Wood Fired Hot Tub FAQs - Your Questions Answered!

Kicking back in a wood fired hot tub isn't just about getting warm; it's a whole experience.

You start with the hands-on satisfaction of chopping and stacking your firewood. Then there's the cosy sound of the fire crackling away and the water gently moving around you.

It's all about building up to that moment when you can finally relax in the soothing warmth.

These tubs are eco friendly too. They use wood, which is a renewable resource, so you're cutting down on fossil fuel use and helping the environment. Plus, you can run them without any electricity, which is perfect if you're out in a remote spot or just trying to keep things simple and quiet.

The warmth from a wood fire can really help you unwind, easing muscle tension and melting away stress.

And if you're in an area with plenty of trees, heating with wood can be pretty wallet-friendly.

Using a wood fired hot tub also connects you more with the great outdoors. It's about more than just a soak; it's a ritual that ties you to the natural world right outside your door.

The Ofuro Tub holds 1 - 2 people, measuring 190cm by 120cm

The Round Elite tub comes as standard with a diameter of 200cm, holding 4 - 5 people or can be upgraded to the larger 220cm, holding 6 - 7 people.

The hot tub can be easily filled using a standard garden hose.

Heating time is typically 2+ hours, however this will vary based on a number of factors. Hot tub size, heater type, and choice of firewood will all have an impact on your tub temperature, which can be monitored using the included thermometer. 

You should never heat the tub without water as this will severely damage the tub as well as risking your safety. 

Ensure that the route from the kerbside drop-off point to the final installation spot of the hot tub is clear and unobstructed. Additionally, it's important to have the base fully prepared and ready for the hot tub before its arrival to facilitate a smooth installation process. Please note the dimensions of your tub to ensure a clear path to its final position. 

Our friendly two person team will be deliver kerbside to your home.

 Our wood fired tubs can operate fully off grid, however addition of spa systems, LED lighting and electrical heaters require a power supply. You may need to consult with a local electrician to ensure correct installation. For more info on electrical heaters, see 'heating options' below.

No - while its possible to hard pipe a water connection to your tub, its perfectly fine to fill your tub with a standard hose. We recommend filling to around 80% volume. 

We recommend positioning your tub on a flat even surface, leaving 0.5m extra space around the tub. The heater should be placed away from any flammable materials. 

Integrated vs. External: What's the Difference?

Integrated Heaters: Design: Sleek and space-efficient, integrated heaters are externally built into the hot tub, for a blend of aesthetics and functionality. Perfect for those who value a minimalist garden layout without sacrificing any hot tub space.

Benefits: Lower water volume required, resulting in reduced running costs and a quicker heating time.

Note: only available for hot tub Elite.

External Heaters: Design: Positioned alongside your hot tub, external heaters maximise internal space, allowing more room for relaxation.

These heaters connect via hoses, ensuring efficient heat transfer without compromising on tub capacity.

Options: Available in round Ansi 304 or 316 stainless steel, offering 26kW of heating power.

Note: not available for Hot Tub Elite. Benefits: Easier to light and maintain due to their accessibility, with the added bonus of fitting any wood-fired hot tub model. However, consider the additional space needed for setup and the slightly longer heating times.

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Electrify Your Hot Tub Experience

Dive into the convenience of electric heaters for your hot tub — a smoke-free, effortless heating solution that’s perfect for those seeking simplicity and efficiency. Whether you're looking to keep your hot tub ready at a moment's notice or aiming for a quick, reliable heat source without the traditional wood-fired method, our electric heaters offer the flexibility and ease you desire.

Why Consider Electric Heating?

Electric heaters are the go-to for hassle-free heating. Forget about chopping wood or cleaning ashes; with the push of a button, your hot tub heats up to your desired temperature, maintained perfectly until you decide otherwise. Ideal for tight spaces or where smoke might be a concern, electric heaters offer a clean, efficient alternative that keeps both the neighbours and local regulations in mind.

Our Electric Heater Range:

• 3kW and 9kW Incoloy Pahlen Heaters: Robust and reliable, Incoloy heaters are designed for durability, perfect for those looking for a straightforward heating solution. Note: Our 9kW model requires a 3-phase power supply.
• 3kW and 9kW Titanium Pahlen Heaters: Offering superior corrosion resistance, our titanium heaters are the pinnacle of electric heating. Designed to withstand harsh chemicals, these heaters are ideal for those utilising chlorine or bromine water treatments. The 9kW titanium heater also requires a 3-phase power supply.

Maximising Efficiency: The Hybrid Approach

Why choose just one? Combining wood-fired and electric heaters brings the best of both worlds — rapid heating with wood, seamlessly maintained by electric. This hybrid method not only reduces heating time but also ensures your hot tub is ready whenever you are, without the wait.

Hybrid Heating System Benefits:

• Flexibility: Use the electric heater during busy days or when you prefer a quick, clean heat.
• Maintenance: Keep your hot tub at the perfect temperature for days on end, without the need to refire your wood stove.
• Winter Ready: Prevent freezing damage with an electric heater, ensuring your hot tub remains operational even in the chilliest months.

Understanding Electric Heater Efficiency

Electric heaters offer predictable heating costs, with energy use calculated precisely. For instance, a 6kW heater running for 3 hours uses 18kWh of energy — multiply this by your local kWh cost to estimate your daily heating expenses.

Installation Insights

Considering an electric heater? Keep these points in mind:

• Power Requirements: Our 3kW heaters can connect to a standard single-phase supply, while heaters above 6kW require a three-phase supply.

Professional Consultation: Regulations vary, so consulting with a local electrician ensures your installation complies with local standards.

Your wood fired heater can be controlled by the the amount of fuel added, and airflow control through the grates. If getting too toasty you can simply add cold water. 

Some customers prefer to use a small electric heater to maintain a steady heat once the target temperature has been reached. 

Choosing Your Steel Grade

• 304 Stainless Steel: A durable and corrosion-resistant option suitable for most settings. Ideal if you're not using chemical water treatments.
• 316 Stainless Steel: Offers superior corrosion resistance, particularly against chlorides. Recommended for hot tubs treated with chemicals to ensure longevity.

There may be some smoke in the initial lighting period but the chimney flu will effectively divert most of the smoke away, provided you choose a wood with a low moisture content. 

Exterior Wood Options for Your Hot Tub

Choosing the right exterior wood for your hot tub is about balancing aesthetics, durability, and maintenance. At Tentsmuir Trading, we offer a selection of premium woods, each with its own unique benefits, to ensure your hot tub not only looks fantastic but stands the test of time. Let’s dive into your options:

Spruce/Pine Tree

• Colour: Light, adaptable for staining
• Characteristics: A sturdy and flexible choice, Spruce is known for its strength and good looks. It’s a popular material that, with regular treatment, can withstand most climates gracefully. Its antibacterial properties make it an excellent choice for a soothing soak.
• Maintenance: Requires regular oiling to resist rot and maintain its appearance.
• Pros: Versatile, strong, cost-effective.
• Cons: Not naturally rot-resistant, requires consistent maintenance.

Thermowood

• Appearance: Dark, rich tones
• Advantages: Treated at high temperatures to enhance durability and resistance to moisture and rot, Thermowood offers superb insulation and stability, making it an ideal choice for the ever-changing outdoor environment.
• Maintenance: Low maintenance due to its enhanced resistance properties.
• Pros: Weatherproof, rot-resistant, excellent insulator.
• Cons: Higher cost due to the treatment process.

Wood Plastic Composite (WPC)

• Colour Options: Classic Brown, Modern Anthracite
• Features: Combining the best of both worlds, WPC offers the aesthetic appeal of wood with the durability and low maintenance of plastic. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for longevity and minimal upkeep.
• Maintenance: Virtually maintenance-free.
• Pros: Durable, no regular oiling required.
• Cons: Less natural appearance than wood.

Larch

• Look: Warm brown with a beautifully visible grain
• Benefits: Larch is known for its toughness, waterproof qualities, and resistance to decay. It's a heavy, durable wood that becomes even more resilient over time, making it a great investment for your hot tub.
• Maintenance: Moderate; may require oiling to maintain its appearance.
• Pros: Eco-friendly, naturally resistant to insects and decay.
• Cons: Heavy, can expand and shrink significantly.

Cedar

• Aesthetic: Natural rich tones
• Perks: Cedar stands out for its exceptional insulation properties, resistance to moisture, and ability to retain its shape. It’s a premium choice for those seeking the ultimate in durability and aesthetic appeal.
• Maintenance: Low; cedar is naturally resistant to rot and decay.
• Pros: Excellent thermal insulator, low shrinkage, visually stunning.

Cons: Higher price point, rough texture may require extra work for finishes.

Choose Your Perfect Hot Tub Liner At Tentsmuir Trading, we understand that selecting the right hot tub liner is crucial for the longevity, maintenance, and overall enjoyment of your wood-fired hot tub. That's why we offer a curated selection of high-quality liner materials, each with unique benefits. Whether you’re seeking durability, ease of maintenance, or a specific aesthetic, we’ve got you covered.

Gelcoat Liners Colours: Classic Blue, Modern Grey, Pristine White Pearlescent Options: Lustrous White, Radiant Blue, Sleek Grey Features: Our Gelcoat liners are known for their smooth, glossy finish, providing a timeless look to your hot tub. While offering excellent resistance to water and UV rays, they require a bit more TLC to maintain their vibrant appearance. Ideal for those who love traditional aesthetics with a hint of luxury.

Granicoat Liners Shades: Navy Pearl, Ocean Pearl, Quart Pearl, Beach Pearl Benefits: Granicoat liners boast a unique, textured appearance resembling natural stone. This solid surface material is non-porous, making it incredibly easy to clean and resistant to stains, scratches, and chemicals. Perfect for those seeking a premium, low-maintenance option that stands the test of time.

Acrylic Liners Options: Pure White, Contemporary Grey, Blue Marble, Black Marble Advantages: Acrylic is the pinnacle of durability and style. Resistant to scratches, chips, and UV degradation, these liners maintain their glossy, bright appearance for years. With a non-porous surface that's resistant to staining and a wide range of colours, including pearlescent and metallic finishes, acrylic liners offer unparalleled customization and peace of mind.

Why Choose Acrylic? Acrylic liners are at the forefront of hot tub liner technology. They're especially suited for wood-fired hot tubs, promising ease of use, minimal maintenance, and enduring beauty. Acrylic stands out for its structural strength, resistance to chemical corrosion, and the flexibility it offers in hot tub design. It’s the smart choice for anyone looking to invest in their relaxation without the worry.

Elevate Your Soak: SPA System Options

Transform your hot tub into a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation with our SPA system options.

The air system provides a gentle, soothing bubbling effect whereas the hydro massage allows you to experience deeper muscular benefits. 

You can also add LEDs to your tub for night time relaxation!

Air Bubble Systems: Your Cloud of Comfort

• Basic: Dive into a soft, effervescent massage with our 12-nozzle air bubble system. The 700W air pump generates a gentle fizzing massage, enveloping your body in thousands of tiny bubbles, promoting relaxation and muscle relief.
• LED Enhanced: Add a splash of color to your relaxation with integrated LED lights within the air bubble jets. Not only will you enjoy the soothing massage, but you’ll also bask in an ambient glow that transforms your hot tub into a visual spectacle.

Hydromassage Systems: Deep Tissue Delight

• Basic: Experience a deeper, more focused massage with our hydromassage system, featuring 6 to 8 jets (depending on your tub model) that target specific muscle groups for a therapeutic water-massage. The 1100W pump circulates up to 1.5 m³ of water per minute, creating powerful streams for an intense massage experience.
• LED Enhanced: Elevate your hydrotherapy with integrated LED lights in each jet. Not only do they provide a powerful massage, but they also light up your soak, creating a serene and enchanting ambiance that enhances your hot tub experience.

Choosing Between Air Jets and Hydro-massage:

Both systems require electricity but differ in sensation, maintenance, and power consumption.

• Air Jets: Offer a gentle, widespread massage with minimal maintenance and lower power consumption (around 700W). They’re ideal for a relaxing soak, resembling the sensation of a lazy river enveloping your body in a soft caress.
• Hydro-massage: Provides a stronger, therapeutic massage targeting specific areas with adjustable intensity. Although requiring more maintenance to prevent bacterial buildup and slightly higher power consumption (1-3kW), the therapeutic benefits are unmatched.

Why Not Both? The Hybrid Approach

Can’t decide? Opt for a hybrid system combining both air jets and hydro-massage for the ultimate spa experience. Start with the robust massage of hydro jets to ease deep tissue tension, then switch to the gentle air bubbles for a relaxing finish. It’s the perfect balance of therapy and relaxation, offering the best of both worlds.

If you choose not to install a filtration system, you'll need to replace the water in your hot tub every two to three days. However, if the hot tub sees frequent use or is shared by multiple people, you might find it necessary to change the water daily. Installing a filtration system and using chemicals can extend the time between water changes, allowing you to do so less frequently.

Sand filtration can allow your water to stay cleaner for longer, reducing the need for water changes. 

Sand filtration works efficiently for a wood-fired hot tub by circulating water through a bed of sand, trapping impurities and particles. Here’s how it operates:

1. Pumping: Water is pumped from the hot tub into the filter.
2. Filtration: As water flows through the sand, debris and particles are captured, allowing clean water to pass through.
3. Clean Water Return: The filtered water is then returned to the hot tub.
4. Backwashing: To maintain filter efficiency, the sand is periodically cleaned by reversing the water flow, flushing out trapped debris.

This system provides effective filtration with minimal maintenance, making it ideal for wood-fired hot tubs.

We recommend using natural cleaning products. Start by adding a gentle disinfectant to the hot tub and let it sit for up to an hour. Begin draining the water afterward. While the tub is still wet, scrub it with a sponge or a soft-bristled brush. Ensure you rinse the hot tub thoroughly before refilling it.

We recommend you shower prior to using the tub to keep your water fresh for longer. 

Ideal water temperature is around 39 degrees Celsius and your should limit sessions to around 20 minutes at this temperature. 

Yes - provided you use your heater with care and adhere to basic guidance like avoiding heating the tub without water inside.