Soaking in the hot water tub isn’t always fun when you’re indoors, there is a certain joy in enjoying a soak in the hot water tub under the open sky. Whether you’re having a party with your friends and family members, or you’re sharing a romantic time with your special someone, having a hot tub in the open is a unique experience that should be felt by everyone.
Outdoor hot tubs are great for enjoying some time in the lap of nature or spending some time in your own company, contemplating and thinking in the relaxing waters of the hot tub. In regions with cold weather, sitting in the hot tub outdoors can be a rejuvenating experience as the outside in cold, but the water is hot and it can really help one relax. The difference in temperature encourages the body to release endorphins that can induce a natural feeling of overall well being.
Outdoor hot tubs are also easy to install. You can choose from an inflatable or acrylic hot tubs that can simply be plugged into the existing power supply and you can be ready to enjoy the hot water for a relaxing time. An outdoor hot tub also adds to the looks of your house as you can place it on the patio, on your deck or in the outhouse. With inflatable outdoor hot tubs, you can move the tub where you like and enjoy your hot tub in all kinds of weather.
In this writeup, we are going to take a look at some of the best outdoor hot tubs available in the market. We’ll discuss the features, advantages, disadvantages, products reviews and more about these outdoor hot tubs so that by the end of this writeup, you’re able to make an informed decision about the outdoor hot tub you want to buy.
Comparison Chart of Best Outdoor Hot Tub
| Product Name | Weight | Seating Capacity | Water Capacity | Voltage | Editor’s Rating | Where to Buy? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intex 77-Inches PureSpa | 87.2 lbs | 4 people | 210 gallons | 110v | 3.7/5 | Check on Amazon |
| Coleman Lay Z Spa | 85.9 lbs | 4 people | 254 gallons | 120v | 4.1/5 | Check on Amazon |
| SaluSpa Miami AirJet | 53.9 lbs | 4 people | 177 gallons | 110v | 3.8/5 | Check on Amazon |
| Rock Solid Simplicity | 240 lbs | 4 people | 195 gallons | 110V | 4.7/5 | Check on Wayfair |
| Rock Solid Luna | 244 lbs | 4 people | 220 gallons | 110v | 4.6/5 | Check on Wayfair |
| Retreat DLX 5-Person | 351 lbs | 5 people | 400 gallons | 110v | 4.7/5 | Check on Wayfair |
| Aqua Rest Spas AR-600 | 295 lbs | 6 people | 240 gallons | 120v | 4.4/5 | Check on Amazon |
| AR-150 4-Person | 240 lbs | 4 people | 170 gallons | 120v | 4.5/5 | Check on Wayfair |
| Aqua Rest Spas AR-400 | 240 lbs | 4 people | 190 gallons | 120v | 4.5/5 | Check on Amazon |
| Comfort Line Products | 85 lbs | 4 people | 300 gallons | 110v | 3.7/5 | Check on Amazon |
How We Chose Outdoor Hot Tubs for This Writeup
Selecting a few outdoor hot tubs from the range available is not an easy task. We took help of certain criteria to choose these hot tubs. Here are the things we kept in mind:
- User Reviews: We read through user reviews of a wide range of products to figure out which products were best liked by the users. User reviews also gave us an insight into the features that were best liked by the users.
- User Ratings: Often, users do not leave reviews, but simply rate a product. We took into account these ratings as well and ranked the products in order of the ratings given by users.
- Ease of Use: An outdoor hot tub should be easy to use in terms of installation and features. We took into account the ease of use felt by the users while using these hot tubs.
- Warranty: A long warranty is absolutely essential for any product. We gave a higher rating to the products that had a long-term warranty.
Features to Look for in Outdoor Hot Tub
Buying an outdoor hot tub is easy if you know what you’re looking for. Here are a few features you should keep in mind before buying an outdoor hot tub:
- Portability: An outdoor hot tub should be portable enough so that you can place it wherever you wish. There are times when you want to enjoy in your hot tub on your patio, deck, or outhouse. The tub should be lightweight and easy to pick so that you can move it where you like.
- Space: An outdoor hot tub needs to be spacious enough to make room for all the people that want to sit in it. If you’re buying a hot tub just for yourself and your spouse, you need to keep in mind that most hot tubs are a bit on the small side and you should always look for a size bigger than you actually need.
- Durability: As an outdoor hot tub will be placed outdoors, it will be exposed to the elements like air, rain, snow, and sunlight. The tub needs to be made from materials that are durable enough to handle all these elements and still keep on working flawlessly for years to come.
- Ease of Use: An outdoor hot tub should be easy to use, whether it is the controls or any other features of the tub. Most of all, a tub should be easy to get in and out of while it is in use. Setting up the tub should also be easy.
- Quick to Heat up: An outdoor hot tub needs to have a quick heating facility so that users do not have to wait for a long time for the tub to get properly heated up.
- Warranty: Low Maintenance – Maintenance is something that can take a lot of time out of enjoying the water of the hot tub. An outdoor hot tub should be easy to clean and maintain in all seasons. An extended warranty is an absolute must for any kind of outdoor hot tub. Keep in mind that these tubs will be out there in all seasons and there is more chance of something going wrong with the tub as a result. This is why you should keep an eye on the kind of warranty offered by the manufacturer.
Advantages of Outdoor Hot Tubs
Outdoor hot tubs are great for use in all seasons. Here are some advantages of using outdoor hot tubs:
- Open Environment: The biggest advantage of an outdoor hot tub is that you can place it outside under the open sky and enjoy the comfort of sitting in the hot water. At night, looking at the stars while sitting comfortably in your hot water tub really adds to the charm of these hot tubs.
- Affordable: Outdoor hot tubs are considerably more affordable than indoor hot tubs. You don’t need to make any extra space for the hot tub and you don’t even need to figure out the ventilation methods as you would if you had kept the hot tub indoors.
- Add to the Decor: Outdoor hot tubs are great for adding to the decor of a yard. These tubs look classy and stylish even when you’re not soaking in them. The tubs are a great way to make your yard look interesting.
- Great for Parties: If you’re having a party in your garden, an outdoor hot tub can really liven up the whole atmosphere. Guests can enjoy soaking in the hot tub and it can be a great place for everyone to hang out and chill.
Disadvantages of Outdoor Hot Tubs
- Maintenance: As these tubs are placed outdoors, they need proper maintenance to keep them working in an optimum condition. From cleaning the tubs to ensuring the chemical balance in the tubs is ideal for use, all these factors need to be taken care of all the time.
- Wear and Tear: Keeping a tub outdoors means it will go through some amount of wear and tear through the years. In case you live in a place that faces extreme weather of any kind, keeping a hot tub means you will have to take extra care of it to prevent wear and tear.
- Inconvenient During Rough Weather: Sitting in a hot tub can be really comfortable, but in any kind of rough weather such as rain, hail, or wind, you might want to get out of the tub quickly and cover it up to prevent any dust or debris from getting into the tub.
- Less Privacy: A hot tub in the outdoors means there is much less privacy as compared to having a hot tub indoors. This is the bargain you have to make when you want to enjoy your tub under the open sky.
Best Outdoor Hot Tub Reviews
1. Intex 77-Inches PureSpa Portable Bubble Massage Spa Set
Intex is a well-known name in the world of hot tubs. This 77-inch PureSpa Portable Bubble Massage Spa Set is another outdoor hot tub from Intex that offers quality, durability, and performance in one package. The tub is really easy to assemble and can be started up in no time at all. The unique features of this hot tub, such as built-in hard water treatment and filters, make it a joy to use. The tub has a water capacity of 210 gallons, and up to 4 people can sit in it. Let’s take a look at some more features and specifications of this outdoor hot tub.
Accessories Included
- 3-way test strip
- 2 filter cartridges
- Floating pool chlorine dispenser
- Thermal ground cloth
- Inflation hose
- Carry bag
Pros
- Durable construction from Fiber-Tech materials
- Easy to set up without the need for any tools
- High capacity up to 210 gallons and four people
- Lightweight and high-strength fibers for amazing comfort
- Includes 120 high-powered bubble jets for massage
- Comes with a complete range of accessories
Cons
- The hot tub takes a long time to properly heat up to the required temperature
- The hot tub’s seams are not high quality and might rupture with usage
- The tub can often shut down by showing the E90 error
- If exposed to the elements for too long, the tub can develop air leaks
- Once in use, the tub’s temperature drops quickly
Editor’s Verdict This outdoor hot tub will be the perfect accessory that will complement the look of your deck or patio. You can heat this tub up quickly and enjoy the benefits of hot water therapy with your friends and family members. The tub is easy to move around once it’s emptied of water. The in-built straps help in easily carrying it from one place to another. The high-quality construction of this tub adds to its durability and it will work flawlessly in all kinds of weather conditions. If you’re looking for an outdoor hot tub that will offer ease of use along with style, get this unit today.
2. Coleman Lay Z Spa Inflatable Hot Tub
The Coleman Lay-Z-Spa is the ideal outdoor hot tub for 3-4 people. The tub is easy to set up and can be done without using any complicated tools. Just hook it up to the spa pump and fill it up with water once it’s inflated. The water heats up quickly, and you can use it for years with proper care and maintenance. The Lay Z Spa inflatable is the ultimate in luxury, as it comes with a touch panel for controlling temperature and other features of the hot tub without needing to get out. Here’s a look at the rest of the features and specifications of this hot tub.
Accessories Included
- DVD detailing spa setup and maintenance
- Heating System
- Insulated Cover
- Filtration System with filter cartridge – type VI
- Ground Cloth
- Inflation hose
- Chemical floater
- Heavy-duty repair patch
Pros
- Easy setup without any tools
- Quiet operation while heating water
- Cushioned bottoms make it comfortable to sit in
- Can be deflated easily
- Modern design with high functionality
- Comes with a range of useful accessories
- Lightweight and easy to move around
Cons
- Heater and pump need to be restarted after 72 hours
- Tub shuts down if there’s an error due to clogged filters
- The user manual instructions can be vague
- The pump is fixed in a position and cannot be changed
- The unit consumes significant power to heat up the water
Editor’s Review The Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable hot tub is perfect for enjoying the outdoors with friends and family. The tub is compact and easy to move around. Setting it up is simple with the provided spa pump, and the tub comes with various accessories that enhance its functionality. This is a feature-rich, durable hot tub, and if you’re looking for an affordable outdoor hot tub, this unit is a great option.
3. SaluSpa Miami AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub
Bestway’s SaluSpa Miami AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub is a compact tub that’s ideal for outdoor settings. It inflates quickly (in 15-20 minutes), and once inflated, you can fill it with water and set it up to heat. The tub features 120 bubble jets, offering a relaxing massage experience. It’s both luxurious and comfortable. Here’s a look at the rest of the features and specifications.
Accessories Included
- Inflatable cover
- Chemical floater
- Filter Cartridge
- DVD with setup and maintenance instructions
Pros
- Durable, puncture-resistant material
- Digital control panel for easy temperature adjustments and timer settings
- Built-in water filtration system
- Rapid Heating System for quick water heating
- Includes a heavy-duty power cord for safety
- A variety of useful accessories
Cons
- Bubble jets can lower the water temperature significantly
- No seats or cushions included
- Potential hose connection leaks
- Replacement parts can be hard to find
- Noisy pump operation
Editor’s Review The SaluSpa Miami AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub is perfect for those who want a lightweight, easy-to-move outdoor hot tub. Its modern design fits well in any outdoor space, and it offers quick setup and heating. If you’re looking for a reliable outdoor hot tub that provides long-term enjoyment, this is a great choice.
4. Rock Solid Simplicity 4-Person 13-Jet Plug and Play Spa
The Lifesmart 4-Person 13-Jet Rock Solid Spa is a great addition to any backyard or patio. Made from durable eco thermo plastic, this hot tub is designed to last. It features a comfort dial for adjusting the water and air balance, and the temperature can be controlled via a topside thermostat. The tub holds 195 gallons of water and includes a child-safe locking cover. Here’s a closer look at the features and specifications.
Pros
- Includes insulated plumbing for better heat retention
- Comfort dial for adjusting water and air bubbles
- Heat recovery system for maintaining temperature
- Automatic jets during heating or filtration
- Easy-to-reach control panel
Cons
- Tendency to leak around the waterfall valve
- Pump is not very durable
- Sides of the tub may bulge
- Seats are quite low
- The tub doesn’t retain heat for extended periods
Editor’s Verdict This outdoor hot tub is perfect for anyone looking for a durable, stylish tub for their outdoor space. The heat-retentive materials and bubble jets provide a soothing experience. The comfort dial allows you to customize the water and air mixture, making it an all-around easy-to-use option. If you’re in the market for a reliable and functional outdoor hot tub, this one is worth considering.
5. Rock Solid Luna 4-Person 13-Jet Plug and Play Spa
The Lifesmart Luna is a unique outdoor hot tub designed for those looking for quality and comfort. Made with durable Eco Thermo Plastic, it retains heat efficiently, keeping the water hot long after the heat has been turned off. The spacious 4-person tub is a simple plug-and-play unit that can be easily connected to any 110v socket. Additionally, it uses ECO SMART technology for better energy efficiency and faster heating. Here’s a quick look at the features of this unit.
Pros
- Quiet operation while heating the water
- Highly energy-efficient
- Ozonator keeps water fresh and clean
- LED light kit creates a soothing nighttime atmosphere
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Protective cover to keep water free from contaminants
Cons
- Seats are too low for comfort
- Lacks waterfall feature
- Not ideal for cold climates
- Feels cramped with four people inside
- Takes a long time to heat up properly
Editor’s Verdict The Rock Solid Luna is an oval-shaped hot tub made with premium materials, ensuring durability and effective heat retention. It’s easy to set up and looks great in any outdoor setting. If you want a relaxing experience under the stars, this tub will offer that — though it may take a bit longer to heat up and may feel tight for four users.
6. Retreat DLX 5-Person 28-Jet Plug and Play Spa with Waterfall and Ozone System
The Lifesmart Retreat DLX Spa is a versatile and fully featured hot tub, perfect for those looking to relax in comfort. With a plug-and-play design, it can be easily connected to any existing power supply. The tub features full foam insulation for faster heating and includes a comfort valve for mixing water and air for the perfect massage. It also comes with a digital command center for setting the temperature and timer. Here’s a closer look at the features of this unit.
Pros
- Digital controls for ease of use
- LED lights create a relaxing ambiance
- Full foam insulation ensures faster heating
- Uses a friction pump for efficient heating
- Can be used with an extension cord
- Includes GFCI connector for added safety
Cons
- No steps included for easy entry
- Maximum temperature is limited to 101°F
- Jet force is not very strong
- Control dials can be confusing to use
Editor’s Verdict The Retreat DLX 5-Person 28-Jet Spa is a durable and easy-to-use outdoor hot tub with all the right features. The waterfall and ozone system keep the water fresh and clean, while the foam insulation helps with efficient heating. The comfort valve allows you to adjust the air and water mixture for the perfect massage. This is a must-buy for anyone who enjoys relaxing in a hot tub under the open sky.
7. Aqua Rest Spas AR-600 Sandstone Standard Spa
The Aqua Rest AR-600 is a durable and energy-efficient hot tub designed for outdoor use. This 6-person tub features 18 jets and a LED backlit waterfall, creating a perfect atmosphere for a relaxing soak under the stars. It has a quick setup with a simple 120v plug-and-play design, making it easy to enjoy without additional modifications. The tub is spacious enough to accommodate six people comfortably, and it heats up quickly for long-lasting enjoyment.
Pros
- Spacious for up to six people
- Made from durable roto-molded materials
- Includes therapeutic lumbar arch support
- Beautiful LED backlit waterfall with 9 color settings
- Ideal for placement on decks, patios, or in outhouses
Cons
- Motor durability could be improved
- Temperature drops quickly when jets are in use
- Noise during heating
- Some jets don’t function at full capacity
- Maintenance door is difficult to open and close
Editor’s Verdict This is an excellent hot tub for those who enjoy entertaining friends and family. With ample seating for six, beautiful LED lighting, and a modern design, the AR-600 creates an enjoyable outdoor soaking experience. The quick heat-up time and easy setup make it a great choice for outdoor relaxation, though there are a few mechanical downsides to consider.
8. AR-150 4-Person 12-Jet Plug and Play Spa with LED Waterfall
The Aqua Rest AR-150 is a compact 12-jet hot tub ideal for small outdoor spaces. It features a 9 LED cascading waterfall, adding a soothing ambiance to your relaxation experience. This plug-and-play spa operates on a 120v outlet, making setup easy and straightforward. Its efficient water usage and heat retention ensure long, relaxing soaks.
Pros
- Made from durable roto-molded materials
- Easy setup with no additional electrical modifications needed
- LED lights add ambiance
- Efficient water usage
- Lightweight and easy to move
Cons
- Replacement parts for the filter are hard to find
- Difficult to drain, may need an additional pump
- High power consumption
- Size is better suited for two adults rather than four
- Rattling noise from the pump
- Shallow tub
Editor’s Verdict The AR-150 is a stylish and compact outdoor hot tub that’s perfect for small spaces like patios and decks. While it’s easy to set up and offers a range of features, it’s best suited for couples or small groups. Its plug-and-play operation makes it simple to use, but its size and noise issues may be a consideration for those with larger groups or noise sensitivity.
9. Aqua Rest Spas AR-400 Sandstone Standard Spa
The Aqua Rest Spas AR-400 is a compact and portable outdoor hot tub that combines convenience with comfort. It’s made from durable roto-molded material, which can withstand various weather conditions, and it’s lightweight for easy relocation around your patio, deck, or garden. With 14 stainless steel jets and simple controls, the AR-400 is perfect for a soothing, relaxing soak in your own backyard.
Pros
- Highly durable construction
- LED lights add a relaxing mood
- Quiet operation while heating the water
- Integrated pump and heater reduce heat loss
- Stylish design that suits any modern outdoor space
Cons
- Setup instructions are unclear
- Not comfortable for four adults
- Access door is difficult to remove and replace
- Rough texture on the inside of the tub
- Jets lose pressure as it increases
Editor’s Verdict The Aqua Rest AR-400 is ideal for users who value portability and efficiency. The hot tub is compact and easy to relocate, making it perfect for smaller outdoor spaces. Its efficient heating system, combined with its durable build, ensures a quality experience. However, it may not provide the best comfort for larger groups.
10. Comfort Line Products Spa-N-A-Box Portable Spa
The Comfort Line Spa-N-A-Box is a small, portable hot tub designed for flexibility and convenience. You can set it up wherever you have enough space, whether on your deck, patio, or in your garden. With a durable PVC inner liner, it can accommodate up to four people and provides a powerful massage with its bubbling water system. It’s incredibly easy to set up and heats up quickly, making it a great option for small families or couples looking for a portable hot tub experience.
Pros
- Quick and easy setup
- Heats up quickly
- Highly portable and lightweight
- Ideal for small families or couples
- Quiet heating process
- Powerful bubble massage
Cons
- Heat shuts off when bubbles are on
- Loses heat quickly with bubbles on
- The air pump for bubbles can be noisy
- Expensive replacement covers
Editor’s Verdict The Spa-N-A-Box is perfect for those seeking a portable, easy-to-assemble hot tub. Whether you have a small family or are looking for a cozy spa experience with a partner, this hot tub offers excellent value. The simplicity of setup and portability make it ideal for those looking to enjoy a hot soak outdoors with minimal hassle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Hot Tubs
Customers often have questions or queries about hot tubs. Here are some of the commonly asked questions about these hot tubs.
Q1): I have just bought a new hot tub. I want to know how long it takes for the water to get hot to above 100 degrees F?
The rate at which water gets hot depends on a number of factors. The size of your tub, the weather in your area, and the kind of power supply you’re using. Generally, to speed up the heating, you can try covering the tub with an insulating cover and avoid switching on the jets while the tub is getting hot.
Q2): I bought my outdoor hot tub a few months ago, and now the display panel is showing an error and it’s not switching on. What can I do to remedy this?
Most of the errors in hot tubs are because of clogged filters. You can try cleaning the filter and resetting the tub. If it still shows the error and doesn’t work, you can try calling the customer care of your tub’s manufacturer and they will guide you in the right direction.
Q3): How can I keep my outdoor tub safe from dust and debris?
To keep your outdoor tub safe, you need to cover it with an insulating cover. These covers can also be strapped down around the tub so that no insects or small animals are able to get inside the tub either. In adverse weather conditions, these covers keep the tub’s water safe from any kind of contamination.
Q4): What kind of chemicals should I use in my hot tub?
You should only use cleaning chemicals that are suggested by the manufacturer of your hot tub. Most hot tubs come with included chemicals. You can also consult the manual of your hot tub and see what kind of chemicals are recommended by the manufacturer.
Q5): How does an Ozonator help in keeping the water of the hot tub clean?
An ozonator releases small quantities of ozone in the water which acts as a cleaning agent and keeps the water fresh and clean. You can check if your hot tub is compatible with an ozonator and then install one if your hot tub didn’t already come with an ozonator.
Conclusion
If you’ve been thinking about getting an outdoor hot tub, we hope that this article has helped in clearing any doubts or queries you might have had. Buying an outdoor hot tub can bring a great change in your life as now you’d be able to relax in the lap of nature and in the outdoors. These tubs offer a relaxing environment to enjoy, relax, and rejuvenate in all kinds of weather.
The tubs are designed while keeping in mind the requirements of outdoors and the materials used for making these tubs are also high quality. With added durability and superior construction, these tubs will last you for years if you maintain them properly.
Given the advantages of hot tub therapy, getting an outdoor hot tub can really help you to relax, rejuvenate, and find peace within yourself. Hot water therapy can help with a range of health problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, insomnia, and more. An outdoor hot water tub is also great for hosting parties if you have ample space in your hot water tub. Guests can also hang around the hot water tub and enjoy the relaxing vibes.
Modern hot water tubs come with several different types of customization options. You can set up the hot water tub to heat up according to the timer as per your requirements. The hot tubs also come with programmable water jets and LED lights that can be made to work as per your wishes. These hot tubs also have cleaning facilities that keep the water clean so that you don’t have to spend too much time cleaning the water and you can use the hot tub whenever you want. These features make these hot tubs an absolute joy to use and also add a sense of fun and exploration in using these new and unique features. We hope that this writeup has helped you in making up your mind about the outdoor hot tub that you want to buy.
For more information about hot tubs, accessories, features, and use cases, please browse this website. You can also leave a comment below any article with your queries and suggestions, and our team will answer you promptly. We look forward to hearing from you. Happy shopping!