Inflatable hot tubs operate on the same principles as permanent hot tubs but are much cheaper which makes people wonder, ‘are inflatable hot tubs any good?’ Thankfully inflatable hot tubs offer a very durable and long-lasting alternative to regular hot tubs and many home owners prefer them to permanent structures, here’s why.
Regular Hot Tubs Versus Inflatable Hot Tubs – What’s the Difference?
Both types of hot tubs are fun and relaxing, but there are some key differences to keep in mind. Inflatable hot tubs are more affordable than the regular variety and are also more portable. If you don’t have much room, an inflatable hot tub can quickly deflate and pack away in storage until you need it again.
You won’t get any seats with an inflatable hot tub, a trait they have in common with your average blow-up paddling pool. However, there are plenty of portable seats and boosters on the market to increase the comfort of your inflatable hot tub.
Kenley Hot Tub Booster Seat
Just about all inflatable hot tubs have smaller jets than regular hot tubs, and there won’t be any around the sides of the tub to give you a full body massage. However, the technology is getting better and better. If a high-pressure soak is what your after check out our article, ‘Which inflatable hot tub has the best jets?’
How Easy is to Fill and Heat an Inflatable Hot Tub?
Unlike built-in hot tubs, inflatable hot tubs have little to no insulation, so they can take longer to heat the water to an optimal temperature. Other factors can also affect heating time, including the outside air temperature and the temperature of the water used to fill the tub.
Using a hose in the summertime will reduce the heating time because the sun will have already done a lot of the heating work for you. An insulated hot tub will take around an hour to heat the water by 5°F, but inflatable hot tubs take significantly longer. In general, expect your hot tub to take around 12 hours before it’s ready for you to jump in or when the water reaches around 98°F. The heater will also turn off while using the jets, so you have to prioritize between the two.
Can I use My Inflatable Hot Tub in Winter?
Every hot tub owner, inflatable or not, will tell you that the best time to use your hot tub is during winter. There’s nothing quite like getting enveloped in warm, steamy water when there’s a chill in the air.
Keep the heater running in economy mode, so the water circulates continuously and your hot tub ready for use at a moment’s notice. It may sound counterintuitive, but leaving your hot tub on 24/7 will use up less power than turning it off and on if you are using it regularly. Heating water from cold takes much more energy than maintaining a steady temperature.
Another advantage to running your hot tub all the time is that it will prevent the water from stagnating by ensuring the chemicals are always evenly distributed throughout the water.
The main advantage of an inflatable hot tub is that it can be used anywhere. However, if you place it in an enclosed place and protected from the elements, the heater won’t have to work as hard to keep the water at a steady, comfortable temperature. Turning on the jets should turn off the heater to protect the hot tub from an overload.
Snow and ice can be an issue for an outdoor inflatable tub if the pipes freeze. The expanding ice could damage the operational components of your tub, which is another excellent case for leaving it running all of the time.
A good solution to this is hot tubs with anti freeze. If you’re looking for a hot tub for the winter months check out our article, ‘5 Best Inflatable Hot Tubs for Winter Climate’.
Using a Ground Cloth for an Inflatable Hot Tub
Even though inflatable hot tubs are quite durable with most being made from 3-ply PVC they often arrive with a ground cloth that adds an extra layer of protection between the ground and the bottom surface of the tub. The ground cloth prevents the tub from snagging and tearing and adds extra insulation to keep the water at optimum temperature.
Third-party ground covers made from hard plastic are also available if you are after something more robust and permanent. Duangmuers make a durable anti-slip and waterproof ground sheet designed specifically for inflatable hot tub use.
Can I Use My Inflatable Hot Tub Indoors?
Inflatable hot tubs will work anywhere with a strong foundation and a flat surface, so it’s possible to use them indoors. Consider the flooring in case your hot tub springs a leak. Hot tubs hold a significant volume of water, which can cause significant damage to your home if the tub springs a leak.
The warm water also creates steam, so use your hot tub in a well-ventilated room to prevent moisture build-up. Keep windows and doors open while the hot tub is operating. Otherwise, you could be inviting a mold outbreak into your home.
How Long is it Safe to Sit in a Hot Tub?
How long you can comfortably stay in your hot tub depends on your preferred temperature. If you prefer a slightly warmer hot tub at around 104°F, try to keep each session to approximately 20 minutes. Slightly lowering the water temperature will mean it’s safe to use your hot tub for longer without any ill effects.
Are Inflatable Hot Tubes Expensive to Run?
As we mentioned, your hot tub will use the most energy getting cool water warm, and leaving it on all the time is the most cost-effective strategy for a tub you plan to use several times a week.
Unlike a regular hot tub, inflatables will cost a little more to run due to their lack of insulation, but you shouldn’t be paying more than $20 extra on your utility bill. A good rule of thumb is to expect your electricity bill to go up by around $30 to $40 a month, which is good value for enjoying the luxury of a hot tub after a hard day at work.
Are Inflatable Hot Tubs Difficult to Maintain?
Inflatable hot tubs are pretty easy to maintain if you perform regular checks and cleaning, but you must be diligent with your hot tub maintenance.
The warm water of your hot tub will be inviting for bacteria and other microbes, so it needs regular sanitization. You will need to learn how to clean the inside and outside of your hot tub properly to ensure it’s always clean, hygienic, and safe. Always keep the manual handy and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to get a long life out of your hot tub.
Conclusion
Inflatable hot tubs are a worthwhile accessory for making life a little more luxurious and enjoyable. If you have never owned a hot tub before, an inflatable one is an excellent way to learn the ropes about hot tub ownership. Now that you know more about inflatable hot tubs and how easy and cheap they are to operate, it’s time to choose a hot tub that’s right for you. Check out buyers guide for best 2 person, 4 person and 6 person inflatable hot tubs.
