Hot tubs, or spas, come in two different types, either above ground (also known as portable) or in ground (also known as permanent).
While above ground and in ground spas
are both designed to relax you, there are some key advantages to both
models. Let’s examine at some of the important differences. What type
you purchase will depend both on the amount of space you have and your
own personal preferences.
When it comes to room, an above ground hot tub will usually require less
of it than an in ground hot tub. While above ground hot tubs do not
necessarily have a smaller capacity than in ground hot tubs, they are
designed to be more compact and so take up less overall space. All of
the components of an above ground hot tub are tucked into the unit
itself. Some of them, like the water heater, are smaller to make this
possible. Although the water heater is an above ground spa is smaller
and less powerful than for an in ground spa, don’t worry. The smaller
water heater does the job fine, as the water only needs to travel around
the hot tub, and not through a series of pipes. An above ground spa is
easily relocated due to this compact design.
Above ground hot tubs usually have wood enclosures without very many
embellishments. Most modern hot tubs are constructed using fiberglass,
although you can still find some that were produced using redwood. They
come in sizes that can accommodate from two to ten people comfortably.
They also come in a variety of styles, even some with reclined seats.
You will also have several options when it comes to jets, which are
usually built into the seats and foot wells. You will enter the above
ground hot tub over the top edge, so some models come with stairs and a
light for added safety.