The allure of any type of hot tub, inflatables included is undeniable, and having a bubbling blissful retreat in your own backyard, at a fraction of the cost of a permanent installation sounds promising, but are inflatable hot tubs worth it? Also known as a portable spa or portable hot tub, these units with entry-level price points can be set up nearly anywhere, which is a huge part of their appeal. Inflatable oasis or fizzy flop? Let’s weigh the pros and cons to help you decide.

How Does an Inflatable Hot Tub Work?

When it comes to inflatable hot tubs, it all starts with the air pump. This workhorse is responsible for inflating the tub’s multiple chambers with air, creating its shape and structural support, transforming a seemingly flimsy bag into a sturdy, inflatable vessel. Once inflated, it’s time to heat the water. Most inflatable hot tubs utilize an electric heating element submerged within the water. This element, similar to an electric kettle, gradually raises the water temperature, ranging from 100°F to 104°F (37°C to 40°C). Inflatables aren’t able to maintain high temps efficiently as they don’t have any insulation. 

Inflatable hot tubs don’t have molded seats or a bench-type platform for sitting, instead you’re seated on the floor at ground level, which can be uncomfortable for longer soaking sessions, and may also be difficult for some to get in and out. This type of tub has quite a few air jets, or “bubblers,” lining the bottom perimeter, but aside from the sensation of bubbles flowing over your skin, they won’t do much for relieving sore muscles. These bubblers are powered by fans that blow outside air into the tub, so use with cooler outdoor temperatures will result in cooling the water down.

Similar to a permanent hot tub or pool, inflatables also have filters and continuously circulate the water, trapping dirt, debris and impurities. Some models even utilize chemical feeders to automatically dispense chlorine or bromine tablets, to help maintain sanitation. When it’s time to pack up and move your inflatable tub, or store it away during freezing temperatures, the process is just as simple as setting it up; a drain valve allows you to easily remove the water, while the air pump can be reversed to deflate the chambers for storage.

How Long Do Inflatable Hot Tubs Last and Are They Worth It?

While individual experiences will vary, the average lifespan of an inflatable hot tub generally falls within the 3-5 year range, versus 20+ years for a hardshell or permanent tub. However, this can be significantly influenced by several key factors including:

• Quality: Investing in a well-made tub from a reputable brand with high-quality materials will increase its longevity. Cheaper models will succumb to wear and tear more quickly.
• Maintenance: Regular cleaning, proper water chemistry, and following instructions for storage and winterizing are crucial for your hot tub’s lifespan, neglect can lead to faster deterioration.
• Usage: Frequent use and moving naturally puts more stress on the tub, potentially shortening its lifespan.
• External Factors: Exposure to harsh weather, sunlight, or sharp objects can damage the material and accelerate wear and tear, so care and protection are essential.

Despite their lightweight build, inflatable hot tubs still get heavy when full. Contrary to popular belief, they’re not suitable for balconies, rooftops, or elevated floors that aren’t properly reinforced to handle the extra weight. Full of water and people, inflatables can easily weigh up to 2,500 lbs, so it’s best to install them up on a flat, ground-level surface. It’s also important to know that any hot tub that plugs into a standard outlet will be easier to set up, but limited by its lower power supply, resulting in slow heat-up times and less energy efficiency than their larger hard-wired counterparts. Ultimately, whether an inflatable hot tub is “worth it” depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Pros:

• Affordability: Compared to permanent tubs, inflatable models are significantly cheaper.
• Portability: Deflate and store it away when not in use, making it ideal for small spaces or those wanting occasional soaking sessions.
• Easy Setup: Set up is a breeze, requiring inflation and basic connections.

Cons:

• Durability & Lifespan: Inflatables are less durable than permanent models, susceptible to punctures or tears and have a much shorter lifespan.
• Limited Size: Compared to permanent models, inflatable tubs tend to be smaller.
• Heating: Heating the water can take hours, requiring planning ahead for your soak.
• Winter Use: Unless specifically designed for cold climates, most inflatable tubs aren’t suitable for year-round use in freezing temperatures.

Another option to consider that bridges the gap between hard-wired permanent tubs and inflatables are hard shell portable hot tubs. Fantasy Spas is the best affordable brand, with plug-n-play functionality. All you need to do is plug it into a standard 110V outlet and fill it with water. In addition to durable hard shells, full foam insulation and a locking thermal cover keep your spa’s temperature high and your electric bill low, and with most models under 350 lbs, you can load them on a truck and take them with you when you move. 

We only sell hard-side portable models because they’re more reliable than their softer counterparts, so you know your investment is going into something truly worth the money. If you’d like help determining which type of tub is right for you, give us a call at 970-879-4390 or contact us here.