Hot tubs come in many shapes and sizes, but the two main varieties are ‘hard shell’ and ‘inflatable’. Both types have advantages and disadvantages.
The best type for you depends on your personal requirements.
Below, we provide an overview of hard shell hot tubs vs inflatable hot tubs so you can decide the best option to choose.
What is a hard shell hot tub?
Hard shell or ‘rigid’ hot tubs have a solid exterior and become a permanent fixture in your garden. They often have multiple seating areas, hard walls, and an internal heater and filtration system with hydrotherapy water jets. Hard shell hot tubs can be used in all seasons due to their heating efficiency and temperature regulation capabilities.
What is an inflatable hot tub?
Inflatable hot tubs need to be filled with air before use. They are best suited if you want to conveniently store the tub away during colder months. Inflatable hot tubs are more affordable but lack the sophisticated features of hard shell models. Most do not have hydrotherapy water massage jets but rather use air to create bubbles. They do not have any seats so are less comfortable. Their softer shell also means there is a risk of punctures over time.
Hard shell hot tubs vs inflatable hot tubs
Although there are pros and cons of both hard shell and inflatable models it is widely accepted that there are many more advantages from hard shell tubs. They are more robust and will therefore last much longer. Life expectancy of an inflatable hot tub can be as low as 1 to 5 years depending on usage and care while a good quality hard shell tub can be as much as 15 to 20 years.
1. Hard shell tubs are more robust
Since hard shell tubs have solid edges, they are hard-wearing and more robust. Inflatable hot tubs are prone to punctures. This is often the case when people continually deflate and re-inflate to move location. If you are looking for a long-term investment, hard shell is the way to go.
2. Hard shell tubs have more functionality
A key benefit of hard shell tubs is the wide range of features. You can choose from many different jet and power settings and LED lighting effects. Most hard shell tubs also offer seating. If you want the option to sit down in your tub, choose a hard shell.
3. Hard shell has better insulation
Hard shell hot tubs have better heat efficiency and keep the water warmer for longer. This means you can use the hot tub more effectively when the weather is colder. With a hard shell model, even if it is snowing outside, you can warm up in your tub!
4. The running costs are similar
Despite what some people claim, the running costs are similar no matter what type of tub you buy. Although the initial cost can be higher with hard shell models, once you have made the initial investment, the maintenance costs are affordable. This is why hard shell brands are superior, except for portability.
Visit Aquasun for quality hot tubs at affordable prices
Aquasun provides a range of high-quality, great value hot tubs for sale throughout Ireland. Visit our website to see our full range of hard shell hot tub models and to compare their features. While we do not offer the inflatable models we offer a range of rotary moulded Freeflow Spas that offer many features at a great price. We are happy to provide advice and support to help you find the perfect hot tub.
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