The Difference between 110V Hot Tubs and 220/230V Hot Tubs
When it comes to buying a new hot tub, voltage is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Why? Because one option allows you to simply plug your hot tub into any outlet in the U.S. and the other requires you to have professional installation by a licensed electrician.
While it might sound like a no-brainer to go the easy route, there are some significant benefits to using a higher voltage. Let us break down the difference between a 110V hot tub and a 220/230V hot tub.
110V Hot Tubs
110V hot tubs are also called plug-n-play hot tubs because they require little-to-no electrical setup. You can simply plug them into any standard outlet and start soaking. This makes a 110V hot tub simple to install and an easy choice for the first-time hot tub buyer.
Pros:
- Easy to install
- More affordable
- No need for extra electrician work
Cons:
- Usually smaller
- Don’t heat as fast
- Often can’t power jets and heat at the same time
The V stands for voltage which is a measurement of the pressure of the electrical energy. 220V is twice the strength of 110V, and can deliver the same amount of energy in less time. When it comes to hot tubs, this equates to faster heating and better bubbling.
220/230V Hot Tubs
Though they require more investment for installation, a 220/230V hot tub is powered more efficiently, which means it heats faster and has the capacity for more powerful jets. A 220V connection also allows for more effective heating of larger hot tubs. The difference between a 220V and 230V in terms of energy distribution is negligible; they deliver essentially the same amount of pressure and as such can use the same outlet. It costs a few hundred dollars for a licensed electrician to install an outlet for your 220V/230V hot tub.
Pros:
- Heats faster
- More powerful jets
- Capacity to heat larger hot tubs more effectively
Cons:
- More complicated installation
- More installation costs
- Slightly greater risk of shock
There are great options for hot tubs, no matter which voltage you choose, so it really boils down to what makes the most sense for you. You also don’t have to make a permanent decision right now, as many 110V hot tubs can be converted to a 220V hot tub down the road if you decide to power up.
Not sure how to make the decision? Let our expert sales team guide you; visit us at Hot Water Productions at 2511 S. Townsend Ave. in Montrose, Colorado or call 970-249-2566. In the meantime, check out Hot Water Productions’ top of the line hot tubs here.