Intex Blow Up Hot Tub. Pure Spa Bliss.

Are you ready to sink into warm, bubbly bliss? The soothing bubbles, hot water, and massaging jets of an Intex blow up hot tub can work wonders for aching muscles, and bring on wonderful relaxation. These high-quality portable, inflatable spas work well, and are so much more inexpensive than traditional fixed hot tubs! The Intex Blow Up Hot Tub line is the most complete, and highest quality set of inflatable hot tubs available on the market today. With five different types of spa to choose from, with different price points and feature sets, Intex offers something for everybody!

In this article, we look at the Intex PureSpa line of blow up hot tubs and examine the features and distinctions of each unit.

Intex Blow Up Hot Tub Comparison Chart

Here is a simple chart that shows the major features of each of the Intex Hot Tubs.

	PureSpa Bubble Massage Spa	PureSpa 6-Person Bubble Massage Spa	PureSpa Octagon Bubble Massage Spa	PureSpa Deluxe Jet and Bubble Spa	PureSpa Deluxe Octagon Jet and Bubble Spa
Seating Capacity	4	6	4	4	4
Comfortable Capacity	2	4	2	2	2
Water Capacity	210 gallons	290 gallons	210 gallons	210 gallons	210 gallons
Shape	Round	Round	Octagon	Round	Octagon
Color	Sahara Tan	Sahara Tan	Sahara Tan	Onyx Black	Onyx Black
Bubble Jets	120 Bubble Jets	140 Bubble Jets	120 Bubble Jets	120 Bubble Jets	120 Bubble Jets
Massage Jets	-	-	-	4 Massage Jets	4 Massage Jets
Jet Pump	-	-	-	0.9 hp ~ 7-10 PSI	0.9 hp ~ 7-10 PSI
Heater	1,300W ~ 2°-3°F/hr	1,300W ~ 1°-2°F/hr	1,300W ~ 2°-3°F/hr	1,300W ~ 2°-3°F/hr	1,300W ~ 2°-3°F/hr
Flow Rate	460 gal/hour	460 gal/hour	460 gal/hour	460 gal/hour	460 gal/hour
Bubble Air Blower	1.1 hp ~ 110-120V	1.1 hp ~ 110-120V	1.1 hp ~ 110-120V	1.1 hp ~ 110-120V	1.1 hp ~ 110-120V
Built-In Hard Water Treatment System	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Built-In Saltwater System	No, floating chlorine dispenser included	No, floating chlorine dispenser included	No, floating chlorine dispenser included	Yes	Yes
Price on Amazon			Currently Unavailable

Features Common to All Intex Hot Tubs

Bubble Jets

All of the Intex Blow Up Hot tubs on our list feature bubble jets for water motion and activity. Depending on the tub you have chosen, there are either 120 or 140 bubble jets roiling the water, and moving it around. These jets are located in a ring along the bottom of the tub, where the base meets the walls.

When the bubble option is triggered on the control panel, air is propelled through these holes, which results in bubbles triggering throughout the hot tub.
Construction and DesignThe bubbles on the Intex PureSpa line of hot tubs only trigger from the edge of the tub, which is a minor negative. Most fixed hot tubs have bubble jets throughout the entire base, as opposed to only along the edge. However, given the large number of bubble jets available on all of the tubs Intex offers, this is a minor negative.

Construction and Design

All of the blow up hot tubs Intex makes are constructed of the same vinyl material, which Intex calls Fiber-Tech. The material consists of an inner and outer wall, with an air bladder in between. Crossing these walls are a fiber mesh that provides strength and durability to the FiberTech walls. The vinyl is 3-ply, and is puncture and sun-bleach resistant, though it obviously can be punctured.

All of the Intex blow up hot tubs have walls that are 28″ tall, and for the most part are easy for people to get in and out of without needing a ladder. You can sit on the Fiber-Tech walls to help you get in the tub.

The base of the Intex PureSpa units consists of a cushioned thermal ground cloth. This cloth does not inflate like the walls. The primary reasons for this base are to separate the tub from the ground, to increase the insulation, and to provide comfort.

The base of the tub acts as the seat cushion, and there really is no need for additional seating, unless users want to higher up in the water. The wall height and proper water level of the PureSpa are designed around the assumption that the users will be seated on the floor.

Hard Water System

All of the Intex PureSpa lines of hot tubs feature a hard water filter, which is a great feature not offered on competitors’ tubs. Hard water can feel unpleasant on the skin, and the water filter system will make the water feel great against the skin, bathing suits, and even against the walls of the tub.

The system works by propelling water through an electromagnetic hard water filtration system, which removes calcium and other irritants. The filtered water makes users feel more comfortable using the tub for a longer time, and will also increase the life of the tub, as the minerals are not particularly good for the tub, either!

You’ll want to get extra filters for the filter system, as explained below.

The Control Panel

The control panels that manage all of the heating, inflation/deflation and air pump controls on these Intex PureSpa tubs are all similar and are easy to use, attractive, and well designed.

The specs of the pump/heating unit are as follows:

• Water Flow: 460gal/hour +
• Heating System Speed: 2′-3’F per hour of heating
• Water Temperature Range: 68′-104′ F

Features Available On Deluxe Models

Massage Jets

Commonly found on fixed hot tubs, in-wall adjustable water jets are fantastic at massaging sore backs, aching muscles, and painful joints. When turned on, the jets send soothing water right where you need it most!

Luxury Color

The Deluxe Models of the Intex PureSpa line have a luxurious Onyx Black finish, which feels much more high end than the Sahara Tan finish of the base models. The color of the hot tub is relatively unimportant compared to the functionality, but aesthetics do matter! And if you’re going to be staring out at the hot tub every day, you want it to look as nice as possible.

Items Included in the Package

The Intex PureSpa line of hot tubs has several different parts included in each package. These units are needed to get everything set up and to help maintain water quality over time. Each Intex PureSpa tub includes the following items:

• The inflatable spa itself
• The heating/pump unit and control panel with waterproof cover (different models have different control units)
• Insulating base blanket
• Floating pool chemical dispenser
• Inflation hose
• Insulating cover, most with locking mechanism for security.
• Storage bag capable of fitting all of the pieces.

The Intex PureSpa Model Reviews

1. Intex 77in PureSpa Portable Bubble Massage Spa Set

Starting us off is the Intex 77″ PureSpa Portable bubble Massage Spa set. This is the base unit Intex sells and is a good quality unit with some nice features.

It can fit four people tightly, and two people comfortably, as shown in the photo. It offers the same motor and heating mechanism that all of the Intex tubs use, and has a ring of 120 bubble jets for relaxation and water activation.

Intex offers a one year warranty on this unit, and it really is a great choice for its price point. If you aren’t in need of massage jets, and you don’t need a large footprint, this is the blow up hot tub for you!

Last update on 2024-11-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

2. Intex 85in PureSpa Portable Bubble Massage Spa Set

The Intex 85″ PureSpa is essentially the same as the 77″, but with a larger capacity. Capable of fitting 6 people (if everyone squeezes in) and 4 people comfortably, this is the largest tub on our list. This tub has a 250-gallon water capacity, and 140 bubble jets to balance out its larger footprint.

The 85″ PureSpa is a great choice for those looking to have larger gatherings with many people using the tub at the same time.

Otherwise, it is very similar to the 77″ PureSpa Portable Bubble Massage Spa Set and features the same 1-year warranty.

Last update on 2024-11-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

3. Intex PureSpa Bubble Massage Portable Hot Tub, Octagon, 79″ X 79″ X 28″, Sahara Tan

The Intex PureSpa Bubble Massage Portable Hot Tub Octagon is a nice Bubble Massage tub. The octagonal shape is a big help here, as it helps make the tub feel less like an inflatable hot tub, and more like a fixed hot tub.

Most of the inflatable hot tubs on the market today feature round designs, so the octagon really makes these units stand out.

Unfortunately, the octagon shape doesn’t add a huge amount of capacity, and this tub is designed for four people to use at once, and only two to three people can really fit in comfortably. It features the same bubble jet mechanism as all of the Bubble Massage tubs Intex sells and has 120 jets.

Overall this is a nice tub, but it is probably our least favorite on a price to quality standpoint.

No products found.

4. Intex PureSpa Jet & Bubble Deluxe Portable Hot Tub, Round, 77″, Onyx Black

The PureSpa 77″ Jet and Bubble Deluxe hot tub is a great tub, and a great value as well. This unit is a Deluxe model and features the 4 wall-mounted high powered water jets and the shiny onyx black exterior finish.

These tubs certainly look much nicer than the base models, and the water jets take them to the next level over the lower end tubs on the market today.

The Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble is can fit four tightly, and two comfortably, and is covered under the same one year warranty Intex offers on all of its tubs.

This tub is an excellent choice; however, if you’re going to go this in price, we would suggest jumping up to the octagonal Deluxe model, shown below.

Last update on 2024-11-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

5. Intex PureSpa Jet & Bubble Deluxe Portable Hot Tub, Octagon, 79″ X 79″ X 28″, Onyx Black

The Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble Delux Portable Hot Tub, Octagon, is the crown jewel of the Intex blow up hot tub line. With a 4 person capacity, this tub features the 4 massage jets, the beautiful onyx black finish, the octagonal shape, and the 120 bubble jets common to the other tubs on this list.

What more can you ask for?

The octagonal shape and black finish set this tub on its own; The design is quite far away from the “typical” inflatable hot tub look, and in no way feels cheap. The look is elegant, and the functionality of the jets and heating system is great. There is no better inflatable hot tub in its class, and this tub was chosen as the best inflatable hot tub.

The Intex PureSpa Jet Massage tub has the same 1-year warranty as all of Intex’s tubs and is our top choice among their list.

Last update on 2024-11-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Intex Blow Up Hot Tub Buyer’s Guide

This section looks at several of the most important considerations when purchasing a blow up hot tub.

Cost

With any purchase, the cost is a major concern. The primary cost of an inflatable hot tub is the actual unit itself, as no professional installation is necessary. However, you should also consider the ongoing costs, which are primarily electricity costs for heating, filter replacement costs, and water treatment chemicals.

Portability

Inflatable hot tubs really stand out from fixed hot tubs due to their portability. Most fixed hot tubs cannot be easily moved, so they are impractical in many circumstances. Renters, those who move often, and those who want to use their spa in multiple locations will benefit the most from a blow up hot tub.

Great For Parties

Inflatable Hot tubs can be the central focus of an outdoor hot tub party. They are also great for families, and for those who have kids who play lots of sports.

Relaxation and Soothing Muscles

Many of us have joint problems, muscle aches, and wear and tear on our bodies from years of hard work. Often a spa is quite good at soothing the body and improving overall health. Those of us with shoulder problems, back problems, hip issues, etc., often find that the hot water, bubbles, and massage jets offered on an Intex Blow Up Hot Tub are just what is needed.

Great for Those Who Rent or Move Often

Inflatable hot tubs are ideal for renters or those who frequently move about the country. These units are portable, and all of the Intex blow up hot tubs include a carrying bag for easy transport of the tub!

Traditional hot tubs are extremely difficult to move once they are installed, and most landlords will not allow them. Intex’s inflatable spa line can generally be used both indoors and outdoors, and these hot tubs offer potential to renters not available with fixed hot tubs.

Tips for Intex Blow Up Hot Tub Use

In this section, we examine the requirements for installation, setup, and use of an inflatable hot tub, and cover some tips to make things as painless as possible!

Assembly

Intex inflatable hot tubs are generally quite easy to assemble and get going. Obviously, you want to read your instructions before starting, but the assembly is generally not difficult. You can take a look at one of the Intex PureSpa blow up hot tub manuals here to get an idea what assembly involves.

You can watch a video here on the essential tasks involved in getting these units ready for use.

Electrical Circuitry and Wiring

Inflatable hot tubs need no special wiring to work, they simply plug into a standard electrical outlet. These units can use up a lot of juice, so you should consider the significant load being put on the circuit you plug into, though.

Plug in your inflatable hot tub to a dedicated electric socket, with nothing else on the same plug. Ideally, the housing on the receptacle will be outdoor rated for protection against water intrusion, as well.

The bottom line: don’t plug in your stereo, string lights, and juicer into the same outlet as the blow up hot tub!

Using Your Intex Blow Up Hot Tub In Cold Weather

Intex recommends that you don’t use these hot tubs when the weather gets below 40′. If you let the water get near frozen, and it still sits within the pump housing, you can destroy your control center, which is a bummer! They recommend caution: empty your tub and store it when the weather gets down below 40’F or 4’C.

However, many people really like to use their hot tub when the weather is cold: that’s one of the most fun times to use these tubs! We created a guide as to how to use an inflatable hot tub in the winter cold. This method is pretty easy, and if you go that route, you can heat your hot tub up much more quickly and economically than by using the regular electrical heating system!

Structural Concerns

Inflatable spas can weigh a lot! Once they are filled with water, they can weigh up to 1.5 tons. Add four people or more, and they can get up to two tons in weight! Be sure that the floor can hold the weight of these tubs before assembling everything, filling it, etc.

You don’t want to go for an elevator ride in one of these tubs.

If you are planning on using your portable spa inside on a wood framed floor, calculate the estimated total spa weight (we supply this information in our reviews and check the thickness of your floor joists where you intend to sit the spa.

With that information, you can stop by your local building inspector’s office and check whether your floor will be strong enough to hold everything.

If the spa is going in a basement or on a concrete floor, this is much less of an issue.

For outdoor use, you should be very careful installing a spa on a wooden deck or porch. These places are generally not rated for significant weight loads, so be sure to check before you set up your spa.

We recommend that you set up your Intex hot tub on a patio, in the garden, or in the backyard.

Base Material for Inflatable Spas

Ideally, the ground underneath your inflatable hot tub will be level, and well compacted. The ground can be dirt, sand, stone, concrete, grass, etc. You want it to be as level as possible, and solid.

All of the Intex PureSpa hot tubs include an insulated base liner that is placed below the tub and separates the tub from the ground. This helps with insulation and comfort.

Inflatable Spa Setup and Maintenance

Quick Setup Guide

• Level the ground, and ensure it is solid and capable of supporting the tub
• Place the insulating base mat down on the ground
• Attach the inflation pump to the tub, and plug it in.
• Blow up the tub (generally takes about 30 min)
• Fill the tub with water using a garden hose. This generally takes 1-2 hours, depending on your water pressure and distance.
• Shock the water to adjust the water chemistry (see below)
• Warm up the tub to the proper temperature (we like the Intex max of 104′, but your temp may vary).
• Climb in and get comfortable. Turn on the bubbles.
• Aaah. There we go!

Quick Break Down Guide

In order to break down your Intex hot tub, you’ll want to follow these steps:

• Connect a garden hose to drain adapter
• Place the other end of the garden hose in an appropriate area for water drainage.
• Turn on the pump on the hot tub, and expel the water from the tub.
• When getting near the bottom of the water, remove the plug on the bottom to send off last bits of water from the tub.
• Reconnect the pump to the tub and turn on deflation mode This will deflate the walls and base of the spa.
• When you’re almost done, fold the walls over and press down on them to remove any excess air.
• Fold the tub down, pick up the insulating mat, and place it all in the Intex carrying bag.

Spa Water Maintenance

Maintaining your water is not terribly difficult, but it does require constant supervision. We have written up a quick guide to Chemical treatments for Intex Hot Tubs here. Additionally, you’ll want filters for your Intex hard water filtration system.

The frequency of Water Changes

If you’re keeping your PureSpa outdoors, you’ll probably want to change the water on a monthly basis, though as long as you keep testing the water, and it looks good, you can keep it going.

If the water has begun to turn moldy or is saturated with algae, it should be changed. When this occurs, attacking the water with chemicals is difficult, and it is often easier and cheaper to just drain the water and start over.

If the spa is located indoors, the water generally stays cleaner. Use your test strips as your guide, and replace the water as needed. You’ll still probably want to replace the water every couple of months.

Dealing with Punctures and Holes

Punctures are a constant concern with inflatable hot tubs. They generally aren’t a big deal and are usually easy to fix, but it can be difficult to find them. We have a handy guide as to how to fix punctures in inflatable hot tubs here.

Financial Concerns

Inflatable hot tubs are significantly cheaper than built-in hot tubs on a fixed unit basis, even compared to Plug-and-Play Hot Tubs. The Pure Spa line of hot tubs generally goes between $400 and $1000 and requires no additional installation costs. Fixed hot tubs can often run well into the thousands, and even into the tens of thousands, depending on the design.

Inflatable spas are budget friendly!