Plug and play hot tub reviews

What are the pros of a plug and play hot tub?

Simple Set Up:

Once your plug and play hot tub is home, you can simply plug it in, fill it up with water and heat it up. It will soon be ready to enjoy.

Inexpensive:

Plug and play hot tubs are a good entry-level step into the hot tub market. They are less expensive than luxury portable hot tub models from premium brands. They also do not require any installation or hard-wiring costs. Choosing a plug and play hot tub can save you money both on the initial purchase and on ongoing operational costs.

Portable:

While 220v hot tubs are also referred to as portable, they require the assistance of a professional to install or move the hot tub. A pro of a plug and play hot tub is that they are much more easily transported without the help of professional movers. So if you decide to relocate your plug and play spa to a different area of your backyard or if you move, transporting this type of spa should require little hassle.

Renter Friendly:

Because plug and play spas don’t require hard wiring, they are a great choice for renters that do not have the option of adding hard wiring to the home they are renting.

What are the cons of a plug and play hot tub?

Performance:

Plug and play hot tubs do offer hydrotherapy. However, their components and jets may not be as powerful, effective and efficient as a top-of-the-line portable hot tub model from a premium brand. Most plug and play spas have much fewer jets than a luxury hot tub.

Smaller components:

Smaller heaters, pumps and jets equate to the plug and play spa having to work harder to achieve similar benefits of a traditional portable hot tub. A plug and play spa will take longer to heat the water than its portable hard-wired counterpart.

Difficulty Maintaining Heat in Colder Climates:

Due to those components, a plug and play will not only have to work harder to bring your spa water up to temp, it will also be harder to maintain it. Especially if the spa is operating in very cold weather or climates.

Lack of Amenities:



Many plug and play spas do offer after-market amenities and accessories to enhance your hydromassage experience. However, many do not come with the number of amenities and features that come standard with most high-quality portable hot tubs. Plus, hard-wired hot tubs also have a variety of upgrades to really take relaxation to the next level. Investing in high-quality covers is important for maintaining heat and reducing energy costs, helping to improve the efficiency of plug and play hot tubs.

Durability:



Some plug and play hot tub shells and cabinets are made from plastic. On the other hand, high-quality hot tub models from premium brands are generally made from more durable materials, such as acrylic for example, that are made to withstand the elements and extreme weather, hot or cold.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Keeping your plug and play hot tub in top condition is essential for enjoying years of relaxing, worry-free soaking. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your hot tub but also ensures that it remains energy efficient and safe for everyone who uses it. Many hot tubs, including popular plug and play models, are designed with user-friendly features like digital control panels, making it easy to monitor temperature, adjust jets, and manage other settings for optimal performance.

One of the most important maintenance tasks is checking and cleaning the filter every one to two weeks. A clean filter helps your hot tub’s pump and heater work efficiently, keeping the water clear and inviting. In addition, it’s crucial to test the water chemistry regularly—monitoring chlorine, pH, and alkalinity levels—to maintain a healthy soaking environment. Many plug and play hot tubs, such as those from AquaRest Spas, are built with full foam insulation and a high-quality locking safety cover. These features help retain heat, reduce energy costs, and keep debris out, making your hot tub more energy efficient and easier to maintain.

When considering the purchase price of a plug and play hot tub, remember to factor in potential transportation costs and ongoing maintenance expenses. While plug and play tubs often have a lower upfront cost compared to hard wired hot tubs, some models may require more frequent filter changes or replacement parts over time. Investing in a well-insulated cover and energy efficient features can help minimize these costs by reducing the workload on your heater and keeping your hot water at the perfect temperature.

Plug and play models are known for their easy installation and portability, making them a great choice for those who want flexibility in their backyard or patio setup. However, it’s important to weigh the convenience of simply plugging in your new spa against the more powerful jets and faster heating offered by hard wired hot tubs. Each option has its own set of benefits, so consider your priorities when choosing the right model for your needs.

If you ever have questions about maintaining your plug and play hot tub, please contact customer service for expert guidance. They can assist with troubleshooting, routine maintenance tips, and advice on how to get the most out of your hot tub’s features. By staying on top of regular upkeep—like cleaning the shell, checking the filter, and monitoring water chemistry—you’ll ensure your plug and play hot tub remains a relaxing and enjoyable retreat for years to come.

With their portable design, energy efficient insulation, and adjustable jets, plug and play hot tubs are a fantastic addition to any backyard or patio. Prioritizing maintenance and using the right features will help you get the most value from your investment, whether you’re unwinding after a long day or entertaining friends and family.

What are some brands that carry plug and play hot tub models?

Some hot tub brands that carry plug and play models include:

• Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs
• Sundance® Spas
• Lifesmart™ Spas
• Bullfrog Spas®
• AquaRest Spas

What are some alternatives to a plug and play hot tub?

There are many different types of hot tubs. Plug and play hot tubs and 220v portable hot tubs are the most similar. Other options include in-ground hot tubs. Often, these are built into the ground, often in conjunction with or adjacent to a swimming pool. An inflatable spa is another alternative. These are just as they sound, inflatable and can be easily deflated. They do not have the jet power and functions of a plug and play and 220v hot tub. Swim spas are yet another option. A swim spa is a hybrid of a swimming pool and a hot tub. It features jetted seats and a central area designed for aquatic fitness training.

Where can I shop for a plug and play hot tub?

Before purchasing any hot tub, plug and play or otherwise, it is recommended to visit a reputable spa dealer in your area. You can peruse the showroom to see the various brands and models up close and personal. This allows you to compare the materials, jets, seating options, features, components and technologies of each.

As you do your research, it’s also a good idea to create a wish list of priorities when it comes to your hot tub purchase. Consider factors such as size, energy efficiency and costs (initial buy-in and installation as well as running and maintenance costs). Once you have dialed in your dream hot tub, it will be much easier to find the exact model that will bring you soothing relaxation and enjoyment for years to come.

Brand disclaimer: This article features brand names not affiliated with Jacuzzi Group including Lifesmart™ Spas, Bullfrog Spas® and AquaRest Spas. All information included was accurate at the time of writing and may change without notice.

Medical disclaimer: This information is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or other medical professional for advice if you have any concerns about your current health or well-being.

Affiliations: Jacuzzi® is a registered trademark of Jacuzzi Group. All rights reserved