Changing the water will depend on the degree of usage and the chemical testing - if the levels have fallen out of range then the water should be changed and refreshed. The area required of course depends on the size of the hot tub you choose; consider the circumference for the hot tub itself, plus additional access room. Most hot tubs come with a cover included, which can be very useful for insulating and maintaining the temperature when the tub isn't in use, as well of course for covering the open water from debris and making it safer for children. They're also make life much easier when it comes to hot tub winter care. Filling time also doubled with the Wave, because of course the water capacity is twice the size, and that larger volume of water took a lot longer to heat meaning that running costs were higher. It looks great on our patio and its anti-freeze technology means we're likely to use it all year long, so for the price I think it's good value.

This energy‑efficient inflatable hot tub has Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to control your hot tub from the Lay-Z-Spa app so it's always ready when you are. Getting into the Lay-Z Spa Barbados is nothing short of bliss. We found 35-36ºC really cosy but not too warm for the children. It is much more comfortable than I was expecting, my only hot tub benchmark being the polycarbonate built-in ones with ergonomically shaped seats common in spa hotels.Corner spots are good for providing a little shelter from the wind, however, having yourhot tubright next to the wall of your home is probably tooclose. The steam that comes from the water may seep into windows and water splashed from thetubmay cause a slippery walkway. You'll also want to avoid placing it under a tree to prevent leaves and debris from raining down while you're soaking. Despite its thinner walls, this tub feels sturdy, and the wood-effect print on the exterior – inspired by traditional Scandinavian wooden hot tubs – puts it a cut above the average inflatable tub in the looks department. Not to mention, it can heat, massage and filter all at the same time, with the powerful integrated air jet system offering a welcome jacuzzi experience. Bliss! This is also an outdoor spa you can use all year round thanks to its 'FreezeShield' technology.

Image credit: Future/ Bethan Davis) Lay-Z-Spa Barbados Airjet Hot Tub: energy efficiency and cost to run Seven different colours of LED lighting set into the hot tub's inner walls allow you to fine-tune the evening's ambience. You can switch up the colour to match the mood via the wireless remote or use the auto-colour mode to cycle through the shades.Similar in size and specs to the other four-person Lay-Z-Spa models in our round-up, this inflatable offers 120 air jets, easy inflation, and just enough room for four adults. But as evening falls, the reason for upgrading to this hot tub becomes clear. If you're looking for an affordable hot tub, then the Lay-Z-Spa Cancun is generally one of the cheapest hot tubs on the market, and has some pretty impressive features to boot.