easy to set up
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Less expensive
Cons
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Slower to heat
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More susceptible to environmental damage
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Less powerful jets (if any)
Inflatable Hot Tubs: Should I Get One?
Whether or not you should get an inflatable hot tub is up to you, but you may want to think about getting one if you don’t have the space for a traditional one, have the capacity to care and maintain it, or are looking for a more affordable option that won’t cost you thousands.
On the flipside, if you live in place with strict rules like an HOA or other community or perhaps are looking for something spa-grade and more fancy, then you likely won’t be satisfied with an inflatable hot tub.
FAQ
Do inflatable hot tubs naturally lose air?
Yes, similar to an inflatable pool or an air mattress, inflatable hot tubs naturally lose air. This happens often with temperature changes so you’ll want to be sure to top it off every few days, according to Bahbah.
How do you clean an inflatable hot tub?
To clean an inflatable hot tub Bahbah recommends rinsing the filters weekly, periodically changing the water every few weeks and adding chemical products such as chlorine or bromine to prevent bacteria from developing.
How does an inflatable hot tub stay hot?
As you can imagine, the ability for an inflatable hot tub to stay hot greatly depends on the weather outside.
Aside from that, heating is handled by an electric heater and an insulated cover. “It takes longer than a hard-shell spa, maybe 12 to 24 hours to reach full temperature,” says Bahbah.
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