The Saluspa Coronado Inflatable Hot Tub from Costco is quickly becoming a popular choice for those who want a spa experience at home—without the hefty price tag or permanent installation. With its affordable price, compact design, and surprisingly powerful jets, this inflatable hot tub has plenty of fans who love its therapeutic benefits and ease of use.
But like any product, it comes with some quirks and challenges that potential buyers should know before taking the plunge. So, is this the perfect spa alternative for your backyard, or just a temporary fix? Let’s dive in and explore.
In this review, we’ll look at the real-life pros and cons that owners have shared about their Saluspa Coronado experiences. From soothing jets and relaxation benefits to slower heating and occasional maintenance woes, we’ll cover everything you need to know to decide if this hot tub is a good fit for you.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious way to unwind after a long day or a budget-friendly way to try out the spa lifestyle, this inflatable hot tub has its unique appeal—and we’re here to help you discover if it’s worth the investment.
Initial Clarifications
There are two items that I need to address up front.
Number 1: In the Costco warehouse this is labeled as the Bestway Coronado Inflatable Spa. On the Costco website this is listed as the SaluSpa Coronado. I went with the SaluSpa name for this article.
Number 2: This is marketed as a 4-6 person hot tub which I find to be pretty funny. This hot tub will fit two people comfortably. If you try to fit four people in here it will get real awkward quickly!
Pros of the Saluspa Coronado Hot Tub
1. Affordable Price Point
Many customers appreciate the affordability of the Saluspa Coronado. At a fraction of the cost of traditional hot tubs, it’s an appealing choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option without a permanent installation.
2. Relaxing and Effective Jets
The Saluspa Coronado features air jets along the bottom perimeter, providing a bubbly, soothing experience. Several users mentioned how relaxing and therapeutic these jets are, especially for sore muscles and joints.
3. Ease of Setup (With Some Assistance)
Although setup instructions are reportedly sparse, many users found the setup manageable by watching YouTube tutorials from other owners. The consensus is that, with a little extra guidance, the process is relatively straightforward.
4. Temperature Retention
Users who keep the hot tub covered and use insulated mats underneath report good temperature retention, even in colder temperatures. This makes it suitable for year-round use, especially in mild climates.
5. App-Controlled Features
The Saluspa Coronado comes with a companion app, which allows for remote control of settings, temperature adjustments, and monitoring – a handy feature for those who want to preheat the tub from indoors.
Cons of the Saluspa Coronado Hot Tub
1. Slow Heating
Many users find the heating process to be slow, often taking 24–48 hours to reach the maximum temperature of 104°F, especially if filled with cold water. Some recommend filling with hot water initially to avoid long wait times.
2. Temperature Drops with Jet Use
Because the jets use air rather than heated water, the temperature can drop during extended use. This is especially noticeable in colder climates, where the heater struggles to maintain warmth with the jets running.
3. Wi-Fi and Control Issues
The app control feature is inconsistent, with users reporting trouble connecting the tub to Wi-Fi. For some, the app stopped working altogether after a few months, requiring manual operation instead.
4. Quality Control Problems
Numerous users reported receiving units with leaks or parts that failed shortly after purchase. Common issues include holes in the inflatable liner, faulty pumps, and control panel errors. This has led to frustration with the product’s durability.
5. Lack of Clear Instructions and Customer Support
The most consistent complaint is the lack of comprehensive setup and maintenance instructions. Many users had to rely on third-party videos for assistance, and those who reached out to customer support often experienced slow or unhelpful responses.
6. High Maintenance and Chemical Balance
Like any hot tub, the Saluspa requires regular chemical maintenance. Some users found balancing chemicals tricky, particularly when first starting out, and noted the importance of regular filter cleaning to avoid bacterial issues.
Unboxing & Setting Up the Saluspa Coronado Inflatable Hot Tub
Since one of the major complaints about the hot tub is a lack of clear instructions I wanted to provide a quick summary of how to get the unit unboxed and set up for use.
Step 1: Unboxing the Hot Tub
The unboxing process is straightforward, with all parts neatly packaged to prevent damage during shipping. Here’s what you’ll find inside:
- The inflatable hot tub shell
- Control unit with a pump and heater
- Inflatable lid and cover for heat retention
- Filter cartridges, chemical floater, and repair patch
- Instruction manual and setup DVD
Pro tip: Make sure to have a large, clean area to unbox everything, as the shell is large when spread out.
Step 2: Inflating the Tub
Next comes the inflation process. Using the provided pump, which doubles as the control unit, you can inflate the hot tub in about 10-15 minutes. Connect the pump to the inflation valve, select the “inflate” option, and let the pump do the work. The process is user-friendly and doesn’t require extra tools.
Tips for inflating:
- Make sure the area beneath the tub is free of sharp objects.
- Inflate the cover and lid using the same pump for an airtight seal, which helps retain heat.
Step 3: Filling the Hot Tub with Water
After inflation, it’s time to fill the tub. Attach a garden hose to the water inlet, and fill the tub to the indicated line. Depending on your water pressure, this could take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Step 4: Setting Up the Control Unit
The control unit manages water temperature, filtration, and bubble jets. Here’s a quick overview:
- Temperature Control: Adjust the water temperature up to a maximum of 104°F. Keep in mind that heating takes several hours, so it’s best to plan if you’re hoping to use the hot tub the same day.
- Filtration: The filter helps maintain water clarity. We recommend cleaning the filter every week, especially if the tub is used frequently.
- Bubble Jets: The Saluspa Coronado offers a relaxing massage experience with its built-in bubble jets, which you can activate using the control panel.
Step 5: Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Maintaining the hot tub is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some basic maintenance tips:
- Chemical Treatment: Regularly add the appropriate chemicals, such as chlorine or bromine, to keep the water safe. The included chemical floater is a convenient way to add chemicals without direct handling.
- Filter Cleaning: Rinse the filter weekly and replace it every 2-4 weeks, depending on usage.
- Cover Care: Always use the inflatable cover when the tub isn’t in use to retain heat and prevent debris from falling in.
Step 6: Draining and Storing
When you’re ready to drain the tub, use the drainage valve. After draining, deflate the tub using the pump, dry it thoroughly, and store it in a cool, dry place.
Final Verdict
The Saluspa Coronado Inflatable Hot Tub is a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for an entry-level spa experience. It offers therapeutic benefits with its air jets and maintains reasonable heat in moderate climates. However, potential buyers should be prepared for a slower heating process, possible quality control issues, and a bit of trial-and-error with maintenance.
If you’re willing to troubleshoot initial setup and ongoing maintenance, the Saluspa Coronado could be a great addition to your relaxation routine. As many users advise, buy it from a retailer like Costco, where returns are straightforward if the product doesn’t meet your expectations.
This tub is not be a substitute for a high-end hot tub, but for a fraction of the price, it provides a warm and bubbly retreat in the comfort of your backyard.
