A backyard hot tub turns ordinary evenings into something you look forward to all day. Warm water, soothing jets, and a quiet moment under the stars are all just steps from your back door. But with so many types, sizes, and features to consider, choosing the right outdoor spa can feel overwhelming. This guide clears up the confusion so you can buy with confidence. You’ll learn why a hot tub is worth it, the main types available, how to choose the right size, the features that matter most, and how to protect your investment for years. For 25 years, The Hot Tub Store in Hermantown, MN, has helped Northland families find the right spa for their homes.
A hot tub is more than a luxury. It’s a daily dose of wellness waiting right outside your door. Warm water and targeted jets can ease sore muscles, loosen tight shoulders, and help you unwind after a long day. Many owners also enjoy the relaxing routine of a warm soak as part of their approach to better sleep and stress management.
There’s a social side, too. A backyard spa can become the gathering spot where family reconnects, and friends linger longer. Kids love it, adults relax in it, and everyone gets a chance to put their phones down for a while.
Here in Minnesota, the year-round appeal is real. A quality, well-insulated hot tub shines brightest when the temperature drops. Picture sinking into warm, soothing water while snow drifts down around you. That’s not a summer-only treat. It’s a four-season escape you’ll actually use.
Not all hot tubs are built the same. The three main types differ in cost, comfort, installation requirements, and how well they hold up through a Minnesota winter. Here’s how they compare.
Plug & play spas run on a standard 120V outlet, so you may be able to avoid specialized electrical wiring and simplify installation. They offer a rigid shell, real seating, and spa jets, giving you a genuine spa experience without the same installation requirements as some higher-powered models.
The trade-off is heating performance. On 120V power, they generally warm more slowly and may have more difficulty maintaining temperature in deep cold. They’re a practical middle-ground choice for buyers who want a simpler setup and lower upfront installation costs.
Inflatable tubs are the most affordable and portable option. They inflate quickly, fill with water, plug into a standard outlet, and can be packed away when you’re done. For casual, warm-season soaking, they’re a fun, accessible starting point.
The downside is comfort and durability. Vinyl walls feel softer, the jets typically provide gentle bubbling rather than targeted hydrotherapy, and heating performance can decline as outdoor temperatures fall. If you plan to use your tub outdoors through freezing Minnesota winters, keeping an inflatable spa warm and operating efficiently can be challenging.
Hardshell acrylic spas are what most people picture when they imagine a hot tub, and they deliver a strong all-around experience. A durable acrylic shell, powerful adjustable jets, and comfortable seating combine to create a dedicated hydrotherapy experience designed for regular use.
The key advantage in our climate is full-foam insulation. This dense foam surrounds the shell and plumbing, helping retain heat and protect components from extreme temperature changes. That’s what makes a well-insulated hardshell spa a smart choice for year-round Minnesota use, helping it maintain water temperature efficiently even on cold nights.
Key takeaway: Inflatable for casual use, plug & play for simpler setup, hardshell for lasting quality and true four-season performance.
Size matters more than you might think. Buy too small, and you’ll wish for more room. Buy too big, and you’ll pay to heat water nobody uses. Match the seating capacity to how you’ll actually enjoy your spa.
Compact spas suit couples, small families, and tight spaces beautifully. Whether you picture a classic hot tub soak or a quiet evening for two, these models can heat efficiently, use less water, and fit neatly on smaller decks or patios. If your soaks are mostly quiet and intimate, this size can be a perfect fit.
Look for deep, comfortable seating and smart jet placement rather than sheer capacity. A well-designed smaller spa can deliver excellent hydrotherapy without taking up unnecessary backyard space.
This mid-size range is a family favorite and one of the most versatile choices. It comfortably seats parents and kids, yet still welcomes a few guests without feeling cramped. Many models also include a lounge seat for full-body relaxation.
Seek a variety of seating positions and a jet layout that reaches the shoulders, back, and legs. This size can balance comfort, capacity, and operating costs about as well as any spa can.
Larger spas shine for entertaining and big households. With room for everyone plus a guest or two, they can turn your backyard into a go-to gathering spot. Multiple seat styles let each person find a comfortable position and preferred jet configuration.
Because bigger tubs hold more water, prioritize strong insulation and an efficient pump system to help keep heating costs in check. A sturdy, level foundation is essential here, too, given the added weight.
Key takeaway: Match the size to your typical group, not your largest possible party, and you’ll enjoy better comfort and more efficient ownership.
Once you’ve settled on type and size, the right features separate a good spa from a great one. Focus on these four areas to get real, lasting value.
Jets are the heart of hydrotherapy, but placement beats quantity every time. A well-engineered system targets sore muscles in your neck, shoulders, back, and legs with adjustable pressure. Dozens of weak jets don’t necessarily provide a better experience.
Look for a mix of jet styles and the ability to control water flow to different seats. That flexibility lets each person adjust the massage they want, from a gentle soak to more focused hydrotherapy.
In Minnesota, insulation is the feature that shapes both comfort and operating costs. Full-foam insulation and a thick, well-fitting thermal cover work together to help retain heat, so your heater may cycle less frequently and your energy costs can stay more manageable.
Much of a spa’s heat can escape through the water’s surface, which makes a snug, tapered cover essential. Together, quality insulation and a properly fitted cover help keep your water warm and ready through harsh Minnesota winters.
LED lighting transforms evening soaks from pleasant to magical. A soft, color-changing glow can set the mood, improve nighttime visibility, and add a touch of ambiance to your backyard retreat while using relatively little energy.
Look for lighting that illuminates the water, footwell, and cabinet. It’s a small feature that can make a big difference after sunset.
Clean water is the difference between a spa you love and a chore you dread. A strong filtration system paired with an ozonator can help keep water clear while supporting your overall water-care routine.
Ozonators can help reduce contaminants and supplement your sanitation system, easing some of the maintenance workload. Combined with easy-access filters and consistent water care, they can make routine spa maintenance simpler.
Key takeaway: Prioritize smart jet placement and quality insulation first. They have a major impact on your comfort, hydrotherapy experience, and long-term operating costs.
A hot tub is a real investment, and a few smart additions can keep it safe, efficient, and enjoyable for years. Here’s what matters most.
A quality cover is one of the most valuable accessories you can own. It helps lock in heat, keeps debris out, lowers energy loss, and adds an important layer of safety. Look for a thick, tapered cover with a dense foam core and a tight seal that fits your spa properly.
When a cover becomes waterlogged or starts sagging, replace it promptly. A worn cover can quietly increase heat loss and drive your heating costs higher month after month.
Sturdy steps make getting in and out easier and safer, especially on icy winter nights. Handrails add welcome stability, and non-slip surfaces around the spa can help reduce the risk of slips and falls.
These small touches matter most for children, older adults, and anyone soaking after dark. Thoughtful safety accessories can make your spa easier for everyone to enjoy with confidence.
Consistent water care keeps your soak clean, clear, and inviting. Stock the essentials: sanitizers, balancers, test strips, and fresh filter cartridges. Floating scum absorbers can also help collect oils and residue between water changes.
A steady maintenance routine protects your equipment and can help prevent avoidable problems down the road. Our team can help you build a simple water-care kit tailored to your spa.
Key takeaway: A good cover, safe steps, and consistent water care protect both your comfort and your investment.
When you’re ready to see spas in person, our Hermantown showroom is the place to start. With 25 years of local experience, we know what works for Northland winters, and we’ll guide you toward the right fit with no pressure, just honest advice.
Our showroom features premium Sundance® Spas, backed by over 30 years of engineering and a comprehensive warranty. There’s a series for every household and budget:
Round out your backyard wellness retreat with our infrared saunas and Bear Naked Saunas. These deliver soothing heat therapy that pairs beautifully with a warm soak. Together, they can turn your backyard into a complete, year-round wellness escape centered on relaxation and well-being.
Bringing home a quality spa should feel exciting, not stressful. We offer flexible financing, including in-house and third-party options, with affordable monthly payments and a simple, hassle-free application that welcomes a range of credit situations. Quality relaxation should fit your budget comfortably.
Our expert team also handles safe, professional delivery and installation from start to finish. We manage placement, filling, and electrical coordination, then walk you through operation, water care, and maintenance so you feel confident from day one. Professional installation helps support safe operation, proper setup, and efficient spa performance, ensuring your spa is ready to serve you through every Minnesota season.
Choosing the right backyard hot tub comes down to matching the type, size, and features to your life. Focus on full-foam insulation and a quality cover for year-round Minnesota use, pick a size that fits your typical group, and protect your investment with smart accessories and consistent care. Do that, and your spa can reward you with years of relaxation.
For 25 years, we’ve helped Northland families find the right spa with premium Sundance® Spas, expert guidance, and dependable service. Visit us at 4881 Miller Trunk Hwy, Hermantown, MN 55811 to explore our collection, discover financing options, and imagine the possibilities for your own backyard. Our friendly, experienced team is ready to help you find exactly what you need. Stop in today and discover the relaxation waiting right outside your door.
