The Best Plug-and-Play Hot Tubs (and How They Work)

If you’re searching for the best plug-and-play hot tubs, or wondering how they work compared to hard-wired models, we’re explaining all you need to know in this guide.

Lots of people who are considering buying a hot tub have a few questions first to decide if this is right for them.

This might include:

• Do we have enough room for a hot tub?
• Do we need an electrician to wire the hot tub up?
• How quick can the hot tub be installed?
• Will the cost spiral?
• Who needs garden access?

These questions lead many people to buying a plug-and-play hot tub as they’re highly convenient. Serving as an entry-level hot tub, they are easy to install and simple to use without needing lots of outdoor space.

If you’re in two minds about being a hot-tub owner, a plug-and-play model is a great place to start as it feels easier and more manageable than other models. The whole point of buying a hot tub is to relax and unwind, so a plug-and-play model can help remove some of the ambiguity around the process.

In this blog, we’ll explore the best plug-and-play hot tubs, how they work, and why this might be a better choice if you’ve never owned one before.

At Better Living Outdoors, we’re experts in different types of hot tubs including plug-and play models, hard-wired models, and wood burning hot tubs. We deliver and install hot tubs in gardens of all sizes, and for homeowners with all sorts of different budgets, so we can help you find the right one for your needs.

How Do Plug-and-Play Hot Tubs Work?

The clue really is in the name for plug-and-play hot tubs, and they’re as simple to use as they sound. Unlike more powerful models such as a 32amp, these tubs can be plugged into a standard electricity socket using a standard 3 pin plug.

This makes them highly convenient for homeowners as you don’t have to spend time finding an electrician or waiting for them to come to your property. Instead you can start enjoying your new purchase straight away without any electrical or structural work.

Below is a simple step-by-step process of how plug-and-play hot tubs usually work so you can see how simple the set up is.

Find a flat base in your garden or patio

Find a secure, flat base in your outdoor space on which the hot tub can sit. This could be paving slabs, concrete, reinforced decking, or another solid, level surface that is capable of supporting the weight of the hot tub and the water.

Plug into a standard outdoor socket

Unlike hardwired hot tubs, these models plug into a standard outdoor 13-amp socket using a normal plug, so there’s no need for electrical work before you can start using it.

Plug-and-play hot tubs are also much easier to relocate if you move home or decide to reposition your spa in the garden. Just make sure the outdoor socket is suitable for outdoor use and protected by an RCD (Residual Current Device) for safety, and avoid using extension leads unless the manufacturer specifically states they are suitable.

Fill the hot tub with water

Once you’ve put your hot tub in your desired location, fill it using a hose from the garden. This can take a little bit of time as you want enough water to comfortably immerse yourself in the hot tub, whilst also having enough depth for the jets.

Wait for the water to heat up

Once the water is in, it’s simply a case of switching on your hot tub at the wall and waiting for it to heat up. This can take a little while, especially if you’re filling it with cold water so allow around 12-14 hours for it to reach your chosen temperature.

Once it’s up to temperature, your hot tub is ready to enjoy. To avoid waiting this long before every use, most owners leave the hot tub switched on so it retains the heat. Remember to keep the insulated cover on (included with your purchase from Better Living Outdoors) whenever the hot tub isn’t in use.

The Best Plug-and-Play Hot Tubs

We’ve put a list of some of the best plug-and-play hot tubs here, helping you find the one that suits your lifestyle and budget best.

The Best Plug and Play Hot Tubs (and how they work)

If you’re looking for the best plug-and-play hot tubs, we’ve got your complete list. From easy installation, to ease of access and convenience, there are lots of reasons why people choose these models.

If you’re unsure about buying a hot tub or you’ve never owned one before, plug-and-play models are a great entry point as they make the whole process feel less stressful. Simply plug them in and enjoy! That’s the beauty of these products.

At Better Living Outdoors, we deliver and install a range of hot tubs, including plug-and-play, hard-wired, and wood burning tubs. Come and see them for yourself at our Durham or Shrewsbury showroom and a member of our team will be happy to show you around.