Inflatable hot tubs have become increasingly popular in recent years as an affordable and convenient way to enjoy the benefits of hot tubbing at home. Unlike traditional built-in hot tubs, inflatable models are portable, easy to set up and maintain, and significantly less expensive. However, inflatable hot tubs also have some downsides to consider before purchasing. In this article, we will examine the key disadvantages of owning an inflatable hot tub.
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Ongoing Maintenance
One of the main downsides of an inflatable hot tub is the need for regular maintenance. While convenient to set up initially, keeping an inflatable hot tub clean and functional over time requires diligent care and upkeep. Here are some of the maintenance tasks required:
– Draining, cleaning and refilling the tub regularly: Inflatable tubs need draining every 2-4 weeks and thorough cleaning to prevent bacteria and mold growth. Refilling uses a significant amount of water.
– Filter cleaning: Filters need rinsing off weekly and replacing every 3-6 months to keep water clean.
– Water chemistry monitoring and adjusting: pH and chlorine/bromine levels need checking 2-3 times per week and adjusted as needed. Imbalanced water can damage the tub.
– Spa treatment: Special chemicals may be required weekly to condition water, inhibit foam, and prevent scale buildup.
– Surface cleaning: The tub walls need wiping down before and after each use to prevent residue and biofilm buildup.
– Inspection for leaks and holes: Seams and surfaces should be regularly checked for small punctures or leaks that need patching.
If this regular maintenance is not kept up, the water can become unsafe, damaging to the tub, and unpleasant to soak in. While simple in theory, consistent hot tub maintenance can feel burdensome for many owners over time.
Installation Challenges
Installing an inflatable hot tub isn’t always straightforward. Here are some common installation issues:
– Finding a suitable site: Inflatable tubs have specific clearance requirements from walls/fences for access. Limited yard space can make positioning difficult.
– Level ground: The area must be leveled and free of debris/sharp objects to prevent puncturing the bottom. May require ground preparation.
– Access to power: Tubs need a dedicated GFCI-protected electrical outlet installed nearby, which may require electrician work.
– Proper support: A concrete pad, pavers, or decking is ideal for support. Irregular ground can cause sagging and punctures.
– Drainage considerations: There must be a strategy to drain and dispose of water from both the initial fill and regular changes.
– Local regulations: Permitting and safety codes may dictate where/how tubs can be installed, adding time and cost.
For those less handy or without suitable outdoor space, installing an inflatable hot tub can become an unexpected headache. Professional help may be necessary.
Limited Durability
Inflatable hot tubs are vulnerable to wear and tear over time. Some drawbacks include:
– Punctures and leaks: The vinyl material can easily be pierced by falling debris, weather elements, and general use. Small leaks are hard to locate and patch.
– Rapid deflation: If the pumps fail or a large hole/tear occurs, the tub can rapidly deflate, causing a big mess and cleanup.
– Degradation from sun exposure: The vinyl breaks down over time with UV exposure, even if covered when not in use. Most last 2-3 years before needing replacement.
– Susceptibility to wind damage: Strong winds can cause inflatable tubs to shift or lift and become damaged. They may blow away in extreme weather if not anchored properly.
While less of an issue for indoor/covered tubs, outdoor inflatable hot tubs face an ongoing battle against deflation and degradation over time.
Limited Space
The roomy soaking capacity of traditional built-in hot tubs is hard to replicate in an inflatable model. Design constraints lead to some space limitations:
– Fewer seats: Most inflatable tubs seat only 4-6 adults comfortably. Entertaining larger groups is difficult.
– Compact dimensions: The overall footprint is smaller than a full-sized hot tub to accommodate inflation. Leg room is limited.
– No standing room: Inflatable design means there is no open area to stand or walk around in. All soakers must be seated.
– Limited accessories: No space for conveniently located drink holders, waterfalls, integrated stereo systems, etc.
While inflatable tubs aim to recreate the hot tub experience on a budget, the realities of inflation result in a smaller, more constraining soak. Those desiring room to spread out may feel confined.
Limited Durability of Heating and Pumping System
The economical pumps and heating systems of inflatable hot tubs tend to have a shorter lifespan than built-in models. Some issues include:
– Cheaper pumps burn out faster, usually 1-2 seasons of use. Replacement pumps cost $200-$400.
– Heating elements degrade over time, particularly if not cared for properly. Can be expensive to replace.
– Air jets and valves are prone to breaking with rough handling or weather exposure.
– Leaking or defective plumbing fittings usually aren’t serviceable and require total pump replacement.
– Freeze damage can ruin pumps and plumbing if stored improperly for winter.
While built-in hot tub systems can last 5-10 years if maintained, the cheaper components of inflatable tubs often fail within 2-3 years. This leads to costly repairs or full unit replacement.
Higher Operating Costs
Despite a lower upfront purchase price, inflatable hot tubs often have greater long-term operating costs. Factors contributing to higher costs include:
– Increased heating needs: The less insulated walls and open water surface lead to rapid heat loss. More energy is required to maintain temperature.
– Frequent water replacement: The need to change all of the water every few weeks consumes large amounts of water to operate.
– Chemical costs: The small water volume requires more frequent chemical treatment to maintain sanitary conditions.
– Pump energy consumption: Running pump motors constantly uses more electricity over time.
– Short lifespan: With cheaper construction, the whole unit may need replacing every few years.
While less expensive on day one, an inflatable hot tub’s operating costs add up due to greater maintenance needs and shorter lifespan. Over 5-10 years, costs may approach that of a full featured built-in hot tub with better energy efficiency and durability.
Mold and Mildew Concerns
The warm, humid conditions inside inflatable hot tubs make them prone to mold growth. Preventing and treating mold comes with added hassles:
– More frequent cleaning: The tub surfaces need scrubbing before/after each use to prevent biofilm accumulation leading to mold.
– Bleach treatment: Periodic shocking the tub with bleach mixtures helps control mold but is a toxic hassle.
– Persistent musty odor: That “mildewy” smell can be stubborn to eliminate with inflatable tubs and permeate their covers.
– Greater health risks: The warm stagnant water and moist surfaces increase risks of bacterial growth along with mold.
Inflatable tubs require diligent effort to prevent exposures to the unsanitary conditions caused by mold and mildew growth. Even with regular care, odors and biofilms are common.
Temperature Control Difficulties
Maintaining consistent water temperature is more challenging with inflatable hot tubs. Some factors contributing to temperature fluctuations include:
– Rapid heat loss: Unlike insulated rigid shells, heat dissipates rapidly through the thin inflatable walls, especially when uncovered.
– Small water capacity: Less water volume is impacted more by ambient temperatures and use patterns.
– Underpowered heating: Affordable tubs often have low wattage heaters that struggle to recover temperature after use.
– Pump cycling: Heating only works when pumps are active, so cycles on/off cause temperature swings.
– Weather impacts: Wind, rain and cold can quickly steal heat from the exposed water surface.
– Poor insulation covers: Low-cost covers included often fit poorly and lack insulating ability.
The compromise of an inflatable design makes keeping soaking temperatures reliably consistent a challenge. Expect greater fluctuations.
Safety Hazards
The soft structure and electrical components of inflatable hot tubs raise some safety concerns:
– Risk of puncturing: Sharp objects, animals, weather, and normal wear can lead to punctures of the tub walls and base. Sudden deflation or sinking can cause injuries.
– Electric shock dangers: The nearby presence of power cords, pumps, and heaters creates electrocution risks if improperly wired or placed dangerously.
– Child drowning risk: Younger kids attracted to a water-filled tub can potentially fall in and drown without safety measures.
– Chemical hazards: Handling sanitizing chemicals requires caution to avoid injuries or health effects. Proper storage is crucial.
– Entrapment concerns: Long hair or loose clothing could potentially be drawn into pump intakes or drains of the soft tub.
While hot tubs provide relaxation, their combination of water, electricity and chemicals requires attentiveness to safety that inflatable models can make more difficult.
Limited Customizability
One of the appeals of built-in hot tubs is the ability to customize size, shape, features and finishings according to personal preferences. Inflatable hot tubs offer little customization, such as:
– Standard sizing: Tub dimensions are fixed based on the inflation method. No option to tailor tub length, depth, etc.
– Set seating capacity: Seat numbers are predetermined and can’t be expanded. Adding more people is constrained.
– Fewer feature options: Most inflatables have basic pump and heater units. Add-ons like LED lights or stereo systems aren’t available.
– Limitations on finishes: Color/pattern selection is restricted to a few options of durable vinyl. No tile, wood skirt or other decorative customization.
– Fixed location: An inflatable tub can’t be integrated into a customized surround like permanent tubs. Locating flexibility is limited.
For those desiring a tailored soaking tub that seamlessly fits their space and preferences, inflatable hot tubs offer little design flexibility or room for personalization.
Resale Value Decline
Major hot tub brands promote the durability and dependability of their products for years of use. Inflatable hot tubs do not typically maintain their value well long-term:
– Rapid depreciation: Like above-ground pools, inflatable tubs tend to lose significant resale value after just a season or two of use.
– Limited warranty periods: Most brands only warranty inflatable tubs for 1-3 years, after which replacement costs fall fully to the owner.
– Technology improvements: Manufacturers frequently update models with new features and fix issues, making older tubs less desirable.
– Wear and tear: An inflatable tub’s vulnerable vinyl construction is prone to developing holes, leaks and damage from sun and weather over a short period of time.
– Permanence concerns: Potential buyers recognize the short lifespan of inflatable tubs and are wary of fully depreciated units.
While a good value initially, inflation tubs are generally considered disposable, temporary purchases rather than lasting investments retaining any resale value in the long run.
Conclusion
Inflatable hot tubs provide an affordable, low-commitment way to enjoy hot tubbing at home. However, their convenience comes with compromises in quality, safety, maintenance needs, and longevity compared to built-in hot tubs. Key disadvantages include high operating costs, rapid deterioration, limited space and features, challenging installation, and minimal resale value. Inflatable tubs require frequent caretaking and replacement that make long-term ownership an ongoing hassle for many buyers enticed by the low initial price. Ultimately, understanding both the pros and cons will lead to the most informed hot tub purchasing decision.