Contents
The 5 good habits
- A shower before you get in.
- A lid between uses.
- Regular draining, adapted to your use and equipment.
- Exterior timber protected with oil or stain.
- The stove emptied of ash and the flue swept.
The water: draining and treatment
How often you drain depends mainly on whether you have filtration, the number of bathers and the temperature: warm water encourages bacterial growth.
- Without filtration: the water is changed often, generally after a few uses.
- With filtration and treatment: the water can be kept considerably longer.
- Treatment: bromine or active oxygen are often recommended. Check compatibility with your tub and stove.
Avoid essential oils, salts and foaming products in the water unless the manufacturer explicitly allows them: they can damage the tub and make cleaning harder.
Cleaning the tub
- Fibreglass or acrylic: when draining, a soft sponge and a non-abrasive cleaner are all you need.
- Timber: a soft brush and clean water. Avoid harsh products that dry out the wood.
- Rinse thoroughly before refilling.
Caring for the timber
The exterior cladding is looked after like decking: an oil or stain suited to the timber, following the manufacturer’s advice. An all-timber tub should not stand empty in the sun for too long, or the wood shrinks and the tub leaks on the next fill.
Looking after the stove
- Empty the ash after each use, once the stove is cold.
- Check and clean the flue regularly.
- Keep an eye out for corrosion, especially if you use a chemical treatment.
Winterising
If the tub will not be used during a frost, drain it completely: tub, external stove and connecting pipes. Water that freezes in a circuit can damage it. Then cover the tub to protect it.
Water kept too hot for too long deteriorates faster: heat it just before bathing and follow the guidance in our ideal temperature guide.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I change the water in a wood-fired hot tub?
Without filtration or treatment, the water is generally changed after a few uses. With filtration and suitable treatment, it can be kept much longer. Follow your manufacturer’s recommendations and go by the look and smell of the water.
Can I use chlorine in a wood-fired hot tub?
It depends on the tub and the stove: some materials do not tolerate chlorine well. Bromine or active oxygen are often recommended for wood-fired hot tubs. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before using any treatment.
What should I do with my hot tub in winter?
If you use it, simply heat it regularly and keep it covered. If it will not be used during a frost, drain it completely (tub, external stove and pipes) to avoid frost damage.