A spa is a great way to relax after a long, tiring day. However, how do you know which spa is right for you? In this article, we talk about the pros and cons of plug n play spas and hard wired spas to make your choice easier.
What Is A Hard Wired Spa?
This type of spa is a hot tub which runs on 240v and is equipped with 2 or 3 pumps. It is also known as a 240v spa. It is equipped with features such as a built in audio system, mood lighting options, and more. Before use, an electrician has to get it wired and set up the right electrical source for it.
What Is A Plug n Play Spa?
There are two different plug and play spas. A hard side plug n play spa and a soft side plug and play spa. These two are pretty much the same just with different exteriors. They also work the same way by using 120v to help them run so, they are also known as 120v spas. Unlike a hard wired tub, the plug and play variety doesn’t need to be installed by an electrician. All you need to do is plug it into an electrical outlet and you’re good to go.
Plug n Play Spa — Pros
Below, we have listed the pros and cons of this type of tub…
More Affordable
Since these spa types are usually smaller and not equipped with as many features as a 240v spa, they are more affordable. If you aren’t looking to spend so much money on a spa, this is a more affordable choice.
Easier To Set Up
Like we said before, all you need to do to use a plug and play spa is plug it into an electrical outlet. While calling an electrician to install a 240v spa is necessary, a plug and play tub doesn’t need any installation. This means you can use it sooner than you would a wired tub.
Portable
While people may say 240v tubs are portable, they aren’t really. If you make a decision to change the layout of your backyard, it will be difficult to move it. But, since 120v spas are smaller and lighter, they are a lot easier to move.
Plug n Play Spas — Cons
Below are the downsides of 120v tubs…
Longer Heating Time
While you will save money by getting this type of tub, it takes a long time to heat to the right temperature. Additionally, if you stay in it for a long time, the temperature of the water will drop.
Fewer Features To Choose From
Most 120v spas don’t have as many features as other types. So, your spa may not have an audio system, mood lighting options, and a few other features.
Lower Jet Power
Since 120v tubs don’t use so much power, they are only equipped with a single pump. Because of this, the jet power won’t be as much as that of hard wired tubs. This means you won’t get as much of a massage from it. You can click here to learn more about hot tub jets.
Hard Wired Spas — Pros
Below, we have listed the pros of hard wired spas.
Takes A Short Time To Heat
While 120v tubs can take from 18-24 hours to heat up, hard wired tubs will take 6-8 hours. This is so much better if you don’t want to wait for a long time. It also retains heat longer than 120v tubs.
More Available Features
240v spas are equipped with more features than 120v spas. This makes it a lot better for entertaining guests.
High Jet Power
Since hard wired tubs use 2 or 3 pumps, the jet power is much higher than that of a 120v hot tub. This will give you a much more soothing massage.
Hard Wired Spas — Cons
Below are the cons of 240v or hard wired spas…
More Expensive
240v tubs are more expensive than plug n play tubs because they have more features and pumps. So, if you are looking for a more affordable tub, this isn’t it.
Harder To Install
While you just need to plug a plug n play tub in an outlet, a hard wired tub requires more work. An electrician will need to install the tub and wire it. Read https://energyeducation.ca/ to learn about electrical outlets.
Not Portable
Since hard wired tubs are installed, they are a bit difficult to move. If you choose to move the tub, you will need to call an electrician to uninstall and reinstall it.
Conclusion
Even though these two different tub types have their benefits, there are also some downsides. So, it’s up to you to choose which one will best suit your needs. We believe you’re in a good position to make an informed decision now that you’ve gone through this article.
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