The right small hot tub will turn your backyard into a personal paradise of rest and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for a small inflatable hot tub, compact 2 person hot tub, or simply researching hot tubs for small spaces, it’s imperative that you understand what size space to put one in. This guide to small outdoor hot tubs (including one person options through the best three person hot tub models) will help you determine what’s right for you and your space.
Small Hot Tubs: Understanding Your Compact Spa Options
For homeowners with less outdoor space or those who simply want an intimate spa experience, small hot tubs are the perfect solution. These compact spas comfortably seat 1-3 people and offer all the same hydrotherapy benefits as a full size hot tub, without taking up a lot of space or using excess water and energy.
Considerations for Small Hot Tubs:
Dimensions: This 2 person hot tub is an intimate triangle shaped model and comfortably accommodates two people at 5’x5′. Simply fill your jacuzzi with a hose, complement with furniture for any extra space, attach to a thermostat and enjoy!
Energy Efficiency: Knowing how much a small jacuzzi tub uses ensures you can budget for ongoing costs—most small models draw between 1,500 and 3,000 watts when heating.
Configurations: Available as an inflatable tub for a single person and the best spa to be installed permanently.
Operating Costs: Is a small hot tub expensive to run? $20-50 a month on average, with usage and climate as determining factors.
Hot Tub Size Comparison Chart
| Hot Tub Size | Typical Dimensions | Capacity | Monthly Operating Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Person | 4’x4′ to 5’x5′ | 1 person | $15-$30 |
| 2 Person | 5’x5′ to 6’x6′ | 2 people | $25-$40 |
| 3 Person | 6’x6′ to 7’x7′ | 2-3 people | $35-$50 |
2 Person Hot Tub Size: Perfect for Couples Relaxation
These small two person hot tubs make for an ideal sweet spot for romantic partners with private soak sessions. These top small hot tubs manage to find the perfect balance between comfort and efficiency, enough room for couples comfort but not too big for your backyard.
Essential Features of 2 Person Hot Tubs
Specs and functionalities for compact two-person hot tubs, including jets, heating, and space-efficient design.
Design Specifications: Most two-person designs are 5.5’x5.5′ and about 30″ deep which will fit most adults comfortably.
Weight Capacity: How much weight can a small hot tub hold? An average 2-person hot tub weighs between 1,800 and 2,500 pounds full with water and the people in it.
Seating Style: Ask for ergonomic loungers that help in relieving stress and muscle relaxation.
Jet System: The two stage system provides a gentle or vigorous massage for either one of the bathers at any time.
Power Source: Typically 110V or 220V but there are energy-saving units as well.
Chemical Maintenance Made Simple
It’s helpful to know how much chlorine for a small hot tub—generally 1-3 teaspoons per 100 gallons will sufficiently sanitize your little oasis, assuming it’s just you or the two of you using it.
Best Three Person Hot Tubs
Three person hot tubs fill the gap between private couple’s spas and family sized units. These 2 or 3 person hot tubs provide flexibility and simplicity when it comes to installation, entertainment options, alleviating daily stress and relaxation.
2 Person vs 3 Person Hot Tubs Comparison
| Feature | 2 Person Hot Tubs | 3 Person Hot Tubs | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Footprint | 25-36 sq ft | 36-49 sq ft | Maximizes small spaces |
| Water Capacity | 150-200 gallons | 200-250 gallons | Efficient water usage |
| Heating Time | 6-8 hours | 8-10 hours | Quick enjoyment |
| Jet Configuration | 10-15 jets | 15+ jets | Enhanced hydrotherapy |
The best hot tubs for 3 people include design features suited to socializing and still easy to maintain. Choose from models with different seating depths to accommodate differing heights and tastes, so everyone feels comfortable and cushioned.
Hot Tubs for Small Spaces: Making the Most of Limited Areas
For limited outdoor spaces, hot tubs for small spaces need careful consideration and strategic selection. Small inflatable hot tub models have changed the game, providing on-demand high-end spa options without the need to commit to a permanent install.
Optimization Strategies for Small Spaces
- Place your smaller hot tubs in corners or to the side of your patio for more usable space
- Look for vertical elements such as privacy screens that won’t eat up floor space
- Choose round or corner models designed to fit naturally in compact areas
- Consider inflatable types that can be deflated and stored during down seasons
- Allow 2-3 feet of clearance around the tub for safe entry and exit
Energy Efficiency Question Answered
Is it less expensive to leave hot tub on all the time? For small outdoor hot tubs, it typically costs less overall to maintain a consistent temperature than to reheat, especially in moderate climates. Recent insulation developments have made this method affordable for the individual spa user.
One Person Hot Tub: Your Best Personal Oasis
The one person hot tub is ideal for those primarily looking to relax in privacy while experiencing an all over body massage. Offering targeted hydrotherapy to relieve tension and stress, these long lasting home spa systems provide space-saving convenience without sacrificing their healing effects.
Single Person Hot Tub Advantages
- Fits in a very small area as 4′ diameter
- Lower operating costs ($15-$25 monthly)
- Fast warm up times (4-6 hours from cold)
- Reduced water and chemical requirements
- Privacy for meditation and relaxation after a long day
Inflatable 1 person hot tub models are more versatile, ideal if you’re renting or looking for a seasonal spa. These are usually 500-800 pounds full, and can find place on a deck or balcony with an adequate weight check.
Small Outdoor Hot Tubs: A Year-Round Health Investment
Outdoor hot tubs in compact sizes turn your backyard into a health oasis, perfect for any season. Whether you need to relax via cold plunge contrast therapy or are addressing muscle maintenance, these compact options offer “health club” level aquatic spa experiences at home.
Seasonal Considerations
| Season | Usage Pattern | Maintenance Focus | Energy Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Peak use for heating | Prevent freezing, inspect insulation | Highest ($40-$60) |
| Spring | Moderate use of spa | Clean filters, balance chemicals | Moderate ($25-$40) |
| Summer | Evening cooling soak | Monitor algae growth and increase circulation | Low ($20-$35) |
| Fall | Relief of therapeutic stress | Prepare for temperature change | Moderate ($30-$45) |
Knowing how many watts a small hot tub uses can help to plan for seasonal temperature differences – most small models are 1,500-2,500 watts when the heat is on and between 500-1,000 watts while it’s circulating or filtering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions given below:
What size should a small 2 person hot tub be?
With a 5.5′ x 5.5′ foot print, this hot tub comfortably seats two adults and is designed with space-saving in mind.
What is the monthly cost for a small hot tub?
It will cost anywhere from $20-$50 per month depending on size, quality of insulation in the space where you keep it, local electricity rates and whether or not you keep it heated all the time.
Can I put a small inflatable hot tub on the balcony of my apartment?
First, you’ll want to check your balcony’s weight capacity—most inflatables weigh between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds when filled with water. Structural integrity should be confirmed before installation.
What is the difference between 2 person hot tubs and three person?
Three-person models provide 10-15 square feet more seating room, more jets, and an extra 50-75 gallons of water capacity with additional flexibility for occasional guests.
How do I keep the chemicals in balance in a small hot tub?
Test the water 2-3 times per week and add 1-3 teaspoons of chlorine per 100 gallons to keep your water sparkling clean, add a few drops of bromine weekly for appropriate sanitization across all surfaces and volumes for full coverage.
Conclusion
Selecting the correct small hot tub size turns your backyard into a relaxing escape that is just right for you. Whether it’s a 1 person small hot tub for quiet soaks or a 2-3 person model for quality time with the family – it must be effective and efficient!
This is where your time well spent studying hot tub options will really pay off – because with the correct knowledge about dimensions, cost of operation and maintaining costs you can easily turn this into a decision you feel good about! Small hot tubs for outdoor use provide many of the same therapeutic benefits as large hot tubs, in addition to high energy efficiency and the ability to fit into places that larger units can’t.
Think also about the space you have, how often and what time of day you will be using it, and for both purchase and running costs. With a little planning, you can build your own at-home backyard spa oasis for years of stress relief, aching muscle relaxation and peaceful moments to connect with yourself — or that special someone.
