Compare hot tubs and spas: inflatable and fixed-wall

A hot tub or spa in the garden is a place to sit warm, even when it's cooler outside. Here you compare inflatable spas and spas with a fixed wall from Intex, Lay-Z-Spa and MSpa, with the key specifications and the current price at the shop.

Inflatable or fixed wall?

An inflatable spa is set up without digging and stored away when you're not using it. A spa with a fixed wall, such as a frame spa, is sturdier and often stays in place longer. With the Model filter you choose between the two.

People, size and capacity

With the People filter you see how many people a spa is intended for, as stated by the manufacturer. Also look at the outer dimensions and the capacity: a larger spa needs more space and takes longer to heat up. You choose the shape with the Shape filter, for example round or square.

Placing and connecting

Place a spa on a flat, sturdy surface that can bear the weight of the filled spa and the people in it. Connect it to an earthed socket with a residual current device (RCD), as indicated in the manual. A cover retains the heat and keeps dirt out; loose spa accessories such as filters, headrests and covers can be found under cover and accessories.

Safe use

Follow the manual for the water temperature and how long you stay in the spa. Keep supervision when children are in or near the spa and close the cover when the spa is not in use.

What's included?

Many spas come with a cover, a pump with heating and a first set of filters. Some models have app control, jets alongside the bubbles or lighting. Check the title and the specifications to see what's included with a spa, so you know what you may need to buy separately.