BP5 - Portable vs. Inground Spas: Which Is Right for You?

Adding a spa to your backyard is one of the best investments you can make in both your home and your health. Spas offer relaxation, stress relief, and therapeutic benefits—but deciding between a portable spa (hot tub) and an inground spa can be tricky.

At Backyard Concepts, we help homeowners in Waco and Central Texas design backyard spaces that fit their lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between portable and inground spas, so you can choose the option that’s best for you.

Portable Spas (Hot Tubs)

Pros

• Lower Cost – Portable spas are generally more budget-friendly upfront than inground options.

• Easy Installation – They can be placed on a patio or deck with little prep work.

• Portability – If you move, you can often take it with you.

• Health Benefits – Hydrotherapy jets in many models help with muscle relaxation, stress relief, improved circulation, and even better sleep.

• Variety of Features – Built-in lighting, molded seating, and Bluetooth speakers are common in today’s models.

Cons

• Aesthetics – They often look like add-ons and don’t always blend with the overall backyard design.

• Durability – Typically last 5–15 years, less than an inground spa’s lifespan.

• Maintenance – Smaller water volume means chemicals can fluctuate more quickly, requiring more frequent water testing and balancing.

• Energy Costs – Insulation varies by brand; less efficient models may lead to higher energy bills.

Inground Spas

Pros

• Custom Design – Seamlessly integrated into your pool or patio, matching the style of your home and backyard.

• Durability – Built from concrete or gunite, inground spas can last for decades with proper care.

• Heating Efficiency – If connected to your pool equipment, they can share systems, sometimes reducing long-term costs.

• Home Value – Adds significant value to your property, especially when combined with a custom pool.

  
  

Cons

• Higher Cost – More expensive to build than portable spas due to excavation and construction.

• Longer Installation – Requires planning and construction, especially if added alongside a new pool.

• Not Portable – Once installed, it’s a permanent feature.

• Maintenance – Larger water volume can be easier to keep stable, but inground spas still require regular cleaning, balancing, and seasonal care.

Maintenance Differences

• Portable Spas – Smaller volume = quicker chemical changes. Often require draining and refilling every 3–4 months. Filters need regular rinsing and replacement.

• Inground Spas – Typically share filtration and sanitation systems with a pool (if paired together), making maintenance more streamlined. Draining is less frequent, but they do need brushing, skimming, and balanced water chemistry.

Which Spa Is Right for You?

• Choose a portable spa if you want a budget-friendly, quick-installation option that still delivers health and relaxation benefits.

• Choose an inground spa if you’re looking for a long-term investment, seamless design, added property value, and a spa that will last for decades.

Backyard Concepts Offers Both

At Backyard Concepts, we specialize in custom inground spas that seamlessly complement your pool and backyard design. But we also understand that not every homeowner is ready for a full construction project. That’s why we proudly offer a full line of high-quality portable spas, giving you an affordable, flexible way to bring relaxation home—without the wait.

Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek inground spa as part of a pool project or want the convenience of a portable spa you can enjoy right away, Backyard Concepts is your one-stop shop for backyard living.