As the temperature drops with the fall and winter months upon us, many homeowners wonder how they can still enjoy outdoor activities while keeping warm. If your home already has a sunroom or patio enclosure, adding a hot tub may be a good option. There are plenty of benefits and a few things to consider before deciding to install a hot tub in a sunroom.
Pros and Cons of Sunrooms with Hot Tubs
Before making a decision to install a hot tub in your sunroom it’s important to understand all the pros and cons. If you have an existing sunroom, there are certain things to be mindful of before scheduling a hot tub installation. Hot tubs generate heat and moisture, and some building materials are more resilient to these conditions than others.
In addition to the building material, your sunroom must be sturdy enough to support the weight of a filled hot tub. A small hot tub can weigh as much as 3,000 pounds when it is full of water, so you will need to consult with a professional contractor to make sure your sunroom floor and foundation will withstand such a heavy load. You will also need to think about the flooring in your sunroom since splashing is inevitable. Tile is generally recommended over wood unless the wood has been specially treated to resist moisture.
Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of this type of project can help you make an informed decision.
Pros of Hot Tubs in Sunrooms:
- Privacy: Unlike an outdoor hot tub, installing one in your sunroom will allow you to enjoy your hot tub privately.
- Lower energy costs: Installing a hot tub in a sunroom can save you money on energy costs. Because the hot tub is in an enclosed area, it takes less energy to heat it in the wintertime. During summer, the higher temperatures will help heat the water, using less electricity.
Cons of Hot Tubs in Sunrooms:
- Safety: Water spillage can make getting in and out of your hot tub a safety hazard.
- Possible structural damage: Hot tubs create a very humid environment and this can damage drywall and wood in your sunroom. Good ventilation and a snug hot tub cover will help prevent potential damage from excess moisture.
How Much Space Do You Need for a Hot Tub in Your Sunroom?
One of the questions homeowners often ask is, ‘How much space do I need to get a hot tub installed in my sunroom?’ Even small hot tubs take up a lot of space so you will need to be mindful of the following space guidelines:
- There should be at least a 3-foot perimeter around the hot tub to accommodate the necessary plumbing as well as provide ease of use.
- A recessed hot tub should be flush with the flooring in your sunroom for both stability and concealing plumbing and electrical components.
Aside from space, you will also need to take plumbing and electricity into consideration before installing a hot tub in your sunroom. A professional contractor will make sure that your sunroom can accommodate the necessary plumbing so your hot tub can be drained and filled without any issues. In terms of electricity, your hot tub should have a dedicated circuit to avoid hazards or interference with electricity elsewhere in your home. Water and electricity do not mix, so it is important to hire a skilled contractor or company to complete your hot tub installation.
Talk to The Pros
If you’re considering adding a sunroom to your home, it is important to talk to experienced professionals who can guide you through the process.
For over 25 years, Sunshine Sunrooms has been working with homeowners to install beautiful and functional sunrooms as well as designing and completing major and minor repairs and renovations. The Sunshine Sunrooms team is dedicated to providing stellar customer service and takes pride in educating homeowners on the sunroom installation process from start to finish.
Call Sunshine Sunrooms at (972) 243-5390 or contact us online today for a consultation.
