This post will give you an idea of how much an inground hot but project costs, including installation, plumbing, electrical, and heating systems.
If you're looking to add a hot tub to your backyard, you may be wondering how much it costs and whether or not it's a good investment. Prices for an inground hot tub can vary widely depending on the size of the hot tub, the materials used, the quality of the construction, and the brand name of the hot tub. Here are some factors you need to consider if you're planning for an inground hot tub.
What Is an Inground Hot Tub?
Hot tubs come in many forms, from inflatables to portable, above-ground, inground, etc. Inground hot tubs are the most aesthetically pleasing of all hot tubs, with decking, stone, tile, and other architectural elements surrounding them. But unlike regular hot tubs, you can't move them around, and installing one can take days. If you do plan to have one, always choose a suitable spot for all-year-round use.
Types of Inground Hot Tubs
There are two types of inground hot tubs: prefab and custom. Here's what you'd expect from each type.
Prefab
Prefab hot tubs are usually made of acrylic shells, and they can go from $3,000 to $12,000 just for the hot tub and another $3,000 to $5,000 for the installation. It's the most economical choice as it already comes with plumbing, jets, and heating.
Prefabs can also be made from more durable stainless steel. They don't break or crack, unlike acrylic, and can last for decades. The only downside is you're limited to just a few standard shapes, sizes, and configurations. Custom-made inground hot tubs don't have such problems.
Custom
Custom hot tubs sit in the high-end category, with prices topping $30,000. They're made pretty much like a swimming pool, only smaller. There are pros and cons to building custom hot tubs instead of prefabs.
You're not limited by size or shape. You can make it as big as you want and choose whatever shape suits you. However, the design might be more straightforward than the prefab's intricate design. You also need to purchase a separate plumbing and heating element on this one.
Factors Affecting Its Cost
Inground hot tubs cost more because of the work involved and the time it takes to build one. In most cases, you'd spend between $5,000 and $15,000 on the hot tub and another $1,000 to $6,000 for installation.
Factors that affect an inground hot tub's costs include:
- Heating System - Most inground hot tubs use propane heating which can cost around $1,000, although electric heating is also common.
- Contractor - Contractors charge between $175 to as high as $5,000 for custom inground hot tubs depending on location.
- Electrician/Electrical Installation - Wiring a hot tub costs between $600 and $2,200. The specs will depend on the amount and type of electricity you need.
- Permits - inground hot tubs are permanent structures that require securing a permit. This could add another $25 to $100 to the total cost.
Conclusion
Inground hot tub costs more than standard hot tubs because of the work needed to set them up. You can go for a prefab that comes with its own pumps and heating element for a more affordable option. But if you want something bigger and more personalized, custom inground hot tubs are the way to go.