Hot Tubs: Reviews

Updated March 2008

Because of the lack of reviews on specific manufacturers and/or hot tub models, we examine the major types of hot tubs and identifies the features, elements, pros and cons of each type, as well as some basic information on what to look for when selecting a hot tub or spa. There are four basic types of hot tubs: inflatable/plastic spas, standard above-ground acrylic spas, wooden hot tubs and in-ground spas. Each option has different features and benefits. Specific models will be mentioned as appropriate, but in our findings none of these models have been tested against any others, so their comparative value is undetermined.

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Most popular

Above-ground acrylic hot tubs

*Est. $3,000 to $10,000 for most Learn More

The most recognized and popular type of spas are made of an acrylic or OAS (olefin acrylonitrile-styrene) shell with a fiberglass or foam understructure and a wood or synthetic cabinet. Although considered portable, they… expandare difficult to move and require a firm surface, such as a concrete pad, for proper installation. Some models also require a special electrical outlet. With over 100 manufacturers and countless options and add-ons, these spas are the best all-around choice for most families. collapse

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Expert & User Review Sources:

SpaSearch.org: This website includes dozens of articles related to hot-tub buying decisions, including sections on construction, features, maintenance, safety and installation, and a photo gallery to give you an idea of the various types of hot tubs available.

Pool & Spa Living magazine: There are no reviews here, but you will find some good articles on choosing a spa, as well as on installation and maintenance issues.

Poolandspa.com: This retailer sells parts, chemicals and accessories for hot tubs, but not the tubs themselves.

HotTub SpaRatings.com: An extension of Robert's Hot Tubs, a California-based manufacturer of wooden hot tubs, this site has user reviews at a huge number of spas.

Least expensive, most portable

Inflatable and portable hot tubs

*Est. $800 to $2,000 for most Learn More

Inflatable and portable hot tubs are the least expensive type of spa, but they are considerably less durable than other types. Made from various combinations of vinyl, nylon and plastic, these budget spas can be set up… expandnearly anywhere and packed away when not in use. Many use a blower system that circulates air in the water, although a few models use traditional jets. The major drawback in reviews? Because the cheapest models blow air instead of hot water to create bubbles, the water temperature drops quickly. That makes these hot tubs best for short soaks. collapse

See Our Full Review

Expert & User Review Sources:

SpaSearch.org: SpaSearch.org features dozens of articles related to hot-tub buying decisions, including sections on construction, features, maintenance, safety and installation.

Pool & Spa Living magazine: Pool & Spa Living is a lifestyle magazine for hot-tub enthusiasts.

Poolandspa.com: This retailer sells parts, chemicals and accessories for hot tubs, but not the tubs themselves.

HotTub SpaRatings.com: The user reviews on this site cover a huge number of spas of all types.

Rustic-looking soaking tubs

Wooden hot tubs

*Est. $1,500 to $7,000 for most Learn More

Generally constructed of teak, redwood or cedar, wooden hot tubs still closely resemble the very first models, but with some upgrades. Priced similarly to standard above-ground spas, wooden hot tubs boast natural… expandaromatherapy from the fragrant woods used in construction. Like other above-ground spas, wooden hot tubs require a firm surface for proper installation, but their heat source may be electrical, gas or wood. These hot tubs require extensive maintenance and are simple in style, lacking many of the options found in other spa types. They are available from specialty retailers and in do-it-yourself kits. collapse

See Our Full Review

Expert & User Review Sources:

SpaSearch.org: SpaSearch.org's site includes dozens of articles related to hot-tub buying decisions, with sections on construction, features, maintenance, safety and installation.

Pool & Spa Living magazine: There are no product reviews on the website of Pool & Spa Living magazine, but you'll still find some good articles on choosing a spa, as well as pages on installation and maintenance.

Poolandspa.com: This retailer sells parts, chemicals and accessories for hot tubs, but not the tubs themselves.

HotTub SpaRatings.com: Very few of the owners posting comments here discuss the same spa, but there's a large enough number of reviews that you're likely to find something on the spa you're considering.

Priciest hot tubs -- can improve property value

In-ground spas

*Est. $5,000 and up Learn More

This is the most expensive type of spa, as installation requires excavation, as well as both plumbing and electrical work. They are made of gunite (pneumatically applied concrete) or standard concrete, sometimes with a… expanddecorative tile overlay. Most in-ground hot tubs have basic seating arrangements, generally consisting of step-type or bench seats. These hot tubs are also the most expensive type to operate and maintain, but they heat faster, hold their heat better, and are considered more aesthetically pleasing than other spas. They are also the only type of spa practically guaranteed to raise the value of a home. collapse

See Our Full Review

Expert & User Review Sources:

SpaSearch.org: This website comprises dozens of articles related to hot-tub buying decisions, including construction, features, maintenance, safety and installation, and also includes the results of a customer satisfaction survey.

Pool & Spa Living magazine: This website includes some good articles on choosing a spa, as well as on installation and maintenance issues.

Poolandspa.com: This retailer sells parts, chemicals and accessories for hot tubs, but not the tubs themselves.

HotTub SpaRatings.com: Although this website isn't very easy to navigate, there's a better collection of glossary terms and advice here than at any other website we found, as well as a substantial number of user reviews of various hot tubs.