Hot Tub Installation Costs That Keep You Out of Hot Water
A hot tub is a great addition to your backyard. When the temperatures start to drop, you can head to the backyard for a warm soak. It’s a good way to spend time with family and friends or just relax on your own after a hard day.
In order to keep track of bills and payments, you need to see if you are able to work in the total hot tub installation cost into your budget.
The Cost To Install an Above Ground Hot Tub
The total hot tub installation cost will vary depending on the hot tub you choose, the foundation you need, the delivery, electrical needs, transport requirements, and the accessories you want to purchase. The hot tub installation cost can range from $650 for an inflatable hot tub to $28,000 for top-of-the-line hot tubs with all the bells and whistles.
The Hot Tub
The average cost to install a hot tub that is above ground ranges from $4,000 to $15,000.
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Inflatable Vinyl
In order to save on the total hot tub installation cost, you can choose an inflatable vinyl hot tub, which costs in the range of $300–$1,200 and is easier to install on your own. All you need is to make a level area, inflate the hot tub, fill it up with water, and then plug it in.
Teak, Cedar, or Redwood
This is another option. A big advantage is that these are delivered in pieces so they can be easier to install with no crane needed. They do require a dedicated electrical setup and a strong foundation. If you choose an acrylic hot tub, these are harder to move because they are heavier. They range in price but are durable and attractive. The hot tub you choose is the biggest determining factor in the overall price and impacts the total hot tub installation cost.
Customized Hot Tub
If you need a uniquely designed hot tub or have an awkward space then you will need a custom-made one. A customized hot tub will cost a lot more and starts at $13,000 and can go up to $37,000. With a customized hot tub, you can choose the number of jets, add cabinets or underwater lighting, install an anti-microorganism UV protection device, choose the filtration type, and even have an aromatherapy system. A customized hot tub will be more expensive to install.
An inflatable hot tub is one of the cheapest ways to save on the total hot tub installation cost. These hot tubs are super easy to move and are inexpensive. You can even pack these away seasonally so you don’t have to winterize it like you would with a pool. Another benefit is that it has a cushiony soft interior and surface. This can make for a relaxing and comfortable experience. Inflatable hot tubs are made with PVC that is built to withstand contact and the outdoors so you don’t have to worry about durability.
Foundation
Hot tubs can be heavy and weigh anywhere from 400 to 1,000 pounds when empty, and even over two tons when they are full. Since hot tubs get so heavy when occupied you need a foundation that supports the weight. Popular options for the foundation include cement slabs, gravel patios, or hot tub focused gazebos.
Gravel patios can average $1,600 while gazebos can average $6,500. Speak with your hot tub dealer about the requirements for the model you choose. If you are building a foundation then be sure to check if you need any permits or inspections.
Delivery
Hot tubs, except for inflatable options, come in pieces and need to be delivered to your home on a trailer. This can require a crane or multiple people carrying it to the site. Delivery and transportation costs are a few hundred dollars but if you need a crane, it can cost an extra $200. Whether or not you need a crane will depend on how heavy the hot tub is, the distance between the installation site and the trailer, and if there is an access route where people can carry the spa in.
You may even need to take down fencing, which can add extra costs to the process. Professionals will want to inspect the start and end sites.
Electrical Work
Certain hot tubs can be plugged into a normal 120V AC outlet. However, many do require a dedicated electrical setup. If you need a dedicated electrical setup then it’s best to hire an electrician. The total cost for this is about $600. You will also need a permit for this type of project.
Water Access
You will need water nearby for cleaning the hot tub and, of course, filling it. A garden hose will usually do but consider your water costs. If you are looking at how to cut bills, you will need to pay attention to your water usage for your hot tub.
Saltwater System
You may choose to install a salt-water chlorine generation system for your hot tub. This can cost between $1,700 to $2,500 depending on the option you choose and the type of hot tub you have. Built-in hot tubs do require more expensive generators that will cost more. Saltwater hot tubs have many benefits, including low maintenance, self-cleaning capabilities, the fact that salt costs less than other chemicals, and there is no need to handle or store any chemicals. It’s soft on the skin and fewer chemicals make it a healthier and more environmentally friendly option.
The only setbacks to a saltwater system are the initial costs, as well as the potential for corrosion. Experts say that the salt levels that are used for a small amount of water won’t be enough to produce any significant damage. If you do want to purchase a saltwater system then you should get a hot tub that has non-corrosive features.
Accessories
Different hot tubs require different accessories:
You may want to have waterproof stairs for a safe and easy entrance and exit from the hot tub. Prices for stairs range from $150 to $350.
You may also want to get a pump to quickly empty out the spa.
Covers are required to keep the water clean, protect the spa form the elements, and keep the heat in. A cover will average $200. There is also a cover helper that makes it easier to open and close. It also prevents the cover from being damaged.
Other accessories can include jets, lighting, and drink holders.
Hidden Costs
There are some hidden costs of hot tub installation you may not be aware of:
Consider your monthly electrical bill that can be even more in the winter when you are trying to keep the water hot.
You also need to consider the chemical treatment of the water and the monitoring kits.
You will need to factor in periodic repairs and maintenance as well.
Not every hot tub installation cost will apply to you but it helps to know what costs you could have. High-end models are expensive to buy upfront but can be cheaper to maintain. Low-end models can be cheaper to buy at first but may be more expensive to maintain. When you consider the lifetime cost of ownership, the high-end hot tub can actually be cheaper due to the maintenance, long lifespan, and high resale value.
Cost To Install an In-Ground Hot Tub
If you are hoping to have an in-ground hot tub then you can pay between $15,000 and $20,000 in hot tub installation costs. The major components of an in-ground project include the dig, steel, gunite, plumbing, equipment installation, electricity, and start up. You can cut down on some of the steps if you are choosing a prefabricated hot tub shell, which is usually made of acrylic.
Most states won’t tax Social Security at all. There are three states that do tax Social Security income in some way and some do provide a credit or limit to help offset the cost.
If you choose to go this route then you get the shell, which is installed into the area. There isn’t any customizability offered but you are able to save on the total hot tub installation cost.
The hot tub installation cost for a concrete hot tub will be similar to an in-ground concrete pool but on a smaller scale. This includes the materials and labor for the gunite, steel, jets, plumbing, plaster, equipment, excavation, and start up. The cost averages about $72 per square foot.
You don’t want to have a tacky look of the hole in the ground with concrete. You may want to consider adding a surrounding made of stone, brick, or tiles. It can add to the overall beauty of your hot tub and avoid any potential mishaps with falls. Depending on the materials you choose, the costs will vary.
Considerations For Total Hot Tub Installation Cost
Before you consider your total hot but installation cost, there are some considerations you need to think about.
Deciding whether or not you want to install your hot tub indoors or outdoors is the first decision. Installing the hot tub indoors requires the same installation process as outdoors but can actually be more expensive. You will need the added installation of a ventilation system. This is required to control the humidity of where you install it and also keep the smell of the water chemicals ventilated. Breathing the chemicals in an unventilated room can be hazardous to your health.
You could possibly install the hot tub yourself to save on costs but depending on the size and weight, you may need professional equipment. You may also need to ask some friends to help with the labor since it usually takes more than one person to install.
Financing Your Total Hot Tub Installation Cost
As you can see, the total hot tub installation cost can be expensive and hot tubs don’t come cheap. There are four different options for paying for your hot tub.
Buy with Cash
This is the most cost-effective way to pay for your hot tub since you don’t need to worry about a monthly payment or any interest. If you are debt-averse then using cash can help you avoid the stress of credit. The main drawback of using cash for hot tub financing is that your cash isn’t available for other financial goals you may have. If you are able to get a low-interest loan then you have more flexibility when it comes to your current cash reserves. You can start saving right now. With your saving account, it will be much easier to get your dream hot tub.
Home Equity Loan
Since adding a hot tub increases the value of the home, it may make sense to get a home equity loan. The loan correlates to your house so it could be possible to get lower interest rates. Before you go along with this option, make sure you have enough equity in the home to cover the hot tub. The biggest drawback to this type of loan is that your home is used as collateral on the loan. If you default, you would not only lose your hot tub but also the house.
Personal Loan
Personal loans can be used for just about anything. The process can be fast and the loan will be unsecured so you don’t have to put anything up as collateral. With good credit, you can likely get a good interest rate. Depending on how much you can afford, you can get a long repayment or short term. The quicker repayment terms generally come with a lower interest rate. The drawback is the interest rate can be higher and the lender may require a shorter repayment term, which makes your monthly payment higher.
Hot Tub Loan
There are some lenders that specialize specifically in hot tub financing. These lenders may understand hot tubs better than general lenders so they can give you some information to help you find the perfect one. The funds from the loan can be used for installation, landscaping, and anything related to the installation. The lender will usually have a lower interest rate and it may be lower than what you would find with a traditional personal loan.
Credit Cards
Some credit card companies offer options with a 0% APR promotion. Depending on the card you get, you can have up to 21 months to pay off a large purchase without paying interest. Some credit cards can offer a shorter promotional period but can give you rewards on a big purchase. Your credit limit may be lower on these types of credit cards so it may only be a solution if your hot tub and the total hot tub installation cost are on the cheaper end.
How Long Do Hot Tubs Last?
When considering the total hot tub installation cost, the saying you get what you pay for is true. While you can save by getting a low-end option, the overall quality of the parts and design of the hot tub will decrease and lower the lifespan of the hot tub. It helps to know how long your hot tub will last when you are considering what financing option makes the most sense.
You don’t want to be stuck with a longer-term repayment plan if your hot tub won’t even last that long. If you spend a little more money upfront, it means a longer lifespan. Price and construction don’t mean anything if you don’t regularly maintain the hot tub. If you do weekly tests and cleanings on the hot tub, you can help extend its lifespan.
It also helps to look for a warranty. If you don’t have a warranty, consider having the hot tub serviced and maintained every year. The charge is $200 on average for the inspection and basic repairs but with an inspection, you are able to identify an issue before it turns into a more expensive repair.
In conclusion
There are many different factors that affect the total hot tub installation cost. The main way you can save money is by selecting a cheaper hot tub, such as an inflatable one. Keep in mind that the cheaper the hot tub, the more expensive it can be to maintain and you want to consider all your different options to find the best one for your situation. Your costs will vary, whether or not you are installing an in-ground hot tub or an above ground hot tub.
There are different ways you can finance your hot tub installation costs. Consider how long your hot tub will last with maintenance so you can choose the right financing option that makes the most sense, especially if you are paying interest and making monthly payments.