How much does it cost to install a hot tub?

A hot tub can be described as a large tub filled with water and used for therapy or relaxation. The phrase “hot tub” is often used interchangeably with “spa” or “jacuzzi”, but Jacuzzi is actually only one brand of hot tub. Though Jacuzzi is one of the most common brands, there are many others to choose from.

A hot tub can be a great investment for a homeowner. Hot tubs provide many health benefits such as improving sleep, improving cardiovascular health, helping with diabetes and weight loss, and eliminating tension and stress. Hot tubs can also be used to entertain guests or relax in the oasis of your own home.

The average cost for a hot tub installation project, fitting 4-8 people, is approximately $4,000-$8,500. This includes installation labor fees and the work of an electrician.

Is it for you?

Do you live in a temperate climate?

It is wonderful to spend time in a hot tub when the outside temperature is cool and the hot tub water is very warm. If you live in a climate where it is hot all year round, then you should perhaps rethink your choice in getting a hot tub and consider a pool instead. Using a hot tub in warm outside temperatures can be very uncomfortable.

Do you do a lot of physical activity?

A hot tub can be a great investment for someone who engages in a lot of physical activity. A hot tub soak prior to exercise can help to warm the muscles, joints, and ligaments, which helps to reduce the risk of injury. After physical activity, a hot tub soak can help relieve the body of any tension or soreness that may occur.

Do you have a well-ventilated space?

Having a well-ventilated space is very important when installing a hot tub, especially indoors. A well-ventilated space is important for humidity control and controlling condensation. This is an important factor in determining whether installing a hot tub is the right choice for you.

Do you have the time and patience to maintain the hot tub?

Owning a hot tub requires a lot of time, patience, and maintenance in order to keep it up and running properly. A hot tub has to be checked for chemical balance at least one a week, the water has to be changed roughly every 4 months, and the hot tub has to be cleaned bi-weekly. If you can’t commit to doing these tasks then a hot tub may not be the right decision for you. An alternative to this would be to pay a company to do the maintenance for you which ranges between $50 and $300 per month.

Cost considerations

Size: it is quite obvious that the bigger the hot tub, the more it will cost. With bigger hottubs comes a lot more material and labor costs. The size of the hot tub you install should be determined by how many people you having living at your home, or who will otherwise use it. If you have a family of 6, then you should make sure that your hot tub fits a minimum of 6 people, that way you can enjoy the hot tub as a family.

Features: another factor that influences hot tub pricing is it’s features. The more features your hot tub has, the higher the cost. Most hot tub feature pricing is built into the final cost of the hot tub and is not optional. Some of these features include powerful jets, control panels, filtration systems, and lights. There are optional features that can be added that will affect the price, as well. Some of these optional features include a cover lifter, lights, and entertainment options.

Materials: while acrylic tends to be the most common hot tub shell material, there are many other options including vinyl ¹, soft-sided, and wood. The material plays a role in not only the look of the hot tub, but also the final cost. You can expect to pay a lot less for a hot tub made of soft-side, inflatable material compared to a wooden or acrylic tub.

Quality: although it can’t be seen from the outside, the quality of a hot tub is another factor that impacts the cost. Since a hot tub is left outdoors, it is susceptible all types of weather, and therefore has to be designed with high quality to withstand these elements over time. In addition to the hot tub itself, the internal features of the hot tub, including the jets, circulation system, heaters etc., have to be of high quality to avoid replacement of expensive parts over the years. Investing in a high-quality hot tub is very important and will help to avoid issues in the future.

Location: the location of your hot tub is a cost consideration that many don’t recognize. Having a proper location to put your hot tub is very important. If you do not have level ground to place your hot tub on, or if installers have to dig due to electrical work, this can add additional charges to the project.

Requirements

In order to install a hot tub, there are some major requirements that have to be fulfilled. One of the most important requirements is having a solid foundation to place the hot tub. A solid foundation to place a hot tub could be on a concrete slab ², a patio, a prefabricated spa pad, or a reinforced deck. It is imperative that the solid foundation is level and straight, and able to bear the weight of the hot tub itself, the water, and all the occupants in it. If you do not have a leveled foundation, it can cost around $850 for a 100 sq.ft. job of concrete levelling. If you do not have a foundation on which to place the hot tub, it can cost anywhere from $800-$2,000 to install a foundation slab, all depending on the size, materials, and installation process used.

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 hot tub is tall. If this is not the case, a crane delivery will be needed, which can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000. This cost varies all depending on the size of the crane, the time to get to the location, requirements (street closures, permits, barricades, etc.), and the time on site. Companies often charge an hourly rate with a 2-3 hour minimum. A few other requirements in relation to location are having the hot tub equipment panel easily-accessible and also having the hot tub located more than 10 feet away from overhead power lines.

Your final considerations revolve around electricity and water. It is imperative that electricity of 120v-240v is available for a hot tub to run on. If this is not the case, electricians will be required in order to dig up the spot and provide these electrical components. The cost to hire an electrician is between $65-$85 per hour. Last, but not least, a nearby water access, such as a garden hose, will do for filling the tub and cleaning it. It is not required to have plumbing for the hot tub.

Delivery

It is important to properly prepare for the delivery of your hot tub to avoid any issues. The delivery path should be clear of all obstacles such as gas/water meters, A/C units, tree limbs, awnings, etc. It may be necessary to move any obstacles in order to allow for easy delivery. In some instances, the removal of a fence or gate may be necessary. Removing an existing fence can cost between $2-$5 per linear foot, depending on the size and location.

If there are more than six consecutive stairs without a landing, another path for delivery may be necessary. In this instance, a crane delivery may be the best option. A crane delivery can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000.

Type of hot tub

When purchasing a hot tub, there are many different varieties of that you have to take into account. Are you looking for something indoor or outdoor? Above-ground or inground? Explained below are some of the most popular types of hot tubs.

Above-ground

• Acrylic: one of the most popular hot tub materials. Acrylic hot tubs offer a beautiful shine that you can’t get with any other type of tub. Acrylic tubs come in an infinite amount of colors including white, grey, teal, etc., as well as numerous options for cabinet styles and colors. Acrylic hot tubs offer many standard options, as well as many add-on options for jets, pumps ³, filters, and heaters. Many brands of acrylic hot tubs give you the option of adding additional features such as lighting, tvs, stereos, and a wider variety of fancy jets. With acrylic tubs, you have the opportunity to customize your hot tub to your liking. Acrylic hot tubs generally run in price from basic to luxurious, between $5,000-$30,000.
• Rotomold: rotomold hot tubs are made from polyethylene ⁴ (HDPE) material, similar to the material used in kayaks and refillable water bottles. They often appear more dull and lack in that sparkling appearance that acrylic hot tubs offer. Rotomold hot tubs come in one piece and therefore do not offer you the ability to customize the tub with cabinets, shelves, jet upgrades, or tv options. These hot tubs are also available in fewer color options. Rotomold hot tubs range in price from $2,000-$5,000.
• Wooden: wooden hot tubs can be electric-powered, gas-powered or wood-fired. Wooden hot tubs sit above ground and offer bench seating. They are much deeper than acrylic or rotomold hot tubs and offer few jets, lights, and controls. Some popular wooden hot tub materials include redwood ⁵, cedar, cypress, oak, and teak. Electric- and gas-powered models are the most popular of the three and are fairly more expensive, yet easier to operate. Wooden hot tubs range in price from $3,000-$9,000, depending on the size, accessories, type of power, and type of wood.
• Soft-side inflatable: inflatable hot tubs are becoming quite popular and are a good choice for those who are looking for flexibility. Rather than opting for a solid hot tub, inflatable hot tubs can be broken down and moved anywhere in and out of your yard. Inflatable hot tubs cost drastically less to run, as they run off a lower electrical volt. Inflatable tubs do not use jets, but rather fans that blow the air around. Inflatable hot tub materials tend to lose heat much faster than regular hot tub types and therefore need to be heated more often. Soft-side inflatable hot tubs range in price from $1,000-$4,000.

Inground

• Concrete: concrete inground hot tubs can be a major investment that certainly require professional installation. Concrete hot tubs are built in the ground and remain permanent. They can add a dramatic effect to your landscape as they are built right into the deck or patio for easy access, or right within a backyards landscape. Concrete hot tubs can take weeks to build and offer fewer features and lower energy efficiency than above-ground hot tub options. Inground concrete hot tubs are one of the pricest you can buy and range from $15,000-$20,000 due to high installation costs (plumbing, electrical work, gas hookups, and excavation).

Indoor

Often, people think of hot tubs as only being located outside, however, there is always the option of installing an indoor hot tub. Indoor hot tubs can be of any type and often provide advantages such as privacy, safety, and climate control. There are some important requirements to consider before installing an indoor hot tub. First, it is important to install an indoor hot tub in a room that has proper ventilation to prevent issues such as condensation. This includes fans and a dehumidifier. Walls and doors should have a covering that is water-resistant to avoid damage. Next, using the right foundation for your hot tub is extremely important. Hot tubs are very heavy and, once filled with water, they can weigh a ton, applying a ton of pressure to the surface they are on. They should only ever be placed on a concrete slab ². Flooring around the tub should be anti-slip and provide good drainage for all of the water that will inevitably spill out of the hot tub. There are many factors that come into play in calculating the cost of an indoor hot tub. With the proper ventilation requirements, as well as foundation, an indoor hot tub can end up costing a lot more than one outdoors. Indoor hot tubs typically range in price between $5,000-$25,000 all depending upon materials, location, heating, and any other necessary requirements.

Saltwater

One of the new crazes for hot tubs is a saltwater system. A saltwater hot tub uses a salt cell in which you add salt to the water to produce a pure chlorine ⁶ solution. The salt is not the same type that you find in the ocean. Saltwater hot tubs are becoming very popular due to their ease of use and the way it gives the skin a softer and silkier feel. Many people prefer them over chlorine hot tubs due to the simplified maintenance and longer-lasting water. The initial cost for a saltwater hot tub is higher to purchase and install than one with a traditional system. Over the years, the cost is offset due to the lower costs of the water supply and test kits compared to those needed for a chlorine tub. Purchasing a saltwater generator system for your hot tub can range in cost between $600-$1,700. This all depends on the brand and the hot tub itself. Built-in ⁷ hot tubs require more expensive generator systems, while above ground hot tubs are cheaper.

Installation

Inground

An inground hot tub is quite expensive to install and the process is longer with days of excavation, shell installation, and finishing work. An inground hot tub involves excavation, during which a hole is dug in the ground and the soil is removed. This job may take 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 hot tub company. Following the excavation is the shell installation. This process involves lowering the hot tub shell into the ground and finishing it off with the necessary cement and gravel to build the foundation around the shell. The ground around the hot tub is then improved by installing either stone, tile, or brick for a beautiful finish. Some people may also decide to use coping to finish off the surrounding perimeter of the hot tub. Depending on the extent of the job, an inground hot tub installation can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

Above-ground

An above-ground is much easier to install then an inground hot tub and can be completed in a few days. Where an inground hot tub involves ground excavation and shell installation, an above-ground hot tub simply needs a solid foundation to be placed on. This can be a concrete surface or on a deck. Once a hot tub is placed on its foundation, electrical installation can begin. Full hot tubs typically require a GFCI circuit to run. A qualified electrician should obtain an electrical permit to complete the work. The electrical installation can take a few days, depending on the scope of the work. Once the hot tub is in its final location and wired properly, you then can begin to start it up.

Labor

Installing a hot tub starts with the help of at least two professionals. The hot tub is usually delivered right to your house with the use of a trailer. Depending on how heavy the hot tub is, a crane will be used to transport it from the trailer to it’s installation site. The delivery and transport can cost around $250-$400, depending on how many people and the amount of work, with a $200 additional cost if a crane is required.

Once the hot tub is set in place, an electrician may be needed to help with the electrical set up. If there is no outlet around, then an electrician will have to install an electrical outlet nearby. An electrician will have to set up the wiring from the hot tub into a control pack and install a GFCI next to the hot tub at least 5 feet away. This is a costly job and averages around $400-$650. If an electrician needs to complete this work, then it is important to check if a permit is required in your town/city.

Once all of the electrical work is complete, you can start to fill your hot tub with water. It is important to add in the proper chemicals after the water is filled, these should be stated in the guide that comes with the hot tub. You can then adjust your settings and heat it up.

Brands

There are many different hot tub brands to choose from. Below is a chart listing the most popular hot tub brands, in order from least to most expensive.

*We selected a variety of brands and listed them from cheapest to most expensive, no other features were taken into account. We do not receive any monetary compensation from these companies.

Safety features

Hot tubs can be very relaxing and enjoyable, but there are some safety protocols as well. Many hot tubs come with some safety features to ensure that people can enjoy their time in the hot tub while avoiding danger.

Automatic shut-off

An automatic shut-off feature is an important safety feature in order to prevent any problems. If the water temperature is set to a temperature and the water temperature rises above this temperature, the automatic shut-off feature will automatically stop the circulation pump ³ to prevent the water temperatures from rising to extremes. Once the temperature comes back down, the pump will continue to work. This automatic shut-off feature comes with many of the modern day hot tubs today and cannot simply be added to an old hot tub.

Locking cover

Many hot tubs are now using locking covers for when they are not in use. This type of cover adds a safety feature to ensure there are no trespassers or incidents when the hot tub should not be in use. Locks often come in the form of straps or clips that are attached to the cover for easy closing. You are looking at spending anywhere from $15-$30 for a 4-pack of clips or $30-$60 for a 2-pack of straps.

Maintenance

A hot tub is the perfect environment in which bacteria can grow, therefore making it extremely important that a hot tub is properly maintained. In order to properly maintain your hot tub, there are things that 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 between 2-4 times per week. This includes using a tester strip to ensure that the pH, alkalinity, calcium, and sanitizer levels are proper. The spa filter should be cleaned every 2-4 weeks, depending on usage, to remove any dirt or grime that builds up inside. This filter should be replaced every 1-2 years as fibers begin to loosen over time. A full inside cleaning of the spa should be completed every 2 months, where the water is drained. A spa cleaner should be used on the surface and a vacuum can be used to get in the corners. Any debris can be removed using a skimmer net. Lastly, it is extremely important to remove your hot tub cover at least twice a week. This will give the inside of the cover a chance to air out and dry up all the moisture inside.

There are companies that offer regular hot tub maintenance, which ranges in cost between $50-$300 per month.

Enhancement and improvement costs

Screen

If you like having privacy when you are in the hot tub, then a screen or an 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. If you are looking for something more temporary and easy to move, then a folding screen or gazebo enclosure is a good option. These range in price from $150-$450. If you prefer a more permanent screen enclosure, then a fence screen or a trellis is a good option and can range in price from $200-$600. These prices all vary depending on the sizing, brand, and company.

Steps

Hot tub steps can make entering and exiting the hot tub much safer and easier. Hot tub steps come in all different shapes and sizes and offer a non-slip tread. There are many options to choose from, depending on how many steps there are, if you want handrails, the material, and if you prefer steps with a storage area. The most basic hot tub steps average $60 in cost, but can range all the way up to $400.

Independent heater

Having an independent heater for your hot tub can make it much easier to heat the water quickly. On average, an independent heater will raise the temperature by roughly 5-6 degree per hour. An independent heater can be purchased for $150-$700 all depending on the size, manufacturer, and wattage.

Accessories

Pump: Most modern day hot tubs today come with a built-in ⁷ drainage system. If this is not the case, then a pump is a great purchase, as it makes it much easier to empty the hot tub. A pump ³ can cost anywhere between $80-$250, depending on the size and brand.

Cover lifter: If you want to eliminate the hassle of having to remove the hot tub cover everytime you want to go in, then a cover lifter is a necessary purchase. A cover lifter mounts to the top side of the hot tub and keeps the cover in place while the hot tub is in use. There is the option from choosing between a hydraulic-assisted cover lifter, a manual cover lifter, or a bracket/shelf cover lifter. The bracket/shelf cover lifters are the cheapest of the three kinds and range in price from about $150-$225. The manual cover lifters are of average price between $170-$275, and the hydraulic cover lifters are the most expensive kind, ranging in price between $250-$400.

Ozonator: In order to keep the water clean, many hot tub users opt in to purchasing an ozonator. An ozonator in a hot tub will allow the use of less chemicals, while leaving the water more clean and eliminating the powerful chemical smell. An ozonator can vary in price from $100-$300, depending on the brand and size.

Drink holder: If you plan on enjoying some drinks in your hot tub, then purchasing a drink holder is a great idea. Hot tub drink holders come in all shapes and sizes, attaching right to the side of your hot tub. Drink holders are very reasonable in price and range between $25-$60 per set.

Lighting

It can be difficult to enjoy your hot tub after dark if you don’t have lighting. Although you may have all other accessories, they will not help you any in the dark. In this case you are missing one more thing, lighting. There are a few options for lighting when it comes to hot tubs. You can either add lighting outside of the hot tub or inside. In-spa lighting seems to be the most popular and eliminates the need for external lighting. The average cost for a hot tub light is around $30-$60 per light. This all depends on the brand, the size, the type, and the color.

Additional considerations and costs

• By law, many cities and towns require property owners to obtain a building permit before a hot tub can be installed. A permit application will have to be sent in to the town/city to get approval for this project. Often a fee of around $50-$75 for the permit application is associated.
• A hot tub warranty is a critical aspect of purchasing a hot tub. This is definitely something that should be discussed to understand what is covered if something goes wrong. With most companies and brands, the warranty will cover the plumbing, the shell, cabinetry, equipment, and controls. The warranty length differs for each one, ranging from 5-10 years. It is very important to read the fine print and inspect the hot tub warranty critically.
• For many years, hot tubs have been used and purchased due to their therapeutic benefits. Hot tubs are known to help with relief of muscle pain and tightness, arthritis pain, increasing blood flow, and promoting restful sleep.
• Removing an old hot tub can be a difficult task, so it is best to have a professional remove it. Hot tub removal services range from $250-$400, all depending on the size of the hot tub and any complexities involved in the removal.
• There are many variables that can have an impact on the operational costs of a hot tub. These include: the model, the temperature of the water, the cost of your water/electricity, the climate, and how often it is used. Research suggests that it costs less than $1 per day and around $23 per month to operate a hot tub.
• There are many DIY tasks that you can complete on your own when it comes to installing a hot tub. Some of these DIY tasks include proper maintenance, cleaning, adding the chemicals, and making sure the temperatures/settings are correct. When it comes to initially installing a hot tub, it is important that you have a professional complete this task, as it could require very complicated work, including that of an electrician.
• If you are looking for areas to save money when purchasing a hot tub then it is a good idea to buy a smaller-sized hot tub with less features, as the tub itself is naturally the most expensive part of the project. You can then try to install additional features yourself, or hire a professional to do the work if it is not feasible.
• A hot tub can be a significant financial investment, but financing a hot tub purchase can make it much easier. After you select your hot tub model, you may have the option to pay up front or finance the amount to an affordable monthly payment. The monthly payment will on depend on the length of the payment agreement and the interest rate.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others

² Concrete slab: A flat area of concrete that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a patio or a driveway

³ Pumps: A device used to move air, liquid, or gas by mechanical means

⁷ Built-in: An item of furniture, such as a bookcase or set of cabinets, that is built directly into the structure of the room. Built-ins are therefore customized to the room and not detachable