Wood Fired Hot Tubs vs Electric Hot Tubs (UK Guide)

If you're considering adding a hot tub to your garden, one of the biggest decisions is choosing between a wood fired hot tub and an electric hot tub.

Both offer a great way to relax outdoors, but they differ significantly in setup, running costs, and overall experience.

This guide explains the key differences so you can choose the right option for your space and lifestyle.

What is a Wood Fired Hot Tub?

A wood fired hot tub uses a wood-burning heater to warm the water naturally.

Instead of relying on electricity to maintain temperature, the water is heated when you want to use it, making it a more flexible and lower-maintenance option for many homeowners.

Most wood fired tubs heat up in around 1–2 hours, depending on size and conditions.

Explore our wood fired tubs here

What is an Electric Hot Tub?

An electric hot tub uses built-in heaters and pumps to keep the water warm continuously.

They are designed to stay filled and heated all the time, ready for use at any moment, but this comes with higher ongoing energy usage and more complex installation.

Key Differences

1. Running Costs

Wood Fired Hot Tubs

• No electricity required for heating
• Heat only when you use it
• Lower ongoing running costs

Electric Hot Tubs

• Constant electricity usage
• Higher monthly energy costs
• Requires ongoing maintenance

If you're looking for a more cost-efficient option, wood fired tubs are often preferred.

2. Installation & Setup

Wood Fired Hot Tubs

• No complex electrical installation
• Ideal for gardens without power access
• Faster and simpler setup

Electric Hot Tubs

• Often require electrical work
• May need professional installation
• More complex setup process

3. Ease of Use

Wood Fired Hot Tubs

• Heat when needed (typically 1–2 hours)
• Simple, natural process
• Drain and refill system

Electric Hot Tubs

• Always hot and ready
• Requires ongoing chemical balancing
• More maintenance over time

4. Experience

Wood Fired Hot Tubs

• Natural, traditional feel
• Ideal for relaxing evenings and social use
• Great for outdoor living spaces

Electric Hot Tubs

• More “plug-and-play”
• Consistent temperature
• Less connection to outdoor environment

Which One is Right for You?

A wood fired hot tub is ideal if you:

• Want lower running costs
• Prefer a simpler setup
• Don’t want complex electrics
• Use your tub a few times per week
• Enjoy a more natural outdoor experience

An electric hot tub may suit you if you:

• Want instant access at all times
• Are happy with higher energy usage
• Prefer a fully automated system

Why Many UK Customers Choose Wood Fired Tubs

• Lower long-term running costs
• Easier installation
• A premium outdoor lifestyle experience
• Greater flexibility in how and when they are used

Final Thoughts

Both options can transform your garden, but for many UK homeowners, wood fired hot tubs provide a more flexible, cost-effective and enjoyable way to create an outdoor spa experience.

Browse Layzee Living wood fired tubs

FAQ

Do wood fired hot tubs need electricity?

No — wood fired hot tubs heat water using a wood-burning heater, meaning no electrical heating system is required unless you have air bubbles or hydro massage systems installed in which case just a standard 13A plug is supplied.

How long do wood fired hot tubs take to heat?

Typically between 1–2 hours depending on size and weather conditions.

Are wood fired hot tubs cheaper to run?

Yes — they generally have lower running costs than electric hot tubs because they don’t rely on constant electricity.

Are wood fired hot tubs easy to use?

Yes — they are designed to be simple, with straightforward heating and maintenance compared to traditional electric tubs.