There are a multitude of options when it comes to hot tubs. With so many choices, there is certain to be a hot tub that suits your every desire, whether it is a portable, above-ground spa, a customized, in-ground spa, or a swim spa.
Even within these hot tub categories, you will be faced with many choices. For example, if you are considering a portable, or above-ground hot tub, 120 volt and 240 volt are two common electrical hook-up types.
In this article, you can gain information about these two hot tub styles, including pros and cons of both types. By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll be able to decide for yourself the answer to the question: “Is a 120 or 240 hot tub better?”
What is a 120 volt hot tub?
A 120 volt hot tub can also be referred to as a 120 v hot tub, a 110 v hot tub, or a plug-and-play hot tub. Quite simply, the 110 v or 120 v is referring to the voltage of the hot tub. In North America, 110/120v hot tub can typically be plugged into a standard wall outlet. As long as you have an outlet nearby with an electrical line from the main electrical panel of your home, you should not require the assistance of an electrician to hardwire any hookups for your 120 v hot tub.
However, for added precaution and safety, it’s highly recommended to seek a professional electrician’s expert opinion before having any type of hot tub delivered, installed, and hooked up. While most 120 v hot tubs won’t require any special electrical wiring, a professional can determine if your specific model needs anything additional based on your local electrical code. They may be able to advise as to whether or not a secondary electrical panel will be required between your main panel and your hot tub. This could be beneficial so as not to overload the circuit and risk tripping the breaker. Your electrician will be able to determine this for you and recommend the best, and safest, solution.
A 120 v hot tub is also referred to as a plug-and-play hot tub because it does not require any additional hardwiring once it is delivered and installed in your home or backyard. It will simply need to be plugged in and filled with water. Soon after, your hot tub water will come up to your desired temperature and you will be able to enjoy some relaxing hydrotherapy. Portable 120 v hot tubs are self-contained, so no additional plumbing is required for installation. Just “plug it in” and get ready to “play.”
Convenience, as well as easy installation and set-up, are perks of a plug-and-play spa. However, a 120 v hot tub’s heaters and pumps are generally not as powerful as those of a 220 v/240 v hot tub. Another drawback is that it could take 24 hours, or longer, for your 120 v hot tub to heat the water to your desired temperature. With a 120 v hot tub, you may not get as many features for full hydrotherapy as you would with a more powerful 240 v hot tub.
What are the pros of a 120 v hot tub?
- Convenient and easy to have installed and set up
- Self-contained plumbing
- May not require modifications to your home’s electrical system
- Consumes less power
What are the cons of a 120 v hot tub?
- Weaker pumps and heaters
- May take 24 hours or longer to heat up
- Less hydrotherapy features