Whats the best St Lucia Hot Tub?

[NeutrinoX74]

Here's what I'm comparing:

Lay-Z-Spa St Lucia (Current / "St Lucia 3")
Lay-Z-Spa St Lucia EnergySense

First off, in terms of core specs these are basically identical:

2-3 person capacity (realistically 2 comfortably)
110 AirJets
Max temp 40°C
Same pump style and controls
Same overall size and layout

So don't expect one to feel stronger or more powerful than the other. They're the same experience once you're sitting in it.

The current St Lucia (what you're calling St Lucia 3) is just the latest standard version of the original design. It's still using the usual AirJet system with 110 bubbles and heats up to 40°C, plus Freeze Shield for colder weather use. ()

Build is the usual DuraPlus material, and it's still designed as a compact spa for smaller gardens or patios. ()

Where things actually differ is the EnergySense version.

The St Lucia 2 (EnergySense) is not a performance upgrade, it's an efficiency upgrade. The key change is improved insulation in both the liner and the cover, designed to reduce heat loss.

In real terms that means:

Holds temperature better overnight
Heater doesn't kick in as often
Slightly lower running costs over time

That's the main selling point. Everything else is basically the same.

The standard St Lucia (your "3") still works fine, but it loses heat faster, especially in UK weather. So if you're using it outside summer, you'll notice it cycling more to maintain temperature.

Noise wise, no real difference. Same pump, same bubble system.

Build quality is also very similar. You're not getting a premium feel with either, just small material tweaks on the EnergySense version.

So it really comes down to usage:

If you're using it casually, weekends, summer only, or just wanted the cheapest option, the current St Lucia is still solid and usually better value.

If you plan to use it regularly or in colder months, the EnergySense version (St Lucia 2) makes more sense because insulation is honestly the biggest weakness on these tubs.

Bottom line:

St Lucia ("3") = same classic model, cheaper upfront, slightly higher running costs
St Lucia 2 (EnergySense) = same experience, but better heat retention and efficiency

Personally, I'd only pick the standard one if there's a noticeable price gap. Otherwise the EnergySense version is the smarter long-term buy

[NatureBoy86]

I love my hottub and recommend getting the better quality and energy saver

[FrostBear]

They cost a fortune in winter if not properly insulated from the base. Insulation foam or boards

[Kev5]

A smaller hottub means easier/cheaper to heat. but expensive if all the heat is going out the sides. energy sense makes sense

[WhatUQuant]

go with your gut, if you can afford the slightly more expensive one

[VidiTechnica]

That is pretty much it. Appreciate it

[PlanetOftheApes]

Cheers for that. That makes sense actually.

Thanks for that

[FridayFeeling]

Cheers for that. Totally get that.

Cheers for sharing

[Emma92]

I would probably do it differently. Same here honestly.

Real experience tends to be more specific and more boring than the advice you find online, which is exactly why it is more useful.

Cheers.

[Rough Reece]

Just buy one already. You'll have missed all the nice weather 🌦�