Choosing Hot Tub Shape: Rectangle and Square Tubs

There are a number of factors you may be considering when buying a new hot tub, but it’s important not to overlook certain simple areas as you get deep into this process. One of the single most basic examples, but which also represents a very important decision for your purchase: Which hot tub shape are you looking for? At Dolphin Pools & Spas, we regularly assist clients with every element of hot tub selection, from simple areas like shape to more complex needs wherever necessary. We’re an authorized dealer of Bullfrog Spas, some of the top products in this entire industry, and we also offer several other options. In this two-part blog series, we’ll go over each of the most common hot tub shapes used today, plus the pros and cons of each and how to arrive at your final decision.

Why Hot Tub Shape Matters

Before we get too deep into the weeds, let’s first briefly touch on why hot tub shape matters in the first place. Obviously, there are some aesthetic reasons that might influence your decision – you might prefer one look over another, or one particular dimensions or measurements to others. But there are also functional reasons that come into play here. For example, some shapes are better designed for specific functions, like socializing or hydrotherapy, while others might be a better option if you’re looking to save some space. There’s no “right” answer here – it all comes down to your specific needs and preferences as the buyer. Now that we’ve established why hot tub shape is such an important decision, let’s get into the four most popular shapes on the market today.

Rectangular Hot Tubs

As the name suggests, rectangular hot tubs are – you guessed it – rectangular in shape. These are some of the most popular types of hot tubs for a number of reasons, chief among them being that they’re very versatile. Rectangular hot tubs can accommodate a larger number of people than many other shapes, which makes them ideal for socializing and entertaining. They also tend to offer more hydrotherapy jets than other options, so if that’s something you’re looking for in a hot tub then this might be the shape for you. On the flip side, rectangular hot tubs are often less energy efficient than other shapes since they require more pumps and jets to operate properly. They also tend to be larger and require more space, which might not be ideal if you’re working with limited square footage.

Square Hot Tubs

Square hot tubs are very similar to rectangular hot tubs in a number of ways, including size, shape, and functionality. They’re also quite popular for many of the same reasons – they offer ample space for socializing and entertaining, plus more jets for hydrotherapy. The main difference between square and rectangular hot tubs is, of course, the shape. Some people prefer the look of a square hot tub over a rectangle, while others find that it takes up more space than they would like. For most, though, there really isn’t a huge difference between these two types. In part two of our series, we’ll continue our discussion of hot tub shapes by going over oval and circular options. Stay tuned! For more on this, or to learn about any of our hot tub products or services, speak to our team at Dolphin Pools & Spas today.