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Different Types of Hot Tubs

If you’re looking to spruce up your backyard or patio, why not get a hot tub? The only question you might have is which type of hot tub to get. After all, there are numerous different types of hot tubs to choose from. Today, we’ll put your mind at ease by discussing the main types of hot tubs you should consider getting for your home.

Different Types of Hot Tubs


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By Key Types

Portable Hot Tubs

Portable hot tubs are usually what comes to mind when people think of hot tubs. It offers the most in terms of size, colors, features, and seating arrangement of all of the available key types.

It’s extremely resistant to harsh weather and tends to consume less electricity than most. While you can move a portable hot tub from place to place, it’s far from being lightweight. It also requires a special pad beneath it to support its weight and to maintain balance.

Rotationally Molded Hot Tubs

This is the go-to type if you want hydrotherapy without spending an arm and a leg on a costly swim spa. It typically weighs under 300 pounds, so it’s easier to move around than portable tubs.

Rotationally molded hot tubs consume more energy than most, and they’re not as appealing as other key hot tub types. However, due to their single-piece construction, they’re a lot less prone to weather damage and regular wear and tear.

Swim/Exercise Spas

Swim/exercise spas are usually found built into a deck or roof. They’re quite large and heavy, so they’ll require a sturdy foundation prior to installation.

While they’re nowhere near as long as swimming pools, users can actually swim laps comfortably inside of a swim/exercise spa. In terms of costs, you’re looking at a higher upfront investment plus high operating expenses (heating, lights, general maintenance).

Wooden Hot Tubs

Wooden hot tubs were the first type to ever hit the market. 60 years ago, these hot tubs were made for the sole purpose of soaking, so they’re not very large and don’t come with a wide range of bonus features.

The main thing to consider when getting a wooden hot tub is the heat source (wood, electric, gas, or a combination). Despite their rustic appearance and old-fashioned heating elements, wooden hot tubs aren’t any less expensive than modern types.

In-Ground Hot Tubs

In-ground hot tubs require more than just the initial investment. You’ll actually have to get a permit to dig a hole into your backyard before installing this kind of hot tub.

The benefit of such a tub is that you can construct one out of concrete, which can reduce the initial investment but complicate maintenance. Needless to say, transporting an in-ground hot tub is out of the question.

Inflatable Hot Tubs

These are arguably the best kind of hot tub on the market due to their inexpensive price tags, portability, durability, and low maintenance costs. Inflatable hot tubs are typically made of polyester with PVC frames.

A built-in heater plugs into a 110V outlet, but they consume quite a bit of energy. Plus, the lack of molded seats means that you won’t get the support you need to enjoy hour-long soaks.

Soft-Sided Hot Tubs

Soft-sided hot tubs are similar to inflatable hot tubs. You can easily purchase a soft-sided tub from the internet or at a brick-and-mortar retailer.

The main difference is that soft-sided tubs don’t provide lower-back support, and it can be incredibly uncomfortable sitting in one for too long. They’re also quite energy-inefficient while not being offering as much in terms of features and portability.

Custom-Made Hot Tubs

Custom-made hot tubs are exactly as the name suggests. You can place an order with a manufacturer, requesting a certain size, shape, and built-in features.

Since custom-made hot tubs aren’t mass-produced, you’ll have to spend quite a bit more on getting the exact hot tub style that you like.

By Features

Massage Jets

Massaging jets are the main features that can increase your relaxation levels while soaking for long periods of time. High-pressured jets of water are aimed at your body to gently massage and cricks or stiffness in your back, shoulders, and legs.

Lighting System

Lighting systems are by no means a must-have feature for hot tubs, but they really do a lot to improve the atmosphere during nighttime soaks.

Integrated Cover

It’s vital that you cover an outdoor hot tub when not in use to prevent algae growth. With an integrated cover, a simple press of a button is all it takes to cover and uncover your spa when needed.

Built-in Speakers

If you enjoy listening to music while sitting in your hot tub, then consider finding a model with built-in speakers. Some speakers pop up out of the frame, so they stay dry when not in use.

Cooling System

Soaking in a bath of steaming hot water during the summer isn’t ideal. A hot tub with cooling capabilities can help you enjoy your hot tub throughout the year.

Water Treatment

A built-in water treatment system can destroy calcium buildup, algae, bacteria, and other contaminants that can ruin your soaking experience.

Molded Seats

Molded seats offer much more comfort as opposed to flat or inflatable seats. The contours of your body can fit naturally on the seats that usually come with built-in jets.

Waterfalls

Do you like the sound of running water while sitting in your hot tub? Constructing a waterfall next to your hot tub is the best way to soothe your mind and soul.

Compatible with Saltwater

Saltwater is much more sanitizing than freshwater, and it can even soothe the swelling associated with certain skin conditions. Ask the retailer whether the hot tub is saltwater-compatible if this interests you.

Built-in Cup Holders

You can’t enjoy a soak without having a few drinks nearby. Cup holders will keep your drinks off the ground, away from ants and other pesky creatures.

By Shapes

Circular

Circular hot tubs are becoming increasingly more popular. They take up less space, cost less than other hot tub shapes, and the curved walls add more comfortable support to your back while you lay back.

Triangular

Triangular hot tubs don’t take much space, but their irregular shape can make it difficult to find the perfect spot for them.

Square

This is the most common type of hot tub shape for obvious reasons. Nearly all types of hot tubs are sold or custom-made as squares.

Rectangular

If you want the most room to relax or even do a couple of laps, then a rectangular hot tub is arguably the best shape to do so. However, you’ll also have to prepare a bigger budget for a bigger spa.

Buying Guides
Best Inflatable Hot Tubs

Info Articles
Hot Tub Sizes
Different Types of Hot Tubs

By Location of Installation

Indoors

You can install hot tubs indoors, provided your deck, roof, or specialized room has the proper foundation to carry the weight of the hot tub, the water inside of it, and the occupants.

Outdoors

Outdoor hot tubs are more popular, but they generally require more maintenance due to rain, snow, sun damage, algae growth, etc.

About the author

Hi I’m Alex, founder of HouseholdMe.com and I’d like to say thank you for dropping by. Like most of you, the first thing I look at before buying something online is reviews or buying guides. By reading what other people say will help me gauge whether or not a product is good or not.  I am trying to help people find answers, solve problems, and get inspired.

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