This is our review of the Intex Simple Spa 28482 Hot Tub (updated in 2023)
There are other companies in the UK everyone is familiar with when blow-up spas are mentioned, but Intex has a pretty impressive inflatable hot tub range, so how do they compare?
The Intex Simple Spa is a circular 4-person inflatable hot tub option with some features not to be sniffed at, but are the reviews as good as you’d hope and who should avoid this model?
With its sleek design and 795l water capacity, the Intex Simple Spa is an affordable option for first-time buyers looking for a basic model that doesn't skimp on features. Plus, even though the number of jets isn't as high as some, buyers describe them as pretty powerful.
Let’s delve in and see!
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- How easy is the Intex Simple Spa to set up?
- How does it fare in the competitive four-seater market?
- Whether the simple black design is for you?
We are pleased to see the influx of innovative new inflatable hot tub designs over the last few years, but with all these choices, it can be challenging to find the perfect one, so our mission is to give you the facts, warts and all so that you can decide.
The Intex Simple Spa might be ideal for your garden set-up; then again, you may prefer another option?
Keep reading to find out all you need to know about the Intex Simple Spa inflatable hot tub.
The Intex Simple Spa is a stylish premium inflatable hot tub model from this well-respected inflatable brand, featuring a sleek design and highly functional control panel. The Intex Simple spa is featured on our list of little inflatable hot tubs and is geared towards small families and couples.
Making good use of Intex’s Fiber Tech construction, the spa is as durable as it is comfortable, and thanks to its insulated cover and triple-layer lining, this hot tub can stay warm and bubbly for hours on end.
One of a few Intex tubs we like, it really shines in terms of its filter system, which can treat hard water to remove irritants and minerals, producing a hygienic and relaxing hot tub experience that will be much gentler on your skin than some of its closest competitors.
Quick Glance
Capacity
Up to 4 people
Set Up Time
20-30 minutes
How Long To Heat Up
10-14 hours initial heating time
Running Costs
£40-£50 per week
Winter Frost Protection
No built-in frost protection
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What Previous Buyers Say
View around 200 Simple Spa reviews on Amazon.co.uk
Currently in Stock
Yes, this Simple Intex Spa is currently in stock
Pro’s
Built-in hard water treatment, simple control panel, durable construction
Con’s
Low number of bubble jets
Intex Simple Spa - Key Features
Practical control panel
One of the best features is its highly functional control panel, which is as simple to use as the name suggests.
From this easy-to-reach unit, hot tubbers can adjust the water to their desired temperature and easily control the power of the bubble jets with just a touch of a button, making for a straightforward and intuitive hot tub experience.
You can also set your preferences for the bubble jets and the heater from this panel, allowing for a great deal of control over your energy usage, an excellent addition if you’re looking to use your hot tub on a daily basis.
Stylish design
Finished in a sleek slate-grey design, which looks fantastic in almost any modern garden style.
Not only does this outer lining on this inflatable hot tub spa look great, but it’s fashioned from Intex’s patented Fiber Tech material, which uses three layers of fabric to help prevent any punctures or scrapes from damaging the hot tub.
Excellent filtration system
All current Intex models are equipped with their upgraded filtration system, which uses a built-in hard water treatment device that can remove the minerals in low-quality water to help produce a more hygienic and comfortable spa experience.
When combined with the Simple Spa’s included chemical dispenser, hot tubbers can relax in peace, safe in the knowledge that their bubbly water is as clean as can be.
Size, Dimensions and Specifications
Item Number:
(Amazon) B083QF7TZY
Inflatable Capacity:
Up to 4 adults
Water Capacity (70%):
795L (210 gallons)
Inflated Size:
196 x 66 cm (77″ x 26″)
Filled Weight:
838kg (1847lb)
Cable Length:
N/A
Max heat capability:
40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit)
Detailed Review
WI-FI & Lighting?
The Intex Simple Spa does not feature any wi-fi functionality as standard, though the easy-to-use control panel does make up for this feature, in our opinion.
No, this Simple Spa does not come with any included lighting system. However, there are plenty of compatible floating lights that can be purchased from the manufacturer or other inflatable hot tub brands.
How Many People Can It Comfortably Hold?
Marketed as a mid-size inflatable hot tub, with a water capacity of 795L and room to fit up to 4 average-sized adults within its interior.
Though its advertised max capacity is 4, we’ve found that in practice, you’ll be quite short on room, so we think that the hot tub works much better as a hot tub for two.
Thanks to the cushioned support of Intex’s 3-layer Fiber Tech construction material, The Intex product is a remarkably comfortable inflatable.
When fully inflated, this model provides excellent support whilst you recline amongst the bubble jets, and the floor lining is of fairly high quality.
Relaxation doesn’t come much better and you can buy accessories such as headrests, LED lights and drinks holders to make the spa bubble jacuzzi that lit bit more appealing.
It comes with a secure clip cover that helps prevent any children or pets from falling into the water when the hot tub is not in use.
Alongside this cover, all current Intex models are fitted with an internal GFI unit that will automatically cut all power to the pump if a fault is detected within the hot tub’s circuitry.
Running costs
Online reviews suggest that Intex machines will generally cost around £12-£14 per week to run; however, a smaller model like the Simple Spa should fall towards the lower end of this scale, especially if you’re not running the air jets at full power all day.
Heater and Heat Up Times
Thanks to its fairly average capacity and insulated material lining, the Simple Spa hot tub will warm up to a maximum temperature of 40 degrees Celsius within around 10-14 hours straight out of the box.
Is the Simple Spa pump noisy?
Any inflatable hot tub that uses a pump to power its jets will make a considerable amount of noise, with some models able to hit 70db during heavy usage.
It isn’t as noisy as other hot tubs, however, thanks mainly to its conservative amount of massage jets (100) and relatively small max capacity.
It also comes with an insulated ground cloth, which will help dampen any operational noise. You can lessen the impact of any noise further by placing the hot tub in a sheltered area of your garden.
Price and Warranty
The Intex Simple massage spa is competitively priced and does feature a very high-quality build and a decent amount of functionality. However, we think there are comparable hot tubs that offer a little more value for money.
It’s always worth checking several suppliers over the course of a few months, as often Intex tubs can be found at discounted prices during periods of low demand.
If your Intex has been purchased from a verified supplier, it’s eligible for a 12-month warranty on all parts as standard. Intex will also provide replacements for any faulty components during this time, provided you fill out their online form and can produce proof of purchase.
Previous Owner Reviews
The reviews of the Intex Simple Spa are quite good. With 38 reviews, this tub scores 4.4/5 with many saying that the fibre tech construction offers greater comfort on your back when sitting in it.
It is an excellent choice for couples or small families, though you should be aware that fitting four adults in this outdoor portable inflatable tub will be quite a squeeze!
Alternatives
This MSpa offers a larger capacity and more bubble jets than the Intex Simple Spa in a square design that often fits better in most outdoor spaces.
It's considerably less expensive than most of the Intex range, though we think this shows in the quality of its material lining. Still, if you're looking for size over durability, this might be a better choice for you. Our review is here.
Lay Z Spa are the industry leader in terms of inflatable hot tubs, and models like the Ibiza Airjet really illustrate why.
It's cheaper than the Intex featured here with more massaging jets, a larger max capacity, and a built-in freeze protection system.
You may prefer the design of the Intex Simple Spa, in which case it's still a great choice, but we do think that this model beats most of the Intex range in terms of functionality.
How to Set Up The Simple Spa
This hot tub can be easily inflated with no specialised tools in around 20-30 minutes.
Once fully inflated, you’ll just need to fill the hot tub with fresh water, which should take about 1-2 hours, and then you only need to wait for the water to reach the desired temperature.
This short video shows how to set up an Intex
Our Thoughts on the Intex Simple Spa
The Intex Simple Spa isn’t the king of inflatables, but it does do the basics of hot tub design very well.
The Fiber Tech lining provides excellent durability and considerable comfort, making this a great hot tub for those who expect to be taking a dip daily.
The straightforward functionality of the control panel allows the inflatable hot tub to be very user-friendly.
The ability to set your preferences for the water temperature and the power of the air jets is one of its stand-out features.
If you’re looking for a couple’s hot tub, the Intex Simple Spa should tick all your boxes.
