How Much Does It Cost to Install a Hot Tub
Installing a hot tub can be a complicated task that should not be attempted without expert supervision. If you are thinking about building a hot tub in your backyard or installing a prefabricated hot tub, the question of price must have crossed your mind. Given that hot tubs require a combination of electrical fittings, plumbing, and construction, it can be pretty expensive to build a hot tub.
Of course, you can buy a prefabricated shell that is easier to install but also requires assistance from a certified electrician and a plumber. Inflatable hot tubs, on the other hand, are plug-and-play that only needs an electrician’s inputs if you are buying a 220v hot tub.
So, if you are thinking about buying a hot tub, you should also factor in how much it costs to install the hot tub. Well, the answer varies. There are several factors at play that can decide whether a hot tub installation will be economical or expensive. Here’s a look at some of the factors that might impact the installation costs.
1) Type of Hot Tub – The installation costs depend on whether you want to get an in-ground hot tub or an above-ground model. Let’s take a quick look at the average cost of installation for both.
a) In-Ground Hot Tub
An in-ground hot tub requires extensive construction as the plumbing and electrical fittings are installed in the ground. The location chosen for the hot tub will need to be dug up, and it can cost anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000 (1) for the whole project.
b) Above-Ground Hot Tub
For an above-ground hot tub, if you are getting a fixed tub, you will need to get a cement slab designed and built to place your hot tub on as a fully filled hot tub weighs somewhere around two tons (2) depending on the capacity of the hot tub. A mid-tier above-ground tub installation can cost from $3,500 to $8,000 (3) for creating a base and fitting the plumbing and electric connections. If you choose inflatable hot tubs, then installation is easy as you simply have to inflate it and plug it in.
2) Permits for Hot Tubs– Every state has different rules and regulations regarding installations of in-ground hot tubs. You should ask your local building governing body about the required permits and site inspections that need to be done to ensure it is safe to install the hot tub in your house. The fees for the building permit vary according to each state.
3) Electric Fittings – If you are buying a hot tub that works with 110v-120v of power, then you can use it with the existing power connections in your house. In case, your hot tub works with 220v of power; you will need to get a certified electrician to fix it in your house.
The costs can vary from the distance of the hot tub from the breaker panel and the length of wire used. A disconnect box and a GFCI break connecting the circuit will also be required. The average cost can vary from $500-$1000, and it also depends on the hourly charges of the professional electrician in your area.
4) Plumbing Fittings – Filling up a hot tub with water can take a lot of time if you don’t have a dedicated connection for water supply. You can install a water faucet close to the hot tub where it is used only for filling up the hot tub. The cost of installation of the faucet can vary depending on the type of faucet and the distance of the faucet from the water mains. You might also want to get a pump installed that can help in emptying the water from the hot tub when it’s time to clean it.
5) Accessories
The real fun of a hot tub is in the various accessories that make using a hot tub a complete joy. You can buy pool covers and pool cover helper to keep the pool safe from the reach of kids and pets. A cover can cost around $200-$225 and a pool cover helper costs in the range of $200.
6) Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning supplies and water filters are often included in the hot tub, but you will need to buy replacement filters and cleaning chemicals once the included supplies are finished. Replacement water filters can vary in cost depending on the model of your hot tub and number of filters needed. You will also need to invest in cleaning equipment like an ozonator which can cost from $100-$150.
Conclusion:
Installing an in-ground or above ground hot tub requires professional expertise, so make sure you hire a contractor who has experience in installing all kinds of hot tubs. You can also talk to the hot tub supplier for a recommendation of hot tub installation firms in your area.
Remember, the cost of hot tub installation can vary from location to location, and any contractor will easily give you a free estimate about what it would cost to install a hot tub in your house.
Once your hot tub is installed, make sure you take care of it by regular cleaning and maintenance. A well-maintained hot tub will last for years to come and also give you excellent usage.
Have you installed a hot tub in your house recently? Let us know in the comments how much it cost and if you took any additional steps to make installation easier.
