Inflatable hot tubs are a great way to get away from the cold and enjoy some time outside. They’re also popular for parties and poolside BBQ’s, but they require special care because of their loose material.
After reading this post, you will have learned how to make your inflatable spa insulation last longer by using different materials like plastic sheeting, concrete blocks or straw bales (also known as hay bales). It is important to keep in mind that foam insulation only works for a couple of years, so it is not the best option for this particular type of inflatable spa.
Why should you insulate your inflatable hot tub?
1. Insulate the bottom of your inflatable hot tub.
Adding an inflatable insulator to the bottom of your hot tub can double its insulation. These insulators are easy to install and reduce running costs in cold weather. This particular insulator top from ALEKO is made of PVC and is black in color. It will help retain heat and keep the water clean in your inflatable hot tub. The top can be used on its own or fitted underneath a cover to increase heat retention. Measure the diameter of your spa and purchase a suitably-sized premade mat.
2. Insulate the water pump.
It is important to insulate your inflatable hot tub for a number of reasons. First, doing so will keep the water pump and heater insulated, which will in turn, keep the tub warm in colder temperatures and protect against overheating. Second, blocking air vents with insulation will prevent damage to the pump or fire hazards. Finally, checking everything is working properly before insulating will ensure no heat loss. Proper maintenance of the tub, including regularly scheduled cleaning and checking of the water heater, will also help with temperature drops.
- Keep the water pump and heater insulated: Keeps your inflatable hot tub warm in colder temperatures and protects against overheating.
- Block air vents with insulation: Prevents damage to the pump or fire hazard.
- Check everything is working properly before insulating: Make sure the inflatable hot tub is clean, the water heater and pumps are functional, and leave heat loss in check.
- Proper maintenance will help with temperature drops: Proper maintenance schedules your water heater to avoid major heat loss.
3. Insulate the water hoses.
There are several benefits to insulating your inflatable hot tub. This includes ensuring that the tub stays warm longer and preventing major heat loss if temperatures drop sharply. Good insulation also helps to maintain proper water heater function so that you can continue to enjoy your hot tub even when the weather is less than ideal.
- – Wrapping them with foam will help your hot tub stay warm longer, and a good DIY way to do this is to buy a pool noodle or pipe insulation and put it around the water tubes.
- Insulate the inflatable hot tub: Ensure everything is working properly- Cleaned regularly, in good working order, etc.
- Proper maintenance schedule with your water heater: You won’t suffer major heat loss even if temperatures drop around you.
4. Use a hot tub groundsheet.
A groundsheet provides insulation from the cold ground, making it more comfortable to sit in your hot tub. Foam sheets can be purchased at many hardware stores and are easy to DIY.
- Provides insulation from the ground: A groundsheet is a small, inexpensive way to provide some insulation from the cold ground.
- Can be either foam or fabric: There are two options available, with one being thicker and better insulated than the other.
- Easy to purchase and DIY: Foam sheets can be purchased at many hardware stores.
5. Reflective insulation.
Reflective insulation works by reflecting heat back into the space it came from instead of allowing it to escape. This helps to keep the area warmer and reduces the amount of energy required to maintain the temperature. Reflective insulation can be used alone or in conjunction with other types of insulation to further increase its effectiveness. When used in an inflatable hot tub, reflective insulation can help reduce heat loss and power consumption while keeping the water at a comfortable temperature.
6. Paving.
Paving is an easy and affordable way to add a layer of protection to your hot tub. It can help prevent damage from the ground and provide insulation. Paving must be laid over a solid surface, such as gravel, to be effective.
- Paving is an affordable and easy way to add a layer of protection between your hot tub and the ground.
- Paving can be easily found and fairly cheap, making it a good option for those on a budget.
- Paving must be laid over a solid surface, preventing movement and protecting your hot tub from damage.
- gravel can be sharp, so make sure to wear protective clothing when laying it down
- Use thick foam tiles or a rubber mat to provide insulation and puncture protection.
- Make sure the gravel is loose before using it so that stones or rocks do not poke holes in your tub.
- They won’t feel nice under your feet if the gravel is too tight
7. Monitor your water.
1. Check your spa’s water regularly for discoloration, foaminess, or strange odors, which could indicate a problem.
2. Change your spa’s water regularly to keep it healthy and clean of chemicals and other issues.
3. Use an inflatable hot tub’s FAQ page to answer questions you may have about using the tub.
4. Keep your water clean with chemicals like chlorine and bromine to prevent problems.
5. Take a quick shower before getting into the inflatable hot tub to wash away oils, lotions, and dirt from skin that could contaminate the water.
6. Check your pH balance regularly with 3 in 1 water test strips to ensure it is neither too high nor too low, which can cause problems.
- Monitor your water for signs of problems: Check for discoloured water, foamy water, and strange odors.
- Change your spa’s water regularly to keep it healthy: Keep your spa’s water clean and free of chemicals and other issues.
- Have a FAQ page to help with less common troubles: Has an excellent FAQ page that can answer questions you may have about using the inflatable hot tub
- Keep your water clean with chemicals: The most common options to keep your water clean are chlorine and bromine.
- Take a quick shower before getting into the spa: Before you or your guests get into the inflatable hot tub, take a quick shower to wash away oils, lotions, and dirt from skin.
- Check your pH balance regularly: Use our 3 in 1 water test strips to check your pH balance regularly.
8. Buy a bundle of chemicals.
To maintain a healthy and clean inflatable hot tub, you will need to regularly treat it with chlorine and bromine. These chemicals can often be purchased in a bundle at your local pool and spa store. Always check your pH balance and test strips to ensure that the water is safe to use.
9. Change your filter regularly.
It is important to change your filter every few weeks or whenever it starts to show signs of wear. Not changing your water filter often enough can lead to build-up and costly problems. Discoloured water may be a sign of too many chemicals in the water, while foamy water may indicate a need for a filter change. An unusual or strong odour may mean that your spa needs thorough draining and cleaning.
10. Keep it clean.
It is important to keep your inflatable hot tub clean in order to maintain clean water and extend the life of your tub. You can clean your tub by washing it regularly and changing the filter if needed.
What are the best methods for insulating an inflatable hot tub?
1. Interlocking foam tiles
Foam tiles are a good option for insulating an inflatable hot tub. They are durable and provide good protection from punctures. The tiles don’t breath well, making them less desirable in warm climates. However, they are still a good choice if you want a durable hot tub liner.
2. Reflective insulation
Reflective insulation works by reflecting heat back into the hot tub. This helps to reduce energy loss and power consumption. To install reflective insulation, simply wrap it around the perimeter of the inside of the spa cabinet.
3. Hot tub pads
Hot tub pads are mats that are placed under an inflatable hot tub to protect the bottom of the tub from scratches and to help insulate it. Hot tub pads work well with other insulation materials, like foam tiles, to keep the bottom of the tub warmer and more comfortable. Hot pad mats also help protect the bottom of the hot tub from punctures.
4. Insulate the bottom of your inflatable hot tub
To insulate an inflatable hot tub, add a ground mat or foam sheet beneath the base. This will help to retain heat and keep water clean in your hot tub. Measure the diameter of your inflatable hot tub and purchase a suitable mat or cut a foam sheet to size.
5. Thermal blanket across the water under the cover
Thermal blankets are the best way to insulate an inflatable hot tub. They trap heat and steam, and prevent heat loss. Foam insulation on the bottom of the hot tub will also lose heat, so an insulating cover is necessary to prevent heat loss. Clean the thermal blanket when it starts to get dirty.
6. Inflatable insulator under the cover
An inflatable insulator can be used to double the amount of insulation under a hot tub cover. The inflatable insulator is designed to fit between the cover and water, and is run $30-$40 in cost. The ALEKO HTRP4BK Inflatable Round Insulator Top will help retain heat and keep water clean in your hot tub. The top can be used on its own as a cover or fits underneath your own cover to increase heat retention.
7. Hot tub jacket around the tub
Insulation jackets protect your hot tub from punctures and scrapes and help keep it warm. They are easy to install and fit most spas.
- Keep your hot tub warm and safe: Insulation jackets protect your hot tub from punctures and scrapes.
- Many brands sell insulation jackets to fit their specific models: If you have a Lay-Z-Spa or Cleverspa spa, they will likely have insulation jackets available for purchase through their web stores.
- Jackets are easy to install and fit most spas: Just measure the diameter of your hot tub and find a jacket suited to it.
8. Portable outdoor tankless water heater
Portable outdoor tankless water heaters can be used to insulate an inflatable hot tub. The CAMPLUX ENJOY OUTDOOR LIFE BD158 1.58GPM Heater is a great option because it has low water pressure and is rated at 1.58 GPM. This tankless propane water heater lights when water pressure between 3.0-110 PSI, making it perfect for campings and remote cabins with low water pressure.
This water heater can provide endless hot water on demand. It is easy to install and portable, making it a great choice for camping, road trips, and RV’s. The water heater is CSA certified and has a testing standard that ensures safety. I recommend the Camplux 12V Water Pump for use with a portable outdoor tankless water heater. The pump has a 1.6 GPF circulating rate and can be used with most water heaters. The pump is self-priming and can be mounted above the tank of the water heater. The CUT-OFF Pressure is adjustable, from 65 PSI to 80 PSI.
The jet can flow at 1 .6 gallons per minute (6 liters per minute). To use the pump, you will need a power source (any outdoor rated 12 volt source will do), and a timer if you want to control when and how long the pump runs. The Kastar AC Adapter is a quality adapter that guarantees to work with your original LCD adapter. The JVR 12V Timer Switch is a programmable digital timer that can be set up to 16 ON/OFF schedules.
9. Monitor your bills
You can monitor your bills to save money on your inflatable hot tub in a few different ways. First, keep an eye on your bills for the first 6 months after you install the hot tub. This will give you a good idea of how much the hot tub is costing you. Next, check to see if there is a pattern of increased costs. This could be due to things like using the hot tub more often or not changing the water regularly. If you see any signs that your inflatable hot tub is not in good condition, it’s time for a full clean and replacement of the filter. Finally, be mindful of how often you use the hot tub and what might have caused the increase in costs. By following these tips, you can save money on your inflatable hot tub.
10. Change your filter regularly
It is important to change your filter every 6 months or after each use. This will help to maintain a clean spa and keep the pump healthy. Not changing the water often enough can lead to problems such as bad smells.
What Type of Base or Pad is Safe for Your Inflatable Hot Tub?
A concrete pad is the best base for an inflatable hot tub because it is strong, level, and smooth. A ground pad is necessary to ensure the base of your inflatable hot tub is warm and comfortable. A floor mat also adds comfort and a cushioned layer to the inflatable hot tub experience.
Considerations When Deciding What to Put Under an Inflatable Hot Tub
Protects from Punctures and Tears
An inflatable hot tub can be punctured or torn if it is not used with the proper padding and protection. The Rhino Pad can help to avoid punctures and tears by providing a layer of protection. In addition, padding may be necessary to make the Rhino Pad comfortable. Finally, use thick foam tiles or carpet to protect the base of the inflatable hot tub from damage.
Feels Soft Under the Feet
Foam tiles are an ideal choice for your hot tub as they are sturdy, strong, relatively inexpensive, and easy to work with. They provide excellent insulation and cushioning: Foam tiles also protect the bottom of your hot tub from wear and tear.
- The bottom of the hot tub feels soft under the feet with foam tiles: Foam tiles are an ideal choice for your hot tub as they are sturdy, strong, relatively inexpensive, and easy to work with.
- They provide excellent insulation and cushioning: Foam tiles also protect the bottom of your hot tub from wear and tear.
- The insulation is good and protects the bottom from punctures.
- The material feels soft under your feet and is easy to work with.
- It’s a good option for people who want an affordable, reliable product that doesn’t puncture easily.
- It’s more expensive than other options, but it’s a better value because of its high insulation and protection features
Insulates The Hot Tub
An inflatable hot tub cover is a great way to improve the insulation of your hot tub and keep you warm. The cover is made of PVC, which helps to keep dust and debris out of the spa while helping to retain heat. The 8 inch insulation is easy to fit and is designed for a quick and easy installation.
- Improves insulation: Adds an inflatable layer of insulation between the cover and water.
- Cost-effective: Can be bought for around $30-$40.
- Good for cold weather: Makes up for its cost in reduced running costs in cold weather.
- Keeps water clean and clear: The ALEKO HTRP4BK Inflatable Insulator Top will keep the water clean and clear between cleanings.
- Fits underneath your own cover: The ALEKO HTRP4BK Inflatable Insulator Top can be used as a hot tub cover or fits underneath your own cover to increase heat retention.
- Keeps dust and debris out of your spa: The material is PVC, which helps to keep dust and debris out of the spa while helping to retain heat.
- Can be used on its own as a hot tub cover: Can also be used on its own as a hot tub cover without needing an inflatable insert or with an inflatable insert if desired.
- Keeps you warm: Insulates the hot tub and keeps you warm.
- Easy to use: The 8-inch insulation was easy to fit and is designed for a quick and easy installation.
- Keeps the heat in The insulation will keep the heat in, keeping you comfortable all season long.
FAQs
How does insulation help an inflatable hot tub last longer?
Insulation helps an inflatable hot tub last longer in a few ways. Firstly, it prevents heat from escaping the tub, meaning that the water will stay hotter for longer. This prolongs the lifespan of the hot tub as it won’t have to work as hard to maintain a consistent temperature. Secondly, insulation can help protect the bottom of the hot tub from punctures and other damage. This is because foam sheets can be added to the base of the tub, making it less likely to be damaged.
What are the different types of insulation for an inflatable hot tub?
Inflatable hot tubs require some form of insulation to maintain water temperature. There are several different types of insulation available for inflatable hot tubs. The most common type of insulation is a hot tub cover. Hot tub covers are placed on top of the inflatable hot tub after use to preserve water warmth. Another type of insulation is foam insulation. Foam insulation comes in partial and full forms. Partial foam insulation is good for warmer climates and may be acceptable for a hot tub, but it is more expensive than full foam spas. The thermal wrap is another type of insulation that provides basic protection, but it does not meet the demands of a heated pool and may be less energy efficient than full foam spas. The most energy-efficient option is full foam spa insulation, which fills the cabinet and eliminates air flow which allows heat to escape easily. Fiber insulation is also a type of effective insulation which provides the same amount of protection as high density polyurethane foam but is easy to remove if necessary.
What are the signs that an inflatable hot tub needs insulation?
If you have an inflatable hot tub, there are a few things you can do to improve the insulation and keep the heat in. First, make sure the hot tub cover is inflated. This will help to keep the heat in and reduce heat loss. In winter, insulate the hot tub well using a thick shell and good build quality. You can also cover the outside of the inflatable hot tub with materials such as tarps, bubble wraps, or yoga mats to improve insulation. Another way to reduce heat loss is to place the inflatable hot tub on an inch-thick rubber gym mat. This will help to keep it warm and stable. Bubble wrap is also an excellent way to reduce heat loss from an inflatable hot tub. Simply cover the outside of the hot tub with bubble wrap for extra insulation. You can also use tarps or silver bubble wraps as insulation layers under the hot tub to further reduce heat loss.
What are the risks of not insulating an inflatable hot tub?
If you do not insulate your inflatable hot tub, you will lose heat much faster than if it were covered. This means that your water heater will have to work harder to maintain the temperature of the water, which can lead to burnout. Additionally, you will be using energy less efficiently, as more heat will be escaping from the tub. To avoid these risks, it is important to properly insulate your hot tub. This may require some upfront preparation, such as setting up a maintenance schedule, but it will pay off in the long run.
Can you insulate an inflatable hot tub yourself?
You can insulate an inflatable hot tub with materials you can find around the house. This will help to improve the tub’s energy efficiency and heat retention. One way to do this is to add an inflatable insulator to the hot tub cover. This will help to increase the amount of insulation and retain heat better. Another way to improve insulation is by using a portable spa cover. This will fit over the top of the tub and help keep heat in. Proper guidance and instructions are essential for this project, so be sure to follow directions carefully. With a little effort, you can insulate your inflatable hot tub and enjoy improved performance.
