Q&A hot tubs
investing in a hot tub
It’s the ultimate garden luxury – who wouldn’t want to relax in one with a glass of prosecco at the end of a hard week? These are the need-to-knows…
From the costs to the space you need and the logistics involved, read our guide before you make a decision
Q What sort of access will be needed?
While some off-the-shelf hot tubs come in modular form so they can be taken through a garden gate, there are also rigid hot tubs that will be delivered on their side on a trolley (so the height becomes the width). Plan the tub’s path to its final destination, taking into account any overhanging eaves, width of access and if anything needs to be removed, such as fence panels. Preformed tubs are cumbersome and won’t bend around corners, so if access is tricky, craning one in is an option – your retailer will be able to recommend a company.
Q Where’s the best place to install one?
If you have a self-contained tub, it will need a solid, level base, such as a concrete pad, decking or paving. Make sure the surface can handle the weight of the tub when filled with water and people (it can be up to two tonnes) – you may need to reinforce the base. Setting a tub directly on the ground can cause it to sink on one side, causing uneven weight distribution and damage. Think about the location – you’ll need a clean area around it to prevent dirt being tracked in, and a spot where you’ll get the most daylight. Consider whether you want the hot tub close to your house, or far away, which may need additional lighting. An enclosed area or screen is ideal as it’ll help the water to retain heat, reduce running costs and provide privacy.
Q How long does it take to install?
Inflatable hot tubs usually take a few minutes to blow up, a couple of hours to fill up and around six hours to heat up. Self-contained tubs can be up and running within a day, while non-self contained tubs that are sunk into the ground or decking will take longer.
Q How is it powered?
Some hot tubs can be plugged into a standard socket and only require a 13amp fuse, depending on the heater and pump size. You may need to have a dedicated outdoor socket installed by an electrician. Check also that the socket is protected by a circuit breaker/residual current device (RCD) – if it’s not, you can buy one that plugs in. Other tubs need to be wired into the mains on their own spur by a Part Pregistered/certified electrician. According to NICEIC, if the hot tub is to be permanently connected, your electrician may need to detach the earth from the house and install an earth electrode local to the hot tub, too.
Q What about plumbing?
Hot tubs have filtration systems and the water will need to be treated with special sanitising chemicals, meaning on average, the water will only need changing once a month, with three months as the recommended maximum. All tubs will have a drain at the bottom for letting out water. This means that there’s very little need for a hot tub to be plumbed in or additional drainage. Simply fill it with a hose and use the waste water in your garden – the level of chemicals is relatively low, so safe for watering most plants.
Q How much do they cost?
Basic inflatable hot tubs can be bought for less than £500, with rigid designs between £2,500-£4,000, depending on type. Large, luxurious feature-packed designs can cost up to £30,000. Pay more than £10,000 and you tend to get a better-quality product that’s more reliable and will have a full service backup and warranty. Don’t forget to ask about the installation costs, too, as some companies won’t include this in the price. If you’re choosing a specialist supplier, check that they’re members of BISHTA (the British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association). Factor in running costs, too – on average, hot tubs cost between £1 and £1.50 per day to maintain 40°C, plus you’ll need to buy water treatments.