1. Essential SS2540307403
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Specifications
- Dimension: 74″ x 74″ x 34″
- Weight: 630 lbs
- Water Capacity: 300 gallons
- Pumps : 1 x 1.5HP
- Jets : 30
- LEDs:
- Included cover:
- Ozonator included:
- Warranty: 2 years for parts, 1 year for labor, 5 years for the exterior cabinet
Featuring a
square design, which measures 74” by 74” by 34”, not only will it provide you with a modern-looking tub, but it also has a sturdy, time resistant construction. Able to support up to
300 gallons of water, it features full-body lounger seats and mounted pillow headrests to increase your relaxation. Its
30 fully adjustable stainless steel jets will help relieve stress from your muscles, while its
digital display allows you to easily set the temperature to your liking.
For a full spa-like experience, it features 2 LED water columns to help set the mood, as well as a conveniently built-in ice bucket with lid and tray for whenever you wish to serve your favorite beverage from the comfort of hot water. It features a plug-and-play design, which allows you to get it started as soon as you take it out of the box, while its all-season stainless steel Balboa heater will make sure you can use your unit even during cold winter days.
It features a fully foamed insulated interior which will prolong your relaxation time, as it will maintain the hot temperature for a longer time. Even more, it features an automatic timer that enables you to set it up beforehand, so you can enjoy it whenever you wish. When it’s not in use, the lockable safety-cover it comes with will protect it from elements. All its parts are covered by a warranty, as the manufacturer backs it up 5 years for the cabinet, 10 years for the shell, 5 years for the shell surface, 2 years for plumbing and equipment and 1 year for accessories.
PROS
- Modern look
- Sturdy construction
- Easy to set up
- Includes cover
- Comes with ice box area and drink trays
CONS
- Draining requires removing the entire rear panel
- Heating the water might take a little bit of time
Verdict
This is the tub for you if you want comfortable seating and 30 jets to help you relax after a long day. In addition, this tub sets up easily, but you have to wait a little time until the water reaches desired temperature.
2. Home and Garden Spas HG51T
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Home and Garden Spas HG51T
Specifications
- Dimension: 80” x 80” x 35”
- Weight: 750 lbs
- Water Capacity: 310 gallons
- Pumps : 6HP
- Jets : 51
- LEDs:
- Included cover:
- Ozonator included:
- Warranty: 2 years for parts, 90 days for labor
You can easily create an oasis of peace and relaxation in your backyard, thanks to this compact and versatile unit. It measures 80” in width, 80” in length and 35” in height, thus it won’t take too much garden space, while its
51 stainless steel jets with two 7-jets inserts will alleviate any built-up stress from your muscles.
Made from durable and slip-resistant Lucite acrylic it is also time resistant as it features multi-layer fiberglass reinforcement and ABS base. Additionally, you can use it even in cold days, as its high-density spray foam insulation will keep the water hot for a longer time.
Its 310-gallon capacity can be heated up from 80 °F up to 104 °F, as you can easily adjust it according to your preferences, thanks to its Digital balboa controls. The energy-rite pump will provide high performance at a low energy consumption rate, so you don’t have to worry about your energy bills. If the water cleanness is your main concern, you can rest assured as it comes with an Ozonator, which will make sure there are no algae or bacteria in the water.
To help adjust the mood, it comes with 7 color underwater LED lights, as well as 2 LED-lit fountains. Even more, when it’s not in use you can easily cover it up, thanks to the included cover. It has a 5-year warranty for sell, a 2-year warranty for parts and a labor warranty of 90 days from the moment of your purchase.
PROS
- Well insulated
- 51 massage jets
- Easy-to-access controls
- Low energy consumption
- Built-in ozonator
CONS
- Doesn’t come with steps
- Some complained about the insulation
Verdict
Easy to use, it comes with beginner-friendly controls. It features several massage jets which will help relieve the built-up stress, and it has an adjustable temperature so you can set it up according to your preferences. However, it comes with no steps which make the process of getting in and out of the tub a bit difficult.
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Specifications
- Dimension: 70″ x 61″ x 32″
- Weight: 269 lbs
- Water Capacity: 195 gallons
- Pumps : 1.5HP
- Jets : 12
- LEDs:
- Included cover:
- Ozonator included:
- Warranty: 1 year
Don’t let its simple design fool you, as it comes with intelligent features that will transform a hard day of work into a relaxing afternoon. In its design are included
12 high-therapy jets, which will help relieve the built-up stress, and a
small waterfall to help set the mood. It can be plugged into a standard outlet with a trip circuit, and thanks to its Sahara shell with a full surround, it can sit independently above ground without any issues.
Completed with Deluxe Balboa digital controls to better customize your experience, which you can reach easily, the operation of the tub itself is hassle-free. Included in its design is a spa light with a red and blue lens cap, that allows you to set a soothing, relaxing mood. When you are inside, you immediately notice that the water stays at a constant temperature without draining a lot of power.
Each seat has its back support and armrest, as it is arranged in a special way to make it less crowded. Do not worry about the energy costs as its energy-saving features will surely surprise you. Its exterior, as well as its interior, have a modern, sleek and luxurious look. The materials used to manufacture this model are of high-quality, like the eco-thermal plastic, which is completed with full-foam insulation to prevent any electric shock and to save energy.
PROS
- Spacious
- Good insulation
- Mood lighting
- Comfortable
- Durable cover
CONS
- Occupies a lot of space
- You’ll need to attach the strap holders yourself
Verdict
If you want a luxurious tub that requires minimal cleaning this might be the one for you. However, it requires you to have a large garden, patio, or terrace, because its dimensions are big.
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Specifications
- Dimension: 70.5″ x 61″ x 29.5″
- Weight: 320 lbs
- Water Capacity: 200 gallons
- Pumps : 1.5 HP
- Jets : 14
- LEDs:
- Included cover:
- Ozonator included:
- Warranty: 1 year
With a
curved seating design, it allows everyone to relax and enjoy the time spent with friends or family. Its
14 jets are spread on all sides, providing a full-body massage from shoulders to feet, relieving over-day built-up stress. It measures 70.5” in length, 61” in width and 29.5” in height, and it is made from molded granite resin, for lengthy use.
It features a digital control panel that allows you to control the temperature, as it can heat all 200 gallons of water up to a maximum of 104 °F. It features a plug-and-play design, so you can instantly jump in once you take it out of the box, while the underwater multicolored LED lights will help relax your mind. Thanks to its high-output pump, as well as all-season stainless steel Balboa heater, not only will you be able to keep the temperature stable, but you’ll be able to use it even during winter.
The cabinet is fully insulated, to protect the electrical part from any dangers, as well as keep you safe when using it. Don’t worry about keeping elements away from your tub, as it comes with a fully insulated cover equipped with locking clips. This way, you’ll be able to leave it in the open without the unit being damaged. It features a limited 1-year warranty for parts and service from the moment of your acquisition.
PROS
- A filter that keeps the water clean
- Enough leg room for everybody
- Its pump moves water quickly
CONS
- Takes some time to shut off or turn on some of the jets
- Tall people might not fit comfortably
Verdict
The model offers 14 powerful jets completed by a sleek design and comfortable seating. It features a fully insulated cover, so you don’t have to worry about elements, while its sturdy pump and all-season heater allows you to use it even during winter.
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Specifications
- Dimension: 71″ x 71″ x 30″
- Weight: 325 lbs
- Water Capacity: 241 gallons
- Pumps : 1.5 HP
- Jets : 11
- LEDs:
- Included cover:
- Ozonator included:
- Warranty: 3 years
It comes with
LED underwater lights, to provide you with a relaxing ambiance after a day of hard work. Featuring
11 hydrotherapy jets, which will relieve built-up tension in your muscles, and an insulated cover, it will keep the water hot for a longer time. It has a
unique octagonal-shape, and it measures 71” by 71” by 30”. It comes in one piece, so you’ll need some help moving the 325-pound weight into your desired place, but it features a
plug-and-play design, so you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits right from the go.
It has a large 241-gallon capacity, which can be easily heated up according to your preferences thank the adjustable temperature setting. Even more, it comes with a digital control panel for hassle-free access and use. Its pump has 2 speeds, so you can choose how powerful you want the hydro jets to be, and it features a Balboa all-season stainless steel heater, for full year-round use. Additionally, to keep it away from the weather’s wrath, it comes with a heavy-duty tapered insulated cover, which is equipped with locking clips to keep it in place.
PROS
- The pump has two speeds
- Insulated cover
- Underwater LED lights
- Digital control system
- Lockable cover
CONS
- Doesn’t come with stairs
- Does not come with a user manual for electrical circuits
Verdict
It features an easy to use design, as it requires no additional tools to set it up, only to be plugged in. It will require additional help to be moved into the desired location, as it is quite heavy, but once installed you’ll be able to benefit all year round from a spa-like experience.
6. Comfort Line SNB6ftSWC120V
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Comfort Line Products SNB6ftSWC120V
Specifications
- Dimension: 74″ x 74″ x 27″
- Weight: 85 lbs
- Water Capacity: 280 gallons
- Pumps : 1.3HP
- Jets : 100
- LEDs:
- Included cover:
- Ozonator included:
- Warranty: 90 days
It measures 74” by 74” by 27”, has an octagonal shape and it has a wood-panel exterior, which allows it to fit any backyard décor. It has
100 micro air jets that will let you not only soak for as long as you wish but also soothe your sore and tired muscles, with a relaxing full body massage, in no time. They will offer you a
hydrotherapy massage, similar to a spa one, as it will alleviate muscles and back pain.
It is made of heavy-duty three-ply marine-grade vinyl PVC, the exact material used in the manufacturing of white water rafts. Therefore, you can rest assured that it won’t leak, nor will it lessen its quality with time. You need to connect it to a standard 110V outlet, and it features a plug-and-play design that allows you to use it immediately after you took it out from the box.
Featuring a 24-hour water filtration system, there will be no bacteria present in the water, as it will keep it clean. Thanks to its 1.3HP Turbo Wave pump, as well as its 1000W temperature-adjustable heater, you’ll be able to set the water to your preferred temperature, keeping it stable for longer periods. It has comfortable padded interior, for increased comfort, however, it lacks mood lighting and a waterfall.
PROS
- Water filtration system
- 1000watt heater with freeze protection
- Great looking design
- Designed to function in low temperatures as well
- Wood panel construction
CONS
- No built-in seats
- The cover’s color fades if exposed to sunlight
Verdict
Powerful jets that come in a unique design, provide you with a vigorous body massage, to help relieve stress. Thanks to its 1000W heater with freeze-protection, you can use it all year round, while thanks to its adjustable temperature, you can achieve the perfect level of comfort.
7. Hudson Bay Spas LPI14XF
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Specifications
- Dimension: 70″ x 60″ x 32″
- Weight: 375 lbs
- Water Capacity: 195 gallons
- Pumps : 1 HP
- Jets : 14
- LEDs:
- Included cover:
- Ozonator included:
- Warranty: 90 days on labor and 5 years for the construction material
Although it shines in all departments, the Hudson Bay Spas LPI14XF surpasses competition in the build-quality section, as it is made with
durable, slip-resistant acrylic and features multi-layer fiberglass reinforcement. The standard high-density foam insulation helps preserve the water temperature, prolonging your relaxation time.
It uses a total of 14 therapeutic jets to provide a soothing massage that helps relieve back pain and sore muscles. Due to the 7-color LED mood lighting it features, you can create a more relaxing ambiance as you soak in the tub. Since it features digital controls, you won’t have any trouble figuring out how to use it.
With the acquisition, you receive a lockable safety cover to secure the tub when it is not in use, and prevents pets or kids from entering, as well as preserve the cleanliness of the water. The cord it comes with measures 10 feet in length, so it is unlikely for you to need extension cords when you use it. Additionally, it is backed with a 90-day warranty on labor and a 5-year warranty for the construction material.
PROS
- Digital controls ensure a user-friendly experience
- Features a 7-color LED mood lighting to help relax you even more
- Lockable safety cover included with the acquisition
CONS
- Some users complain that the tub section is a bit small
- Some users report it has trouble maintaining a steady 104 degrees Fahrenheit temperature for the water at times
Verdict
The Hudson Bay Spas LPI14XF uses a total of 14 jets to deliver a soothing, relaxing massage when you soak your body in the warm water. It allows you to set the ambient mood by using its 7-color LED lights, while the lockable safety cover will prevent any possible accidents.
8. AquaRest Spas Select AR-400
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AquaRest Spas Select AR-400
Specifications
- Dimension: 75″ x 66″ x 31″
- Weight: 240 lbs
- Water Capacity: 190 gallons
- Pumps : 1.5 HP
- Jets : 20
- LEDs:
- Included cover:
- Ozonator included:
- Warranty: 5 years for shell, 1 year for plumping and equipment, 1 year for cover and 90 days for labor
Built to last, and engineered with polyethylene that withstands great impact without any damage, the AquaRest Spas Select AR-400 is the perfect 4-person spa for anyone who has the budget to acquire it. The
barrier-free seating is quite convenient as you can laugh and get close to each other without any discomfort.
It features 20 stainless steel hydrotherapy jets to provide a soothing massage when you dip your body inside the water and help relax your muscles. It even features dual side air controls to let you customize the hydrotherapy experience to your liking.
One of its most interesting features is the therapeutic lumbar arch support which helps alleviate back pain, while the smart positioning of the jets delivers soothing pressure to massage your muscles into relaxation.
It uses the EZ Kleen filtration system to filter out any impurities in the water so that you soak your body in crisp and clean water. Thus, you are not in danger of getting any rash or infection after a relaxing spa session. Another neat feature is the multi-color LED backlit cascading waterfall that adds to the aesthetics of the product and can be set on one of 9 color options.
It boasts a 190-gallon capacity, uses a 1.5 HP pump, and features a 12-foot long cord for plug and play use. Furthermore, the shell is backed by a 5-year warranty against defects, the plumbing and equipment are covered by a 1-year warranty, the cover is backed with a 1-year warranty, and there is a 90-day labor warranty provided as well.
PROS
- Features a neat 9-color LED backlit cascading waterfall
- EZ Kleen filtration system ensures impurity-free water to soak your body in
- Features therapeutic lumbar arch support that helps alleviate back pain
Verdict
A long-lasting acquisition as it is made with tough, impact-resistant polyethylene, the Select AR-400 is a 4-person capacity spa you are bound to enjoy due to its plentiful entertaining features and comfort-enhancing design.
Winterizing Your Investment
To be able to enjoy your hot tub all year round, you have to make sure it survives the winter. Therefore aside from the mandatory cleaning and maintenance, you have to make sure you’re winterizing it correctly. There are a few steps you have to keep in mind:
Step 1. Drain it completely.
Shut it down, unplug it, and let the water cool down. Since all the water needs to be completely removed to prevent any damage, the use of its own siphon might not be enough in some cases, situations in which you should use a pump.
Step 2. Wipe it dry.
Once the water has been completely removed, take a dry cloth and wipe any remaining water drops from it. Don’t forget about the filters, as well. Take them out, clean them up and let them air-dry.
Step 3. Heating and pumps.
While you might be tempted to consider the job done once the water from the main area has been drained, make sure to check the heating elements and the pumps. Water might be stuck inside those areas, as well, and you wouldn’t want it to freeze and, in turn, damage the tub.
Step 4. Shut off the valves.
Everything is spick and span and absolutely dry – at least all the areas that you might be able to see. There’s no way to tell if residual water has been completely emptied from the entire circuit. So, to prevent freezing, as much as possible, you should close the valves and jets.
Step 5. Seal it up.
The easiest way to do so is to invest in a high-quality cover. However, while it is an important accessory before you jump right into buying one, you should take into account a few factors:
- Climate – how is the weather like in your region? Does it rain a lot? If so, then you’ll have to consider investing into a weather-proof cover.
- Vapour barrier quality – hot water is a perfect way to relax, but you’ll have to make sure the heat remains in the water and doesn’t flee into the atmosphere. A cover which can maintain the water temperature even is ideal if you wish to be able to enjoy your hot tub all year-round.
- Dimension and shape – since hot tubs have different shapes, according to their specific models, you should make sure the cover you plan on getting matches your tub’s design and measurements.
- Budget – keep an eye on your budget, as the more features a cover has, the pricier it gets.
Once you’ve completed all 5 steps, it should be ready for the winter. Then, when you’re ready to use it again, make sure to reattach the filters, make sure the jets and valves are open, and the drain plug is secure before you refill it with water.
While spending time in your hot tub during a stressful day is a blissful experience, dirt has a way of getting in your way. Therefore, to prevent bacteria, mold, slime, and grime from appearing, you have to make sure to give it a thorough scrub.
There are two main areas you have to pay attention to:
Shell-cleaning
Turn off the tub, plug it out and drain it completely by either using a pump, your garden hose or by lifting the tub’s siphon. Once the water is gone, you can either wipe it dry with a cloth or if you wish to increase your efficiency, a shop vac will do the trick just fine. Use a special tub cleaner, spray the shell and let it work for a few moments. Then, wipe it off.
Don’t forget to check the filters, and change them if they’re overdue, as they are your main defense against bacteria.
Pipe-cleaning
With time small-scale microbes come to reside in the plumbing, thanks to the high water temperature. While you might be tempted to overlook this issue, if your tub is equipped with an Ozonator or a powerful sanitizing system, it’s always better to prevent any future health issues by giving your hot tub’s plumping a thorough cleaning.
It’s not a complicated process, as there are special hot tub sanitizers on the market, which will take care of the biofilm once they reach the pipes. Simply add the sanitizer before draining the tub – 30 to 60 minutes – turn the jets on, and let it flow in and out. Once foam starts to appear at the water surface, collect it with a wet-dry vacuum until it turns white. Only then can you safely drain it up.
This process should be repeated at least once per year, preferably before you prepare it for winter.
All in all, keeping your hot tub in top shape will not only help you avoid health issues, but it will also prolong its use.
Frequently Asked Questions
?How long should I stay in a hot tub?
While there’s no set time, it is highly dependent on your health. It is important to keep yourself hydrated, so you shouldn’t shy from drinking as much water as possible even when relaxing in hot water. Additionally, depending on how sensitive your skin is to the chemicals you use to keep the water clean, you might have to limit the soaking time. Furthermore, if you have tension problems or heart problems, you shouldn’t spend more than 30 minutes in any heated water.
?What causes foam?
Foam usually appears if you’ve skipped on the maintenance of your unit, or if you’ve left the water unattended for some time. While foam is not pleasant to see in a hot tub, you can get rid of it. A certain method is to maintain stable water chemistry, as almost all types of sanitizers will be able to neutralize the surfactants that create foam. Aside from that, you might want to make sure there are no traces of any type of personal care products in the hot tub water (shampoo, makeup, mousse, hairspray, and others), as well as there no trace of beverages.
?How do I lower the water’s PH?
The higher the PH level, the less effective the chlorine-based disinfectants are. Additionally, if the water’s PH remains in high dosage, it will affect your skin, eyes, and hair in the long run. Usually, you can measure the level with specially designed strips. Furthermore, a normal level should be between 80 and 120 when the water is cold, and between 7.4 and 7.6 when the water is hot. To lower the PH, you need to use a chemical that contains sodium bisulfate. An alternative way is to use muriatic acid, but it will require protective gear when using it.
?Can it cause headaches?
High temperatures combined with poor hydration might lid to headaches. Therefore, it is recommended to drink plenty of water to avoid any type of dizziness or fainting.
?How to take care of it?
To benefit from your hot tub for a long time, you should keep a maintenance schedule. Therefore, there are a few steps you should consider. Change the water or recirculate it – while you might be tempted to use the same water over and over again, it is not healthy at all to do so. If you can’t change the water every time you wish to soak, then at least make sure you recirculate it for at least half an hour a few times per day. Regular cleaning – it is recommended, at least once per week if not after every use, to empty the tub and scrub it up. This will prevent any type of bacteria from appearing and will prolong its lifespan. Additionally, don’t forget to clean the filters as well. Last but not least, make sure you maintain a leveled water chemistry so the PH won’t affect the tub’s material in the long run.
You don’t have to go to a spa to be able to enjoy a therapeutic water massage. With the right hot tub, you can spend a relaxing afternoon getting rid of the built-up stress while spending quality time with your friends and loved ones. While all the above-mentioned units can provide you with all the features of a spa water-treatment and plenty of space at the same time, some of them differentiate from the others through some features:
Best Overall
: Essential SS2540307403To experience the same luxury you do at an actual spa, the Essential SS2540307403 is the tub you must go for. Sure, it is a pricy acquisition, but it is one worth making nonetheless if you appreciate a soothing soak session. It uses a total of 30 adjustable jets to provide the relaxing massage and spa experience, and it is easy to install. Furthermore, it comes with neat features like the automatic shut-off timer and lets you pick the water temperature you feel most comfortable with.
Our Choice
: Home and Garden Spas HG51TAnother feature-rich entry we recommend you look into again before you decide is the Home and Garden Spas HG51T . It features 51 stainless steel jets with two 7-jets inserts to help you relax and soothe aching muscles. It has a durable and slip-resistant base, while its high-density insulation will maintain heat for longer periods. Additionally, it filters out any impurities in the water, thanks to its integrated Ozonator.
Best Budget-friendly Hot Tub
: LifeSmart FF-SMPLCTYWith a capacity of 196 gallons and digital controls that provide an intuitive use, LifeSmart FF-SMPLCTY is another choice you should consider. While its design is simple, it is feature-abundant, as it comes with a small waterfall as well as 12 high-therapy jets. Each seat offers back and arms support for a thorough relaxation, while the energy-saving features will ensure you won’t have to shorten your bath.
Best for Lower Back Therapy
: Essential SS125210300Essential SS125210300 comes with curved seating designs to help alleviate the built-up stress and pressure from your lower back region. With powerful pump jets that will massage your body and the LED lights that will set the mood, you’re in for a thorough relaxation session. With its plug-and-play design and conveniently placed control panel, you’ll have an entire therapy session at your disposal with just a few button-pushes.
Best 4-Person Hot Tub for Cold Weather
: Essential SS13150200If you plan on keeping your hot tub outside, but you fear the cold might be an obstacle for your stress-free time, Essential SS13150200 is an option you should look into. Not only does it come with a unique octagonal shape, but it features a pump with 2 speeds as well as a Balboa all-season heater. This will make sure you can use it all-year-round without the cold stopping you.
Our Choice
Best Budget-friendly
Best for Lower Back Therapy
