Plug-and-play hot tubs are incredibly popular, thanks to their easy accessibility. These simple, affordable hot tubs come with a variety of benefits. That said, there are some potential drawbacks to consider as well when deciding if a plug-and-play hot tub is for you. Here’s what you need to know:
Plug and Play Hot Tub Benefits
Several key perks make plug-and-play hot tubs extremely attractive to a wide range of homeowners.
Plug and Play Tubs Are Affordable
The biggest selling point of plug-and-play hot tubs is their affordability. No matter your budget, there is a basic hot tub available that won’t break the bank. It is the smaller size and limited complexity of these tubs that keep the cost to a minimum.
There Is No Need for an Electrician
Unlike larger, more complex hot tubs, plug-and-play tubs use 110V electricity rather than 240V. This means you can plug them into any standard outlet. There is no need for an electrician or contractor to run a dedicated line. That being said, it is still a good idea to have an electrical inspection done before installing your tub to ensure compatibility and safety.
Pro Tip: Use an outlet with a dedicated breaker to minimize the risk of electrical issues.
Plug and Play Tubs Are Easy to Move
Thanks to their smaller size, plug-and-play tubs are much more portable than other styles. If you decide to change the landscaping in your yard at a later date, you’ll be able to move the tub wherever there is an outlet. With a 240v tub, you’ll have to keep it wherever you have the specialized outlet installed.
Plug and Play Trade-Offs
As great as plug-and-play hot tubs can be, you will have to make a few concessions.
Plug and Play Tubs Lack Top-of-the-Line Features
In general, you’ll find the best features with flagship hot tubs, such as our 980™ Series. However, it is still possible to find plug-and-play hot tubs with the amenities you want, if you research your available options. You also have the option of adding aftermarket accessories, like the SpaCaddy and SmartStep. By adding a few extras, you can customize your hot tub to suit your needs and preferences.
Smaller Components Work Twice as Hard
In addition to smaller jets, the working components of a plug-and-play hot tub are smaller than those in standard tubs. Because of this, they’ll have to work much harder than larger components to achieve the same results. You’ll notice this in a couple of ways.
Plug and Play Hot Tubs Have Smaller Jets and Pumps
Because these tubs tend to be smaller overall, their jets tend to be smaller as well. They also have smaller pumps that produce a lower flow rate. While you won’t achieve quite the same pressure as you would with larger pumps and jets, you can still experience an enjoyable massage once you maneuver yourself into the right position within the tub.
Longer Heat-Up Time
One of the things you will notice is a longer heat up time. A smaller heater means that your tub will take more time to reach a comfortable temperature. You can combat this issue by simply planning ahead. Turn on your tub and give it a little extra time to warm up. While you may not be able to hop in your hot tub at the spur of the moment, you’ll still be able to get full enjoyment out of it once it gets nice and hot.
Works Harder to Maintain Heat in Colder Temperatures
Not only do plug-and-play hot tubs take longer to heat up, they also have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This is something you may not notice in the tub, but it can result in higher energy costs in addition to more wear on the parts themselves.
The Choice Comes Down to Your Personal Preferences
At the end of the day, determining whether a plug-and-play hot tub is right for you is a matter of evaluating your priorities. Take the time to consider all of the above factors and which ones are most important to you. What would be a big deal to some people may be a non-issue for your purposes and vice versa. Only you can make the final decision as to which type of hot tub is the best fit for your lifestyle.
To learn more about plug-and-play hot tubs and see if they might be a fit for you, give us a call or stop by our showroom. Someone from the knowledgeable team at Great Bay Spa & Sauna will be happy to help!
