Saluspa Hot Tub Reviews : is it worth it

If you’ve been dreaming of unwinding in warm, bubbling water right in your backyard without breaking the bank on a permanent installation, then you really should buy a SaluSpa hot tub. These inflatable wonders deliver genuine relaxation, easy setup, and that soothing spa feel at a fraction of the cost of traditional models. I’ve owned one for over a year now, and it has transformed my evenings into pure bliss—trust me, once you experience it, you’ll wonder why you waited so long.

My Experience With Saluspa Hot Tub

I still remember the day the package arrived at my door. It was surprisingly compact for something that promised to seat up to six people, and I was skeptical about how this inflatable thing could possibly live up to the hype.

But within about 30 minutes, I had it inflated using the built-in pump, filled it with water from the hose, and plugged it in.

The heating took longer than I expected—around a day to reach a solid 102-104 degrees Fahrenheit—but once it got there, I was hooked.

The first soak was magical. I stepped in after a long day, and the air jets kicked on with this gentle, all-over bubble massage that hit every tired muscle.

No harsh water jets like in fancy permanent tubs, just thousands of tiny bubbles that felt like a soft, continuous hug.

I could actually stretch out my legs without bumping into anyone, and the square or round designs (depending on the model) give you more usable space than you’d think.

My family joined in too—four of us comfortably, though six is pushing it unless everyone’s cozy.

Over the months, we’ve used it almost nightly when the weather cooperates. In cooler evenings, the insulated cover does a decent job holding heat, so I don’t lose much overnight.

I love the app control on some newer models; I can turn it on from inside the house and have it ready by the time I change into my swimsuit.

The Freeze Shield feature has been a lifesaver during unexpected cold snaps—it automatically protects the unit if temps drop too low.

There have been a few hiccups, sure. The pump can get noisy when the bubbles are blasting full force, and I’ve had to fiddle with the filter a couple of times to keep the water crystal clear.

But nothing major has broken. The liner feels sturdy, no punctures despite kids occasionally jumping in with enthusiasm.

Draining and refilling every month or so is a bit of a chore, but it’s straightforward with the built-in drain valve.

Overall, this thing has become my go-to for stress relief. After a tough week, sinking into that warm water with bubbles swirling around me is unbeatable.

It’s not a luxury resort spa, but for the price, it delivers 90% of the experience with 10% of the hassle and cost. If you’re on the fence, I say go for it—you’ll likely feel the same way I do after your first few sessions.

Also read: My Thoughts on Sunny Stationary Bike

Pros Of Saluspa Hot Tub

Affordable Price Point: You get a full-featured hot tub experience for under $1,000 in most cases, making it accessible when permanent models cost thousands more.
Easy Setup And Portability: Inflation takes minutes with the built-in pump, and you can move or store it away seasonally without professional help.
Soothing Air Jet System: The bubble jets provide a gentle, all-body massage that’s relaxing without being too intense, perfect for everyday unwinding.
Quick Heating To Comfortable Temps: It reliably reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit, giving you that classic hot tub heat without waiting forever once established.
Spacious Designs For Groups: Models fit 4-6 people comfortably, with room to stretch out compared to smaller inflatables.
Energy-Efficient Features On Newer Models: Things like insulated covers and power-saving timers help keep running costs reasonable, often just a bit more on your electric bill monthly.
App Control Convenience: Some versions let you monitor temperature and start heating remotely, so it’s ready when you are.
Freeze Protection Technology: Built-in safeguards prevent damage in colder weather, extending usability year-round in many climates.
Durable Construction For The Category: The reinforced PVC holds up well to regular use, with fewer puncture complaints than cheaper alternatives.
Fun Family Addition: It brings people together for laughs and relaxation, turning ordinary evenings into mini vacations at home.

Cons Of Saluspa Hot Tub

Noisy Pump Operation: When the bubbles run full blast, the noise can be noticeable, especially if you’re trying to relax in quiet surroundings.
Slower Initial Heating Time: It can take 24-48 hours to heat fully from cold water, longer in chilly weather, testing your patience at first.
Frequent Water Changes Required: You typically need to drain and refill every 30-60 days to keep water fresh, which is more work than permanent tubs.
Weaker Massage Compared To Jets: The air bubbles are gentle but lack the targeted power of traditional hydrotherapy jets found in hard-sided models.
Potential For Punctures Over Time: While durable, the inflatable material can get damaged by sharp objects or heavy wear if not protected.
Limited Insulation In Extreme Cold: It struggles to maintain heat in very low temperatures, leading to higher energy use or temporary shutdowns.
Filter Maintenance Demands Attention: Filters clog quickly with regular use, requiring weekly rinsing and monthly replacements for clear water.
No Built-In Ergonomic Seats: You sit on the flat bottom, which can feel less supportive during long soaks compared to contoured permanent spas.
Pump Reliability Issues In Some Cases: A few users report heater or pump problems after extended use, though many last years with care.
Higher Long-Term Replacement Cost: They often last 2-5 years with good maintenance, meaning you might replace it sooner than a traditional hot tub.

Maintenance Tips For Saluspa Hot Tub

Regular Filter Cleaning And Replacement: Rinse the filter under running water every few days to remove debris, and soak it in a cleaner solution monthly or replace it every 1-2 months to keep water circulating cleanly and prevent clogs.
Weekly Water Testing And Balancing: Use test strips to check pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels at least once a week, adjusting with chemicals as needed to avoid cloudy water or skin irritation.
Daily Debris Skimming: Run the pump daily and skim off leaves, dirt, or hair from the surface to reduce strain on the filter and maintain clarity.
Chemical Sanitization Routine: Add bromine or chlorine tablets to the dispenser regularly, shocking the water weekly with non-chlorine shock to kill bacteria and keep it safe for soaking.
Full Drain And Deep Clean Every 1-3 Months: Drain completely using the valve, wipe down the interior with mild soap, rinse thoroughly, and refill to prevent buildup of oils, lotions, or scale.
Cover Usage And Care: Always use the insulated cover when not in use to retain heat and block debris, and clean it occasionally to avoid mold on the underside.
Pump And Heater Checks: Listen for unusual noises and ensure the unit has a dedicated outlet to avoid electrical issues, unplugging during storms for safety.
Exterior Liner Wiping: Gently clean the outside with non-abrasive soap and water to remove dirt without damaging the material.
Winter Preparation If Storing: If taking it down for cold months, drain fully, dry thoroughly to prevent mildew, and store in a cool, dry place.
Avoid Overloading Chemicals: Stick to recommended doses to prevent foaming or damage to the liner, and never use household cleaners that could degrade the PVC.

Comparison With Other Brands

SaluSpa Versus Intex Models

SaluSpa often edges out with better bubble coverage and features like app control on premium versions, while Intex tends to offer larger filters that last longer between changes. Both heat reliably to similar temps, but SaluSpa feels more polished in build quality for the price.

SaluSpa Versus Coleman Variants

Since many Coleman models are rebranded SaluSpa designs, they’re nearly identical in performance, with strong air jets and easy portability. Coleman sometimes includes extras like more insulated covers, but SaluSpa stands strong on value and user-friendly controls.

SaluSpa Versus Lay-Z-Spa Options

Lay-Z-Spa brings similar inflatable ease but often adds directional jets in some models for targeted massage, though SaluSpa counters with more consistent heating and freeze protection. Both require similar maintenance, but SaluSpa users report slightly better long-term durability in reviews.

Overall Brand Positioning

SaluSpa holds its own as a top contender in the inflatable category, blending affordability with thoughtful features that make daily use enjoyable. It doesn’t always win on every spec against competitors, but the balance of relaxation, setup simplicity, and cost makes it a favorite for many.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Is The Difference Between A Hot Tub And A Saluspa?

A traditional hot tub is usually a permanent, hard-sided installation with powerful hydro jets, better insulation, and longer lifespan, while a SaluSpa is an inflatable, portable version using air bubbles for massage, easier to set up and store but requiring more frequent care.

What Are The Downsides Of Inflatable Hot Tubs?

They heat slower, have weaker massage action, demand regular water changes, can puncture more easily, and struggle in extreme cold compared to permanent models, often leading to higher long-term replacement needs.

How Long Do Saluspas Last?

With proper maintenance, SaluSpas typically last 2-5 years, sometimes up to 7 in ideal conditions, though factors like usage frequency, climate, and care affect this—many users get several seasons before needing replacement.

Conclusion

In the end, if you’re after affordable, hassle-free relaxation that fits your lifestyle without a massive commitment, a SaluSpa hot tub is absolutely worth it. My own experience proves it delivers consistent joy, and with smart maintenance, it can be a game-changer for your downtime. Grab one—you deserve that backyard escape.