It would be easy to overlook the Miami when compared to more recent inflatable hot tubs in the Lay Z Spa range that feature HydroJet systems and flip-up control panels. However, the Miami has remained a consistently impressive seller since its release because of its quality build and ease of use.
[amazon link=”B07F5WSVQK” link_class=”btn_see_more” title=”See More Images” /]So, if you’re thinking of buying this impressive & feature-laden hot tub, you can uncover everything you need to know the Miami in this complete guide.
Miami Key Product Information:
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Miami Overview
When compared to the large Palm Springs or the gigantic Monaco hot tubs the Miami seems a touch on the small size. Measuring in at 180cm in diameter and 66cm high it is a full 21cm more compact in diameter when compared to the Monaco.
However, apart from size, the Miami isn’t lacking. It arrives furnished with many of the same features you’ll find on Lay Z Spa’s more expensive hot tubs and even has a protective coating (more on this later) that you’ll only find on one other spa in the Lay Z Spa range: the Havana.
We also can’t help think the smaller size is deliberate. The Lay Z Spa range is the best selling inflatable hot tub range in the UK. As such, Bestway (the manufacturer behind Lay Z Spa), have continued to expand their range to suit almost every budget and requirement.
And, in the case of the Miami the requirement is space. It is ideally suited for smaller gardens that are a common feature in new build homes. It allows anyone to enjoy the luxury of a hot tub without it completely dominating the garden.
Even though we may have painted the picture of a hot tub akin in size to a paddling pool the Miami is still quite roomy. It can hold 2-4 people and is great for couples or enjoying with a few close friends.
Build Quality
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Because an inflatable hot tub is essentially supported by air, the build quality needs to be high. Often the weight of the water alone can be close to a metric ton and the sides also need to support the weight of people as they climb in and out. An inflatable tub also needs to be puncture-resistant to thorns and other nasties within a garden that could damage the tub walls. That’s quite a list of requirements!
To meet these demands the Miami has several key features up its proverbial sleeve. The first is the construction technique. Within the Miami are 48 vertical beams that provide a sturdy, yet comfortable surface. These beams also prevent the tub distorting or collapsing when people climb in and out. They also ensure the tub holds its shape no matter how times it is deflated and inflated. Lay Z Spa refers to this as i-Beam technology.
Next is the construction material, a 3 layer system called TriTech is used. It is composed of an inner layer of plastic mesh enclosed between two layers of laminated PVC. The end result is so durable that no outer cover is required to protect the Miami.
The final build feature is a rayon coating. This material is known for its stain-resistant properties but it also helps make the Miami even more resistant to punctures.
Overall this combination of clever technology ensures the Miami is a durable as a hard plastic hot tub but with all the advantages of an inflatable one.
AirJet Massage System
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Without a massage system, any hot tub would be little more than a large bath. And, the Miami uses a simple, but very effective system to create a bubbling Jacuzzi experience.
Encircling the base of the Miami is an air pocket that has 81 small holes punched into its surface. When the massage system is activated air is pumped into the ring and it escapes through the holes. Bestway refers to this pocket as the ‘massage seam’ and it is part of what they refer to as the Lay Z Spa massage system. It is a common feature found in virtually all Lay Z Spa hot tubs.
Heat Up Time
Whilst the heat up time will vary depending on the temperature the Miami will heat the water to its maximum 40°C in around 6-12 hours. This process is helped if the inflatable lid is kept on top of the tub during the heat up because it acts as a barrier to prevent heat loss.
All-in-one Pump With Simple Controls
The Miami features an all-in-one pump. This means everything you need to control and operate the spa is contained within one simple to use unit. Plus, in an upgrade over previous models, this version of the pump allows you to simultaneously heat the water whilst running the air massage system, preventing the water from cooling and keeping it toasty warm.
The control panel is also integrated into the top of pump unit. It consists of little more than a segmented LED display and several soft push buttons. In many cases a single press of a button activates or deactivates one of the spas functions – such as the massage system or heat function. This makes the Lay Z Spa range incredibly easy to use.
Safety Features
Water and electricity have never made easy bedfellows. And, at some point, the water from you tub will get splashed over the sides and onto the pump. With this in mind, it is important the pump housing is protected to prevent damage to the vital electronics inside and to prevent damage to you from electric shocks!
So, it is good to see the pump unit has an IPX5 rating. For anyone unfamiliar with IP (ingress protect) numbers they represent how resilient products are to environmental conditions. In this instance the IPX5 describes the water-resistance of the pump and that it can tolerate jets of water being blasted at it from any direction. This means the pump is more than capable of resisting the splashes of water it will inevitably endure from daily use.
The Miami also features an RCD cutout. This instantly cuts the power if water contacts the electrical supply and is the same as the RCD cutouts found in consumer units (fuse boxes) within the home.
How Easy Is The Miami To Setup?
Because inflatable hot tubs cannot be left outside in temperatures below 4°C they will need packing away at some point. This means setup has to be quick and simple. Its setup is too complicated it will be packed away and never used.
In response to this potential downfall, the Lay Z Spa range have been designed for quick setup. No tools are required and setup requires little more than inflating the spa. The water pump can even be used to inflate the tub. Connecting the air outlet for the massage system to the spa liner can inflate it in as little as 5 – 10 minutes.
Afterward all you need to do is fill it with water and wait for it to fill. The fill time will vary, depending on your water pressure, but this usually takes around 1-2 hours.
How Easy Is The Miami To Maintain?
Inflatable hot tubs are quite easy to maintain. The filter needs cleaning daily with regular use. But, this requires little more than rinsing it. The only other main job is to keep the water hygienic by treating with chemicals that maintain the Ph and chlorine levels.
Whilst this might sound complex, a slew of recent improvements have made treating the water easier than ever. From slow release chlorine tablets to Ph maintenance kits with testing strips, maintenance requires little more than adding the specified amount of chemicals and leaving them to work. Lay Z Spa provides a whole chemical kit that provides you with everything you need to maintain your tub.
A notable improvement here was the introduction of the Chemconnect system. This handy container attaches to the side of the hot tub and can be adjusted to release chlorine into the water at different rates. All you need to do is place 2 chlorine tablets inside.
A little general maintenance and care is also required. For example, do not leave the Miami in direct sunlight since, as with most plastics, this can damage the liner.
Lay Z Spa Miami FAQ
1 Can the Miami be used Indoors?
Just like any of the Lay Z Spa range the Miami can be used indoors – providing you have the space.
However, you will need to remember that a hot tub with increase the humidity within your home. This could cause condensation and damp patches if not properly ventilated. We always recommended ventilation the room it is used in or buying a dehumidifier to keep the humidity low.
2 Can I Use The Miami In The Winter?
Yes, you can. However, the Miami cannot be used in temperature below 4deg;C because this can damage the pump and vinyl.
3 Can I Get Help If I Need it?
Yes. Refreshingly BestWay provides a lot of support for their customers. Not only do they have a comprehensive YouTube channel with a lot of videos regarding setup and maintenance, but they also have a UK based support team you can call.
4 Do I Need To Run The Pump To Keep The Miami Inflated?
No. After the initial inflation, the tub will stay inflated. Every now and then it might need topping up. But it does not need constant power running to the pump to stay inflated in the same way a bouncy castle does.
Pros and Cons
The Miami: A Good Value Inflatable Hot Tub?
The Miami does not have a lot of faults. The only real notable one is its size. So, if you’re looking for a hot tub that’s great for parties or lazy evenings with friends, the Miami isn’t for you. In its place, we’d recommend the much larger Monaco.
However, [amazon link=”B07F5WSVQK” title=”the Miami” /] does have its plus points. It is definitely one the cheapest hot tubs in the Lay Z Spa range and is a very affordable way to get the hot tub experience at home for a fraction of the price of a rigid hot tub. Its compact dimensions also make it ideal for gardens where space is at a premium.
This spa is also backed with a warranty which shows real confidence in the durability and longevity of their products by Bestway. The Miami represents the ideal hot tub for those wanting the luxurious experience such as product provides but without paying too much money or having a supersize unit that fills a smaller garden.
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