Can You Put A Hot Tub In A Basement? [Here’s what you need to know]

Whether it's the wish for more privacy or just a dislike of going outside in the middle of winter, inevitably, the question of whether you can put a hot tub in the basement will arise. Why suffer shivering in the cold air or wonder if the neighbors are indeed watching you if you don't have to? We've researched whether you can install a hot tub in a basement so that you can decide the best placement for a hot tub at your home.

It is possible to put a hot tub in your basement. It may not be as easy as installing one outdoors, but the benefits of having one indoors can certainly be worth the extra effort. If your basement has sufficient space, appropriate flooring, a convenient water source, and adequate ventilation, you can install a hot tub.

Not only can you have privacy and shelter from the elements, but also not worry about someone slipping into your yard and entering your hot tub uninvited. Installing a hot tub indoors might seem daunting at first. Please keep reading as we delve into this project with all the details of what is involved. We've broken it down into some key points for you to consider.

hot tubs in a spa, Can You Put A Hot Tub In A Basement

 

Installing A Hot Tub In The Basement: What to Consider

Sufficient Space

One of the biggest obstacles with installing a hot tub is adequate space, not only for the hot tub itself but also for ease of installation, use, and maintenance. If you do not have basement access from the outside, getting the hot tub downstairs and around corners may be too difficult.

Have measurements on hand when you shop for a hot tub. You'll want, at minimum, the size of the tub plus an additional foot on all sides for maintenance. Ensure that you have communicated with the dealer concerning the size of your stairwell, doorways, and hall spaces as needed before purchase to make an informed decision on whether it will fit.

Appropriate Flooring

When you get out of a hot tub, you're going to bring with you at least a gallon of water each time. That's a lot of water that can cause a slippery hazard. You will want to avoid carpeting of any sort and wood to avoid water seeping under and rotting. You can have rubber mats placed around or even install non-slip tiles such as those used in bathrooms. A floor drain can also help ensure your safety and easy cleanup.

Click here to see non-slip, rubber tiles on Amazon.

Convenient Water Source

You're going to need water—lots of it! Many basements have a water source already installed, and if you can set up the hot tub near it, you are doing well. If it's a fair distance away or if there isn't a water source, then you'll need to consider installing s hose spigot in a location convenient to the hot tub.

Adequate Ventilation and Heating

When you have a hot tub within an enclosed room, even with a lid, you are going to increase the humidity. Between the heat and moisture evaporation, this is going to create a very moist environment. This, in turn, can lead to problems with mold and mildew as well as wood rot in your basement.

To help prevent or minimize these issues, you will need to install a ventilation system. First off, you will need to vent the moisture outside using an exhaust fan. You should also have a ceiling fan installed to help with air circulation.

Click here to see wall-mount exhaust fans on Amazon.

Heating is another consideration. Keeping the room heated will minimize condensation from the moisture-laden air and help preserve the life of your walls and ceiling.

What Is The Best Base For A Hot Tub?

Concrete is going to be your ideal foundation. If you have a dirt foundation in your basement, then extra prep work will be needed, just like setting one up on your lawn. Ideally, you will install a concrete pad. However, a level base of about 6-inches of pea gravel can be used as well.

Do you have to put a hot tub on concrete?

You can also create a raised deck for your hot tub, provided you have the headroom if you prefer. A raised deck also provides the added benefit of making it easier to install a drain line. However, ensure the deck is rated to hold the hot tub's weight. Hot tubs can weigh anywhere from as little as 3,000-lbs to as much as 7,000-lbs, depending on the hot tub's size.

What Do You Need For Hot Tub Drainage?

First off, you might want to check your local regulations concerning greywater for irrigation. If possible, a water pump and a hose will be all you need to empty onto your lawn. If greywater must go into the sewer system for treatment, make sure you have a drain that complies with requirements. If necessary, get a plumber's professional opinion if a new drain is needed.

How Often Should You Drain Your Hot Tub?

Depending on how much you use your hot tub and how well you take care of the water will determine how often you drain the hot tub. You'll ideally want to do it three or four times a year. With a good water pump, it shouldn't take longer than an hour or so to drain. This is part of your hot tub care you really don't want to skimp out on.

Along with draining, you'll also want to make sure you are keeping up with your water sanitizing routine. You don't want your relaxation location to become a health hazard. A sanitizing kit may be all you'll need, but do consult hot tub professionals to determine the best regimen depending on your water quality and hot tub usage.

Click here to see sanitizing kits on Amazon.

How Do You Install A Hot Tub Indoors?

If at all possible, have the hot tub delivered. The dealer will have the equipment and the knowledge to transport the hot tub into place safely. The dealer may also want to survey the installation location before delivery. It would help if you considered hiring a skilled contractor who has experience installing indoor hot tubs.

Contractors can be a great resource that can end up saving you time, money, and heartache. They can help guide you through building regulations if you need to make changes to your basement to accommodate the electrical and drainage needs. You want to make sure that the electrical system in your basement can handle the hot tub.

Contractors can also assess for additional electrical outlets, new lighting, and new ventilation and heating systems to be installed. You will also need a circuit breaker installed. If you do not have cement walls or glass encasing your room, you'll want to make sure to install water-resistant drywall and use a vapor barrier under the wall covering.

Enjoy Your New Hot Tub

There's a lot of work that goes into an indoor installation. However, at the end of the day, you can slip into your relaxing hot tub. That alone makes it all worth it.

Considering other DIY projects to refinish your basement? Check out our related blogs:

Carpet Vs. Laminate In A Basement - Which Is Better?

Is Vinyl Plank Flooring Durable Enough For Dogs?

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