Hot Tubs for Backyard Relaxation and Recovery
A hot tub is the original backyard wellness investment, and for good reason. There is nothing quite like sinking into hot water at the end of a long day, feeling the tension drain out of your muscles while you stare up at the sky. Our hot tub collection focuses on quality builds that last - not the inflatable pool toys that break down after one season.
We carry wood-fired and electric hot tubs in a range of sizes and styles. Wood-fired hot tubs are the traditional choice, especially popular with customers who already own or are planning to buy one of our outdoor saunas. There is something deeply satisfying about heating your tub with a real fire - no electricity required, no complex plumbing, and the crackling sound of burning wood adds to the atmosphere. Electric hot tubs offer push-button convenience with precise temperature control and jet systems for hydrotherapy.
A hot tub pairs naturally with the rest of our wellness lineup. Use it as a warm soak before stepping into a cold plunge, or as a relaxation station after a sauna session. The hot-cold contrast between a hot tub and cold plunge tub follows the same thermal therapy principles as sauna-cold plunge contrast, just at a lower heat intensity that some people prefer.
All hot tub orders over $5,000 ship free. We offer Affirm financing at checkout and HSA/FSA eligibility through our TrueMed partnership. Whether you are looking for a simple wood-fired soaking tub or a full-featured jetted hot tub, browse the collection below.
Wall/Ceiling Mount Bath Filler
Square Essential Shower Package
Round Essential Shower Package
How to Choose the Right Hot Tub
Hot tubs come in more varieties than most people realize. Here is how to narrow down your options based on what matters most to you.
Wood-Fired vs. Electric Hot Tubs
Wood-fired hot tubs heat water using a submerged or external wood stove. They are completely independent of electricity, which makes them ideal for off-grid locations, cabins, and properties where running a dedicated electrical circuit is impractical. Heating time depends on the tub size and stove output, but most wood-fired tubs reach comfortable soaking temperature in 2 to 4 hours. The experience is rustic and tactile - you tend the fire, you hear it crackle, and you feel more connected to the process.
Electric hot tubs use a heating element and pump system to maintain a set temperature continuously. Once filled and heated (initial heat-up takes 8 to 24 hours depending on size), an electric tub holds temperature with minimal energy cost and is ready whenever you are. Jet systems provide hydrotherapy massage that wood-fired tubs do not offer. The tradeoff is the need for a dedicated electrical circuit (typically 240V) and higher installation complexity.
Size and Seating
Hot tub capacity is measured by the number of seated adults. 2- to 3-person tubs are compact and intimate, perfect for couples. 4- to 5-person tubs are the most popular size for families. 6+ person tubs are for entertaining and require a larger footprint and stronger foundation. As with saunas, the rated capacity is the maximum - for everyday comfort, buy one size larger than the number of people who will use it most often.
Materials and Construction
The tub shell can be built from wood (cedar, hemlock, or larch), fiberglass, acrylic, or rotomolded plastic. Wood tubs offer the most natural look and feel but require more maintenance. Fiberglass and acrylic shells are low-maintenance and come in a wider range of colors and shapes. Rotomolded plastic is the most affordable option and is nearly indestructible, though it lacks the premium feel of wood or acrylic. Our collection focuses on wood-built and high-quality composite tubs that match the aesthetic of our sauna lineup.
Placement and Foundations
A full hot tub is extremely heavy. A 4-person tub holding 300 gallons of water weighs roughly 3,000 pounds. Your foundation needs to support this weight without settling or shifting. A reinforced concrete pad is the gold standard. A reinforced deck can work if it is engineered for the load. Compacted gravel is adequate for lighter wood-fired tubs without jet systems. Level the surface carefully - even a slight tilt becomes noticeable when the tub is filled.
Maintenance and Water Care
Hot tub water requires regular chemical treatment to stay clean and safe. The warm temperature creates an ideal environment for bacteria if left untreated. Standard hot tub maintenance involves testing water chemistry weekly, adding sanitizer (bromine or chlorine), and draining/refilling the tub every 3 to 4 months. An ozone or UV treatment system can reduce chemical usage significantly. Budget 15 to 20 minutes per week for maintenance once you have a routine established.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Tubs
How much does a hot tub cost?
Hot tub prices vary widely depending on type and size. Wood-fired soaking tubs start around $2,500 to $4,000. Electric hot tubs with jet systems range from $4,000 to $12,000 or more. At SweatDecks, orders over $5,000 ship free. Affirm financing and HSA/FSA eligibility through TrueMed are available to help manage the investment.
How long does it take to heat a wood-fired hot tub?
A wood-fired hot tub typically takes 2 to 4 hours to reach a comfortable soaking temperature of 100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the tub size, stove output, and starting water temperature. In cold weather, heating may take longer. Starting the fire a few hours before you plan to soak is part of the ritual for most owners.
How much does it cost to run a hot tub monthly?
An electric hot tub typically costs $30 to $60 per month in electricity to maintain temperature, depending on the tub size, insulation quality, and your local electricity rates. Well-insulated tubs with quality covers cost less to run. Wood-fired tubs have no electricity costs but require a supply of firewood, which varies in cost by region.
What foundation do I need for a hot tub?
A filled hot tub is extremely heavy - a 4-person tub can weigh over 3,000 pounds. A reinforced concrete pad at least 4 inches thick is the most reliable foundation. A reinforced deck engineered for the weight can also work. For lighter wood-fired soaking tubs, a compacted gravel pad may be sufficient. Always ensure the surface is perfectly level.
How often do I need to change hot tub water?
Plan to drain and refill your hot tub every 3 to 4 months with regular chemical maintenance. If the tub sees heavy use or water chemistry becomes difficult to balance, you may need to change it more frequently. Between changes, test water chemistry weekly and add sanitizer as needed. An ozone or UV system can extend the time between full water changes.
Can I use a hot tub for contrast therapy with a cold plunge?
Yes. A hot tub and cold plunge make an excellent contrast therapy pair. The hot tub provides heat exposure at 100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and the cold plunge provides cold exposure at 38 to 55 degrees. While the heat is less intense than a sauna, the full-body immersion in water provides excellent thermal contrast. Position the tub and plunge close together for quick transitions.
Need help choosing?
Our wellness experts can help you find the perfect product. Email us at howdy@sweatdecks.com or call 817-371-0089.