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The 8 Best Hot Tubs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Enjoy a spa-like experience from the comfort of your home

Woman relaxing in Intex PureSpa Plus 6-Person Portable Inflatable Hot Tub

The Spruce

Hot tubs offer year-round, spa-like relaxation right in the comfort of your home. As tempting as it may be to start clearing out your backyard in anticipation of a new water feature, hot tub ownership can be pretty expensive.

Depending on a hot tub’s size, features, and material, they can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to more than $10,000. If you're on a tighter budget but still want all the benefits of a regular hot tub, an inflatable one is an excellent alternative. The more you pay, the more durability you get, plus the ones on the highest end are packed with features like adjustable massage jets, lighting, advanced filtration systems, and more.

Rick Hagen, who handles National Sales for Outdoor Living Products at Pool Corp, recommends that if you're only going to use a hot tub twelve days per month or less, then you're fine to get an inflatable. If not, then you should invest more!

We researched dozens of models—and even tested a few popular hot tubs in our backyards—evaluating them based on design, size, maintenance requirements, and standout features. During testing, we found that all of the hot tubs we tested accommodated fewer people than advertised; nonetheless, this had no effect on the functionality or our overall experience.

Following the initial testing phase, we conducted a two-month-long evaluation of the hot tubs to determine their long-term durability and identify any challenges or issues that arose. Based on our findings, here are the best hot tubs on the market.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Aquarest Spas Select 150 Plug-and-Play Hot Tub

Aquarest Spas Select 150 4-Person 12-Jet Rectangular Plug-and-Play Hot Tub

Wayfair

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    5/5
  • Design
    4/5
  • Maintenance
    5/5
  • Features
    4.5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Plug and play design

  • Easy to maintain water levels

  • Backlit waterfall

  • Uses standard volt plug

What We Don't Like
  • Not as large as other models

  • Steps are added expense

We found very little to dislike about the Aquarest 150 Select during testing. This model is one of the few hot tubs that appropriately can be called a Jacuzzi since it's powered by a 1.5-hp Jacuzzi brand pump. It is our least expensive standard hot tub at under $3,000, but don't let that fool you—it's packed with great features that more than make up for the price. Some of these include 12 stainless steel hydrotherapy jets, a backlit waterfall with nine color settings, four cup holders (our favorite!), a locking safety cover, and a patented water filtration system.

The bench seats in this hot tub were surprisingly nice and not overly slippery compared to others we had used. While the online listing says this hot tub can fit up to four adults, we found that two adults and two children fit comfortably, so four adults might be crowded. At most, we think two adults could comfortably stretch out and feel comfortable.

You can purchase a storage step that hooks onto the hot tub body, but we did not think this was necessary as it's very easy to climb in and out of this model. We found children could also easily navigate it as well. We do, however, recommend purchasing the suggested care kit as well as some water testing strips to ensure your water levels are clean. The chlorination process and maintenance involved weren't too overwhelming for us. We simply checked the water weekly and added any necessary chemicals. We also rinsed the filter every week or more often, depending on how often we used it.

As for setup, the entire process, from delivery to filling, was a complete breeze. We especially appreciated the thorough communication leading up to and during the delivery. There wasn't much to 'set up' in this hot tub. We simply removed all of the packaging and plugged it into a standard 120-volt outdoor plug—a super convenient feature compared to others that require high-voltage plugs. After filling it up with our garden hose, it took approximately 24 hours to reach a temperature of 104 degrees. Although we read that it should rise by one degree each hour, we discovered that it warmed up a little quicker. 

How It Performed Long-Term

After using this hot tub for two months, we can confidently say that it still works just as great as when we first got it. We made sure to clean and maintain the chemicals on a weekly basis to maintain the water quality. Although we have not drained the water yet, which you’ll need to do every three to four months so it doesn’t get too saturated with minerals (see below), we suggest using a water pump to expedite the process. Overall, we believe that this is an excellent beginner hot tub and are excited to use it during the chilly winter evenings.

Dimensions: 60 x 70 x 31 inches | Shape: Rectangular | Water Capacity: 156 gallons | Jets: 12

How often should you clean a hot tub?

It’s usually recommended to drain and clean your hot tub every three to four months. However, you should adjust based on your frequency of use. A deep clean of the hot tub involves flushing the lines, draining the water, and scrubbing the tub shell with hot tub cleaner, white vinegar, a diluted bleach solution, or an all-purpose, non-abrasive household cleaner. Thoroughly wipe the shell, seats, and jets to remove any grime or bacteria.

Be sure to rinse well and dry the tub with a towel to avoid chemical contamination. You should also remove the filters occasionally and spray them with a garden hose or hot tub cleaner before reinstalling. This should be done more frequently—even up to once per week for frequent hot tub users.

Best Inflatable

Intex PureSpa Plus Inflatable Round Hot Tub

Intex PureSpa Plus 6-Person Portable Inflatable Hot Tub

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    4.3/5
  • Design
    4.3/5
  • Maintenance
    5/5
  • Features
    4.8/5
  • Value
    4/5
What We Like
  • Great for beginner hot tub users

  • Air-filled headrests

  • Built-in hard water treatment system

  • Inflates in 5 minutes

What We Don't Like
  • Extensive setup time

  • Not equipped with many features

The Intex PureSpa Plus is a generously sized inflatable hot tub with 170 bubble jets and a built-in hard water treatment system. While it's half the price of our best overall, you can enjoy 14 times more jets for a more relaxing experience. We also appreciated that the hot tub accessories in this kit: An insulated cover, LED light, two filter cartridges, two inflatable headrests, a thermal ground cloth, an inflation hose, a carry bag, and a floating chlorine dispenser are all included. Two non-slip seats are also shipped with this hot tub, but we will say that we found the hot tub surprisingly comfortable even without the seats.

It's also pretty sturdy when filled completely, so you can gently rest on the sides if you need a moment to cool off from the hot water. We didn't have an opportunity to test the LED lights at night due to some neighborhood regulations, but we think they'd be a fun feature, especially if you have kids who want to enjoy it. It's worth noting that we evaluated the six-person model but found that you'd be more comfortable seating at most four people.

While this hot tub technically took us almost an hour to set up before filling it with water, that was mostly due to the confusing instructions. We realized that the instructions were likely written to apply to multiple models from Intex, so not everything we read was meant for the PureSpa Plus. However, the hot tub itself inflated in just 5 minutes. It took an hour and 45 minutes for it to be filled to the max water line. Consider this model practice in delayed gratification because it takes 32 hours to heat up—making us realize that there's only so much spontaneity involved with this model if you hope to store it and pull it out when desired.

Like most inflatable models, the Intex PureSpa Plus is slightly more fragile than its cabinet-based counterparts, and it's also not recommended for use in freezing climates. Luckily, unlike hard-shell hot tubs, you can deflate this model and store it away when it's too cold. If you empty this model two to three times a month (if using it regularly) and maintain proper chlorine levels, we think it's a great alternative to a permanent fixture.

How It Performed Long-Term

We used the hot tub several times over two months, and even with the jets turned on, we did not notice any significant increase in our energy bill. There were no visible signs of wear and tear except for a minor scuff mark. The only big issue we noticed was that the jet distribution was not entirely even. One side seems to have weaker and less forceful jets. However, this was a minor concern, and it does not detract from the overall enjoyment we got from using the hot tub. Overall, we appreciate that it is an inflatable option that can be conveniently folded and stored away when not in use, making it perfect for any relatively small backyard

Dimensions: 85 x 85 x 25 inches | Shape: Round | Water Capacity: 290 gallons | Jets: 170

Best Budget

Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub

Bestway SaluSpa Miami 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    4/5
  • Design
    3.8/5
  • Maintenance
    5/5
  • Features
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • Fast heat up time

  • Easy to reach control panel

  • Built-in cup holders

What We Don't Like
  • Instructions not included in box

A budget doesn't have to limit your relaxation! This Bestway inflatable hot tub impressed us with its easy-to-operate control panel and fast heat-up time. It may not be the largest hot tub on the market, but for under $500, we were more than satisfied with its performance. While there are no seats or headrests provided with this model, we found it comfortable enough to sit on the tub floor.

As we discovered with our other tested models—our best overall and best inflatable—this hot tub likely would be crowded with the suggested max of four people. We think three adults would even be a little crowded but manageable. This hot tub's low profile makes it relatively easy to climb out of, so you won't need any stairs. We also appreciated the built-in cup holder on this model. Our only other caution note is that this hot tub's jets are located at the bottom rather than around mid-back. We didn't find this to be too disappointing, just an interesting design choice.

Setting up the hot tub was a bit complicated since it did not come with any assembly or inflation instructions. We had to look them up online, but once we found the appropriate instructions, we found the process simple. It took about two hours to fill this hot tub with water and only 12 hours to reach 100 degrees (the quickest to heat up on our list, along with our best two person).

How It Performed Long-Term

We've tested this hot tub for two additional months and were thoroughly impressed with its durability and functionality, as we have not observed any signs of wear and tear. While we appreciate the jets, we still believe that relocating them to the back of the tub would make for a more soothing experience. Having them situated on the outer rim at the bottom doesn't provide as effective of a massage for our backs. Nonetheless, we are still impressed with the overall quality of the hot tub and believe it is an excellent option for smaller households or couples seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating experience or smaller households.

Dimensions: 71 x 71 x 26 inches | Shape: Round | Water Capacity: 177 gallons | Jets: 120

Best Two Person

Aquarest Spas 300 Select Plug-and-Play Hot Tub

Aquarest Spas 300 Select 2-Person 20-Jet Oval Plug-and-Play Hot Tub

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Adjustable jets

  • Backlit LED waterfall

  • Energy-efficient heating

What We Don't Like
  • Not great for social gatherings

Are you in the market for a couple's hot tub? Aquarest Spas has you covered with its compact yet comfortable hot tub. Equipped with 20 stainless steel massage jets strategically placed for optimal relaxation, you'll be able to customize your experience with the digital control panel. During testing, we found that the bucket-style seats and lumbar-support chairs were quite comfy. We also appreciated the jets on the back of each chair and the ability to adjust the intensity using the puck-like dials on the top rim of the tub. 

The waterfall also adds a touch of relaxation to the hot tub. It is illuminated by a series of LED lights that can be adjusted to nine different colors to suit your mood. Since the seats are positioned about 90 degrees from each other, you can hold a normal conversation without feeling like you have to scream over the waterfall.

Compared to our best overall pick, which could be easily entered and exited without the use of steps, we found this one to be quite challenging without them. We strongly recommend purchasing steps for a smoother entry and departure experience and to avoid any accidents. Just remember that this will drive up the already steep price of the tub.

Considering that it can only accommodate two users, this tub is quite costly at more than $3,000. For this reason, if you're looking for a hot tub for a crowd, we don't recommend it. But if you're short on room or simply want something that you or someone else can enjoy, then this is still a fantastic choice. 

Not having to bother about inflating anything made setup a breeze. Because of its heavy weight (200 pounds), finding the perfect spot to put the hot tub was probably the most challenging part. Trust us, you probably don't want to have to move it again since it does require at least two people. It took 45 minutes to fill up to capacity, and another 12 hours to reach the default temperature of 100 degrees. We then added some chlorine and used test strips to ensure that the hot tub was ready to be used.

Concerning upkeep, we add a tablespoon of the chlorine solution to the hot tub after each use. We have found that this helps ensure that it remains clean and at the appropriate levels. If we used the hot tub several times of day, we doubled the amount of chlorine we would add. Overall, we found the maintenance process to be pretty straightforward.

Dimensions: 80 x 68 x 31 inches | Shape: Triangle/oblong | Water Capacity: 160 gallons | Jets: 20

Best Oval

Lifesmart Spas Celestial 4-Person Oval Hot Tub

Lifesmart Spas Celestial 4-Person 13-Jet Oval Plug-and-Play Hot Tub

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Unique shape

  • Bucket and bench seats

  • Energy-efficient heating

What We Don't Like
  • No adjustable feature

Interested in something other than a square or circle? Check out the Lifesmart Celestial Hot Tub. We tested this oval-shaped hot tub in our home and, unlike the other tubs on our list, we appreciated that it offers different depths. This hot tub has three main seating areas. One is the inner stair that leads in and doubles as a seat. Here, we found that the water reached us waist-deep. There are also two seats with the water level reaching your mid-chest. Additionally, it is possible to fully submerge yourself up to your shoulders when sitting on the deep bench. All the seats, except the steps, have jets on the back, which offer an upper and lower back massage.

The multi-color LED light was another great feature. Lights can cycle through four colors (white, blue, green, and purple) or be locked into place with a single color—we particularly liked the blue. Aside from three built-in cup holders, this hot tub comes with an integrated wine bucket on one end, a unique feature found exclusively on this model. We also like that you can control the temperature, jets, lights, and more with the control panel located on the rim.

While the hot tub does not come with stairs to attach to the outside of the tub, we didn't have any trouble simply hopping over. However, we do recommend getting steps for anyone with smaller children or with limited mobility, as it would provide a safer entry and exit experience. Although the hot tub is designed to accommodate four people, we tested it with a group of four adults and found that it was somewhat crowded; we were unable to move about easily, and the water even started to go over the edge. Two adults and two children worked best in our experience.

Setting up the tub was easy since there was nothing to put together. It took exactly two hours to fill up 220 gallons using a regular garden house and 23.5 hours for the water to heat up from 64 degrees Fahrenheit to the target 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep in mind that the outdoor temperature was about 50 degrees when we first added the water.

Like all Lifesmart models, this one is energy-efficient, with foam insulation and a thermal locking cover. The Celestial does come with its own filtration system and a thermal friction pump, too. All that has to be done for upkeep is to run the pump and sprinkle some chlorine into it once a week. All things considered, the price is on pace with our best overall pick, so choosing between them comes down to personal preference in terms of shape and extra features.

Dimensions: 77 x 66 x 29 inches | Shape: Oval | Water Capacity: 220 gallons | Jets: 13

Best Splurge

Canadian Spa Company Okanagan Plug-and-Play Hot Tub

Canadian Spa Company Okanagan 10-Jet Plug-and-Play Hot Tub

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Rotating hydrotherapy jets

  • Color-changing LED

  • Microban filtration and ozone generator

What We Don't Like
  • Only 10 jets

If you're in the market for a high-end hot tub, the Okanagan is definitely worth considering, even though it comes with a higher price tag. It boasts a circular design that can comfortably accommodate up to four adults and ten hydrotherapy jets crafted from stainless steel that provide an incredibly indulgent spa-like massage. You can customize the jets to your preferred positions and directions, providing a personalized massage experience. At 63 inches in diameter, it won't take up too much space on your deck or patio, and it's also deeper than many other hot tubs, with a depth of 29 inches that allows for complete shoulder submersion.

The Okanagan leans on an ozone generator and Microban filtration to keep your water crystal-clear and free of bacteria with minimal chemicals. It also has a color-changing LED light, allowing you to customize the ambiance. You also get a hard-top cover. And thanks to the plug-and-play design, you don't have to hire a professional for installation.

Dimensions: 63 x 63 x 29 inches | Shape: Round | Water Capacity: 185 gallons | Jets: 10

Best Extra-Large

Lifesmart Coronado 7-Person Spa

Lifesmart Coronado 7-Person 65-Jet Spa with Turbo Blaster

The Home Depot

What We Like
  • Seven-person capacity

  • Energy-efficient heating

  • Color-changing LED

What We Don't Like
  • Other alternatives cost less

  • Steps sold separately

For something larger, consider the Lifesmart Coronado. While it's almost double the price of our best overall, we think it's still a reasonable value for a high-quality hot tub of this size. This seven-person tub has 65 jets, including 14 with turbo-blaster nozzles and four-foot massagers. The energy-efficient design features full-foam insulation and a thermal locking cover that keeps the heat in.

The Coronado hot tub boasts a stunning waterfall, a vibrant multi-colored underwater LED, an in-built filter, and an ozonator that uses minimal chlorine to keep the water clean. It's the perfect choice if you're looking for a spacious hot tub with all the fancy features.

Dimensions: 81 x 81 x 34 inches | Shape: Square | Water Capacity: 285 gallons | Jets: 65

Best Wood-Fired

Alfi Brand Round Wood Fired Hot Tub

Alfi Brand 4-Person Round Wood Fired Hot Tub

Amazon

What We Like
  • Unique design

  • Portable

  • No electricity required

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

  • Limited features

Have you considered a wood-fired model? Alfi Brand makes the best one on the market. This unique hot tub is crafted from an antimicrobial material that stands up to ultraviolet-ray damage and freezing temps, according to the manufacturer (in moderate temperatures, it takes about three hours to heat 130 to 220 gallons of water to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, for context).

Yes, this hot tub's concave shape does remind us a little of a witch's cauldron, especially since it heats from a wood fire in the pit. The advanced coiling system heats up with burning firewood (aka convection)—no power cord or outlet needed. But you're protected from the flames by extended pipes and a stainless steel windscreen panel. (Yes, you can cook over the flames while waiting for the water to heat.)

Gratefully, the honey-orange color and its fiberglass-reinforced acrylic makeup remove all comparisons to anything Hansel and Gretel-ish. This four-person hot tub can be brought on the go or moved around your outdoor living space as needed. It's undoubtedly expensive, but it might be worth a splurge if it's within your budget.

Dimensions: 63 x 63 x 32.33 inches | Shape: Round | Water Capacity: 220 gallons | Jets: 0

Final Verdict

Our best overall pick, the Aquarest Spas Jet Rectangular Hot Tub, is just the right size for anyone who's looking to test the waters of a hard-shell hot tub without committing to a super large unit. We loved the cupholders, comfortable seats, backlit waterfall, and powerful jets included in this model. Alternatively, you can save money with our best budget pick, the Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub, which is easy to inflate and fill with water.

Michela Buttignol / The Spruce

How We Tested the Hot Tubs

We evaluate each unit on how easy it is to setup —whether it’s hard shell versus inflatable—and the required maintenance, design, features, and value.

  • Setup: We noted how smooth the delivery process was and where the delivery personnel dropped off the package—did we have to move it very far? Did the delivery go as planned? Then we timed how long it took to put together each hot tub. This included unpackaging and assembling any parts. For the two inflatable models we tested, the inflation process counted toward this time. We then separately timed how long it took to fill each hot tub and even made note of how long it took for the water to warm to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Design: We used the hot tubs regularly for two weeks and took note of the design. We noted how comfortable we felt sitting in the hot tub. Additionally, we tested how easy it was to get in and out of each unit with the presence or lack of stairs.
  • Features: We considered how easy it was to adjust the temperature and other settings, and we noted any add-ons like waterfalls, LED lights, and extra jets.
  • Maintenance: Since upkeep is an essential part of hot tub care, we followed any provided manufacturer instructions for emptying the water, changing or refreshing chemicals, and rinsing the filters.
  • Value: At the end of the two-week testing period, we assessed the value of each model. This involved considering whether we'd buy the model independently or if we'd change anything about the design and functionality.
Back of person's head who is sitting in Intex PureSpa Plus 6-Person Portable Inflatable Hot Tub

The Spruce / Kimberly Souza

What to Look For in a Hot Tub

Type

The best type of hot tub depends on your budget, preferences, and available space. Above-ground plug-and-play models, like our best overall pick, the Aquarest Spas Jet Rectangular Hot Tub, are durable and long-lasting, with molded exteriors and sturdy locking covers. If you have room for a hot tub but don't want to dig into your yard, this is a great option.

Inflatable hot tubs, like our best inflatable pick, the Intex PureSpa Plus, are the most affordable, though they're also more prone to wear and tear. Like their rigid-shell counterparts, air-filled models typically plug into standard electrical outlets, and they can be moved around or even taken on the go (when they're drained, deflated, and dry).

Size

Hot tubs come in various shapes and sizes. Capacities range from one- or two-person models, like our best two person pick, the Aquarest Spas 300 Select, to seven or more people, like our best extra-large pick, the Lifesmart Coronado. Before buying a hot tub, carefully measure your space and check the overall assembled dimensions to ensure it'll fit.

Material

Hot tubs are often made of polyethylene, an exceptionally durable and weather-resistant thermoplastic. They can also be constructed from high-strength fiberglass or UV- and freeze-resistant acrylic, as with our best wood-fired pick, the Alfi Brand Wood Fired Hot Tub. Inflatable models, like our best budget pick, the Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub, are usually made of puncture-resistant vinyl.

Extra Features 

To make the most of your lounging hot tub experience, consider investing in a model that has the features you want. This can include jets, LED lights, like those found on our best inflatable pick, the Intex PureSpa Plus, and even built-in speakers. Lounge seating is another popular feature, although it does often make the hot tub larger. While most hot tubs don't have seating, you can purchase them separately. Some manufacturers even offer customized hot tubs that you can design yourself.

When looking into extra features, consider those that increase the life span of your hot tub. Balancing chemicals, a hot tub cover or routine maintenance can all come as part of a hot tub package or purchase. While an extra cost up front, getting these extras may save you money in the long run.

Maintenance

Also, consider the maintenance requirements of a hot tub before buying one. Many come with built-in filtration systems and ozone generators (aka ozonators). This helps keep the water clean and free of bacteria while using lower amounts of chlorine and other chemicals.

Still, you need to change the filter cartridge regularly and drain and refill the water periodically. Also, make sure your hot tub is always covered when it's not in use. Following hot tub best practices will ensure you get the most out of your purchase.

"Whether you get an inflatable or a standard hot tub, you need to make sure that you practice good safety," says Rick Hagen, who handles National Sales for Outdoor Living Products at Pool Corp and is part of the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance. Not only does this include general water and pool safety ("If you're not using it, make sure you've got it covered," Hagen says), but it also ensures that it's chemically balanced, too. Thankfully, manufacturers will give clear instructions for how to maintain their products, so you can focus on safely enjoying them as much as possible.

FAQ
  • How do you set up a hot tub?

    Setting up your hot tub for the first time isn’t as daunting as it may sound. Assuming you have the proper electrical outlet available (either 110V or 240V) and a level surface (preferably concrete or a specially designed hot tub pad), the process is as simple as having the tub delivered to your yard, freeing it from the packaging, and filling it with water.

    In the case of an inflatable hot tub, take extra steps to ensure that there are no objects on the ground that could puncture the lining. Remove any rocks, sticks, and debris before inflating the hot tub. A ground cover is often included with inflatable hot tubs and serves as an additional layer of insulation and protection, but it is no substitute for a careful site evaluation before setup.

    Before you break out the hose, turn off the power to the circuit in your breaker box. Clean the hot tub using a mild, nonabrasive formula. Verify that all jets and knobs are in place. Open gate valves and close drain valves, then install the skimmer and filter. Next, use a garden hose to fill the tub with water.

    Restore power to the breaker. Power on the hot tub and prime the pump (usually, there will be an option for this on the hot tub’s control panel). Finally, set the hot tub to your desired temperature and begin heating the water inside before dispensing chemicals into the water for proper hygiene and water maintenance. 

  • What chemicals do you need for a hot tub?

    Hot tubs need regular cleaning to maintain safe, clean water and proper functioning of the system. Test your water frequently and keep these hot tub chemicals on hand:

    • PH adjusters: Muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate are used as pH decreasers. Muriatic acid (or a replacement product) also can lower alkalinity. Sodium bisulfate can raise alkalinity. 
    • Alkalinity increaser: Alkalinity and pH are closely related, so adjusting the pH levels of your hot tub can also impact alkalinity. If you need to raise the alkalinity of your hot tub, use an alkalinity increaser. 
    • Shocking agent: Use either chlorine or a nonchlorine treatment that breaks down organic compounds in the water and also converts chloramines back into the active form of chlorine.
    • Sanitizer: The most popular options include chlorine and bromine. Bromine is sometimes recommended for people with more sensitive skin. Other sanitizing options for your hot tub include biguanide (a non-chlorine and nonbromine chemical sanitizer), a salt system, or an ozone generator. 
    • Calcium hardness increaser or decreaser: Depending on your water hardness, you might need an additive to increase or decrease the amount of calcium in your hot tub water. This gives you clearer water while prolonging the life of mechanical components.
    • Enzymes: While not an absolutely essential chemical for your hot tub, enzymes help to slow the buildup of hot tub scum. 
    • Filter cleaner: This is a special cleaning formula that helps to purge debris and buildup from the filter, extending its life. Use it when you do a deep clean of your hot tub, every three to four months.
  • What is the life span of a hot tub?

    You can generally expect a hot tub to last 10 to 15 years, but the life span really depends on the material, build quality, environmental conditions, and how well it's maintained. Also, certain parts and components can be repaired or replaced over the years before it's time to replace the entire thing.

    The life span of inflatable tubs is much shorter. If you're lucky enough to avoid a non-repairable hole, you can expect an air-filled hot tub to hold up for three to five years.

  • How much does it cost to install a hot tub?

    Many modern hot tubs are designed for plug-and-play, meaning professional installation usually isn't required. If you need a pro, you can spend $100 to $500, depending on the needs. If you're building your hot tub into a pool or designing a below-ground spa, the project will likely run you several thousand dollars.

  • Do hot tubs draw a lot of electricity?

    It varies among models, but residential hot tubs typically draw 1,500 to 6,000 watts of energy. In terms of what this looks like on your power bill, a plugged-in hot tub costs you anywhere from 50 cents to $2 a day.

  • Is a hot tub a Jacuzzi?

    Much as Kleenex is a brand name for tissues and Xerox a brand name for office copiers, Jacuzzi is in fact a trademarked brand name for jetted tubs and other spa equipment. In 1956, the Jacuzzi brothers created the original hydrotherapy bath with the invention of an underwater pump that arthritis patients could use to relieve pain. A decade later, Jacuzzi created the world's first integrated jet whirlpool bath. Another decade later, the company invented large, indoor, jetted tubs that could accommodate multiple people.

Closeup of a person standing next to the Intex PureSpa Plus 6-Person Portable Inflatable Hot Tub

The Spruce / Kimberly Souza

Why Trust The Spruce?

Daniela Galvez is a Senior Commerce Editor for The Spruce, specializing in home improvement, gardening, and lifestyle. For this roundup, she carefully examined our long-term testing findings and revised the product list to include a comprehensive evaluation of the user experience with each hot tub. Although it was not included in our list due to its hard setup method, she personally tested the Bestway SaluSpa Budapest Inflatable Hot Tub Spa.

Our Experts: