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A hot tub is more than just a luxurious backyard addition; it’s a major investment that requires careful planning for installation, maintenance, and even relocation. One critical aspect that many hot tub owners overlook is its weight. But why does it matter?
Understanding your hot tub’s weight is crucial for:
- Safe Installation – Ensure that your deck, patio, or flooring can support the total weight of the hot tub when filled with water and people.
- Transport & Moving – Whether installing a new hot tub or relocating an existing one, knowing its weight helps with logistics and equipment selection.
- Structural Integrity – If you’re placing a hot tub on a deck, balcony, or indoor space, you need to verify that the surface can handle the combined weight of the tub, water, and bathers.
- Choosing the Right Model – Hot tubs come in various sizes and materials, each affecting their overall weight. Understanding how much they weigh makes selecting the right one for your space and needs easier.
In this guide, we’ll break down the factors affecting hot tub weight and general weight categories and provide a step-by-step guide on how to move a hot tub safely.
What Affects the Weight of a Hot Tub?
The total weight of a hot tub depends on multiple factors, including its material, size, water capacity, and additional features. Let’s explore each factor in detail.
Hot Tub Material
The material of the hot tub shell and frame significantly impacts its dry weight. Here’s how different materials compare:
- Acrylic Hot Tubs – The most common and heaviest type, offering durability and premium insulation. Typically weighs between 400-1,200 lbs (empty).
- Fiberglass Hot Tubs – Lighter than acrylic but still sturdy. Ideal for built-in or in-ground installations.
- Wooden Hot Tubs – Traditional cedar or redwood hot tubs are aesthetically appealing but can be very heavy, especially when filled with water.
- Inflatable Hot Tubs – The lightest option, usually weighing under 100 lbs when empty, but they offer less durability and insulation.
Takeaway: If weight is a concern for your deck or installation area, choosing a lighter material like fiberglass or inflatable options may be ideal.
Size and Seating Capacity
The size and seating capacity directly influence the total weight of the hot tub. Below is a breakdown of common hot tub sizes and their approximate weights:
A larger hot tub requires more structural support, so always check your deck or patio’s weight-bearing capacity before installation.
Water Capacity and Additional Load
Water plays a major role in the total weight of a hot tub. Here’s how much weight water adds:
1 gallon of water = 8.34 lbs
Using this formula, you can estimate how much water weight is added:
- Small hot tub (200 gallons) → 1,668 lbs of water
- Medium hot tub (400 gallons) → 3,336 lbs of water
- Large hot tub (600 gallons) → 5,004 lbs of water
Additional weight to consider: The number of people using the hot tub also increases the total weight. If an average person weighs 175 lbs, a fully occupied 6-person hot tub can weigh 1,050 lbs more than its normal filled weight.
Hot Tub Accessories and Features
Beyond the shell, water, and bathers, several hot tub accessories can add extra weight:
- Hot tub covers – Typically 30-80 lbs, depending on insulation.
- Steps and rails – Can add another 50-100 lbs.
- Jets and pumps – Additional built-in systems may increase the total weight.
- Filtration and heating systems – Heavier, more advanced hot tubs include larger pumps and filters.
If you’re planning to move a hot tub, removing these hot tub accessories first can significantly reduce the weight and make transportation easier.
How to Determine the Weight of Your Hot Tub?
Knowing the exact weight of your hot tub is crucial for safe installation and relocation. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to determine it, whether you're using manufacturer specifications or calculating it yourself.
1. Check the Manufacturer’s Specifications
The easiest and most accurate way to determine your hot tub’s weight is by checking the product manual or the manufacturer’s website. Most high-quality brands, including BuenoSpa, provide detailed weight information, including:
- Dry weight – The weight of the empty tub.
- Water capacity – The number of gallons the hot tub holds.
- Filled weight – The total weight when filled with water and occupied by bathers.
2. Estimate Weight Using a Simple Formula
If you don’t have the exact data, you can calculate the filled weight using this formula:
Total Weight = Dry Weight + (Water Capacity in Gallons × 8.34 lbs) + Average Bather Weight
For example, a 4-person hot tub with a 400 lb dry weight and a 300-gallon capacity would weigh approximately:
400 lbs + (300 × 8.34 lbs) + (4 × 175 lbs) = 3,627 lbs
Using this method, you can estimate your hot tub’s total weight to ensure your installation area can support it.
Why Is It Important Knowing Your Hot Tub’s Weight?
Understanding the weight of your hot tub is essential for several practical reasons, from safe installation to long-term maintenance. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or planning to relocate your spa, knowing its dry and filled weight can save you from costly mistakes and structural damage.
Safe Installation & Structural Support
Hot tubs can weigh thousands of pounds when filled with water and bathers. If placing it on a deck, patio, or indoor flooring, you must ensure the surface can handle the load. For example, wooden decks may need reinforcement to prevent sagging or collapse under the weight of a full hot tub.
Transport & Relocation
If you’re planning to move your hot tub—whether a local relocation or a completely new installation—you’ll need to know its weight to arrange proper lifting equipment, moving techniques, and potential professional assistance.
Choosing the Right Hot Tub Model
Before purchasing a new hot tub, understanding the weight difference between models helps determine the best option for your space. A lighter hot tub may be ideal for decks, while a larger, heavier spa may require a dedicated foundation.
How to Move a Hot Tub Safely?
- Step 1: Measuring the hot tub and planning the route.
- Step 2: Using the right hot tub accessories (dollies, lifting straps, and sliders).
- Step 3: Hiring professionals vs. DIY hot tub moving tips.
- Step 4: Preparing for reinstallation (leveling the surface, ensuring support).
Check our article, how to move a hot tub!
Finally…
By knowing your hot tub’s exact weight, you can make informed decisions regarding placement, transportation, and structural support, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Explore premium hot tubs and accessories at Buenospa.com for expert solutions!
