Softub vs. Inflatable Hot Tubs
Durable, Portable, & Not Inflatable: The Truth About Softub® Spas in NY, Northern PA, & Northern OH
As a Softub dealer, we are constantly dispelling misconceptions about Softubs. And the most common one is that a Softub is an inflatable tub. To be honest, it sort of makes us crazy. We hear it all the time at shows as people walk by our booth, without getting the chance to educate them on what a Softub really is. They are real, honest-to-goodness hot tubs that will provide you with years of worry-free enjoyment. Yes, they’re portable. But Softubs do not blow up.
Once people see them side by side, the differences are easy to spot.
| Feature | Softub Spas | Inflatable Spas |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Softubs are solid. Made of 31 layers of closed-cell foam covered with UV stabilized, marine grade vinyl, the sidewalls can support the weight of an elephant. (No kidding) | Think heavy-duty pool float. These tubs need to be inflated…which means they can also easily deflate if punctured. Most models cannot support adult weight on the sidewalls. |
| Hydrotherapy | Softubs have powerful, directional jets strategically placed throughout the tub to give you a full-body massage. | Inflatable tubs have air jets only. Pinpoint openings force air into the water from the bottom of the spa. Not a massage. |
| Energy-Efficiency | Our Hydromate system incorporates the pump, heating system, and motor into one unit, using the waste heat to heat the water. This patented feature helped get Softubs registered as energy-efficient appliances. It can be used in ALL weather. | Underpowered 1-1.2kW heaters or friction sticks mean long heat up times. Not recommended to be used in temperatures under 40°F as there is virtually no insulation. Cannot run the heater and the air bubbles at the same time. |
| Durability | A properly cared for and maintained Softub has an expected service life of 7-15 years. Backed by a 5-year limited warranty, with the first 2 years fully covered, supported by Pettis Pools/Softub Express, an authorized service center. | One year or less. Most models have only a 6 month warranty and no local service center. Predominantly an online purchase. People typically buy an inflatable as a starter hot tub, to see if they like the experience. |
| Style | Softubs are a gorgeous addition to your backyard. Available in 12 colors, and with optional surround decking, a Softub is in harmony with your environment | Often available in only one color choice, inflatable hot tubs can’t help but look, well, cheap. The motor unit looks like an afterthought vs. an integral part of the unit. |
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