Their ease of installation with no complex wiring or plumbing makes these portable spas an appealing option. But to choose the right plug-and-play hot tub and properly situate it, you need to understand how much these filled units weigh. When filled with water and bathers, even small portable hot tubs place substantial weight on the underlying surface.
This article explores typical weights for plug and play hot tubs, construction factors that affect empty and filled weights, weight capacities for common installation surfaces, and considerations for moving portable spas to help guide your purchasing and set-up decisions.
What Qualifies as a Plug and Play Hot Tub?
Plug-and-play hot tubs are characterized by their easy set-up and portability compared to built-in hot tubs. Key features include:
- No need for complex wiring or plumbing in the home, allowing for versatile placement
- Inflation using an electric pump for quick and simple set-up
- Simple drainage using a release valve to empty water when needed
- Can fold or collapse for convenient storage and transportation between uses
These hot tubs connect to a standard household outlet to power the heating system and jets. The ease of set-up makes them a convenient option for rental properties, apartments, or bringing on camping trips. Their mobility allows you to use them in multiple locations.
How Much Does the Water Inside Weigh?
The weight of the water itself makes up a significant portion of the total weight of a filled plug and play hot tub. As a general guideline:
- One US gallon of water weighs approximately 8.34 lbs
- Typical capacities range from 200-500 gallons
- So the water alone weighs 1,668 – 4,170 lbs
- Consider gallons used when weighing surface capacity
Keep the water weight in mind when considering the flooring or surface you intend to install the hot tub. A filled 500-gallon hot tub would add over 2 tons of weight in water alone. Prepare the surface appropriately.
How Much Does the Empty Hot Tub Weigh?
The empty weight of the hot tub itself ranges widely based on capacity, construction, and features:
| Capacity | Empty Weight Range |
|---|---|
| 2 person | 60-120 lbs |
| 4 person | 90-200 lbs |
| 6+ person | 190-410 lbs |
On average, larger plug and play hot tubs weigh more when empty. However, the materials used in the tub construction also greatly impact the weight.
What Factors Influence Empty Weight?
The empty weight depends on four key factors:
Size and Capacity: Larger hot tubs hold more water and need thicker materials capable of supporting more weight. This increases the base weight. Choosing capacity for your needs is key.
Frame and Exterior: Basic plastic or inflatable models weigh less than luxury wooden or acrylic-paneled versions. Metal frames or synthetic wood materials also add weight to inflatable beams. Consider appearances versus weight.
Accessories: Models with extensive water filtration systems, lighting, entertainment systems or seating add more pounds. Simple plug and play options weigh less. Choose only the needed features.
Portability Features: Wheels handle and breakdown capability influence the moving weight. More portable hot tubs may prioritize lightweight materials. If moving often, ensure ease.
What’s the Total Filled Weight?
When full, plug and play hot tubs commonly weigh:
- 2-person tub – 800 to 1,500 lbs
- 4-person tub – 1,500 to 2,500 lbs
- 6+ person tub – 2,500 to 4,500 lbs
The final installed weight depends greatly on the capacity, water amount, and construction. Consider both empty and filled weights for surface needs.
How Much Weight Can Different Surfaces Hold?
Ensure the surface can safely hold the filled hot tub weight. Here’s how much weight some common surfaces can handle per square foot:
| Surface | Weight Capacity |
|---|---|
| Soil | 1,000-4,000 lbs |
| Concrete | 1,000-3,000 lbs |
| Wood decking | 10-100 lbs |
| Second story floor | 30-150 lbs |
Reinforce wood decking and elevated floors to handle weight.
How Difficult Are Plug and Play Hot Tubs to Move?
Fortunately, most plug and play hot tubs break down or deflate for easier portability than built-in hot tubs. But they still require effort to maneuver.
- Emptied Weight: 1-4 people can move an empty 200-400 lb hot tub short distances. Use wheeled models or furniture dollies to assist.
- Filled Weight: Moving a filled hot tub requires 4+ strong individuals or mechanical assistance like an appliance dolly or small tractor. Drain water first when possible.
Consider both short-term mobility around the yard and long-term relocation ease when purchasing the hot tub.
Key Takeaways on Hot Tub Weight
Plug and play hot tub weight varies greatly based on capacity and materials, but filled weights commonly range from 1,500 to 4,500 lbs. When situated, the flooring must safely hold this substantial weight – especially factoring in the water itself at over 8 lbs per gallon.
Fortunately, the convenience of inflation-based set-up makes plug-and-play hot tubs simpler to initially install and eventually relocate compared to permanent models. Consider both filled and empty weights when choosing the best hot tub to suit your needs.
