1. Portable/ Above Ground Hot Tubs

In general, and depending on the manufacturer, portable/above ground hot tubs are built to last. They are made with strong, durable materials like fiberglass, acrylic, or reinforced vinyl, and are built to be installed above ground. They come in various sizes, from intimate two-person tubs to roomy models accommodating up to eight or more people and offer lounge seats for the ultimate hydrotherapy experience. These hot tubs are equipped with very powerful programmable jets, adjustable massage features, LED lighting, waterfalls, drink holders, advanced, remote-control (built in WIFI) systems for temperature regulation and customization plus a whole lot more. They are very easy to install (although you do need a licensed electrician as a dedicated GFCI breaker with a 240-volt/50-amp is required), portable, affordable (especially compared to in-ground spas), very accessible, energy efficient (monthly electric bill should be between $15 and $20 a month to operate) and do have a resale value.

Overall, the combination of easy installation, portability, affordability, versatility, accessibility, and energy efficiency makes above-ground hot tubs a preferred choice for the vast majority of homeowners.

2. In Ground Hot Tubs

An in-ground hot tub, as the name suggests, is a permanent fixture usually integrated into a deck, patio or placed in ground, beside a pool. They are well built from long lasting materials like concrete, acrylic, fiberglass, or stainless steel and are customizable with specific dimension and design preferences. They seamlessly blend into a backyard oasis that can be equipped with a wide range of features like LED lighting, powerful jets, advanced control systems, and does have the potential to increase your property value from a potential buyer.  However, these hot tubs are significantly more expensive to install requiring professional construction and invasive installation. In-ground spas require more complex maintenance, are less energy-efficient resulting in higher monthly operating costs and have no flexibility whatsoever once installed. 

Despite the higher cost to install and operate, they do allow the homeowner customizable options that can integrate seamlessly with your outdoor oasis while enhancing property value, possibly justifying the initial investment. 

3. Plug and Play Hot Tubs

A plug and play hot tub refers to a type of portable hot tub that can be easily installed by plugging it into a standard 110-volt electrical. You don't need any professional installation, they are very affordable, energy efficient and very convenient. However, there are many challenges associated with plug-and-play hot tubs like they do not allow you to run the heater and jets at the same time (they only power the heater and pumps to about a quarter of the capacity of a hardwired model) and have much less jet power than a typical hot tub. They have limited features, may have a short lifespan, offer few if any hydrotherapy options, and require more maintenance and repairs over time. 

We do not recommend plug and play hot tubs as the cost (when compared to a traditional spa that requires 240-volt/50 amp) simply is not justifiable as you lose so many hydrotherapy benefits and cannot run the heater and the jets at the same time.

4. Inflatable Hot Tubs

These hot tubs (better known as portable bathtubs with bubbles) are very popular due to their cost, and the fact they plug into a standard 110-volt electrical. They have multiple bubble jets (bubble jets tend to tickle as opposed to penetrate the tissue) equipped with what they call a "traction control" system which supposedly reduces body pains and aches (although not in our experience). They also come with several drawbacks as they are generally not as well-made, are more likely to fall apart after a few years and have no resale value. 

The single biggest drawback is that you can’t run the heater and the air bubble jets at the same time, which in our opinion, is a waste of time and money. We do not recommend Inflatable hot tubs.

Key factors include the size and seating capacity of the spa, both the material the jets are made out of (plastic or stainless steel) and number of jets, the efficiency of the pumps and heater, and the quality of materials and construction for durability and heat retention. Look for energy-efficient models to reduce ongoing costs and ensure the filtration system is effective for easy maintenance. Modern digital control systems offer convenience, and comfort features like ergonomic seating and headrests enhance the experience. Evaluate the ease of maintenance, check for a comprehensive warranty, and consider additional features like LED lighting and WIFI capabilities. Finally, research the brand reputation of your dealer and customer reviews to ensure you choose a reliable and high-quality hot tub. 

Running costs for hot tubs depend on several factors including energy efficiency, frequency of use, and local electricity rates. On average, the monthly operating costs can range from $20 to $60. However, it's important to note that all ilovehottubs models are equipped with energy-efficient heaters. This makes it so that the monthly electric bill for operating an ilovehottubs will not likely exceed $20 and is more likely to be around $15 per month. Please remember to replace the cover each and every time once you have finished enjoying your spa.

The cost of a brand-new hot tub is influenced by a variety of factors including the materials used in the hot tub manufacturing, amount of jets, quality of the acrylic, number of pumps, Kilowatt rating of the heater, is stainless steel being used for the frame, and so many more factors depending on your wishes and needs. Look to pay as little as $6000 (although we caution you to really do your homework as you will not receive a very good spa for this price, guaranteed) or as much as $25,000 (or even more). In our expert option, you will need to spend $11,000 to $14,000 to purchase a hot tub that will address all of your therapeutic or relaxation needs and will last for many years to come. Generally, you can expect (assuming you are buying from a reputable hot tub dealer, which is critical in your purchasing journey) a spa that is very durable, excellent for hydrotherapy, and will deliver long term enjoyment.

For maintaining your new hot tub, regularly check and adjust the chemical levels to keep the water clean and balanced, and clean the filters weekly to ensure proper water circulation. Additionally, inspect the equipment and cover for any signs of wear or damage.

Yes, hot tubs can be used in the winter as long as they are properly maintained and insulated to prevent freezing. In fact, soaking in a hot tub during cold weather can be particularly enjoyable and therapeutic.

Most above/in ground hot tubs require a dedicated 220-240V electrical outlet, which needs to be installed by a licensed electrician. However, some smaller models can be plugged into a standard 110V outlet, plug-and-play and inflatable hot tubs.

You should change the water in your hot tub approximately every 3 to 4 months, but this can vary based on usage and the quality of the water maintenance routine.

Hot tubs can be safe for children if proper precautions are taken, such as supervising them at all times, setting lower water temperatures, and limiting their soaking time. However, it is generally recommended that children under the age of 5 avoid using hot tubs due to the obvious risk of overheating or drowning.

*Not medical advice. Consult a medical professional.

Owning a hot tub provides numerous benefits, including relaxation and stress relief through warm water hydrotherapy, which brings great relief to sore muscles and joints. Further, regular use of a hot tub will improve sleep quality, enhance circulation, and provide a social space for family and friends to gather.

Inflatable and plug-and-play hot tubs can certainly be installed by the owner as all that is needed is to plug the outlet into the wall. However, installing a good quality hot tub that requires a dedicated GFCI breaker with a 240-volt/60-amp must be installed by a licensed electrician to ensure safety and proper setup.

Depending on factors such as the size of the tub, the starting water temperature, and the power of the heater, typically it takes between 6 to 12 hours to heat a hot tub from cold to optimal soaking temperature (typically around 100-104°F).

The best type of cover for a hot tub is typically a durable and insulating cover made of materials like vinyl or marine-grade vinyl, with a sturdy foam core to provide insulation and protection against debris. Additionally, if you have children near a hot tub, we strongly recommend a cover with a locking mechanism that can help enhance safety and energy efficiency by preventing heat loss and unauthorized access.

The terms "hot tub" and "spa" are often used interchangeably, but technically, a hot tub is a large tub or small pool filled with hot water and equipped with jets for therapeutic purposes, while a spa typically refers to a facility offering various health and wellness treatments, including hot tubs, saunas, massages, and more. However, in common usage, the terms are often used interchangeably to refer to the same thing. 

Regularly remove debris inside the tub, use non-abrasive cleaners for the shell, clean filters weekly by running them under a garden hose and wash out any debris inside the filters, replace filters once a year and occasionally use a special hot tub cleaner for deeper cleaning when the tub is drained. Further, drain and refill the hot tub every 3 to 4 months, and shock the water with a sanitizer to maintain cleanliness and water quality on a weekly basis.

A hot tub can help with certain medical conditions such as arthritis, muscle and joint pain, fibromyalgia, and stress-related ailments by providing warmth and hydrotherapy, though it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using a hot tub for medical purposes.

The first answer to this question is did you purchase a well-constructed hot tub made out of quality materials? Assuming you did, the lifespan of a hot tub can vary depending on several factors but the most important one being proper and timely maintenance of your hot tub.  But in an overall sense, a good quality hot tub will last you 10 to 20 years with proper care.

When locating your hot tub outside, choose a level surface that can support its weight, ensure access near a power source and water supply, and consider factors such as privacy, shelter from wind and elements, and proximity to amenities like bathrooms, changing rooms and seating areas for convenience and comfort.

The number of people a hot tub can fit varies by model, but most standard hot tubs are designed to accommodate between 4 to 8 people comfortably. Smaller models may fit 2 to 3 people, while larger, more luxurious models can hold up to 10 or more.

Yes, BUT!......

Not all hot tub warranties are created equal.

Hot tub companies often fail to live up to their warranty promises, leaving customers feeling deceived and dissatisfied. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including:

1)      Complex and confusing claim processes: Many companies make it difficult for customers to file warranty claims, often requiring excessive documentation or unreasonable timelines.

2)      Unrealistic requirements: Some companies impose stringent conditions on warranty coverage, such as limiting claims to specific types of defects or requiring customers to perform maintenance tasks beyond what is reasonable.

3)      Outright denial of claims: In some cases, companies may simply refuse to honor warranty claims, often citing minor technicalities or claiming that the issue is not covered by the warranty.

4)      Outrageous Trip Charges: Many hot tub owners have expressed frustration with the exorbitant costs associated with maintenance, particularly when it involves travel fees and mileage charges. These additional expenses can significantly inflate the overall cost of a simple repair or service call.

5)      Dely, Defend then Deny Your Warranty Claim: It's unfortunate but true that some hot tub companies employ tactics like defending, delaying, and denying warranty claims. These strategies can leave customers feeling frustrated and helpless. The only reason many of our competitors do this is they prioritize profit before customer satisfaction.

At ilovehottubs, we understand the importance of customer satisfaction before, during and long after your hot tub purchase. Our entire Team is committed to providing exceptional service throughout the entire ownership experience. We offer comprehensive warranties that cover a wide range of issues and are dedicated to ensuring that our customers receive the support they need when they need it. Whether you need assistance with installation, maintenance, or warranty claims, our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help.