You would agree with me that there are not many things/activities that can match the fun and relaxation that hot tubs bring.
They also have a number of therapeutic and medical benefits. These include being effective in mitigating problems like hip tightness, backache, muscle spasms and so much more. As they have varying capacities like six-person or four-person hot tubs, they are must-haves for partying with friends and family.
Almost all individuals can benefit from spas as they release the tension and provide a relaxing massage. Moreover, they have been a huge hit because they provide an environment to chill out with friends and family.
Calling the Shots: Comparing Best 4 Person Hot Tubs in 2021
Different companies are producing a variety of spas with different features and capacities. With so many options, it gets confusing, and making the right choice can become difficult. To help you with your hunt, we have compiled a list of 15 Best 4 Person spas that are available in the market.
Hot tub | Weight (Lb) | Capacity (gal) | Material used | |
---|---|---|---|---|
375 | 195 | Acrylic | ||
650 | 400 | Acrylic | ||
91.3 | 290 | Tritech | ||
87.2 | 210 | TriTech | ||
53.86 | 177 | TriTech | ||
350 | 200 | Plastic+Granite Resin | ||
76.45 | 254 | TriTech | ||
285 | 241 | Plastic+granite resin | ||
88 | 254 | TriTech | ||
650 | 400 | Acrylic Shell | ||
81.79 | 222 | 3 Ply TriTech | ||
480 | 250 | Granite Resin plastic | ||
295 | 195 | Thermoplastic | ||
700 | 480 | Acrylic shell | ||
48.5 | 210 | Fabric coated plastic |
In our list, we have tried to include both hard and inflatable spas. We have also tried to include some budget options for each category. This is because they may not be high in features, but they cover the basics and do the job and why spend an extra couple of hundred dollars for some bells and whistles.
1. Hudson Bay Spas Four Person Spa – Strong, Durable, and Built to Last
In chilling winter, a bath in the hot tub is all one really needs. In addition to providing comfort, it has medical benefits including mitigation of sore joints and muscles. Everyone wants to own one, but the major restriction is their price. Thanks to companies like Hudson Bays, now almost everyone can afford these tubs. It has everything that one needs in a tub and comes at an affordable price.
It has a build to last, the material is strong enough to last decades because of glass reinforcement and ABS base which prevents erosion. In addition, acrylic fiber is slip-resistant material which is a user-friendly feature.
For a spa that operates at 110V, it performs very well. It heats up to 1040F which is the maximum legal temperature and has the ability to conserve this temperature. Even in the winter, the temperature drops just a degree in half an hour. Additionally, the low running voltage makes it budget-friendly as it causes no significant increase in the electric bill.
Moving on, this spa has 14 jets, three behind each seat. The remaining two are present at the junction of two seats, facing each other. These jets use the power of one pump of 1 horsepower. Nevertheless, the Jets are strong enough but not super strong which is not a bad thing. Spas with high horsepower pumps fire the jets hard which can be annoying and uncomfortable. Overall, the pump to jet ratio is optimum and provides just the right type of massage.
Another praise-worthy feature is its high-density spray foam insulation. This works by retaining the temperature and is good enough to not lose too many degrees even in winters. It additionally has a lockable safety cover. This keeps the dirt and unwanted guests out of the spa when it is not in use. It also acts to insulate the upper surface of the spa.
- No separate 220V connection is required
- Does not cause a significant increase in electric bills
- Plumbed with fungicidal tubing
- Comes with a 10-feet long cord
- The instruction manual is not very helpful
- The water pump needs regular maintenance
2. Essential Hot Tubs 50 Jets Solara – Best Hard Hot Tub for Entire Family
Essential Hot Tubs started back in the early 90s and since then they are producing some of the class-leading feature-rich hot tubs. Right now, the company is among the leading manufacturer of hot tubs in the world. They offer a variety of products to their users. The Essential Hot Tubs product we have on our list is their Solara Hot Tub. It is essentially a limited edition version with specifications to meet the requirements of a slightly bigger family.
This spa uses acrylic as its material of construction. This material in addition to being strong has the unique property of retaining heat. To further enhance its heat retention, this tub comes in black color. Both the exterior and the interior are pretty much the same in color.
Solara is spacious enough for six persons. Five persons can sit on the regular seats while the sixth one can relax on the lounger. The lounger is large enough to fit the tallest of people. The back of the lounger is padded for additional comfort.
This hot tub has 50 two-toned jets of different sizes which are distributed all across the tub. These jets have two pumps of 4 horsepower. The hot tub operates at 240V, therefore you will require a separate connection.
What is remarkable about this spa is that it has 4KW stainless steel Balboa heaters. These heaters are efficient enough to warm the water even on the chilliest of nights. Instead of foam, this tub utilizes perimeter insulation. Unlike foam, perimeter insulation can keep the electronics like a heater and pump inside the insulation enveloped which increases their performance.
The user experience gets even better because pumps are super strong and they fire the jets powerfully. This provides a soothing and relaxing massage. But here’s the kicker, the powerful pumps can cause a significant increase in the electric bill. However, to avoid too much expense you can always run them at lower settings.
- Has a high number of jets for an effective message
- Perimeter insulation provides greater heat retention
- Efficient heating system
- A separate 240V connection is required
- Can cause a noticeable increase in the electric bill
3. Coleman Saluspa Inflatable Hot Tub – Best Budget Inflatable Hot Tub
The invention of TriTech technology has revolutionized the inflatable industry. This material essentially consists of a polyester core mesh that is sandwiched between two layers of laminated PVC. In inflatables, Tritech offers high strength and durability. This material is a popular material in mattresses, pillows, kayaks, and now hot tubs.
The best part of this material is its low price which consequently makes its products affordable for the common man. Coleman SaluSpa 4 person hot tub makes our list for being a cost-effective and durable option that uses the Tritech material. Being inflatable, this hot tub is slightly different than the traditional spas. It looks like a simple inflatable pool with a pump and a heater.
For starters, this spa does not feature any seats like the traditional hot tubs. You would need to either sit in the water completely immersed inside or you can sit on the walls of this spa. The walls despite being inflatable do not collapse even when five grownups sit on them. The temperature inside the tub expands the air which keeps it inflated. Air pad cushioned floor provides the comfort one needs in the tub.
When it comes to jets, this spa does not have high-pressure jets as some traditional spas may have. However, they are good enough and do the job. Saluspa has 114 air jets around the perimeter at the bottom and all of them work just fine. The bubbles are relaxing and offer a light-pressure massage. However, the problem with this system is that it draws air from the atmosphere. It does not cause a significant temperature change at first, but after an hour or two, it cools the water.
Additionally, to cover and insulate the upper surface it comes with an inflatable cover that can be locked to the walls. You would see just three to four degrees temperature drop after an hour of use. However, if the jets keep pushing the cold air inside the temperature might drop faster.
The reason behind it being energy efficient is that it operates at 110V and you can plug it into any household electric panel. However, the electric cost mainly depends on the temperature outside. Essentially, lower atmospheric temperature means more time to ramp up the temperature inside the pool and vice versa. Apart from auto hibernation that turns off the system after 36 hours of inactivity, there is no energy-saving mechanism.
Saluspa comes with two cartridge filters which are at the bottom of the walls. These filters do not have any groundbreaking feature but they get the job done. These filters would need replacement every two to three weeks if in regular use. In addition, there are chemical floaters to maintain the right pH in the water.
Setting up is not as easy and this is because the manual that comes with it is not very comprehensive. You would have to browse the internet to learn the right technique. The same pump that is used to create air bubbles inflates the tub. It usually takes about 30-40 minutes to set up at first, but as it gets handy it can be set in 20-30 minutes.
- Operates at 110V
- Does not cause much increase in the electric bill
- Air pad cushioned floor provides rigidity
- Inexpensive
- The instruction manual is unclear
- No energy saving mechanism
4. Intex 77-Inch Purespa – A Portable Hot Tub with Best Filtration System
If you have to move between cities often, a traditional in-ground hot tub would not be the best option. This is because, you have guessed it right, high setup cost and being difficult to move.
However, this would not be a problem if you are using an inflatable hot tub. These spas can deflate and be packed into a compact little box. This allows you to take them with you to different destinations than selling. Intex 77-in Purespa is one such incredible inflatable hot tubs.
It comes in an aesthetic brown color and has the capacity to hold 210 gallons of water. This inflatable hot tub is spacious enough for four people. Moreover, there is plenty of leg space even when four tall people sit in it.
Unlike traditional solid hot tubs, there is no specific seating area which may be a preference for some people. However, the floor being air-cushioned is quite rigid and provides just the right amount of comfort. In addition, the walls with adequate air can support four people without collapsing.
The heating system has the capability to heat the water up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit but to reach this temperature takes some time. It heats at the rate of 2 to 3 degrees per hour. You would need to turn it on almost 20 hours before you get in. However, once at optimum temperature, it does not drop that fast.
For a bubble massage, this hot tub uses 120 bubble jets that are powered by the pump outside the tub. Let me break it to you, these bubble jets are not as powerful as standard air jets. However, together with the heat, these bubbles provide a light massage that is enough to relieve your aching muscles.
One thing I love about this inflatable hot tub is its filtration system. This system essentially has the ability to break down the residues of lotion, shampoos, and other such chemicals. This keeps the water soft and if you take a dip in it, it would not dry the skin and tangle your hair.
Unlike some inflatable tubs, it is easy to set up. It comes with a comprehensive manual with clear instructions and illustrations. It takes almost 20 minutes to set up and all you have to do is to fill water and start the heater.
Its user-friendliness becomes even better as it comes with a 25 feet long cord. Moreover, it operates at 110V and this makes its operation cost-effective. Even if you run it for an entire month, it would not cause a drastic increase in your electric bill.
- Effective filtration system
- Can be set up indoors
- No separate 220 V connection is required
- Comes with a 25 feet long cord
- Comes with a clear instruction manual
- Has hard water treatment system
- Doesn’t retain temperature when jets are running
- Takes time to heat up to 104 Degrees
5. SaluSpa Miami AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub – Control the Heater with a Built-in Timer
Hot water massage in a spa with a partner is all one really needs to release all the tension and stress of the day. However, some budget and space limitations can stop us from having this amazing experiencing. Fortunately, Bestway has provided the solution to this problem by producing a compact and low-budget spa.
Saluspa Miami is an inflatable hot tub that is compact enough to be set in the living room and comes at an affordable price. Despite being compact, this hot tub can accommodate two adults and two kids in it. This is the best hot tub for a family with younger kids.
Saluspa Miami has an I-beam construction and uses Tritech technology. This provides extra strength and allows you to sit on its wall without buckling. Additionally, this material is puncture resistant which makes it even more durable
Talking about its efficiency, it has a heating system that can heat the water to 104 degrees in 18 hours. However, you can further reduce this time if you run a hose from the house hot water. The air in the tub act as insulation and this increases heat retention. It additionally comes with an inflatable cover to insulate the upper surface of the hot tub. This cover gives it the ability to retain the heat even on the coldest nights if properly locked. However, under continuous use, the temperature will drop 2 to 4 degrees in half an hour depending on the weather.
Saluspa Miami has 81 air jets which are more than enough for the spa of its size. These jets use standard heating and pumping unit. One of the benefits of fewer jets is that they are more powerful. This is because the pump has to push air into fewer jets and it fires them powerfully. A combination of heat and powerful jets provides an efficient massage that releases muscle tension and stress.
If an increase in the electric bill is a concern for you that stops you from investing in hot tubs. You will be glad to know that this hot tub operates at 110V. Therefore, although it may be slow to heat up, because of low operating voltages it keeps the electric bill in check.
- Comes with a built-in timer
- Less number of jets provide a powerful massage
- Works at low voltage
- Does cause any significant increase in the electric bill
- The heating system is rapid compared to other inflatable hot tubs.
- The filtration system is not efficient
- The ground cover pad is not included
6. Essential Hot Tubs 14 Jets Newport – 4 Person Hot Tub with Lounger
There are a few spas you can use around the year and usually they come at a relatively higher price. However, Essential Hot Tubs have started manufacturing such hot tubs at much lower prices. These hot tubs cannot compete with high-end spas, but the basic features are enough to meet the regular needs.
Newport is a rectangular hot tub that comes in two different colors. These colors are millstone and grey granite. These are constructed with plastic that has been made by epoxy resins. Unlike regular plastic, this offers superior strength and durability. In addition, this hot tub comes in dark colors and this also enhances its heat retention.
Newport has a seating capacity of four people. Regular seats can accommodate 3 grownups and the fourth individual can relax on the lounger. There is enough leg space for all the individuals sitting inside. Seating capacity is enough for a little family and for couples who want to invite friends over.
There are just 14 jets and use a pump of 1.5 horsepower. The pump to jets ratio is not optimum. There are fewer jets that are powered by a powerful pump that fires them powerfully. Some people might like this feature, but such powerful jets can be annoying to others.
However, there is always an option to run them at a lower setting. The fewer number of jets does not cover the entire body and thus do not provide effective full body massage. However, the one sitting at the lounger would be a benefit since most of the jets are installed there.
In addition, this spa uses a 1kW/4kW Balboa stainless heater which can warm up water in every season. The maximum temperature it can reach is 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The heater is efficient enough to reach this temperature even in winters. However, it might take more time in winters to get there.
For sanitary purposes, there is a standard filtration unit that keeps the water clean, however, it lacks an ozone generator. However, you can get a separate ozone generator and install it in this tub to keep the water fresh. This installation would not void the warranty of the product.
- Inexpensive
- Efficient heating system
- Jets are powerful
- Fewer numbers of jets
- Jets are not evenly distributed
7. SaluSpa Palm Springs Inflatable Hot Tub – Best Inflatable Spa for a Big Family
Bestway is a UK based company that was founded back in the 1970s. They have produced some of the finest pools, airbeds, and hot tubs ever since. Saluspa is their series of inflatable hot tubs and this series has a lot of variety to offer. Palm Spring is the product of the same series which is best for a bigger family or a group of friends.
It essentially is a 6-person inflatable hot tub. However, it makes our list because it comes at around the same price as a 4 person hot tub, so who does not like a bit more space if you do not have to pay for it.
If you have been paying attention you would know that invariably all the inflatable hot tubs share almost the same construction. There are usually no seats and they have a Tritech construction which essentially has three layers of plastic.
The heating system of Palm Springs is just fine. It can heat up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit at a rate of 2 to 3 degrees per hour. The time required to reach the desired temperature largely depends on the atmospheric temperature and water temperature. If you are filling it with cold water it will definitely take more time to warm up. However, if you run a hose from house hot water to fill in the tub it will warm up rapidly.
Just like every other inflatable spa, the same air which expands the tub serves as an insulator. The cover that comes with it is also inflatable and lockable. In addition, to keep the unwanted guests out, it also insulates the tub from the surface.
The massage system that is installed in Palm Springs provides an excellent full-body massage. The jets are at the bottom perimeter and they push the air inside. This produces bubbles that provide a relaxing massage and relieve all the muscle aches.
If you are wondering about setting it up, although setting up is quite easy, it takes some time. It essentially a unit that works to both heat and pumps the tub. The easy set up allows you to set this tub inside the house or apartment. This also allows you to use the hot tub even in winter when it does not work properly outside.
- Easy setup
- Heats up rapidly as compared to other inflatable spas
- Comes with a chemical floater
- The cover provides effective insulation
- Space is congested for 6 grown-ups contrary to the company claim
- Bubbles can cool down the water
8. Essential Hot Tubs 11 Integrity- Best Budget Hard Hot Tub
As mentioned before, Essential Hot Tubs are one of the leading manufacturers of spas and they have a lot of variety to offer. They developed the Integrity for a group of people, it has the capacity to fit six grown-ups.
When it comes to construction, this tub uses the same material as does the Newport series from Essential. It essentially uses plastic made from epoxy resins. However, the design is a little different. Unlike Newport, there is no longer. All six people would have to sit in the regular seats. However, all the seats have back support, so you can sit on them for a long time without getting tired.
When it comes to heating efficiency, this hot tub has 1kW/4kW Balboa stainless steel heater. Its efficiency is such that it can warm the water up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit even on the chilliest night. The heating rate is 2-3 degrees per hour depending on the atmospheric temperature.
There are 11 air jets that have an even distribution across the walls of the tub. These jets use the power of a 1.5 horsepower pump. The fewer number of jets allows the pump to fire harder which is good at relieving muscle spasm. However, the hard throw can be annoying, so an option to lower that down is there. Although the jets have an even distribution, they are not enough for a full body massage.
For insulation, it uses foam spray which is effective in retaining the warmth. However, the cover is not thick enough to insulate the tub from above. This shortcoming is a common thing in all Essential Hot Tubs. The only reason I can find behind it is to cut the cost.
Moving on, this hot tub operates at the standard 110V line and comes with a long enough cord that you can plug in the nearest panel. However, always make sure there is no other heavy-duty electronic operating through the same panel. This decreases the number of amperes for each electronic and both might not work properly.
Moreover, this spa comes with a standard filtration system. It keeps the water clean, but not as fresh as some of the high-end spas. However, there is always an option to install an ozone generator into the tub separately. For chemical neutralization, it comes with a floater in which you need to insert a chlorine tablet. This keeps the pH of water in check.
- Plug and Play Spa
- Comes at an affordable price
- Capacious enough to accommodate up to six people
- Retains heat because of the foam insulation
- The number of jets is not enough to provide effective full body massage
- Powerful jets can be annoying for some people
- The top cover is not thick enough for proper insulation
9. Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub – Affordable Spa with High Strength and Durability
Coleman is an American-based company that is famous for its camping gear. Recently, they have shown interest in recreational products, especially inflatable hot tubs. Just like the camping gear, their spas promise quality at an affordable price. Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub is one such product.
When it comes to construction, this hot tub uses TriTech technology with sturdy I-beam construction. This adds rigidity and strength. The material is puncture resistant and offers high strength and durability. Moreover, this comes in two colors; black and green.
If you are expecting some friends over or have a big family, you will be glad to know that this spa can accommodate four to six people. There is a lot of room for leg space for people but it can get a little bit cramped when 6 people are using it. However, it still is spacious enough for a larger family or a group of friends.
Just like most of the inflatable spas, there are no seats but the air pad cushioned floor provides the needed comfort. You can also sit on the walls of the tub without them buckling or collapsing. In addition, the hot water keeps the air in the tub expanded which offers further support.
Besides keeping the spa rigid, the air inside the tub also acts as an insulator. It acts as a barrier between internal temperature and atmospheric temperature. Moreover, there is a top inflatable cover that provides insulation from above. This also keeps the dirt and animals out. Insulation is effective and retains the warmth and the temperature does not drop more than 2 degrees in half an hour.
When the pump pushes the surrounding air inside the tub, it creates bubbles. This hot tub essentially provides a light relaxing massage that can help relieve muscle sores. However, if the bubbles run for a long time they cool down the water.
For filtration, it comes with standard two cartridge filters. These filters basically clear the waters from small debris and hair. It gets even better because, for the treatment of chemicals, it comes with floaters which use chlorine tablet. These floaters maintain the optimum pH.
- Bubbles provide relaxing light massage
- Efficient filtration system
- The walls are firm enough to support six people sitting on them.
- Durable product at an affordable price
- The heating rate is too slow
- Automatically shuts down after 72 hours
10. Essential Hot Tubs Syracuse Sterling – High-End Spa for Casual Parties
The modern-day hot tubs have a lot of features to make the experience even better and luxurious. Different companies are producing a variety of feature-rich tubs. Some of them have LEDs while others have a music system. Syracuse is one of such luxurious high-end spas that have all the features you need for a casual party.
Syracuse is a high-end rectangular spa that uses an acrylic shell for its construction. This material is strong, durable, and comfortable to sit in. In addition, it has a unique property to retain the heat which is best for hot tubs. Syracuse comes in two aesthetic colors and both of them are dark which enhances the heat retention capability of the tub.
Syracuse Sterling has the capacity to fit in six people. There are five regular seats and one lounger. The lounger is comfortable and is large enough to fit even the tallest of people. The seating is comfortable and spacious enough to provide room for leg space. All six people can sit without tangling their legs.
The combination of jets and heat provides a therapeutic massage that can help relieve sore muscles and stress. These jets use two strong pumps of 4 horsepower. These pumps fire the jets powerfully but not annoyingly powerful. However, if you do find it more powerful you can always adjust it to lower settings.
Want to know the best part? being a high-end spa, it has an excellent sanitary system. It has regular filters that clean the water. In addition to that, it has an ozone generator that keeps the water fresh by preventing the growth of microorganisms. To keep the pH of water, you can add bromine and chlorine tablets.
For insulation, it has foam in the walls which prevents heat dissipation. In addition, it comes with a heavy-duty cover that provides effective insulation from above.
It is an expensive hot tub and it requires a separate 240V line which will increase the total cost even more. As it operates at 240V connection it draws more electricity and can cause a significant increase in the electric bill. However, this can be minimized by regulating it to lower settings.
- Built-in music system
- Heats up rapidly
- Comes with an ozone generator which keeps water fresh
- Powerful jets and pump
- A separate connection of 240V is required
- Increases the bill significantly
11. Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii – Best Inflatable Outdoor Spa
SaluSpa Hawaii is made of Bestway’s 3-ply reinforced Tritech material. This material is super sturdy because of its internal I-beam construction. This construction has a girder and beam structures which are common in the construction industry. This material in addition to being super strong is puncture resistant and highly durable.
Although the company claims that it can accommodate up to six people, there is not enough leg space. However, it can easily accommodate four grown-ups and a couple of kids.
As with most inflatables, the heating system is not very efficient. It basically heats at a mediocre rate of 1 degree per hour. However, it comes with a timer that allows you to set the time when you want to turn on the heating system. If you set the right time you would have a tub of hot water waiting for you or the other way around.
If you are wondering about jets, it has 114 powerful air jets. These jets use the power of heating and control units. The pump pushes the surrounding air into the tub which creates the bubbles. These bubbles, in turn, provide effective full body massage, relieves sore muscles, and increase blood circulation.
Being an inexpensive spa, it features a standard filtration system. However, it gets the job done, filters clear the water from the small debris and hair. To maintain the pH, you can add chemicals like chlorine or bromine. To avoid microbial growth, there is always an option to install an ozone generator.
If you are wondering about its setup, the manual comes with simple instructions and clear illustrations. Therefore, setting it up is a breeze and takes only about 10-15 minutes.
- The articulate and simple manual makes set up easy
- Runs heating and bubbles system simultaneously
- Comes at an affordable price
- I-beam construction allows you to sit on walls without buckling or collapsing
- No drain tube so water will drain out on the floor
- Takes forever to reach maximum temperature
12. Essential Hot Tubs Arbor – Durability meets Affordability
Believe me, it is not a paid review by Essential Hot Tubs. They produce such quality at an affordable price that it is hard to look beyond them when it comes to durability and affordability. Arbor is also one of their trademark hot tubs. It basically is a circular-shaped solid hot tub that has a plastic construction with granite resins. Although the design does not feature any lounger or captain’s seat, it has the capacity to accommodate up to five people.
When it comes to heating efficiency, this tub has a 1kW/4kW stainless steel Balboa heater. This heater is essentially capable enough to heat the water in all seasons. However, the insulation is not as efficient because even in moderately cold weather it loses heat quickly. I have noticed it dropped 3 degrees in 20 minutes even when the outside temperature was just 55 degrees.
The massage system comprises just 20 jets which do not sound enough but believe me they are very capable. These jets use the power of one pump of 1.5 horsepower. Basically, when you have a powerful pump that fires fewer jets, it makes the jets even more potent. These powerful jets provide a soothing hard water massage and can relieve muscle stress.
For insulation, it uses foam, but it is not a very effective one. It loses heat quickly, however you can add a layer of the blanket to its side. Although it does not look good, believe me, it solves the problem.
This tub basically runs at 110V and is a plug and play hot tub. However, some of my friends have tried running it on a 240V connection. They observed better heating efficiency and less run time and thus a decrease in the electric bill. It can cost some money at first, but in the long run, it is a good investment.
- Fewer but powerful jets
- Heaters work well in every season
- Comes at a reasonable price
- Plug and play hot tub
- Does not have good heat retention
- Locks do not fit in the groves
13. Lifesmart Rock Solid Simplicity Four-Person Hot Tub – A Plug and Play Hard-Shell Hot Tub
Rock Solid Simplicity is a square hot tub that has eco-thermal plastic construction. It basically is a heat-resistant polymer that does not crack or mold even in extreme heat. This essentially is a better material you can hope for any product that has to retain heat like hot tubs.
Besides a good construction material, this spa also has an efficient heating system. You can basically expect it to warm the water up to 104 degrees in almost 24 hours. It even gets better as it comes with a freeze control feature. This feature essentially keeps the water warm even in freezing conditions.
Furthermore, to retain the heat, it has insulation with foam which is effective enough. To further enhance retention, it has a thick top cover. You can lock it to the sides of the cabinets. In addition to insulation, this cover also acts as a safety measure and keeps insects and rodents away.
When it comes to comfort and usefulness, Rock Solid Simplicity has 13 high-therapy adjustable jets. These jets have even distribution in all four seats. These jets use the power of a 1.5 horsepower pump. As the pump has to pump into a fewer number of jets it fires them powerfully. This, in turn, provides a soothing massage that can help your backache.
In addition to standard filters, for sanitary purposes, it has an ozone generator. The standard filters keep the water clean and clear off the small debris. The ozone generator, on the other hand, avoids any microbial growth and this keeps the water fresh. However, it does not come with proper instructions about the maintenance of the ozone generator.
It gets even better as it comes with a vibrant LED and a waterfall. This makes the design stylish and creates a romantic aura for you and your partner to spend the evening in.
What’s the bottom line? although you can have tubs with higher seating capacity at the same price as this tub, such hot tubs would invariably lack sturdy construction and features like ozone generator as this tub has. Lifesmart hot tub has a price of around $2200 which considering its construction and features is quite reasonable.
- Plug and play
- Ozone generator to avoid microbial growth
- Vibrant LED light and waterfall
- Powerful pump for fewer jets
- Does not cause much increase in the electric bill
- The display panel is virtually illegible in daylight
14. Essential Hot Tubs 100 Jets Calypso – A Feature-Rich High-End Spa
Essential’s Calypso is a high-end spa that is square in shape and comes in grey and brown colors. Acrylic is used in the construction of a shell which is a strong material and has unique heat retention properties. This tub has the capacity to accommodate up to seven people and has one full lounger. The tub is spacious and provides enough room for the leg space of all seven people.
Calypso’s heating system is essentially efficient for around-the-year use. It heats up rapidly and does not get less efficient even on cold nights of winter. The cabinet has good insulation to retain the heat and it works well. In addition, it comes with a thick top cover that provides safety and insulates the tub from above. A combination of foam insulation and thick cover provides effective insulation and does not allow the temperature to fall rapidly.
What makes this hot tub catchy is its features like LED light, waterfall, and music system. You can adjust these features according to the mood. The music system comprises subwoofers and speakers that you can connect with Bluetooth. The right music and setting of these add-ons can make the experience even more luxurious.
In addition, these features serve as essentials if you throw a little hot tub party to your friends. It also comes with steps that make going in and coming out of the tub a lot easier.
- Equipped with music system, multi-color LED light, waterfall, and cup holder
- Powerful pumps for 100 jets provide the perfect massage
- Useful throughout the year
- Construction material and foam insulation retain the heat well
- You would need a separate 240V
- One could ask for hard water treatment feature in this price
15. Goplus 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub – Best portable Indoor Hot Tub
Most of the inflatables do not work well in hard winters and water in them freezes. These tubs can be taken indoors to avoid this problem, but not all of them are constructed for indoor use. Those that are built for indoor doesn’t have enough capacity.
GoPlus provides a solution to these problems. It comes in two different sizes, one can fit four people and the other one can fit up to six people. In both of these models, there is enough room for leg space for all the individuals sitting inside. However, if all the sitting individuals are tall and big in size then space might get a little cramped. You can use both of these models indoors in case the temperature drops below zero.
The GoPlus inflatable hot tub has a smooth material that is comfortable and is durable. Design-wise, it offers a variety and comes in four different colors and designs. All of the colors and design are elegant, but the choice depends on your personal choice.
The heating system at best is moderate. It heats up to 104 degrees which is the maximum legal temperature but takes time to get there. You would require almost an entire day to reach maximum temperature. However, once it gets there, the insulation does not let it fall rapidly. It basically comes with an inflatable cover to insulate the surface and has an insulated ground cloth.
Just like all the inflatable, bubbles do the massage. These bubbles are formed when the pump pushes the surrounding air into the air jets. They push the air with a lot of pressure which creates high-pressure bubbles and provide a real jet-like experience. The massage system is essentially better than most of the other inflatable hot tubs.
Goplus comes with a standard filtration system that cleans. The problem with these filters is that they can clog too often even with proper chemicals. It also comes with a hard water treatment system. This makes the water gentler on the skin and provides a soothing experience. This feature is not something that every other inflatable has so it is quite an addition.
What makes it, even more, budget-friendly is the fact that it operates at 110V. The benefit of low operating voltage is that it does not require a separate 240V connection which adds to the final cost.
This spa comes with a clear and articulate instruction manual. Setting up is easy and takes just a few minutes. Basically, you do not require any professional tools to install this tub. In addition, it comes with handles which makes its transport easy.
- Comes with a hard water treatment system
- Insulated ground cloth
- Effective insulation by an inflatable cover
- Handles make transport easy
- Suitable for indoor use
- The filters can clog too often.
A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide for Hot Tubs/Spas in 2021
A lot of thought should go into it when you decide to buy a hot tub. These things cost a lot of money and those which are inexpensive come with some compromised features. It would be a total disappointment if despite spending such a high price you do not get the desired results. Therefore, it is essential to pour a lot of time and thought before making a purchase.
In this section, we will discuss some of the key points that you can consider before going for any hot tub/spa. This guide will help you in the process of making a decision and would help narrow down your options.
Budget - First and Foremost point
Hot tubs come in a wide price range starting from less than $500 to even up to $15,000. The more money you spend, the better features you get and vice versa. Budget is the first thing you need to decide because it will decide the type of category you should look into. On the lower end of the price range come inflatables with basic features. However, on the higher end are the hard-shell spas which offer more advanced features.
In addition to the initial price, you also need to take into consideration the operational cost. You would definitely not want to have a tub you would need to shut down often because of its high operational cost. Some people purchase solid hot spas that come at low prices without considering their electric consumption.
In general, spas that operate at 110 v have lesser electric consumption than those operating at 240 V. Therefore, consider your initial budget and the operational cost whenever going for a hot tub.
Type and Number of Jets - Higher Number Doesn’t Mean Better Massage
In general, there are two types of jets, air jets, and water jets. These two types have different working mechanisms. Air jets work by pushing the air into the jets and create bubbles that provide massage. On the other hand, water jets push the hot water of the tub through their nozzles to create a stream of water.
Water jets are generally more powerful than air jets. However, they are only present in solid hot tubs which come at higher prices. Air jets are usually used as massage system in low-end models like inflatables.
In addition to the type of jets, you also need to consider the number of jets. However, what is more, important is the power of the pump that operates these jets. The models that have high numbers of water jets but low power pumps are not as efficient. Look for pumps that provide at least 1 horsepower.
Heating System - Should be Rapid and Efficient
The heating system is also one of the important factors to consider in hot tubs. It should be efficient enough to reach maximum temperature rapidly.
The solid tubs generally have comparatively better heating systems than inflatables. They heat up the water rapidly and retain the heat really well. Inflatables, on the other hand, can reach as high temperature as solid hot tubs, they take a lot more time.
An average solid hot tub takes about 10 hours to reach 104 degrees while the inflatable takes around 24 hours to get there.
Filtration and Sanitary System - An Essential Feature to Consider
Filtration and sanitary system are in hot tubs to keep the water fresh and clean. Almost all the hot tubs feature a certain level of these systems. However, in the high-end models, this system is more efficient and reliable.
Most hot tubs/spas have filters. These filters clean the water from the dust, debris, and other stuff that makes the water cloudy. However, these filters can clog and need regular rinsing or replacement.
Furthermore, to maintain the pH of water in check, certain chemicals like chlorine and bromine are added. These chemicals are available in the form of tablets which you can insert in floaters that come with hot tubs.
The high-end models in addition to a basic filtration system have an ozone generator that prevents any microbial growth. This, in turn, keeps the water fresh and you would not need to change the water too often.
Capacity - Estimate Your Needs and Make a Better Choice
Hot tubs come in all shapes and sizes. Some are large enough to fit a large group of people while some are good for a single person. However, because you can increase a specific hot tub’s seating capacity, consider this factor carefully.
This factor even gets complicated when you intend to have people of different shapes and sizes. Never believe what the company says about the capacity of a hot tub. Always pay attention to the dimension of the tub.
Additional Features - Get the Right Combination
Some of the high-end spas have exciting additional features like music, LED Lights, and a waterfall. If you have the budget for a high-end spa make sure you check for these features. These are the feature one can live without, but having them in your spa can make the experience more luxurious. These features serve as essential when throwing a party for your friends or want to spend a romantic evening with your partner.
FAQs About 4 Person Hot Tubs
Conclusion
Hot tubs/spas come in a lot of shapes and sizes. They also come in a huge price range ranging from a few hundred dollars all the way up to 5-figure options. It is the inflatables that are at the lower end of the price range and hard-shell feature-rich spas that hold the highest price tags.
We have included a whole range of inflatable and hard-shell spas. Hopefully, they will help you find the perfect spa for your needs. If you need any further information about any aspect, do comment below and we would love to respond.
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