What are the types of hot tubs and how to make the right choice?

The possibilities of comfort living inside one’s own house have changed thanks to the latest proposals on the market. If you like to relax in hot water, there is an extensive choice of different types for all needs. To navigate better, it is required to understand what is available and the differences among proposals.

Even though manufacturers like to confuse buyers, there are three different products:

1. In-ground spa. This small in-ground pool with a bench and hot water can be part of a residential swimming pool. You can see a lot of these spas in gyms or hotels.
2. Hot tub. This is an above-ground portable vessel that can be inflatable.
3. Jetted bathtub. Jacuzzi is a brand name from one of the manufacturers. It can be an in-ground spa or a hot tub with jets. As a hot tube is more affordable, it is more often seen in residential areas. So, let’s closely look at what types of hot tubs exist.

Types of hot tubs

Unfortunately, even though there are three types of goods related to relaxing in hot water, the second and third types are often called hot tubs, whether it is with a jet. In general, hot tubs are all above-ground spas. Hot tubs from all manufacturers have the following types:

• Portable hot tub
  The material of these tubs is plastic/polyurethane foam/acrylic, and in most cases, the
  construction is quite heavy for easy movement. They also have different internal materials – vinyl, fiberglass, polymers, etc. It is possible to build a sun deck around it to make the usage more comfortable. Another difficulty is that it should be installed on a leveled, horizontal surface and have access to electricity.
• Wooden hot tub
  The material of these tubs is unique wood, making them look old-fashioned. Instead of electricity, the water is heated by a gas or wood-fire heater. Because of the material, it is impossible to organize many comfortable seats inside. It is also expensive to keep them in excellent condition, and repair procedures are costly.
• Inflatable hot tub
  It is the best proposal on the market for hot tubs, very affordable. Some inflatable tubs are equipped with jets and the ability to make bubbles. The general recommendation is to install them indoors, especially do not use them outside in winter months when the temperature is below 32° F. Inflatable hot tubs are not designed for boiling water – more than 104° F. However, they are easy to install and can be easily moved. If you want to choose this hot tub, the inflatable types can offer all comfort in working order within 20 minutes with bubble jets, including multi-color LED lighting. The nice feature of all hot tubs is that you can turn off the water heating and use them as a small swimming pool in warm seasons.

Functional elements of hot tubs

The basic functionality of each type of hot tub is to fill and drain water, heat, and filter it. In addition, some models have blowers, water, and ozone jets.

Ozone jets are the same as chloride or bromide chemical treatment for swimming pools for eliminating all organics from the hot tub. Availability of ozone cleaning reduces the number of chemicals still required for proper maintenance. Changing the water in a hot tub every 3-4 months is recommended to reduce harmful chlorine influence on the human skin and the tub’s walls.

Each hot tub is equipped with a filtration system to collect all debris, including a strainer or skimmer. The circulation of water is executed by pump or pumps. Pumps with several speeds can also create water jets and bubbles at the highest speed; low speed is used for filtration and heating. Most tubs can be quickly filled and drained with a standard garden hose at the bottom.

How to choose a hot tub

It is essential to consider the main aspects before buying a hot tub, as it is not a cheap good and you are not buying them every day.

1. The size of a hot tub and the corresponding number of seats inside. The seats can be different; check for lounge seats for more comfort.
2. Available electric power. It could be a 120 Volt or 240 Volt outlet.
3. The location of installation. A hot tub should be placed on leveled solid surfaces, such as concrete or brick backyard. It is not recommended to place it on the grass or in unprepared soil. Do not forget that a garden hose and a power cable should be accessible to your hot tub.
4. The type of hot tub (portable, inflatable, or wooden). The type also determines a hot tub’s look, durability, and strength.
5. The type of filters and filtration is built in a tub. The energy consumption could be enormous if the tub is equipped with a lot of pumps (up to 6!). Think first about how it is crucial to have several jets and bubbles in your hot water. A good cartridge filter can be used for two years without changes, hot tubs can have up to 5 filters, and if they have a particular type, their change will be costly.
6. Availability of warranty. Well-known manufacturers have a vast chain of repair centers worldwide, which is a better choice in their favor.
7. The cost of a hot tub and its further maintenance (cleaning, change or removable parts, electricity, water).

For sure, there are other aspects such as a cover, built-in stereo, and lighting. But they are nice to have, and a thoughtful choice should not be based only on them.

Conclusion

Having rested in hot water is an excellent pleasure time that is more achievable nowadays. Based on your budget, the size of your family, and your background or terrace, you can choose a hot tube. The market can offer you a wide choice of different types and quality hot tubs.

To choose your best solution, you should check all available technical properties you have (electricity,
water, space) and estimate your long-term budget, considering the costs of future maintenance.