Can You Put a Hot Tub In a Greenhouse? 4 Things to Check

Choosing the right location for your hot tub can be a tricky thing. Although it might seem like an unlikely location, there are actually a few reasons why a greenhouse can be a great option. So if you have a greenhouse at home—or want to buy one specifically for this reason—you may be able to consider putting your spa in there.

Keep reading to learn more about when you can consider putting your hot tub in a greenhouse, and what to know before doing so.

Why would you want to put a hot tub in a greenhouse?

If you have a beautiful outdoor oasis in your backyard that includes a greenhouse, adding a hot tub could be a great idea aesthetically. They're certainly nicer looking than some other options like a cheap gazebo.

With a hot tub inside a greenhouse, you can experience both indoor and outdoor vibes while you take a relaxing soak. You can enjoy panoramic views of your yard and the beautiful sky right through the walls of the greenhouse while still being protected from the elements.

What's more, having a hot tub in a greenhouse doesn't mean you can't add a few plants as well. That way you can sit back and relax in the presence of some beautiful greenery which makes a lush backdrop for a nice soak in the hot tub.

Is a greenhouse a good place to put a hot tub?

Now that you know some great reasons why you might want your hot tub in your greenhouse, you're probably wondering if it's a good idea.

There are minimal downsides to putting a hot tub in a greenhouse—as long as you have one made of the right material (more on that later). In fact, it's actually a great location if you also want to grow a few plants, because the heat and steam that your hot tub gives off when in use could actually help create a moist environment.

What's more, the extra layer between your tub and the outside will provide insulation which can in turn make running costs cheaper. It also functions as a roof so you get extra protection from the elements too (your spa cover will thank you for this).

The main downside with most greenhouses is going to be the size. You're just not going to be able to get a large spa in there unless you build the greenhouse around the hot tub. Of course, if you're just looking to use an inflatable spa, then you'll have no problem—even in small-to-medium sized greenhouses.

What do you need to consider before putting a hot tub in a greenhouse?

A hot tub in your greenhouse may seem like a no-brainer. It creates a nice, relaxing oasis for you and the heat from your hot tub can actually help you heat the greenhouse if you're using it for plants too.

Before you go ahead and install a hot tub in your greenhouse though, you want to consider a few important factors that will make it easier to install and enjoy your greenhouse hot tub.

Here are a few things to think about as you plan for your installation:

1. Size and layout

Whether you are designing your greenhouse to fit your hot tub, or choosing a hot tub to fit your greenhouse, it's important to make sure that the layout will work.

Make sure you choose a hot tub that is an appropriate size and shape for the overall square footage of your greenhouse. Draw up a plan with measurements if you can so that you can see where the hot tub will go and how much room will be left over.

You should be easily able to remove and store the cover somewhere out of the way, and also be able to enter and exit without having to do any acrobatics. Ideally you should leave a couple of feet of space around the outside of the spa cabinet for access in case of a problem that needs to be fixed by removing a side.

2. Material

Greenhouses have typically been glass-paned structures. However, although glass arguably looks the best, there has been a recent increase in gardeners using various plastic alternatives instead. Most of the same benefits of this also apply when you're looking for a greenhouse to house your hot tub:

• Strength and safety: If glass were to smash in or around your hot tub, this could be incredibly dangerous—especially if you have kids. Plastic avoids this risk.
• Better UV protection: It's not good to be spending a long time in a glass box during the day without any UV protection. Given its high UV resistance, plastic can effectively block many of the dangerous UV rays that glass cannot.
• Insulation: Glass is a far less effective insulator than plastic, so your greenhouse can retain a higher temperature—which you'll be thankful for in the winter!
• Cost: A plastic greenhouse will cost you a lot less than a glass alternative.

So what are the alternatives?

• Acrylic: While acrylic is similarly pricey, it is durable. And unlike glass, it can also be twisted and somewhat sculpted to fit curved shapes too if you want a more interesting looking greenhouse.
• Polycarbonate: In comparison to glass and acrylic, polycarbonate is a more affordable material. It's also sturdy and lightweight. One thing to be aware of with polycarbonate though is that it tends to disperse light rather than directly transmit it, so you won't be able to see in (or out of) the greenhouse. This might be desirable or not depending on whether you prefer views or privacy.
• Fiberglass: The most affordable greenhouse material is fiberglass. When new, it's nearly as clear as glass and functions well in harsh environments. But over time, it often yellows and becomes cloudy which, depending on how much you care about aesthetics, might not work for you.

3. Electrical needs

Hot tubs require a power supply. Check the specifications on the hot tub you want to make sure that you have the appropriate power going to your greenhouse that can support it.

If you're unsure whether your current electrical setup can handle a hot tub, consult an electrician. They can easily install a more powerful outlet if needed.

4. Heat and ventilation

Although hot tubs will appreciate a higher ambient temperature as it will allow them to use less energy, you want to make sure you're not overdoing it either. Not to mention the steam that they produce when in use. Sometimes, the combination of both can cause an abundance of heat inside the greenhouse which could be quite uncomfortable, especially if you live in a warmer climate.

Although you won't have the same damp or mold concerns as you would installing a hot tub in your home or garage (greenhouses are semi-outdoors already, after all), it's still important to be aware of the heat so you can use your spa safely.

To prevent overheating and damaging either your greenhouse, your hot tub, or yourself, make sure that you have proper ventilation in the greenhouse. Access to adequate fresh air and vents to move air around are both good ways to keep air circulating and reduce the risk of overheating.