With proper care, a well-crafted wooden hot tub can last 15–20 years or more. The lifespan depends on the position of the hot tub, climate, frequency of use, and how well it’s maintained. Regular cleaning, keeping it filled when not in use, and protecting it from extreme conditions will help ensure it stays in top shape for years. The addition of a canvas cover will significantly extend the lifetime of your Sulis Hot Tub.

A small amount of leakage is completely normal when a wooden hot tub is first filled. The wood swells as it absorbs water, creating a natural seal. Within 24–72 hours, 90% of leaks will have stopped. After 2 weeks, once fully swollen, it should be watertight. If left dry for extended periods, the wood may shrink and need to re-seal again upon refilling.

It’s not recommended to leave your wooden hot tub empty for long periods. When dry, the wood can shrink and gaps may appear between the staves. This can lead to leaks when refilled. If you need to leave it empty, store it in a shaded area and keep the interior covered to reduce sun and wind exposure. Ideally, keep a small amount of water in the bottom, 200mm/8 inches, or refill it periodically to keep the wood swollen and sealed.

No plumbing is required — our tubs are designed to be filled with a garden hose and drained with a simple gravity drain or siphon. You may choose to direct the used water into the storm water or a holding tank. This may require a plumber, depending on your situation.

If you choose a wood-fired model, no electricity is needed either. For electric heating or filtration options, you’ll need access to a 15-amp outdoor power source, but we’ll guide you through setup.

Yes! Our tubs are designed for straightforward installation and come with clear instructions. Most customers can have their tub assembled and ready to fill within a few hours. We also offer support or full installation services if you'd prefer a hands-off approach.

Regular maintenance is simple. Drain and scrub the interior every few weeks, depending on usage. For electric tubs, this can be up to 3 monthly or more. Use a soft brush and mild, non-toxic cleaner. Keep the tub filled with water to prevent the wood from drying out and shrinking. Apply natural wood oil or treatment once or twice a year to preserve the timber's appearance and longevity.

Not necessarily. Many people enjoy the chemical-free experience by draining and refilling the tub regularly, especially with light or occasional use. For heavier use, you can use natural sanitizers like hydrogen peroxide, or a minimal amount of bromine or chlorine. We’re happy to advise on low-impact water treatment solutions that suit your lifestyle.

If you’re using a wood-fired tub without chemicals, plan to change the water every 3-4 days, or when you choose to fire it up.

For our electric hot tubs, depending on frequency of use, cleanliness, and water treatment, you can go much longer — up to 3 months or more with proper care.

Absolutely. All of our tubs are handcrafted to order, which means you can choose the size, seating layout, heater type (wood-fired or electric), and optional extras like massage jets, filtration systems, or insulated covers. We’re here to bring your ideal soaking experience to life.

We stand behind our craftsmanship. All our wooden hot tubs come with a 4-year structural warranty, covering materials and build quality under normal use. Heaters and accessories may carry separate warranties depending on the manufacturer. We're always happy to help if anything goes wrong.

Yes — if you choose one of our cedar options, you'll enjoy the rich, earthy aroma that cedar is famous for. The natural oils and tannins in the wood release a warm, grounding scent, especially when the tub is full of hot water. It’s all part of the sensory experience.