Hot tubs that plug into a standard 110v/15 amp outlet (i.e. Plug & Play) have been around for a long time. Because of their ease of set up, they are a popular option with many people. When deciding whether to go with a Plug & Play model, here are some things you should know.
EASY SET UP
The number 1 reason people go with a Plug & Play model is that they’re easy to get going in terms of not needing a dedicated GFCI breaker box or an electrician to run wiring, etc. Simple and cost effective, just plug in and go. You may need to check to be sure you have enough available amperage on the overall circuit you’ll be plugging in to. Also note, most models do NOT allow use of an extension cord, so you’ll need to be within 12-15’ of an outlet.
IDEAL CANDIDATES FOR PLUG & PLAY
Plug & Play hot tubs generally smaller, and thus are ideal for situations where it will be a small number of users, maybe 1-2 people 90+% of the time. And because of their smaller size, Plug & Play models work well in situations where there is a smaller space that one is trying to fit a hot tub.
KEY FEATURES
Most Plug & Play models come with a single 2-speed pump (providing low or high jet speeds), single filter, no circulation pump, jet count typically ranges from 10-25ish. Size varies, but seating is typically 2-4. However there are 1 seaters and up to 5-6 seaters!
PERFORMANCE CONSIDERATIONS
Hot tubs that run on a 110v/15 amp circuit will heat slower than hot tubs running on 220v/50-60 amp circuits. Plug & Play tubs heat around 1-2 degrees per hour, versus 4-5 degrees per hour (all models can heat 24/7 and go up to the industry standard 104 degrees max). Also, when on 110v there is not enough amperage to run BOTH the heater and the pump in high speed at the same time. If the pump is in high speed, the heater will shut off. This is actually not as big of a deal as it sounds; call us to discuss further.
THERAPY NEEDS
Warm water is always therapeutic on the body. Simply soaking in warm water will relieve muscle aches, body tension, etc. However much of the therapy “value” comes from seating configurations, jet count, and jet style. Plug & Play models are generally not the best for serious therapy needs such as fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. simply because seat contouring may be less ergonomic, jet counts are typically smaller, and the style of jet tends to be more “generic”.
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