Wood Fired Hot Tub Guide
How Wood Fired Hot Tubs Work
A wood fired hot tub heats water using a stainless steel wood-burning heater connected directly to the tub. When a fire is lit inside the heater, heat is transferred into the water as it circulates naturally through the system.
Unlike electric hot tubs, there are no complex heating elements required. Instead, the fire warms the water gradually while the natural circulation distributes heat throughout the tub.
Heating time depends on several factors including outside temperature, water starting temperature and the intensity of the fire. In most cases, a wood fired hot tub will reach bathing temperature within 1.5 to 3 hours.
Many modern wood fired hot tubs also incorporate filtration systems, hydro massage jets and LED lighting, combining traditional heating with modern comfort features.
Choosing the Right Size
One of the most important decisions when buying a wood fired hot tub is selecting the right size for your space and how many people will typically use it.
For most gardens, a 200cm diameter hot tub provides the perfect balance of capacity and practicality. This size comfortably seats 4–6 adults, making it ideal for families or smaller social gatherings.
Larger tubs such as 225cm models offer more interior space and are better suited to larger groups or those who prefer a more spacious bathing experience of upto 8 adults.
When choosing a size, it is also important to consider:
• available garden space
• access for delivery
• how often the tub will be used
• how many people will typically bathe at once
Heating Time & Running Costs
One of the most common questions about wood fired hot tubs is how long they take to heat and how much fuel they use.
Unlike electric spas that maintain temperature continuously, wood fired hot tubs are heated when you plan to use them. Lighting the fire and allowing the water to warm gradually becomes part of the outdoor bathing experience.
Most wood fired hot tubs will reach bathing temperature within 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on several factors including outside temperature, the starting water temperature and how actively the fire is maintained.
Because the heater uses firewood rather than electricity, the ongoing heating cost is typically very low. A typical heating session usually requires a small basket of kiln-dried firewood.
Many owners also choose to add filtration systems, UV clarification or electric backup heaters to help maintain water temperature between uses or extend the time between water changes.
Water Care & Maintenance
Wood Fired vs Electric Hot Tubs — What's the Difference?
Wood fired and electric hot tubs offer very different experiences. Here's how they compare.
| Feature | Wood Fired | Electric |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Style | Heat on demand | Maintains temperature continuously |
| Running Costs | Low (firewood) | Higher (electricity) |
| Setup | Simple, no complex installation | Requires electrical setup |
| Experience | Natural, outdoor, traditional | Modern spa-style |
| Maintenance | Basic upkeep | Ongoing system maintenance |
Wood fired hot tubs are ideal for those who want a more natural, cost-effective and immersive outdoor experience without ongoing energy costs.
Featured Collection
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Vela Wood Fired Hot Tub – 200cm
Regular price £3,695.00 GBPRegular price -
Luma Wood Fired Hot Tub - 200cm
Regular price £4,695.00 GBPRegular price -
Solstice Wood Fired Hot Tub – 200cm
Regular price £5,295.00 GBPRegular price -
Ember Premium Wood Fired Hot Tub – 225cm
Regular price £5,995.00 GBPRegular price
