Prefab vs Custom Hot Tub Price
When installing a hot tub on your property, the first choice you will have to make is if you want a prefabricated unit that is already designed and ready for installation or if you want to create a custom build made specifically for your space. Both options offer unique pros and cons, so your decision will most likely be based on your budget and your wants and needs. Depending on which type you choose, you can expect to pay from $4,000 up to $20,000. Let’s take a closer look at both below.
On average, prefab hot tub prices range between $4,000 and $8,500. As the name suggests, prefabricated units are already built, so you don’t have to make any additional decisions about how it looks. All you have to do is figure out which type best suits your space. Prefab units can be above-ground or in-ground and can be placed inside or outdoors. If you have more specific needs or wants, you may prefer to invest in the custom hot tub cost of $5,000 and $20,000, depending on the size and material. They can be made of wood or molded material and installed indoors, outside, or in-ground. They are normally built-in 3 or placed in the ground rather than portable. Custom tubs have a lead 9 time of several weeks to build, so plan accordingly.
| Construction Type | Unit Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Prefabricated | $4,000 - $8,500 |
| Custom | $5,000 - $20,000 |
Hot Tub and Installation Cost by Location
Often, people think of hot tubs as only being located outside, but there is always the option of installing an indoor model. This change in location impacts the overall cost of your installation project. Both indoor and outdoor units come with their own unique advantages. The right choice for you depends on the amount of space, the climate you live in, and your other personal wants and needs. For the sake of the rest of this guide, we will focus on outdoor installations. However, it is still important to consider the costs of indoor installations. The price of installation ranges from $4,000 up to $25,000 depending on the unit being installed outdoor or indoor.
| Location | Unit Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Outdoor | $4,000 - $20,000 |
| Indoor | $5,000 - $25,000 |
Outdoor Hot Tub Installation Cost
Typically, the cost to install an outdoor design ranges from $4,000 to $20,000, depending on its size, shape, and location. Outdoor hot tubs are easier to install and maintain. For these reasons, the average outdoor hot tub cost is less expensive than indoor alternatives. Outdoor units automatically have proper ventilation and natural drainage. Plus, they give you the chance to enjoy your surroundings from a comfortable spot. However, they offer less privacy than indoor units.
Outdoor hot tubs are usually made from rotomolded plastic, vinyl 1, or acrylic, although fiberglass 2, stainless steel, cement, and inflatable PVC options are also available. When installing a hot tub outside, it’s important to have the right foundation with a stable surface and adequate space for the tub. You also need to be far enough away from the property line according to the building code. Access to plumbing and electricity is also recommended, although the requirements vary by hot tub and home design, so your professional installer will walk you through the checklist in detail.
Indoor Hot Tub Installation Cost
With the proper ventilation requirements and foundation, an indoor option costs more than one outdoors. They typically range between $5,000 to $25,000, depending upon materials, location, heating, and other requirements. Indoor units can be of any type and provide advantages, such as privacy, safety, and climate control. There are requirements to consider before installing them.
First, installing an indoor unit in a room with proper ventilation is important to prevent condensation, including fans and a dehumidifier. Walls and doors should have a water-resistant covering to avoid damage. Next, using the correct foundation is extremely important. They are very heavy. Once filled with water, they can weigh a ton and apply high pressure to the surface they are on. Therefore, they should only be placed on a concrete slab 3 1. The flooring around it should be anti-slip and provide good drainage for all the water that inevitably spills out.
In-Ground vs Above-Ground Hot Tub Price
Generally speaking, there are two types of units that you can install at your home: above-ground and in-ground. Both types come with their own unique advantages and drawbacks, which is why it’s important to fully understand what you’re getting into before you decide which type you want. The cost of above-ground and in-ground tubs ranges in cost from $1,000 up to $20,000. We’re going to dive into deeper detail about both types so that you can make the most informed decision for your home.
| Type | Unit Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Above-Ground | $1,000 - $15,000 |
| In-Ground | $15,000 - $20,000 |
Cost of Above-Ground Hot Tub
Above-ground units, also known as portable hot tubs, range from $1,000 up to $15,000 on average, including installation. Any prefabricated unit that is not built-in or anchored in some way to your home, deck, pool, or the ground and can be drained, unhooked, and moved is considered portable. This includes inflatable, soft-sided, molded, and even wooden units not built into a deck. Portable units are popular due to their lower costs and simple installation. They can usually be plugged into a 220v outlet and moved around if needed. They are simple to maintain since there is easy access to all the mechanics, which are well-protected from the elements. However, there are not as many options for interior materials. These can be difficult to get into and out of, especially for those who are older or living with mobility issues.
Cost of In-Ground Hot Tub
This option can be a major investment that requires professional installation. They are expensive, ranging from $15,000 to $20,000, due to the high installation costs of plumbing, electrical work, gas hookups, and excavation. These units add a dramatic effect to your landscape when they are built into the deck or patio for easy access or within a backyard landscape. They can take weeks to build and offer fewer features and lower energy efficiency than above-ground options. They are most commonly made of acrylic or rotomold because these materials are not affected by the soil they are installed in and do not rot like wood.
Average Cost of Hot Tub With Installation by Occupancy
While material plays a role in the prices, size is arguably the most important factor. Quite simply, bigger models have more material and labor costs. The size you install should be determined by how many people you want to accommodate. For example, if you have a family of six, make sure your unit accommodates a minimum of six people. If you entertain frequently, you may also want to size up so that guests can use it. Keep in mind that occupancy means the number of people who it is designed to hold. While you may cram more people in, this may not be comfortable, safe, or advisable. In fact, it can damage your tub and the area surrounding it.
2, 4, 6, and 8-person hot tubs are generally the most common and easy to find on the market. It’s also easier to customize hot tubs designed to fit this many people in popular materials like acrylic, fiberglass, and vinyl. However, there are some varieties for 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 12 people, too, but your options will be much more limited and likely more expensive. Here are some popular sizes for prefabricated hot tub models and their associated costs, ranging from $1,800 up to $20,000.
| Occupancy | Prefab Cost (Installed) | Custom Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| 2 People (5’4” x 5’4”) | $1,800 - $6,000 | $3,300 - $10,500 |
| 3 People (6’x 6’) | $2,300 - $7,000 | $3,800 - $12,000 |
| 4 People (6’2” x 6’8”) | $3,300 - $8,000 | $4,800 - $13,000 |
| 5 People (6’6” x 7’) | $3,800 - $10,000 | $5,300 - $13,500 |
| 6 People (6’6” x 8’) | $4,800 - $11,000 | $5,800 - $14,800 |
| 7 People (7’ x 7’) | $5,800 - $11,500 | $6,800 - $15,500 |
| 8 People (7’6” x 8’) | $6,800 - $12,000 | $7,800 - $15,800 |
| 9 People (8’ x 8’) | $7,800 - $13,000 | $8,800 - $16,000 |
| 10 People (8’6” x 8’6”) | $8,300 - $13,500 | $9,800 - $16,500 |
| 12 People (9’ x 9’) | $8,800 - $14,500 | $10,800 - $20,000 |
Hot Tub With Installation Cost by Type
There are many different types of hot tubs to choose from, depending on your desired design, location, and how long you want to use the tub for. When deciding which type of tub is right for you, consider whether you want it to be portable or permanently installed. Your hot tub company or professional installer can help you find the right design that best suits your property and personal preferences, Hot tub with installation cost by type range from $500 to $40,000, as outlined below.
| Type | Unit Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Inflatable | $500 - $3,000 |
| Portable | $1,000 - $15,000 |
| Saltwater | $2,000 - $20,000 |
| Soft-Sided | $4,000 - $6,000 |
| Built-In | $15,000 - $20,000 |
| Swim Spa Hot Tub Combo | $15,000 - $40,000 |
Inflatable Hot Tub Cost
Inflatable units are becoming popular and a good choice for those looking for flexibility. They range in price from $500 to $3,000 on average for materials alone, as these types don’t require any complex installation or maintenance. Rather than opting for a solid tub, inflatable models can be broken down and moved anywhere in and out of your yard. Inflatable units do not use jets but rather fans that blow the air around, although they lose heat much faster and need to be heated more often. They may be less expensive than regular models, but are more expensive to run.
Portable Hot Tub Cost
Portable above-ground hot tubs cost anywhere from $1,000 up to $15,000 on average, including installation. You can drain, unhook and move portable tubs, which may be inflatable, soft-sided, or molded. Their low costs, simple installation, and easy electrical connection with a 220v outlet make these a popular choice. Plus, portable tubs are easy to take care of and a smart investment for families thinking about moving in the near future. Just keep in mind there aren’t as many options for interior finishes with portable hot tubs.
Saltwater Hot Tub Cost
The average saltwater hot tub cost ranges from $2,000 to $20,000, depending on the brand, tub, and generator system. This new trend uses a salt cell to produce a pure chlorine 4 solution, but the salt is not the same type found in the ocean. Saltwater options are becoming popular due to their ease of use and how they give skin a softer and silkier feel. Many prefer them over chlorine 5 tubs due to simplified maintenance and longer-lasting water. Although the initial cost is higher, it’s offset over time by the lower costs of the water supply and test kits than those needed for a chlorine tub.
Soft-Sided Hot Tub Prices
Soft-sided hot tubs cost between $4,000 and $6,000. These new, lightweight tubs are made of high-density foam and are portable, highly durable, and available in several shapes and colors. They can plug into a standard 110v outlet and use less than 15 amps of power so no additional electrical work is required. Soft-sided units offer many of the same benefits other tubs have, like jets, lights, and controls, but they have a unique appearance with very thick, rounded sides. Generally, you can set it up and tear it down within an hour. While heavier than inflatable units, a soft-sided unit and accessories weigh under 150 pounds.
Built-In Hot Tub Price
Built-in hot tubs are a major investment requiring professional installation, with an average cost of $15,000 to $20,000. This is due to the high installation costs of plumbing, electrical work, gas hookups, and excavation. These units add a dramatic effect to your landscape when they are built into the deck or patio for easy access or within a backyard landscape. They can take weeks to build and offer fewer features and lower energy efficiency than above-ground options. They are most commonly made of acrylic or rotomold because these materials are not affected by the soil they are installed in and do not rot like wood.
Swim Spa Hot Tub Combo Prices
Swim spa hot tub combos cost $15,000 to $40,000 on average. This small exercise pool uses jets to provide resistance, so it does not take up the same space as a regular pool. It doubles as a hot tub, either with an adjacent area or by switching the position of the jets and turning on the heater. These tend to be larger, with fewer features like seating unless they have an adjacent seating section. They are normally made of acrylic or molded and installed freestanding, in-ground, indoors, or outside. Swim spas can be used all year round since the water is heated, which increases its overall value. Electric-powered spas are generally more efficient and cost-effective, too.
Price of Hot Tub and Installation by Material
Hot tubs can have various shells, which is the interior material used to make the unit. Although you may not notice it at first glance, the type of shell material used impacts the look, feel, and overall costs. Some materials can be used for any type of unit, while others are specific to in-ground or above-ground units. Additionally, some materials are not able to be used in custom builds versus prefabricated ones.
Vinyl shells are the least expensive option on the market and are usually used on prefabricated soft-sided or inflatable units. However, vinyl cannot withstand as much wear and tear and is more likely to fade over time from UV ray exposure and chemicals. Rotationally molded or rotomolded models are made from polyethylene 5 (HDPE) material, similar to the material used in kayaks and refillable water bottles. It is a step up from vinyl in terms of performance and is more cost-effective than acrylic shells, as is fiberglass, which is used for prefab hot tubs. Fiberglass is still extremely low-maintenance and lightweight. Then there’s wooden tub shells, which offer a beautiful natural look, but can’t be molded into smooth benches. Acrylic is one of the most durable options on the market, but it’s much heavier and often more expensive. Cement and stainless steel hot tub shells are not nearly as common, but they do exist. Here are some of the materials used for different units, ranging in price from $2,000 up to $20,000.
| Material | Prefab Cost (Installed) | Custom Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Vinyl | $2,000 - $5,000 | N/A |
| Roto-Molded (Polyurethane) | $2,500 - $6,000 | N/A |
| Fiberglass | $3,000 - $10,000 | N/A |
| Wood | $3,500 - $8,000 | $5,000 - $11,000 |
| Acrylic | $4,500 - $9,000 | $8,000 - $16,000 |
| Cement | $5,000 - $11,000 | $8,000 - $17,500 |
| Stainless Steel | $6,000 - $12,000 | $10,000 - $20,000 |
Hot Tubs Prices Installed by Shape
Hot tubs come in several shapes, including custom builds. While the shape is not a big driving factor behind the cost, the shape affects size, occupancy, and even where it can be installed. Since all these things impact the cost, it is important to keep the shape in mind when planning your installation. Depending on which one you choose, you can expect to pay from $1,000 up to $20,000.
Circular designs are generally among the least expensive, as they are smaller and not as deep as other models. They also usually fit fewer people, with most being made for two to three people comfortably. Triangular units are a good choice if you are short on space because they easily fit into corners. These tend to be a bit more expensive than circular ones, even though they often fit the same amount of people. Rectangular units work well if you need more legroom in smaller, lower occupancy tubs. If you want to maximize occupancy while having enough legroom for everyone inside, consider installing a square unit, which comes in a wide range of sizes fitting between 4 and 12 people. These can have more modern features such as lights, waterfalls, fountains, and powerful jets, offering therapeutic benefits. If you want a very specific unit for your space and have room in your budget, consider building your own custom unit. Keep in mind the costs of hot tubs in each shape, as listed in the below table.
| Shape | Unit Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Circular | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| Triangular | $2,000 - $7,000 |
| Rectangular | $3,000 - $8,000 |
| Square | $4,000 - $10,000 |
| Custom | $5,000 - $20,000 |
Hot Tub Cost With Installation by Voltage
Hot tubs need to be wired to electricity to run the pump circulating water through the jets. Depending on the voltage of the unit, you may need to upgrade your outlet if you intend to plug it in, or you may need to upgrade a circuit. Tubs can be 110v, 220v, or mixed voltage, meaning that they may use four wires, two of each kind, to run properly. Based on the voltage needed, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $20,000.
If you want a tub that runs on 110v and plugs into an outlet, you need a “plug and play” tub. They are usually smaller, without as many jets or features, but they circulate water well and provide a pleasant experience. If you want a larger option with more jets and features, you need a 220v hot tub model that’s bigger with more features. These have plugs, which need a 220v outlet, but most are hardwired into your home’s electrical supply. Some newer models with ozonators, chromatherapy, and other high-end features are wired for mixed voltage, with some features running on 110v and others on 220v. Because these are high-end with many features, they cost more. They require a hardwire installation by an electrician to run properly. All of these options are outlined with average installation costs in the table below.
| Tub Voltage | Unit Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| 110v | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| 220v | $4,000 - $20,000 |
| Mixed Voltage | $8,000 - $20,000 |
Average Cost of Hot Tub and Installation by Brand
Another factor in hot tub material and labor costs is the brand. There are many well-known hot tub manufacturers out there, offering a huge variety of designs and special features. There are budget-friendly options, luxurious spa tubs, and everything in between, with costs by brand varying from $2,000 to $15,000. Arctic is known for its affordable, energy-efficient hot tubs with smartphone integration and accessories, while Hot Springs offers several jet types and luxurious amenities like saltwater systems. Master Spas is America’s largest manufacturer with relaxation, fitness, and swim hot tubs for above-ground or built-in use. Nordic hot tubs are a good mid-range option with about 30 models that fit anywhere between 1-8 people. On the higher end are Jacuzzi and Bullfrog hot tubs, which are known for high-end features like hydromassage and adjustable jets. The hot tub cost of each brand including installation are in the table below.
| Brand | Unit Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Arctic | $2,000 - $16,000 |
| Hot Springs | $3,000 - $15,000 |
| Master | $3,000 - $15,000 |
| Nordic | $3,500 - $10,000 |
| Jacuzzi | $4,000 - $16,000 |
| Bullfrog | $5,000 - $15,000 |
Labor Cost to Install a Hot Tub
There are not many installation costs if you purchase a ready-made unit. Most are designed to sit on a patio or concrete pad and are designed for the homeowner to set up. Inflatable tubs can be put up by the homeowner, while plug-and-play units with electric heaters can be delivered, filled, plugged in, and used. Custom, built-in, in-ground, and other specialty tubs have other associated costs. Most pool professionals install the unit and handle all associated work, except for wiring and running a gas line.
Labor costs depend on whether you choose prefabricated or custom-made. If you decide to buy a prefabricated one, the delivery and transport cost around $250 to $400, depending on how many professionals are needed and the amount of work. Difficult accessibility increases costs, with a $200 additional cost if a crane is required.
If you need a foundation for your prefab unit, expect installation costs for this of around $1,600. Filling the tub is generally done by the homeowner. All you need is a hose. If you have a professional set it up, meaning it is unboxed, moved, located, and all the working parts tested and assembled on-site, expect to spend $200 to $800 in labor costs. For a custom option, you may have other installation costs, but these are usually factored into the tub’s cost since it is being quoted and built specifically for your home. For example, the average custom model built to fit four people ranges in price from $5,000 to $10,000, with about $2,000 to $5,000 being used specifically for labor expenses.
Hot Tub Electrical Installation Cost
Once the hot tub is set in place, an electrician may need to help with the electrical set up. If there is no outlet around, then an electrician has to install an electrical outlet nearby. An electrician has to set up the wiring into a control pack and install a GFCI next to the hot tub at least 5 feet away. The cost to install a 220v outlet for a hot tub averages between $120 and $200. Costs increase by about $70 if you want to bury the electrical components. On average, electricians charge between $40 and $100 per hour for most jobs, so you can estimate the cost to install 220v outlet for hot tub in three hours. If an electrician needs to complete this work, it is important to check if a permit is required in your town or city.Once all the electrical work is complete, you can start to fill your unit with water. It is important to add the proper chemicals after filling. Complete instructions should be stated in the owner’s guide. Then, you can adjust your settings and heat it.
Cost to Build an In-Ground Hot Tub
An in-ground unit is expensive to install. The process is longer, with days of excavation, shell installation, and finishing work. It involves excavation, during which a hole is dug in the ground, and the soil is removed. This job takes a day or two, depending on how big the hole is and how smoothly the process goes. This process is usually done by people from the company. Following the excavation is the shell installation, which lowers the shell into the ground and finishes it off with the necessary cement and gravel to build the foundation around the shell. The ground around the tub is improved by installing either stone, tile, or brick for a beautiful finish. Some people may also decide to use coping to finish off the perimeter. Depending on the job’s extent, the installation takes anywhere from a few days to several weeks. This process has higher installation costs than standard above-ground designs. Excavation costs about $2,000, while delivering and lowering the unit into the site adds another $200 to $500. Expect to pay $1,800 to $2,000 to run the pipe and electrical wiring below ground to the site will add $1,800 to $2,000. Finally, the wiring costs about $400 to $500. This makes the total installation costs for an in-ground unit around $5,800 to $7,000.
Hot Tub Replacement Cost
If your hot tub is around 15-20 years old and needs constant repairs, it may be time for a replacement. When repairs no longer make a difference, or if the hot tub is constantly leaking, it’s time for a replacement. Replacing your hot tub is a complex project, which is why it is important to have a contracting team on your side from start to finish. First, they remove your existing unit, which involves disconnecting the power source, emptying, and removing it. The average removal cost ranges from $250 to $400, depending on its size, location, and any other complexities involved in the removal. Depending on the size and shape of your old unit versus the new one, you may need to plan for additional construction of the surrounding area. This can be especially true if your unit was placed inside your deck instead of simply sitting on top of it. From there, you will just have to pay for the new unit, which generally costs between $4,000 and $8,500.
Cost to Add Hot Tub to Existing Pool
Spillover spas are directly connected to your pool. These spas feature a fountain or waterfall that allows water from the hot tub to “spill over” into the pool. Adding a spillover spa to an existing pool costs more than installing a spa and pool at the same time. On average, costs range from $6,000 to $10,000 to add an attached spa to a new in-ground pool. It costs between $13,000 and $19,000 to add it to an existing pool. When adding a hot tub to your pool, your contractors need to re-plaster the interior of the pool and make modifications to the pool structure, plumbing, electrical components, and more. They will then resurface everything after the installation is complete. Adding a hot tub to an existing pool has many advantages, including an increase in home value and comfort.
Cost to Move a Hot Tub
Many homeowners choose to bring their hot tub with them when they move to a new house. In other cases, residents may want to shift the location of their hot tub when renovating their house or updating the backyard. The cost to move a hot tub depends on several things. Some of them are very light when empty and can be easily moved, with the only additional costs being potentially needing new electrical or gas hookups. Other models are very heavy. If this is the case, expect moving costs to be around $200 to $500, depending on the distance.
Hot Tub Heater Cost by Heating Method
Every hot tub needs a heater to get and keep the water warm. Most come with a standard heater, although some lower-cost and custom models require you to purchase your heater separately. Suppose you purchase a tub you love, but it comes with a gas heater, and you do not have a gas line. You may want to swap it out for an electric or propane heater. Likewise, if you have a gas line in your yard and want to convert your costly electric heater to a less expensive gas heater, you can do this easily.
Heaters come in three basic types, gas, propane, and electric. Many gas and propane heaters are interchangeable. They run on either when set up properly. Natural gas heaters are the most common type, as they heat water quickly and are one of the lowest costing heat sources available. Keep in mind that if you choose gas, you must have a gas line in your yard or deck to run the heater, increasing your installation costs. For people who do not have a natural gas line but like the convenience and fast heating of a gas heater, propane makes an excellent alternative. Otherwise, electric hot tub heaters are less expensive to purchase and install than gas or propane heaters. These heaters can be hardwired quickly and provide steady, consistent heat, although they take longer to heat. Depending on which type you choose, you can expect to pay from $100 up to $1,500, as outlined in the table below.
| Type | Cost (Unit Only) |
|---|
| Electric | $100 - $500 |
| Natural Gas | $800 - $1,500 |
| Propane | $800 - $1,500 |
Add-Ons Price
There are several add-ons to consider for your new hot tub, ranging in price from $25 to $400 per unit. These optional accessories can improve the look and feel of your hot tub and make it a safer and more relaxing oasis to enjoy by yourself or with family and friends. Drink holders are a great example, as they come in all shapes and sizes, attaching to the side of your unit. Then there’s in-spa and external lighting, which increases the luxury and safety with a variety of brands, sizes, types, and colors to choose from.
Larger hot-tub add-ons include steps to make entering and exiting the hot tub much safer and easier. They come in different shapes and sizes and offer a non-slip tread, with handrails 6 and storage options available. No matter where you live, the key to a safe, healthy, and enjoyable hot tub is a quality cover, so that's something to consider as well. If you have young children in or around your home, having a secure cover makes your space safer. Some covers come with locks, which means you can avoid any unexpected guests from trying to use your hot tub. Additionally, a cover keeps it as warm as possible and keeps any leaves or debris out. If you want to eliminate the hassle of removing the cover every time you go in, a cover lifter comes in very handy. The below table outlines the average hot tub add-on prices to consider for your installation project.
| Add-On | Price (Unit Only) |
|---|
| Drink Holder | $25 - $60 |
| Lighting | $30 - $60 |
| Steps | $60 - $400 |
| Cover | $75 - $400 |
| Cover Lifter | $150 - $400 |
Hot Tub Maintenance Costs
A hot tub is a perfect environment for bacteria to grow, making proper maintenance extremely important. To properly maintain your unit, things need to be done regularly, such as checking the water chemical levels, cleaning the filter, cleaning the inside of the spa, and airing out the cover. The water chemicals should be checked two to four times per week. This includes using a tester strip to ensure the proper pH, alkalinity, calcium, and sanitizer levels.
The spa filter should be cleaned every two to four weeks, depending on usage, to remove any dirt or grime that builds up inside. This filter should be replaced every one to two years as fibers loosen over time. A full inside cleaning of the spa should be completed every two months when the water is drained. A spa cleaner should be used on the surface, and a vacuum can be used to get into the corners. Any debris can be removed using a skimmer net. Lastly, it is extremely important to remove the cover at least twice a week. This gives the inside of the cover a chance to air out and dry the moisture inside. Some companies offer regular maintenance, which ranges in cost between $50 and $300 per month.
Hot Tub Electricity Cost
The cost to heat a hot tub depends on many factors, including how often you keep it running throughout the year, which varies depending on where you live and the local climate. Typically, the easiest way to figure out the operating cost is to break down average costs per month by estimating the number of days you generally run your unit. Below, we’ll provide the average monthly cost and average annual range for areas with temperate climates.
| Time Period | Electricity Cost |
|---|
| Monthly | $25 - $50 |
| Yearly | $75 - $500 |
Hot Tub Cost per Month
In general, expect costs to fall between $25 and $50 a month. However, many things impact the cost of running your tub per month. This includes the unit's size, electricity and water costs in your area, and what you use to heat the water. However, you can determine how much electricity your unit uses by figuring out how many hours a month you use it and the number of kilowatts the tub uses. Multiply these together to find the total kilowatts per month, then multiply this by the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour in your area. This gives you a good idea of your costs.
Hot Tub Cost per Year
On average, it costs between $75 and $500 to run your unit for a year depending on how long you keep it open. When determining the cost to run a unit per year, you must think about how many months throughout the year you actually run it. This varies depending on where you live and the location of your unit. For example, indoor units can be used far more often than outside ones since the weather isn’t a direct influence. Some outdoor units are designed to be used year-round with superior insulation properties. However, if you do this, you must deal with higher energy costs.
Requirements
One of the most important requirements is having a solid foundation for the hot tub. It could be on a concrete slab, patio, prefabricated spa pad, or reinforced deck. The foundation must be level, straight, and bear the weight of the unit, water, and occupants. If you do not have a leveled foundation, leveling would need to be performed on your foundation. If you do not have a foundation, it costs $5 to $25 per square foot to install a foundation slab, depending on the size, materials, and installation process.
Another important requirement to keep in mind is the accessibility of the location. The access point into your backyard location should be as wide as your unit is tall. If this is not the case, a crane delivery is needed. This cost varies depending on the crane size, the travel time to the location, requirements like street closures, permits, and barricades, and the on-site time. Companies often charge an hourly rate with a two to three hour minimum. A few other requirements related to the location are having the equipment panel easily accessible and having it located more than 10 feet away from overhead power lines.
Your final considerations revolve around electricity and water. You must have a 120v to 220v outlet for a tub to run. If this is not the case, electricians must dig up the spot and provide these electrical components. Last but not least, nearby water access, such as a garden hose, works to fill and clean the tub. It is not required to have plumbing.
Pros and Cons
A hot tub is a great investment for someone who engages in physical activity. A soak before exercise warms muscles, joints, and ligaments, possibly reducing the risk of injury. After physical activity, a soak may relieve the body of any tension or soreness. It may relieve pain from arthritis and muscle tightness and promote restful sleep.
They require maintenance and, with any water feature on your property comes inherent risk. You need to cover it at all times or have it fenced and kept away from small children and animals to minimize risks. These may not be a good choice for pregnant women or people with blood pressure problems. Always speak to your doctor or another medical professional before using a hot tub.
Safety Features
Hot tubs can be very relaxing and enjoyable, but there are some safety protocols. Many come with some safety features to ensure that people enjoy their time in the tub while avoiding danger. Many units use locking covers when they are not in use. This cover adds a safety feature to ensure there are no trespassers or incidents when it is not in use. Locks often come in the form of straps or clips attached to the cover for easy closing.
An automatic shut-off feature is an important safety feature to prevent any problems. Suppose the water temperature is set, but the water rises above this setting. In that case, the shut-off feature automatically stops the circulation pump to prevent the water temperatures from rising to extremes. Once the temperature comes back down, the pump continues to work. This automatic shut-off feature comes with many modern-day units and cannot be added to an old one.
How Much Does a Hot Tub Weigh?
Hot tubs come in various shapes and sizes. Knowing the size and weight of yours helps you determine which one you need for your space and what it will take to move it. We will go over the common sizes and how much they weigh empty and filled with water. Knowing the weight of your unit is helpful when it comes to knowing where to put it in your yard or home. This is especially important if you put it on a deck or any platform lifted off the ground. If you end up getting one that is too heavy, you can break the deck or the unit itself and risk potential injuries, too. Here are some of the common sizes and their corresponding weights.
| Number of People | Weight Empty (lbs.) | Weight Filled (lbs.) |
|---|
| 2 - 4 People | 500 | 3,000 |
| 5 - 6 People | 750 | 4,50 |
| 7 - 12 People | 1,000 | 6,000 |
Sauna vs Hot Tub Cost
Saunas provide many of the potential health benefits of a hot tub, including relaxation, better blood circulation, and promoting restful sleep. These are two different features and two different installations. Saunas are typically indoors because these are enclosed rooms that produce steam. Hot tubs can be used indoors or outdoors and have the user sitting in hot, circulating water. A four-person steam sauna costs from $3,000 up to $6,000 completely installed, while a four-person hot tub costs between $4,000 and up to $8,500 installed with new electrical and gas line hookups.
| Project | Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Sauna | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Hot Tub | $4,000 - $8,500 |
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Screen
If you like having privacy when you are in the tub, a screen or enclosure is a perfect purchase for you. There are many options to choose from, depending on whether you are looking for a temporary screen or something more permanent. When looking for something temporary and easy to move, a folding screen or gazebo enclosure is a good option. These range in price from $150 to $450. If you prefer a permanent screen enclosure, a fence screen or trellis 7 is a good option and ranges from $200 to $600. These prices vary depending on the sizing, brand, and company.
Independent Heater
Having an independent heater for your hot tub makes it easier to heat the water. On average, an independent heater raises the temperature by roughly five to six degrees per hour. An independent heater may be purchased for $150 to $700, depending on the size, manufacturer, and wattage.
Ozonator
To keep the water clean, many users opt to purchase an ozonator. This device uses the power of UV light and ozone, allowing fewer chemicals while leaving the water cleaner and eliminating the powerful chemical smell. Plus, cleaner water with an ozonator means the water can be changed less frequently, while the hot tub lifespan may be extended by minimizing build-up in the pipes. An ozonator varies in price from $100 to $300, depending on the brand and size.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Permits. By law, many cities and towns require property owners to obtain a building permit before installation, which costs around $200 and $300. A permit application has to be sent into the town or city to get approval for this project. Often a fee of around $50 to $75 for the permit application is charged.
- Warranty. A warranty is a critical aspect of purchasing a hot tub. This is something that should be discussed to understand what is covered if something goes wrong. With most companies and brands, the warranty covers the plumbing, shell, cabinetry, equipment, and controls. The warranty length differs for each one, ranging from five to ten years. It is very important to read the fine print and inspect the warranty critically.
- DIY. You can complete many DIY tasks on your own when it comes to installing a hot tub. Some DIY tasks include maintenance, cleaning, adding the chemicals, and making sure the temperatures and settings are correct. When installing one initially, you must have a professional complete this task because it could require very complicated work, including that of an electrician.
- Save money. If you are looking for areas to save money when purchasing a hot tub, buying a smaller-sized model with fewer features is good because the tub is naturally the most expensive part of the project. You can try to install additional features yourself or hire a professional if it is not feasible.
- Climate. It is wonderful to spend time in a hot tub when the outside temperature is cool, and the water is very warm. If you live in a climate where it is hot year-round, you should perhaps rethink your choice to get one and consider a pool instead. Using a hot tub in warm outside temperatures can be very uncomfortable.
- Quality. Although it cannot be seen from the outside, the quality is another factor impacting cost. Since a hot tub is usually left outdoors, it is susceptible to all weather types and must be designed with high quality to withstand the elements over time. Its interior features, including the jets, circulation system, and heaters, must be of high quality to avoid replacing expensive parts over the years. Investing in a high-quality model is important and helps avoid issues in the future.
FAQs
- How many years does an outdoor hot tub last?
A hot tub’s lifespan is between 5 and 20 years. The lifetime depends on the quality of the materials and how well it is maintained over the years.
- How much does it cost to remove a hot tub?
This depends on the type of tub, size, and material. Costs can be $50 to $500, depending on these factors.
- How much electricity does a hot tub use?
Each tub has kilowatt usage. You can find this information on the unit itself. Multiply this by the number of hours you intend to use it to find the energy usage.
- Do you need a concrete pad for a hot tub?
This depends on the tub and where you put it. For many units, yes, you need some type of pad, but gravel can be an alternative for some. Patios, in-ground use, and poolside are other viable options.
- How much does a three-person hot tub weigh?
This depends on the tub and its material. Three-person models are relatively rare, but they could weigh very little for an inflatable tub or close to 200 pounds.
- Can I put a hot tub in my basement?
You can put a hot tub in your basement. This depends on several factors, including the type and size, how you intend to get it into the basement, and whether you have a concrete slab as your basement floor.
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