Winter is fast approaching, and that means it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to keep yourself warm during the coldest months of the year. One popular option is to install a hot tub in your garage.
But is this really a good idea? Can you put a hot tub in a garage? Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of putting a hot tub in the garage.
What You'll Learn Today
Is It OK to Put a Hot Tub Indoors?
While most people think of hot tubs as being a backyard accessory, there are actually a number of benefits to putting a hot tub indoors.
For one thing, it can be more convenient and comfortable to use an indoor hot tub, especially in cold weather. Indoor hot tubs also offer more privacy than those located outdoors.
In addition, indoor hot tubs can help to regulate the temperature of your home, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. And because they don’t rely on sunlight for heat, indoor hot tubs can be used any time of day or night.
However, there are also a few disadvantages to consider. One is that the humidity from the hot tub can damage your indoor furniture and fixtures.
Additionally, the heat from the tub can make your indoor space uncomfortably warm. If you’re considering putting your hot tub indoors, weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.
We’ll walk you through all of the things you need to consider below, and also give you a step-by-step guide to putting your hot tub in the garage, too.
Here’s a video detailing the pros and cons of putting a hot tub in the garage:
Can You Put a Hot Tub in a Garage?
If you’re considering putting a hot tub in your garage, you may be wondering if it’s even possible. Rest assured, it is! However, there are a few things you need to take into consideration before making the purchase and doing the installation.
Ventilation
One of the most important things to consider when putting a hot tub in your garage is ventilation. Because hot tubs generate a lot of heat and steam, proper ventilation is essential to prevent moisture damage. If your garage doesn’t have any windows, you’ll need to install a fan in order to vent the steam out.
Space Available
Another thing to consider is how much space you have available in your garage. Hot tubs come in all different sizes, so you’ll need to make sure you have enough room for the one you want. Keep in mind that you’ll also need space around the hot tub for people to be able to move around freely.
internal Structure
Pay attention to the walls and ceilings of your garage. In many cases, you’ll need to put a vapor barrier along them to protect from rotting. This is especially important if your garage is not well-insulated.
Drainage
Drainage is also something you’ll need to think about. Because hot tubs use a lot of water, you’ll need to make sure that the floor of your garage can handle the drainage. One way to do this is to install a drain pan under the hot tub.
Water Supply
Another thing to consider is your water supply. If you don’t have a hose that reaches your garage, you’ll need to install one so that you can fill up the hot tub with water.
Garage Insulation
As we mentioned before, insulation is important when putting a hot tub in your garage. This will help keep the heat and steam contained so that it doesn’t damage anything in your garage. Good garage insulation will also prevent your hot tub from being damaged by the exterior elements.
Mold Prevention
Mold prevention is also something you should think about. Because mold thrives in warm, moist environments, it’s important to take steps to prevent it from growing in your garage.
One way to do this is to use an air conditioner or dehumidifier inside your garage during humid months or after you’ve used your tub.
Flooring
One important factor to consider when putting a hot tub in the garage is the type of flooring you have. Hot tubs can be very heavy, so it’s important to make sure your floor can support the weight.
If you have a concrete floor, that’s perfect. Concrete is extremely strong and durable, so it can easily support a hot tub.
However, if you have a wood or laminate floor, you’ll need to take some extra steps to reinforce it. You may need to add additional supports or reinforcement plates to ensure that your floor can handle the weight of the hot tub.
Another factor to consider is how level your floor is. Hot tubs need to be level in order for them to work properly, so if your garage floor is uneven, you’ll need to level it out before you can install the hot tub. Otherwise, you risk damaging the hot tub or voiding the warranty.
How to Put a Hot Tub in the Garage
Before you start planning your DIY project, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about putting a hot tub in the garage—the right way.
Measure First
This should be a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people try to wing it. Make sure you measure the dimensions of your hot tub and compare it to the square footage of your garage.
You might find that your garage is too small or that there isn’t enough space for placement once you factor in other elements like ventilation, drainage, and wiring.
Make Sure the Conditions Above Are Met
In order for your hot tub to function properly, there are certain conditions that need to be met. For example, does your garage have plumbing? Is the flooring level? Is there proper drainage?
We talked about all of these factors earlier, but make sure you’re aware of all the stipulations of putting a hot tub in your garage – and that you meet those stipulations before you attempt the project.
Hire a Moving Company to Help
Let’s be honest—hot tubs are heavy. And unless you have multiple strong people helping you, we recommend hiring a moving company with experience handling delicate equipment like hot tubs. They will have the necessary tools and equipment to get the job done without damaging your hot tub or your garage.
Make Sure Your Wiring is Up to Snuff
You might not realize it, but not all residential garages aren’t wired for electricity—and if they are, the wiring is usually old and outdated or not suitable for hot tubs. This is especially true if you’re installing an energy-efficient tub.
So before you start filling up your hot tub with water, make sure an electrician comes out to inspect your garage’s wiring. They might need to install new outlets or run new wiring altogether. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to electrical work!
Test Everything
After all that work, you want to make sure everything is functioning properly before enjoying your new oasis. So fill ‘er up and test all the jets, heaters, and filters. You should also check for leaks around the edges of the tub. Once everything checks out and is running smoothly, it’s time to relax and enjoy!
Can You Put an Inflatable Hot Tub in the Garage?
In most cases, you can put an inflatable hot tub in the garage.
However, you’ll want to read up on the manufacturer’s instructions that come with your hot tub, as these may vary depending on the make and model.
In some cases, putting an inflatable hot tub in the garage is a good alternative to a more permanent hot tub, since it might not require additional wiring or insulation.
Final Thoughts
So, can you put a hot tub in your garage? The answer is yes—but there are some things you should keep in mind first. Make sure to factor in the cost of heating and ventilation when making your decision, and always consult with a professional before starting any installation project.
With proper planning, adding a hot tub to your garage can be a great way to enjoy the winter months ahead.
