Inflatable spas, also known as portable spas or blow-up hot tubs, have become increasingly popular in recent years as an affordable and convenient way to enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy at home. With prices starting at just a few hundred dollars, inflatable models provide a fraction of the cost of traditional built-in hot tubs. Their lightweight, collapsible design also makes them much easier to set up and store.
But are inflatable spas a worthwhile investment or just a gimmicky fad? There are a number of factors to consider when deciding if an inflatable hot tub is right for you. This article will examine the pros and cons of inflatable spas to help you determine if they provide good value for money or if you’re better off choosing a different type of hot tub.
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Pros of Inflatable Spas
There are several advantages that inflatable hot tubs offer compared to traditional models:
Lower Upfront Cost
The most obvious benefit of inflatable spas is that they come at a much lower initial purchase price. Traditional built-in hot tubs often cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on size, features, and quality of construction. Inflatable models, on the other hand, can usually be purchased for $500 to $3,000. Even high-end inflatable spas with extra features like massage jets and premium materials rarely exceed $4,000 or $5,000.
This makes inflatable hot tubs affordable for those who want to enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy and spa ownership on a budget. With significantly less money needed upfront, an inflatable model can provide an accessible entry point into owning a home spa.
Easy Setup and Portability
Inflatable spas are extremely easy to set up compared to permanent models. There is no complex installation required. Most inflatable hot tub models can be set up in less than 30 minutes.
First, you simply inflate the top ring and side walls using the included pump. Once inflated, you fill the inner tub with water, add chemicals, turn on the heating system, and your spa is ready for use. This simplicity makes inflatable tubs perfect for renters or those who don’t want to commit to a permanent installation.
The lightweight, collapsible nature of inflatable spas also makes them very portable. When not in use, they can be deflated and stored away in a closet, garage, or basement. You can even take them with you when traveling or camping. Permanent hot tubs obviously don’t offer this flexibility.
Smaller Physical Footprint
Since inflatable spas don’t require any permanent construction or plumbing work, they can be setup almost anywhere. Their compact size allows them to fit in spaces where a traditional built-in hot tub would not.
You can install an inflatable model on an outdoor deck, patio, or balcony – places where installing a full-size permanent tub would be impractical or impossible. This gives you more options for where to locate your spa.
Their smaller dimensions also make them well-suited for small yards or for use by 1-2 people. A single person or couple who wants to enjoy the relaxation of a hot tub can often be well-served by a compact inflatable model rather than paying for a large 6-8 person permanent tub.
Energy Efficient Operation
Inflatable spas use less water than traditional models – typically about half the volume. This smaller water capacity means faster heat up times after the spa is first filled. It also means lower energy consumption for heating the water during use.
Most inflatable hot tubs have an insulated floor and walls that help retain heat and minimize heat loss. This improves their energy efficiency compared to permanent spa models that have exposed acrylic surfaces.
So while inflatable spas are not as energy efficient as larger permanent tubs that use extensive insulation and specialized heat retention technologies, their smaller size and construction makes them fairly efficient to run. Operating costs are lowered, which saves you money in the long run.
Easy Maintenance
Maintaining water cleanliness and performing regular maintenance is simpler with an inflatable hot tub versus a traditional model.
Their smaller water capacity requires fewer chemicals to balance pH and sanitize. The soft vinyl construction won’t accumulate hard water scale or calcium deposits either.
When it’s time for deeper cleaning, inflatable shells are much easier to access, clean and scrub than permanent spas. And if the vinyl shell gets damaged or worn out over time, replacement hot tub bladders can be purchased for a reasonable price rather than needing to re-gelcoat an acrylic permanent shell.
Overall, the maintenance burden is lighter with inflatable spas, which is a major plus for many owners.
Cons of Inflatable Spas
While inflatable hot tubs provide some nice advantages, they do come with a few compromises and drawbacks:
Shorter Lifespan
Inflatable spa shells are primarily made from vinyl, with layers of puncture resistant material, foam insulation, and drop-stitch fabric providing structure. This construction isn’t as durable or robust as the rigid acrylic or plastic used in permanent hot tubs.
Most inflatable hot tub manufacturers estimate their products to have a lifespan of around 5 years with proper maintenance and water care. Some may last a little longer, while improper use or cheap models could decline faster.
The lifespan of a well-made permanent hot tub, on the other hand, is usually over 15 years. So inflatable hot tubs are more of a temporary solution with a shorter usable life than traditional built-in models.
More Limited Features
Don’t expect an inflatable hot tub to offer the same level of features and jets as a full-size permanent tub. Their smaller size and simpler filter systems mean inflatable models usually only include basic water jets rather than an array of high-powered hydrotherapy massage jets.
Most inflatable spas also lack advanced features like ozonators for cleaner water, full-foam insulation, stainless steel trim, LED lighting, waterfall fountains, and premium sound systems. The functionality is focused on the essentials rather than a luxury experience.
Less Durability
Although puncture resistant material is used, inflatable hot tub shells are still vulnerable to damage from sharp objects. You have to take care not to tear the vinyl when setting up or moving the tub.
The exterior also tends to degrade faster from sun exposure and weather elements compared to permanent acrylic spa shells. And cheap glue or improper bonding can lead to leaks.
Inflatable tubs just aren’t going to withstand quite as much long-term wear and tear as traditional models. You sacrifice some durability for the convenience and flexibility of their portable design.
Limited Seating Capacity
Don’t expect to fit more than 5 adults comfortably in an inflatable spa, with most models marketed as 2-4 person tubs. If you want to soak with larger groups or host parties, an inflatable likely won’t work well. For larger capacity needs, a traditional built-in hot tub is a better choice.
Requires Draining and Storing When Not in Use
One extra hassle with inflatable hot tubs is needing to drain out all the water and properly store the empty unit any time you want to take down the tub or aren’t using it for an extended period.
Permanent hot tubs can be left running year-round, while inflatable models should be drained and packed away to prevent damage whenever they aren’t being used for more than a few days.
Potential Heater Limitations in Cold Weather
The compact electric heaters used in inflatable spas may have trouble maintaining water temperatures on par with permanent hot tubs in very cold conditions.
Inflatable tub heaters usually have enough power to keep water comfortably hot if outdoors when ambient temperatures are above freezing. But they aren’t designed for efficiently heating a tub in frigid winter conditions if you plan to use it year-round.
Ideal Uses for an Inflatable Hot Tub
Given their unique pros and cons, inflatable hot tubs tend to work best in these types of situations:
– For 1-2 person use rather than large groups
– As a temporary or seasonal hot tub rather than for year-round daily use
– For use in small spaces like decks, patios, or compact backyards where a full-size permanent tub isn’t practical
– For rental properties or situations where permanent installation isn’t possible or desired
– As a portable spa when you want the flexibility to take it with you when traveling
– As an affordable starter spa if you want to try out a home hot tub without a huge investment
In these types of applications, an inflatable spa can provide a worthwhile experience and good value for the money. You’re more likely to be satisfied with their performance when used within their intended strengths and limitations.
Inflatable Hot Tub Pricing
Here is an overview of typical pricing for inflatable hot tubs depending on size, features, and brand:
| Spa Size | Seating Capacity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 2 person | $300 – $700 |
| Medium | 3-4 person | $600 – $1,200 |
| Large | 5-6 person | $1,000 – $4,000 |
As you can see, entry-level inflatable spas seating 2 people can be purchased for less than $1,000. Larger tubs seating up to 6 adults often run between $2,000 – $3,500 from reputable brands. And premium inflatable spas with extra features and accessories can cost up to $4,000 – $5,000.
So while still significantly cheaper than permanent hot tubs, higher-end inflatable models do entail a sizable investment. You want to make sure you purchase a quality tub from a reputable manufacturer that will provide a decent lifespan. Very cheap inflatable spas often disappoint with their poor durability.
Top Inflatable Hot Tub Brands
These are some of the best inflatable hot tub brands to consider:
Coleman
Known for their outdoor and camping gear, Coleman offers a popular line of entry-level inflatable spas in 2-4 person sizes. Prices range from $400 – $800. A good budget choice but durability is mixed.
Intex
Another affordable brand, Intex inflatable hot tubs start at around $600. Their Elite and PureSpa lines offer an improved build quality from their cheaper models. Provides good value at the mid-range price point.
SaluSpa
This Bestway brand is a leader in inflatable hot tubs offering models sized for 2-6 people. Durable construction and reliable pumps and heaters make SaluSpa a solid mid-range choice with prices from $700-$1,200.
Lifesmart
Focusing on premium inflatable spas, Lifesmart is pricier ($2,000 – $4,000) but delivers excellent quality, massage jets, heating power, and durable construction. A top brand for performance and longevity.
Lay-Z-Spa
Lay-Z-Spa by Bestway produces reliably built inflatable hot tubs from $600 – $1,200 for their core models. Their patented TriTech material offers good tear resistance. A popular mid-range brand.
Conclusion
For the right situations, inflatable hot tubs can provide an affordable and convenient way to enjoy the soothing benefits of warm water hydrotherapy at home. Their low upfront cost, quick setup, and smaller footprint make them appealing compared to permanent models.
But inflatable spa durability issues, more limited features, and compromises in performance mean they aren’t the right choice for everyone. Know that you’ll be sacrificing some aspects of the traditional hot tub experience for the advantages of their cheaper and portable design.
Focus your search on proven mid-range brands like SaluSpa and Lifesmart to maximize quality and longevity. And choose an appropriately sized tub for your needs – don’t expect a large group soaking experience. As long as you have realistic expectations and match your usage to the strengths of inflatable spas, they can be a worthwhile home relaxation investment for the right buyer.