Problems with wood fired hot tubs
Wood-fired hot tubs are a fantastic way to relax, offering a rustic, back-to-nature experience. However, like any product, they aren’t without their challenges. While wood-fired hot tubs have a unique charm and eco-friendly appeal, certain issues can arise that are important to understand before committing to one. This article will explore the common problems associated with wood-fired hot tubs, while also offering practical solutions to ensure you can enjoy your tub with minimal fuss.
Long Heating Times
One of the main differences between a wood-fired hot tub and its electric or gas-powered counterparts is the heating process.
Unlike electric tubs, which can heat water at the push of a button, wood-fired tubs require you to build and maintain a fire.
Depending on the size of the tub, it can take around 2 hours to heat the water to a comfortable temperature.
This longer heating time can be a downside for those who prefer a quicker, on-demand soak.
Solution: Planning ahead is key. Start the fire well before you intend to use the tub, and use dry, well-seasoned hardwoods like oak or birch, which burn hotter and more efficiently than softwoods.
Adding an insulated cover during the heating process can also speed things up by preventing heat loss.
Once you get into the rhythm of starting the fire early, the process becomes part of the overall relaxation ritual, and the anticipation can make the experience even more rewarding.
Inconsistent Water Temperature
Maintaining a consistent temperature can be challenging with wood-fired hot tubs, particularly if the fire burns too hot or cools down too quickly.
Unlike electric heaters, which automatically regulate the temperature, wood-fired tubs rely on manual fire management. This can lead to situations where the water becomes too hot to sit in or cools down too much, requiring frequent adjustments.
Solution: Learning to control the size and intensity of the fire is essential. Start with a smaller fire and gradually add wood to build up heat, instead of trying to heat the water too quickly with a roaring fire.
Once the water is near your preferred temperature, add smaller pieces of wood to maintain the heat without overheating the water.
Using an insulated cover while soaking, especially in cooler weather, will help maintain a steady temperature without the need to keep feeding the fire.
Smoke and Ash Build-Up
A common complaint with wood-fired hot tubs is the smoke and ash generated by the fire. This can create a smoky environment around the tub, which some people find unpleasant.
Additionally, ash build-up in the stove or heater can reduce its efficiency and lead to more frequent cleanings.
Solution: To reduce smoke, make sure to use dry, seasoned wood, as green or damp wood produces more smoke and ash.
Hardwood is preferred because it burns cleaner and hotter.
Regular maintenance is also key to avoiding ash build-up. Clean out the stove and flue periodically to prevent clogs and ensure efficient airflow.
If smoke is still a concern, positioning the stove or tub in an area with good ventilation, or installing a taller flue pipe, can help direct smoke away from the soaking area.
Water Hygiene and Filtration Issues
Unlike electric tubs, many wood-fired hot tubs don’t come with built-in filtration systems. This means the water can become dirty or contaminated more quickly, especially if you’re using the tub frequently or sharing it with others.
Without proper filtration, bacteria, algae, and debris can accumulate in the water, making regular cleaning essential.
Solution: Draining and refilling the tub regularly is the simplest solution to maintaining water cleanliness.
For those who want a less hands-on approach, installing a simple filtration system or using water treatments, such as chlorine or bromine, can help keep the water clean for longer periods.
Some users prefer more natural, chemical-free alternatives, such as UV sterilisation or saltwater treatments. Our Elite & Ofuro Tubs have the option to add sand filtration.
Regular skimming of the water surface can also help remove debris, and a cover will keep out leaves, insects, and other contaminants when the tub is not in use.
Rust and Corrosion in Metal Components
If your wood-fired hot tub has metal parts, such as a stainless steel stove or pipes, there is always the risk of rust or corrosion over time.
While stainless steel is more resistant to rust, exposure to water and heat can still cause minor corrosion, especially if the metal isn’t cleaned and dried properly.
Solution: Regular cleaning and drying of metal components will go a long way in preventing rust.
After each use, make sure to wipe down the stove, pipes, and any exposed metal parts. Applying a rust-resistant coating or using metal protectants can further help shield the components from moisture damage.
For those living in coastal or particularly humid areas, this extra maintenance will help extend the life of your tub’s metal components.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Wood-fired hot tubs are relatively simple compared to electric models, but they do require regular upkeep.
Whether it's cleaning out the stove, inspecting the wood for damage, or ensuring the tub is free from algae, some level of ongoing maintenance is necessary to keep the tub in good working order.
Solution: Developing a routine for cleaning and maintenance is the best way to prevent issues from arising. Regularly clean the stove and flue, treat wooden tubs with oils or sealants to protect against moisture damage, and check for leaks or signs of wear.
Keeping up with these small tasks will ensure your tub remains in top condition and that you can continue to enjoy it for years to come.
Limited Control Over Timing
For those accustomed to electric hot tubs, which can be turned on at a moment’s notice, the need to plan ahead with a wood-fired tub might seem inconvenient.
Because the fire needs time to heat the water, spontaneous hot tub sessions aren’t as easy with wood-fired models.
Solution: While the initial heating process takes longer, wood-fired tubs offer a more immersive and rewarding experience.
Embrace the slower pace by making fire-building part of the ritual. If you know you’ll want to use the hot tub later in the day, light the fire in advance so it’s ready when you are.
For regular users, this becomes second nature, and the anticipation of the soak often adds to the enjoyment.
Environmental Considerations
While wood-fired hot tubs are often considered more environmentally friendly than their electric or gas counterparts, there are still some environmental concerns.
Using unsustainable wood sources or creating too much smoke can have a negative environmental impact.
Solution: Ensure that you are using sustainably sourced wood, preferably from local suppliers, to minimise the environmental footprint of heating your tub.
Dry, seasoned hardwood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke, making it a cleaner option. By using wood responsibly and maintaining your stove and flue, you can keep your hot tub's environmental impact low while still enjoying its benefits.
Conclusion
While wood-fired hot tubs present some challenges, such as longer heating times and the need for regular maintenance, the problems are manageable with the right approach.
By understanding the common issues and implementing practical solutions—like choosing the right wood, maintaining cleanliness, and managing the fire—you can minimise these drawbacks and fully enjoy the unique benefits that wood-fired hot tubs offer.
From the satisfaction of building your own fire to the eco-friendly and cost-effective aspects, wood-fired hot tubs provide a rewarding and enriching experience that is worth the extra effort.