Can an Indoor Hot Tub be Used Outside?

When dreaming up plans for a new hot tub, one of the things you’ll need to think about is whether it’ll be installed indoors or outdoors.  Each location has their own set of benefits and drawbacks.  Which type will work for you will depend on many different personal factors.  But when it comes to the exact model of hot tub, can an indoor hot tub be used outside?  It may seem surprising, but there are, in fact, certain hot tub models that can be installed either indoors or outdoors.  It should be noted that not every model of hot tub features this kind of flexibility, so it’s important to understand the provisions and limitations of your chosen hot tub.  To help you decide where to place your hot tub we’ve come up with a list of the advantages and disadvantages of indoor and outdoor hot tubs.

Indoor Hot Tub Advantages

Privacy

There’s no doubt that you’ll have the most privacy with an indoor hot tub.  As opposed to outdoor hot tubs which are often overlooked by neighbours or passersby, indoor hot tubs are fully contained within your home.  You won’t have to worry about prying eyes or jealous neighbourhood kids with an indoor installation.

Consistent Environment

With an indoor hot tub, you don’t have to worry about a mad dash through the snow or rain to get to the comfort of the tub.  The surrounding environment will be consistent and fully adjustable by you.  Your hot tub use won’t be limited by lightning or other poor weather.  And because the water isn’t exposed to the outdoors, it’ll be easier to keep your water clean and its chemistry balanced.

Indoor Hot Tub Disadvantages

House Modifications

You’ll need to make some modifications to your house for an indoor hot tub to function properly without causing damage.  You’ll need easy access to a water source, a drainage system to take care of splashed water and a ventilation system to combat humidity and odours.  Moisture barriers will also need to be installed to protect the walls and framing of the house.

Installation

Installing an indoor hot tub is often a much more complicated process than installing an outdoor hot tub.  Just getting the tub inside the house may require some careful planning skills.  It’s often considered much easier to install an indoor hot tub in a new house build rather than try and fit one into an already built house.

Outdoor Hot Tub Advantages

The Outdoor Environment

Sitting in an outdoor hot tub can provide some amazing perspectives that just aren’t available indoors.  Gazing at the stars, soaking during a snowfall or having your head cooled off by a drizzle of rain are exquisite hot tub experiences that aren’t possible with an indoor arrangement.

Choice of Location

Installing a hot tub outdoors gives you much more latitude when it comes to choosing a location.  All you really need is some level ground and you’ve got an ideal space for a hot tub.  Worries about space are not as much an issue with outdoor tubs.

Outdoor Hot Tub Disadvantages

Water Maintenance

Because of dirt, dust, insects and organic debris your water chemistry will be much more inconsistent in an outdoor hot tub.  Keeping your water clean and its chemistry balanced will require a little more scrutiny than with an indoor tub.

Lightning and Other Stormy Weather

Although it’s very pleasant to use a hot tub during a rainshower or snowfall, you absolutely shouldn’t be using it during a lightning storm.  Other extreme stormy weather may also cause you to think twice before going outside to use your hot tub.

To learn more about the benefits of becoming a hot tub owner, download a free hot tub buyer’s guide today.