Hot Tubs: Your Complete Guide
From cheap inflatables to premium acrylic spas, hot tubs have become one of the most popular garden upgrades in the UK. Most do not need planning permission, but larger tubs require a dedicated electrical supply that must comply with Building Regulations Part P. The purchase price is only part of the story - running costs, electrical work, and maintenance all add up. This guide gives you the full picture so you know what to budget for.
Types of hot tub
Inflatable hot tub
The entry-level option at £300 to £700. Sets up in 30 minutes and runs from a standard 13A plug. Heats slowly (24–48 hours to reach temperature) and loses heat quickly, so running costs are higher. A good way to try out hot tub ownership before investing more.
Rotomoulded (plug-and-play)
A solid, moulded plastic shell that is more durable and better insulated than an inflatable. Priced at £2,000 to £5,000. Some run on a 13A plug, others need a 32A supply. A good middle ground between inflatable and acrylic.
Acrylic (premium)
The proper spa experience. Moulded acrylic shell with built-in jets, LED lighting, and good insulation. Costs £5,000 to £12,000. Needs a 32A or 40A dedicated electrical supply. Lasts 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance.
Swim spa
A larger unit combining a hot tub with a swimming current for exercise. Typically 4 to 6 metres long. Costs £10,000 to £25,000. Needs a strong base, dedicated electrical supply, and potentially crane access for delivery. Running costs are higher due to the larger water volume.
Get at least three quotes
Hot tub prices vary between dealers, and so does what you get for your money - delivery, electrical connection, base preparation, and commissioning are sometimes included and sometimes not. Get at least three written quotes for the same type and spec so you can compare like for like. Check whether each quote covers the electrical supply, which is often the hidden extra.
Hot tub guides
Hot tub cost guide
Full pricing for all types, running costs, electrical work, and how to get the best deal.
Hot tub running costs
Electricity, chemicals, water, and maintenance — what a hot tub really costs per month.
Decking cost guide
Decking prices - a popular base for hot tubs and outdoor entertaining.
Electrical work cost guide
Electrician costs for dedicated supplies, consumer unit upgrades, and outdoor sockets.
Common questions
Do I need planning permission for a hot tub?
Usually not. Hot tubs are generally classed as permitted development, so you do not need planning permission as long as the tub is not in front of the house and does not take up more than 50% of the garden area. If you live in a conservation area or listed building, check with your local planning authority first. You also do not normally need Building Regulations approval.
How much does it cost to run a hot tub?
A well-insulated hot tub costs £30 to £60 per month in electricity to keep at temperature. Cheaper inflatable tubs can cost more to run because they lose heat quickly - expect £40 to £80 per month. You also need to budget £20 to £40 per month for chemicals (chlorine or bromine, pH adjusters, and filter cleaner). Keeping the cover on when the tub is not in use makes the biggest difference to running costs.
Do I need a special electrical supply for a hot tub?
Inflatable and small plug-and-play tubs run on a standard 13A plug socket. Larger acrylic tubs and swim spas need a dedicated 32A or 40A supply installed by a qualified electrician - this is not a DIY job. The electrician should be registered with NICEIC or a similar Part P scheme (see the approved document on the gov.uk website). The electrical work for a dedicated supply typically costs £200 to £500 depending on the distance from the consumer unit to the tub location.
How often do you change the water in a hot tub?
Every 3 to 4 months for most household use. If the tub gets heavy use (daily, or by lots of different people), you may need to change the water more often. Between water changes, you maintain the water quality with chlorine or bromine sanitiser, check the pH levels twice a week, and clean or replace the filters monthly.
Thinking about a hot tub?
Find out what it really costs - purchase price, running costs, and installation.
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