Is a 120 or 240 hot tub better? | Jacuzzi® Help Center

There are a multitude of options when it comes to hot tubs. With so many choices, there is certain to be a hot tub that suits your every desire, whether it is a portable, above-ground spa, a customized, in-ground spa, or a swim spa.

Even within these hot tub categories, you will be faced with many choices. For example, if you are considering a portable, or above-ground hot tub, 120 volt and 240 volt are two common electrical hook-up types.

In this article, you can gain information about these two hot tub styles, including pros and cons of both types. By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll be able to decide for yourself the answer to the question: “Is a 120 or 240 hot tub better?”

What is a 120 volt hot tub?

A 120 volt hot tub can also be referred to as a 120 v hot tub, a 110 v hot tub, or a plug-and-play hot tub. Quite simply, the 110 v or 120 v is referring to the voltage of the hot tub. In North America, 110/120v hot tub can typically be plugged into a standard wall outlet. As long as you have an outlet nearby with an electrical line from the main electrical panel of your home, you should not require the assistance of an electrician to hardwire any hookups for your 120 v hot tub.

However, for added precaution and safety, it’s highly recommended to seek a professional electrician’s expert opinion before having any type of hot tub delivered, installed, and hooked up. While most 120 v hot tubs won’t require any special electrical wiring, a professional can determine if your specific model needs anything additional based on your local electrical code. They may be able to advise as to whether or not a secondary electrical panel will be required between your main panel and your hot tub. This could be beneficial so as not to overload the circuit and risk tripping the breaker. Your electrician will be able to determine this for you and recommend the best, and safest, solution.

A 120 v hot tub is also referred to as a plug-and-play hot tub because it does not require any additional hardwiring once it is delivered and installed in your home or backyard. It will simply need to be plugged in and filled with water. Soon after, your hot tub water will come up to your desired temperature and you will be able to enjoy some relaxing hydrotherapy. Portable 120 v hot tubs are self-contained, so no additional plumbing is required for installation. Just “plug it in” and get ready to “play.”

Convenience, as well as easy installation and set-up, are perks of a plug-and-play spa. However, a 120 v hot tub’s heaters and pumps are generally not as powerful as those of a 220 v/240 v hot tub. Another drawback is that it could take 24 hours, or longer, for your 120 v hot tub to heat the water to your desired temperature. With a 120 v hot tub, you may not get as many features for full hydrotherapy as you would with a more powerful 240 v hot tub.

What are the pros of a 120 v hot tub?

-Convenient and easy to have installed and set up

-Self-contained plumbing

-May not require modifications to your home’s electrical system

-Consumes less power

What are the cons of a 120 v hot tub?

-Weaker pumps and heaters

-May take 24 hours or longer to heat up

-Less hydrotherapy features

What is a 240 volt hot tub?

240 volt hot tubs are also referred to as 240 v hot tubs or 220/240 v hot tubs. A 240 v hot tub is extremely powerful, and you can operate all your hot tub’s features and functions at the same time. It can heat up the water between two to five degrees per hour, depending on the size of your hot tub. If you choose a 220/240 v hot tub, it is recommended to have a 40, 50, or 60 amp circuit breaker installed. This will ensure you can use all the features of your hot tub simultaneously, resulting in the best hydromassage.

The installation of a circuit breaker is a safety feature that will help protect your hot tub, and any other equipment connected to it, as well as your home in the event of a fire from a short circuit or overcurrent. A circuit breaker automatically stops the flow of power, helping to prevent fire risk.

Because a 240 v hot tub is more powerful, 240 volt hot tub wiring will be required. An electrician will need to hardwire the area before the spa is delivered and installed. It is important that you inform the electrician of the type of hot tub you plan to have delivered and installed so they can prepare the electrical line to appropriately handle and power that particular hot tub. The electrician will then need to come back out to connect and hook up your hot tub to the hardwiring. Your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub dealer will be able to help you arrange any of these details prior to installation.

If you are looking for the most effective, powerful hydrotherapy experience, a 240 v hot tub may be the best choice for you. While these models may consume more power than a 110/120 v hot tub, high-quality models from premium brands are usually very energy efficient. Therefore, you won’t have to worry that choosing a 240 volt hot tub rather than a 120 v hot tub will dramatically impact your electric bill. Another perk is that luxury 240 v hot tubs typically feature all the bells and whistles, including dramatic interior and exterior lighting, waterfalls, and sound systems to truly enhance your tranquil spa session.

What are the pros of a 240 v hot tub?

-Powerful, energy-efficient systems

-Heats up more quickly than a 120 v hot tub

-Allows you to use all the functions and features simultaneously

-Premium features such as waterfalls, lighting, and sound systems

What are the cons of a 240 v hot tub?

-Requires the assistance of an electrician for preparation, as well as connection and hook-up after delivery and installation of your hot tub

-Slightly increased electric bills

120 vs 240 hot tub: Which is better?

Now that you’ve read a little about both of these types of hot tubs, you’ve probably determined which is better for you, based on your own needs and desires. Next, you may want to stop into your local hot tub dealership.

When comparing a 120 vs 240 hot tub, a visit to your nearby spa showroom can be very informative. Here, you can physically view various hot tub models, as well as speak with a knowledgeable and professional hot tub dealer. They can answer your questions about 120 v and 240 v hot tubs, as well as help you determine which type will best suit your personal needs.

Before taking a trip to your hot tub dealership, you may also want to weigh some other hot tub options and preferences. The more prepared you are, the more you can maximize your visit. A few things to consider include:

•Budget—Budget will typically be a large factor in determining the type of hot tub you decide upon. When you are determining your hot tub budget, keep financing options in mind. You might be surprised to learn that you can afford the luxury hot tub of your dreams by making monthly payments. You don’t have to sacrifice quality or function to stay within your budget. Reputable hot tub dealers can also help you find the best deal on the model that suits all your needs.

•Size, Shape, Style, and Seating—Your hot tub should “fit” your lifestyle, your style, and your body. Many premium brands offer a variety of models in unique styles, shapes, and sizes to ensure your hot tub is everything you want it to be. Seating is another very important factor in hot tub selection. You want to ensure you like the “fit” of the seats, whether you choose open seating, lounge seating, or a combination of both in your future hot tub.

•Features—Beyond function, your hot tub should be your personal sanctuary, your escape from the everyday world. Relaxing into your hot tub can restore your sense of calm and help you regain your peace of mind. The features of your hot tub can help lull you into an unparalleled hydrotherapy session to ease your mind and wash away your stresses. Imagine the many ways in which your hydromassage will be heightened through the soothing sounds of a splash-less waterfall cascading around you, as you listen to relaxing tunes that evoke just the right mood. Exterior and interior lighting can also help create a customized ambiance, while comforts such as soothing pillows and convenient cupholders can also help complete your experience.

These factors, and others, can ensure your hydrotherapy is nothing less than euphoric. When you shop for your dream hot tub, be sure that you’ve weighed all your options and taken the time to preview a variety of models. You will have your hot tub for many years. It should be a place of peace and comfort that brings you joy every single day.

Medical disclaimer: This information is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or other medical professional for advice if you have any concerns about your current health or well-being.