If you’re considering adding a hot tub to your backyard, you’re not alone. People all over the country are realizing how much cheaper and more convenient inflatable hot tubs are to set up, and that they are functional, durable alternatives to traditional (fixed) hot tubs. One of the most well-advertised advantages of these spas is that they are easy to install. So how easy is it to set up a portable hot tub?
The Basic Idea Behind Portable Hot Tubs
Portable hot tubs are more than just a glorified kiddie pool with bubbles. The walls are usually reinforced, and the material used may even be puncture resistant. The tub can be inflated using an air compressor or any type of air pump (check your inflatable hot tub instructions for specific recommendations by the manufacturer). They have water jets that can be found at the bottom of the tub, giving you a full-body massage that feels invigorating. There is usually a separate unit attached to the main tub that houses the heating system, water pump, and water filters. This system is the essence of what makes an inflatable hot tub work – and without it, the tub won’t function properly.
A General Guide To Inflating Your Hot Tub
Inflating a hot tub isn’t that difficult, and in fact, more attention should be placed on where you intend to put your hot tub when it is inflated and filled. It should be a level area that can withstand the weight of the water (filled hot tubs are very heavy), and should be somewhere with a windbreak like a fence or a wall (to avoid quickly cooling down the water by evaporation).
Ideally, you should inflate your tub in an open area – this will allow you to move around more freely. An inflated hot tub is still lightweight, but a second pair of hands is recommended to carry the motor unit. Be careful not to overinflate your hot tub, because this will put increased pressure on the seams and cause it to leak; effectively damaging the unit. The tub walls should be inflated but not so rigid that you can’t press into them. Many models have an air pump function that allows you to inflate the tub using the motor unit. If not, you will need to use an air compressor or tire inflator. This is very similar to pumping air into any inflated item, or even like inflating your car tires.
All in all, inflating your hot tub doesn’t take much work. In fact, setting it up – from finding the right spot, to inflation it, filling it, to adding the appropriate sanitizing and pH balancing chemicals – everything is simple enough for the average homeowner to handle. Many people even delegate the entire process to any teenage kids they may have in the home (or the neighbors kid). Once inflated, you can will the tub with water but make sure not to go past the maximum fill line – and that’s it.
