Finding a hot tub can be difficult.
There seems to be only one-sided information from manufacturers and hardly any websites devoted to helping you find your perfect spa.
If you rent, live in a small space, or must comply to strict HOA rules, a 110 Volt or 115 Volt hot tub may be your only choice.
These spas plug directly into your home's power outlet and do not require an electrician to install any additional electrical equipment.
But what are the pros and cons of these particular hot tubs? Pros 1) No Electrical Installation - You can easily save $300 to $1,200 by not installing the electrics that 220V hot tubs require, saving in your initial cost.
2) Home Situation - If you are renting your home, have limited space, or have strict HOA limitations, a spa that plugs into your home's outlet may be your only choice.
3) Great for Mild Climates - If your winter temperatures don't reach 20-degrees or lower, the 110V hot tub will be able to keep its heat.
4) Great for Short Soaks - The average time people spend in a hot tub is around 20 to 30 minutes; if you fit into this category the hot tub will be able to keep its heat for the duration of your enjoyment.
Since most 110V-115V spas turn off the heater when the jets are in use, depending on ambient temperature the water keeps its heat for about an hour or two.
5) Plug and Play - No electrical installation, usually there is no need for a contractor (unless you need a deck or proper foundation), and simply fill the spa with a hose.
You can plug these spas into your home's standard 110V-115V outlet so even indoor use is a viable option.
6) Small Hot Tubs - These types of hot tubs are generally smaller, and perfect for single user or couple that just wants hydrotherapy relaxation.
Do you live in a townhome, condo, or have limited space restrictions? A small spa may be your answer.
Cons 1) Slow to Heat - It generally takes twice as long for the smaller heater to heat 2) Not Best in Cold Climates - Since the spa doesn't heat as quickly and most of these spas shut off the heater when the jets are in use, these tubs are best when used in mild climates.
3) Jets In Use, Heater Turns Off - Because the spa can only draw in so much energy at one time, most of these models are built to shut off the heater when the jets are in use.
If you enjoy your hot tub during mild weather, this isn't a big deal, however if the weather is 20 degrees or lower, you may find that the water cools quickly.
4) Not Energy Efficient - Although this is a subject for debate, most 110V-115V spas are not as energy efficient as their 220V counterparts.
This is because the heater works quicker in a 220V and allows the tub to stay in "stasis" longer, while the heater in the 110V-115V spa works twice as long to get the same temperature.
However, the debate is that 220V uses more energy to heat in that short amount of time while 110V uses that same amount of electricity over a longer time period.
By this theory they take the same amount of electricity, however, in practical use tests the 110V-115V is not as energy efficient as the 220V.
To combat this issue, add "Energy Savings" options onto the spa, including an upgraded cover, insulation blanket, and full foam insulation.
5) Jets are Not as Powerful - Although there are some exceptions to this rule, most 110V-115V spas are not nearly as powerful as their 220V counterparts.
This is because there is not enough electricity drawn to run multiple pumps, making most spas only available with one small pump.
If hydrotherapy healing is not your main concern, this isn't a huge deal as the jets still massage, just not as well.