Installing a hot tub is more than just a simple purchase; it’s an experience you’ll enjoy for years to come. But before you can relax into the warm, soothing water, you have to find somewhere to put it. The right location will enhance both the beauty and functionality of your hot tub, ensuring every soak feels effortless and inviting.
Think about accessibility
Your hot tub should be easily accessible, especially on cold winter evenings when you want a quick dip without having to tiptoe across a cold or snowy yard. Ideally, it should be close to your home or a convenient area. Many owners choose a location just off a deck, patio, or near a back entrance.
Consider privacy and views
A hot tub can become your private retreat, so think about how visible it is from neighboring properties or potential upper floors. Strategic landscaping or fencing can create intimacy without blocking natural views. If you’re lucky enough to have a beautiful garden, forest edge, or mountain view, make the most of it. A well-placed tub can frame that scenery perfectly.
Choose a solid surface
Hot tubs are heavy once filled with water, often weighing over 1000 kilos, so it needs a solid and flat foundation. Avoid placing your tub directly on grass or soil. There is no need for a drain in the foundation because the drain valve for your Northern Lights Hot Tub will be conveniently installed in the filtration system, not in the bottom of the hot tub. Some options include a concrete pad or a tiled terrace.
Allow for splash water
Some water might spill over during use. Make sure your chosen spot is suited for that. Creating a smooth, inviting pathway to your hot tub not only enhances the look of your garden but also makes walking there barefoot a pleasant part of the experience, especially on cool evenings or after a relaxing soak.
Think about sun, shade, and wind
A spot with a mix of sun and shade helps maintain a comfortable water temperature year-round, whereas sunlight offers natural warmth, while a nearby tree, pergola, or canopy provides protection from intense summer rays or falling snow. If you prefer a more open setting to enjoy the night sky, that works beautifully too. Just make sure your tub is sheltered from the wind. Windbreaks such as hedges, fencing, or a gazebo help prevent heat loss and create a more comfortable, relaxing soak. In the end, it’s about what feels right for you, every setting and owner is different.
Electrical and heating access
If you’re using an electric or hybrid heating system, your hot tub needs to be near a safe and accessible power source. For wood-fired tubs, think about ventilation and convenience for loading wood. Always check local codes and consult your installer to ensure your setup meets safety standards.
Aesthetics
A cedar hot tub is naturally beautiful and will enhance your outdoor space. Many owners build their tubs into deck rims, beneath gazebos, or beside saunas or outdoor showers. Using matching wood tones or natural materials helps create that cohesive, spa-like atmosphere that feels intentional and timeless.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect spot for your cedar tub is about finding that balance between practicality, comfort, and beauty. Take your time to visualize how you’ll use it, morning dips, evening unwinds, or social gatherings, and let that guide your choice. Once you’ve found your spot, every soak will feel exactly as it should: natural, relaxing, and perfectly made for you.
Each situation is different, don’t overthink when planning for a cedar hot tub. At Northern Lights Hot Tubs we have a lot of design plans to get your cedar hot tub project going, just reach out to us. Look at our gallery for more inspiration.
