Finding the Best Wood Fired Hot Tub

Do you want that whole spa experience with your partner or family and friends but outside? Do you want the experience of a hot tub without the added cost of electricity to your utility bill? Do you want to experience the penetrating heat of soothing warm water right out of your tap yet hate the idea of a noisy pump penetrating the stillness of your idyllic spot? Well, how about considering a wood fired hot tub? Remember, though, you get wood fired hot tubs, and then you get the best wood fired hot tub. The question is, how do you choose the best hot tub for your needs? There are quite a number of things to take into consideration before taking out your wallet.

Why Choose a Wood Fired Hot Tub?

There are very many reasons why you might decide to get a wood fired hot tub instead of a standard hot tub. Let’s look at some of them

• Cost savings

The best wood fired hot tubs all use wood as their heat source. Not only is wood a sustainable fuel resource, but you get to save on your electricity costs in the long run. Besides this, you do not need an outdoor electrical supply. This makes the placement of your hot tub so much easier as you can, basically, place it anywhere you want outside – even in that little out of the way area in the one corner of your garden. The sky is the limit.

Read more: The Cost to Owning and Maintaining a Hot Tub

• It uses regular tap water

The fact that it uses regular tap water once more saves on costs. This is because you do not need to add any harsh chemicals of any sort. All you need is to place your hot tub on a flat surface, use your hosepipe to add some tap water, and heat it up! Simple, isn’t it?

When you decide your water is no longer clean enough, simply empty and refill. An added bonus is that you can recycle this water for your garden, as it contains no chemicals that may potentially hurt your plants.

• Natural insulation

Wood, unlike fiberglass and other man-made materials, is a natural insulator. This means that it takes a long while before the water in your wood fired hot tub cools down. Additionally, most cooling down is by means of evaporation. So if you have a cover, it is quite possible to have a lovely evening in your hot tub, only to come back the next morning and take another warm soak.

• Simple yet stylish

The wood-finished exterior of a wood fired hot tub is simple, yet it is stylish in appearance, fitting in perfectly in any outside environment. Made of natural cedar, they are resistant to the elements as well and will give many years of pleasure before needing a revamp.

What are the pros and cons of a wood fired hot tub?

Just like with anything in life worth having, there are pros and cons attached. Luckily, however, in the case of a wood fired hot tub, the pros outweigh the cons by far!

The pros of a wood fired hot tub

• Durability

Cedar and water DO mix. Although most kinds of wood tend to rot when in constant contact with water, cedar wood is the exception. Cedar wood expands when in contact with water, which is a good thing, as it means you have less chance of springing a leak. Any expansion joints in your wood fired cedar hot tub will swell and tighten, without allowing water to seep away.

• Mold resistant

Cedar wood, unlike other woods, has an anti-mold property. This material avoids the formation of mold – naturally.

• Smells great

Cedar wood, once heated up, gives off an amazing, natural smell. This is very unlike the case with hot tubs made of synthetic materials – the only smell is you get is from the chemicals you need to add.

• Repels bugs

Another advantage of a wood fired cedar hot tub is that bugs hate its aroma. It keeps them away. This means you can have a relaxing time in the tub with the bug spray stashed away inside your home.

• Aesthetically appealing

The sight of wood in your garden or yard adds to its aesthetic appeal, as wood, a naturally-occurring material, blends in with your garden – perfectly. Add to this the slow weathering ability of cedar wood and its durability, and you have an outside feature that adds appeal for years.

• Costs less than you may think

Compared to standard hot tubs manufactured out of fiberglass or acrylic, a wood fired hot tub actually costs much less. In most cases, depending on what you pick, you could even have most of the exact same features.

The cons of a wood fired hot tub

Unfortunately, as has been mentioned, there are always cons attached. In the case of a wood fired hot tub as compared to your standard fiberglass or acrylic hot tubs, it has one drawback. This is that they are quite difficult to clean and require quite a bit of elbow grease. Some wood fired hot tubs, however, do have an inner lining, e.g. vinyl or fiberglass. In those cases, cleaning is much easier. But you have to decide whether you want to go 100% traditional and put up with the difficulty in cleaning or not. Do keep in mind, however, that these types of tubs do not easily get moldy, while the water is generally speaking replaced much more often. This means you may not have to clean them as often as their counterparts manufactured out of manmade materials.

How Does a Wood Fired Hot Tub Work?

Wood-fired hot tubs work by transferring heat from a stove or heater to the water in the tub. The stove or heater is usually located outside the tub, and a pipe or hose is used to circulate the water between the two. As the fire heats the stove or heater, the water in the pipe or hose is heated and circulated back into the tub, raising the water temperature.

Most wood-fired hot tubs also come with a cover to help retain heat and keep debris out of the water. It’s important to keep the cover on when the tub is not in use to prevent heat loss and maintain water quality.

How Long does a Wood Fired Hot Tub Take to Heat?

The time it takes for a wood-fired hot tub to heat up depends on several factors, including the size of the tub, the type of wood being used, and the outdoor temperature. Generally, it takes between two and four hours for a wood-fired hot tub to reach optimal temperature.

One tip for speeding up the heating process is to use softwoods like cedar or pine, which burn more quickly and efficiently than hardwoods. You can also add kindling or paper to the fire to create more heat.

Saltwater vs Fresh Water in Hot Tubs

One question that often comes up when discussing hot tubs is whether to use saltwater or fresh water. Both types have their pros and cons, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Saltwater hot tubs are often touted for their health benefits, as the salt is believed to help soothe sore muscles and joints. They also require less maintenance than fresh water tubs, as the salt acts as a natural sanitizer and helps prevent bacteria growth.

On the other hand, fresh water hot tubs are more traditional and often preferred for their clean and clear water. They also require less maintenance than saltwater tubs, as the benefits of fresh water tubs, as there is no need to monitor salt levels or add salt as needed.

Ultimately, the choice between saltwater and fresh water hot tubs comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.

What is the Best Type of Wood for a Wood Fired Hot Tub?

When it comes to choosing the best type of wood for your wood-fired hot tub, there are a few things to consider. First, it’s important to choose a wood that burns cleanly and efficiently, as this will help maintain water quality and prevent the buildup of creosote in the stove or heater.

Cedar is one of the most popular types of wood for wood-fired hot tubs, as it burns cleanly and efficiently and also has natural anti-bacterial properties. Other good options include pine, spruce, and fir. It’s best to avoid using hardwoods like oak or maple, as they can produce too much ash and creosote.

It’s also important to choose wood that is properly seasoned and dry, as this will help it burn more efficiently and produce less smoke. It’s recommended to purchase wood from a reputable supplier and store it in a dry, covered area to ensure it’s ready to use when needed.

Types of Wood Fired Hot Tubs

There are two main types of wood-fired hot tubs: portable and in-ground. Each has its pros and cons, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.

• Portable Wood Fired Hot Tub

Portable wood-fired hot tubs are typically made from materials like cedar or redwood and are designed to be moved around as needed. They are easy to set up and take down, making them a great option for those who want the flexibility to move their hot tub from one location to another.

One downside of portable hot tubs is that they are often smaller than in-ground hot tubs, meaning they may not be suitable for larger groups or families. They also require more frequent maintenance, as they need to be drained and refilled more often than in-ground hot tubs.

• In-Ground Wood Fired Hot Tub

In-ground wood-fired hot tubs are typically made from materials like concrete or stone and are designed to be permanently installed in a backyard or outdoor space. They are larger than portable hot tubs and can accommodate more people, making them a great option for larger groups or families.

One downside of in-ground hot tubs is that they are more expensive to install and may require professional help to ensure proper installation. They are also more difficult to move or remove, meaning they are a more permanent addition to your outdoor space.

Considerations for Purchasing a Wood Fired Hot Tub

When it comes to purchasing a wood-fired hot tub, there are several things to consider.

• Cost

Wood-fired hot tubs can range in price from a few hundred dollars for a portable model to several thousand dollars for an in-ground model. It’s important to consider your budget and the long-term costs of operating and maintaining your hot tub before making a purchase.

• Size

The size of your hot tub will depend on the number of people who will be using it and the amount of space you have available in your outdoor area. Portable hot tubs are typically smaller than in-ground hot tubs and may not be suitable for larger groups or families.

• Safety Features

It’s important to choose a wood-fired hot tub with proper safety features, such as a cover to prevent heat loss and debris buildup, and a sturdy frame to support the weight of the tub and users. You should also consider adding a fence or barrier around your hot tub to prevent accidental falls or injuries.

Installation and Maintenance

Proper installation and maintenance are key to ensuring the longevity and safe operation of your wood-fired hot tub.

• Preparation

Before installing your hot tub, it’s important to ensure that the location is level and stable, and that the surface can support the weight of the tub and users. You should also consider factors like access to water and electricity, as well as any necessary permits or regulations in your area.

• Installation

The installation process for a wood-fired hot tub will vary depending on the type and model of hot tub you choose. Portable hot tubs are typically easy to set up and require minimal installation, while in-ground hot tubs may require professional help and more extensive preparation.

It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and ensure that all components are installed properly and securely. You should also test the hot tub before use to ensure that it is functioning correctly and safely.

• Maintenance

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and safe operation of your wood-fired hot tub. This includes regular cleaning, water treatment, and monitoring of water levels and temperature.

It’s important to drain and refill your hot tub regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other contaminants. You should also check the pH and alkalinity levels of the water regularly and add chemicals as needed to maintain a safe and comfortable environment.

In addition, you should inspect your hot tub regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or leaks, and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

WOOD FIRED HOT TUB Built By Couple In 13 Min

Our Wood Fired Hot Tub Reviews

1. Almost Heaven Saunas 4 Person Round Wood Fired Hot Tub

The Almost Heaven Saunas 4-Person Round Wood Fired Hot Tub is a beautiful outdoor hot tub with a capacity of 4-6 people. It has an efficient and powerful built-in stove and heater that allows you to enjoy a hot bath even in colder climates. The hot tub boasts superior insulation, superior performance, and superior comfort.

Pros:

Cons:

Verdict:

The Almost Heaven Saunas 4-Person Round Wood Fired Hot Tub is a great choice for those who want to enjoy the soothing benefits of a hot tub and the luxury of enjoying a hot bath even in colder climates. It features superior insulation, comfort and performance, making it a great option for those who are looking for a high-quality wood-fired hot tub.

Who is this product for?

This product is ideal for anyone looking for an outdoor hot tub that is both high-quality and provides superior insulation, performance, and comfort. This hot tub is perfect for families, friends, and couples – anyone who wants an outdoor hot tub to enjoy the health benefits and relaxation.

Key features and benefits of the product:

Customer Reviews

TIMELAPSE: WOOD FIRED HOT TUB Built By Couple In 13 Min

FAQ & Additional Tips

Read more: Almost Heaven Saunas 4 Person Round Wood Fired Hot Tub Review-Know What’s Right for You

2.  Allwood Wood fired hot tub

This wood tub boasts a typical round traditional Scandinavian design with an easy-to-maintain vinyl liner and molded seating.

We had to include this hot tub simply because

3. Portable 4-Person Spa

If funky, lightweight, and portable is your style, then this portable 4-person spa is most definitely worth your consideration. It can be used anywhere, as natural firewood is used to heat the water. You can even take it camping with you if you are so inclined.

We really noticed this hot tub because

NLCT Complete Hot Tub – 4 person

Made of 100% Grade “A” cedar this unit comfortably seats four people. The knockdown kit can be assembled just about anywhere you want.

We loved this product because

Currently unavailable.

Japanese Soaking Tub

Traditional-looking, simple in design, yet imminently stylish, the Japanese Wood Ofuro Soaking tub comes complete with stairs, shelves and a back rest. Add to this the wood fired heater and insulated cover, and perfection is in the making.

What we loved about this hot tub

Currently unavailable.

Conclusion

Making a decision as to which is our best pick was difficult. Everyone had their own version of what the best wood fired hot tub should be. After a long – very long – debate, we decided on the traditionally designed Japanese Wood Ofuro Soaking Tub for 2. Not only do we love the design, but the shape, and fact that it easily fits through any standard door while coming preassembled, makes this tub anyone’s perfect fit. Plus it has the added advantage of being a two-seater, so perfect for that romantic touch.