The best hot tubs for your Airbnb or Vrbo home

Hot tubs are a hot commodity. In fact, they’re one of the most searched-for amenities on Vacasa.ca. We’ve found that installing a hot tub can raise your annual revenue by 15–20%. Even better, they can bubble up your number of bookings and increase positive guest reviews.

Let’s dive into the best hot tubs for your Airbnb or Vrbo home, ensuring your guests can unwind in style while you enjoy the ripple effect on your rental revenue.

Benefits of a hot tub at your vacation rental

Buying a hot tub for your vacation rental can amplify its appeal and profitability. Here’s how:

Hot tubs can attract more guests

Offers a unique selling point

At Vacasa, we like to put your home’s unique traits front and center. A hot tub can set your vacation home apart from the competition, making it more desirable to potential guests. It's a luxury amenity that not every Airbnb offers and is especially enticing to those who don't have one at home.

Year-round appeal

Guests love hot tubs all year long. In colder climates or near mountain resorts, they offer a warm, relaxing apres-ski experience. During cooler summer evenings and shoulder seasons, hot tubbing is a soothing way to unwind after a packed day of activity.

Extended rental season

In regions with colder off-seasons, a hot tub can continue to entice guests even when the weather is less inviting, potentially extending your rental season.

Earn more money

Command higher rental rates

Because hot tubs are so sought after by guests, they can often justify higher rental rates. Guests are often willing to pay more for Airbnb’s with the added luxury a hot tub delivers.

Increased occupancy rates

By making your vacation rental listing more appealing, a hot tub can help reduce vacancies. A unique and desirable amenity like a hot tub can give you a leg up when guests are deciding between multiple properties.

Higher property value

If you ever decide to sell your vacation home, a well-maintained hot tub could increase its market value. This is especially true for permanent in-ground or in-deck spas.

What to consider when choosing a hot tub

Google ‘hot tubs for sale’ and you’ll see—there are a ton of options. To make things even more complicated, there’s just as many details to think about. Let’s break down the most important ones here.

Price

The types of hot tubs vary widely and so do the prices. The cost of a hot tub can start at $3,000 for an above-ground tub and $16,000 for an in-ground tub—not including the cost of installation. Additionally, there are ongoing costs such as electrical bills ($50 to $100 monthly) and maintenance ($500 to $1,000 annually).

With the right strategy, these costs can be offset by the increased revenue from your higher rental rates and more bookings.

Type of hot tub

Here are the main types of hot tubs best suited for short-term rentals:

1. Acrylic hot tubs

These are a popular choice known for their durability and longevity (they can last up to 20 years). They have a glossy finish and are heavy, offering great temperature retention, which can save on electricity.

2. Rotomolded hot tubs

These are more affordable and easier to install since they can run on 110-volt power (the most common electrical outlets in homes). These hot tubs tend to be lightweight and can be moved around wherever you’d like.

3. In-ground hot tubs

These hot tubs are set in the ground, offering the most aesthetic appeal. However, they’re the most difficult and expensive to install.

4. Inflatable hot tubs

These are a great option for vacation homes with limited space or for those on a budget. They are the easiest hot tub to install and can be moved if needed. They’re also more energy efficient than other options.

Power usage

Most hot tubs require a 240-volt electrical hookup, but there are many “plug and play” spas that run on standard 110-volt power, which can be plugged into most standard household power sources without the need for additional wiring.

Ease of installation

Hot tubs are large and electrically complex systems, so installing them can be tricky. Here are some expert tips:

1. Hire a professional

They’ll have the experience dealing with the weight of the tub, wiring, and your water supply.

2. Have the right base

It should be able to withstand the weight of the tub and frequent water exposure. Wood flooring is not recommended, and options like ceramic tiling with an anti-slip finish are preferable.

3. Leave plenty of room

There should be enough space for both servicing the hot tub and for your guests to safely enter and exit the tub.

Pay attention to electrical requirements

Hot tubs have specific electrical requirements, and it's important to ensure that the electrical work is completed before filling the spa.

5. Pick the perfect spot

Whether indoors or outdoors, you need to carefully choose your location based on proximity to power lines, access for delivery, safety for guests, and privacy.

6. Don’t forget about drainage

Adequate drainage and access to a water supply are essential to make sure your hot tub works properly and can be cleaned regularly.

7. Have the proper permits

In most states and cities, prefabricated above-ground hot tubs under a certain capacity and size may not require a building permit. However, plumbing and electrical connections are usually subject to building permits and building codes.

Maintenance

Maintaining your hot tub can be relatively easy with the right tools and a solid routine of these tasks.

1. Regular cleaning

Clean the hot tub regularly with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and debris.

2. Maintain water levels

Water levels can affect your jets and heating system.

3. Test the water

Do this once a week to make sure you have the right balance of chemicals to prevent water issues and skin irritation.

4. Clean the hot tub filter

Clean it regularly and replace it when needed so that the water stays clean and sparkling.

5. Clean the hot tub cover

Doing this regularly will make sure it’s in good condition to protect your tub and conserve heat.

6. Keep the water moving

Make sure the water goes through the filter every day to stop germs and gunk from building up.

7. Call in the pros

Have a hot tub expert stop by regularly to catch any sneaky issues early.

8. Don’t go over capacity

No hot tub parties here. Stick to the number of people the hot tub is made for so you don't overwork it.

Top-rated hot tubs for Airbnb and Vrbo homes

Let’s break down some of the most highly rated hot tubs for a short-term rental:

1. Sundance Aspen – 880 Series

This premium spa seats up to 7 to 8 people and offers a 66 jet system perfectly arranged for enhanced relaxation. It is popular for its durability and advanced features, making it a compelling choice for Airbnb properties.

2. Essential Hot Tubs 50 Jets Polara

This hot tub is recommended for upscale rentals, offering a luxurious experience for guests. It is known for its quality and ability to attract high-paying guests.

3. LifeSmart Curacao DLX (LS550 Plus) Hot Tub

This hot tub is popular for its durability and easy maintenance, making it a practical choice for Airbnb hosts looking for a long-term investment.

4. Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub

Ideal for properties on a budget, this inflatable hot tub provides a cost-effective option for adding a touch of luxury to the property. It is popular for its affordability and ease of setup.

5. Nordic Spa

Known for its reliability, this mid-range hot tub is suitable for Airbnb properties looking for a balance between quality and affordability. It is popular for its long-term value and great guest reviews.

6. G2B 28 Plug & Play Hot Tub

This 7-seater hot tub is recommended for properties with high guest capacity, offering a balance between quality and easy set-up.

7. DayDream 6-Person Plug and Play Hot Tub

This stylish above-ground hot tub offers durability and toughness, making it an attractive option for Airbnb and vacation rentals.

8. Bueno Spa Jersey 46-Jet Hot Tub

Known for its sturdiness, this hot tub is a reliable option for Airbnb properties looking for a durable and low-maintenance choice.

9. Bullfrog X6R

This hot tub is known for its versatility and deep hydrotherapy, making it a compelling choice for vacation homeowners looking to offer a unique and memorable guest experience.

10. Intex PureSpa

This inflatable hot tub is a budget-friendly option suitable for smaller rental properties. Plus, it’s popular for its affordability and ease of maintenance.

Update your house rules

Sure, soaking is the big appeal, but safety should be the biggest priority. Tell guests how you expect them to behave when they’re using your hot tub.

Here are things you can add to your vacation rental house rules to protect both your guests and your hot tub:

1. Specify the maximum number of guests allowed in the hot tub at a time.
2. Require that children are supervised by adults at all times to prevent accidents.
3. Ask that guests shower beforehand to remove any lotions and oils that could contaminate the water.
4. Establish which hours guests can and cannot use the hot tub to avoid disturbing neighbors.
5. Prohibit any glassware in or around the hot tub to prevent potential injuries.
6. Instruct guests to replace hot tub cover after each use to prevent debris and insects from getting in.
7. Prohibit diving or horseplay.