Understanding how your inflatable hot tub works ensures that you can react swiftly if something doesn’t work properly. It also allows you to make the most out of your hot tub experience. This blog will help you enjoy your hot tub and be ready for any potential issues.
What Is an Inflatable Hot Tub, Really?
An inflatable hot tub is a portable hot tub made of reinforced PVC or laminated materials, unlike traditional hot tubs that are made from rigid acrylic materials.
The main advantage of inflatable hot tubs is that they can deliver warm water, bubbles, and relaxation without the permanent installation of a traditional hot tub. And despite their lightweight structure, they have advanced systems for heating, filtration, and air jets.
Overall, inflatable hot tubs have three essential functions: heating water, circulating it through filters, and producing bubbles or jets for massage. You can control these functions through a compact digital control unit that connects to the tub.
Parts of an Inflatable Hot Tub
There are numerous inflatable hot tub brands and models, but despite some surface-level differences, every inflatable hot tub has the same essential parts: a wall and a base, an external pump unit, and a control panel.
Inflatable Hot Tub Walls and a Base.
The inflatable walls provide shape and insulation, while the base offers stability and comfort. The air chambers inside the walls also provide a layer of insulation while keeping the hot tub inflated.
An External Pump Unit.
Apart from the water pump, the pump unit also contains other essential components, such as a heater, an air blower, and a filtration mechanism. The pump unit is connected to the tub via several hoses.
A Control Panel.
Every inflatable hot tub has a control panel, and it is used to adjust temperature, activate bubbles, and monitor system functions.
How Inflatable Hot Tubs Heat Water
Most inflatable hot tubs heat water gradually. They raise the temperature by one to two degrees Celsius per hour. This slower heating process helps prevent excessive energy consumption and protects the internal components from overheating.
- The pump unit contains an electric heating element that warms water as it circulates through the system.
- Cold water from the tub is drawn into the pump, heated, and then returned to the tub in a continuous cycle.
- This is a slow but steady process. It might not be perfect if you want immediate results, but if you can wait, it’s perfect.
How the Jets Work (And Why They Feel Different)
Inflatable hot tubs usually have air-based bubble systems instead of high-pressure water jets.
- An air blower inside the pump unit pushes air through small holes around the tub’s interior.
- When air enters the water, it creates streams of bubbles that rise to the surface, producing a gentle massaging sensation.
- As a result, you get a slightly different feeling than you would with a traditional hot tub. It’s perfect for gentle relaxation.
However, if you want a more intense feeling, there are inflatable hot tubs with real jets, so make sure to look for them instead!
How Filtration and Water Circulation Work
Filtration and circulation continuously pump water through a filter that removes dirt and impurities, and then return it to the tub.
- This process often runs automatically, while chemicals like chlorine or bromine help kill bacteria and prevent algae.
- Regular filter maintenance ensures the system works efficiently and maintains water quality.
How Inflatable Hot Tubs Maintain Temperature
As we already mentioned, building up and maintaining temperature in inflatable hot tubs is a slower and harder process than with traditional hot tubs. The heat can escape through the water surface, walls, and surrounding air.
Still, inflatable hot tubs maintain temperature thanks to insulated covers, thermal layers, and automatic heating systems. Also, another thing that can reduce heat loss is to use the cover regularly, whenever you aren’t using the hot tub.
How Inflatable Hot Tubs Are Set Up and Inflated
Setting up an inflatable hot tub is easier than you might think. Just follow these steps:
Place the tub on a flat, stable surface, ideally with a protective ground mat underneath.
- Use the air pump to inflate the hot tub.
- Fill the tub with water, and connect the hot tub to a power source.
- Use the control panel to start heating, activate filtration, and test the bubble system.
- Wait for a few hours until the water reaches the desired temperature.
As you can see, setting up and inflating your hot tub is quite an easy and straightforward process. Most inflatable hot tubs come with electric pumps, and all you need to do is press some buttons and be patient.
Affordable Inflatable Hot Tubs from Co-Z
If you still haven’t bought your inflatable hot tub, here are some of our top recommendations:
CO-Z 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub with Cover
This inflatable hot tub can heat up to 104°F, and can fit 2-4 adults. It also comes with 120 powerful bubble jets and a powerful electric air pump, and it is made from a durable, puncture-resistant PVC.
This square mini pool includes everything you need for a true-to-spa experience: an intuitive control panel for easy operation, a detachable locking cover to keep your tub clean between uses, 2 fresh filter cartridges to keep the water fresh, and a sturdy valve for fast drainage.
CO-Z Inflatable Hot Tub for 4-6 Persons and 130 Bubble Jets
If you need a bigger hot tub, take a closer look at this Inflatable Hot Tub for 4-6 Persons, which has 130 powerful jets, a steady heating rate, and a spacious, puncture-resistant design that comfortably fits 4–6 adults.
This portable hot tub assembles easily thanks to the clear instructions; its side handles make it a breeze to transport once inflated. The spa should not be set up or left out in temperatures lower than 4℃(40℉).
Conclusion
Inflatable hot tubs are a perfect solution for people who don’t have enough space or money, as well as for people who need the convenience of portable hot tubs. However, not many people know how inflatable hot tubs work.
All that’s left fr you to do is to buy and install your hot tub, and enjoy your first bath! Learn how remove stains from an inflatable hot tub, and explore more tips for using your bath tub.
