One of the most popular questions I get asked is whether you can build a DIY lap pool in your backyard. The short answer is YES! You can!
For those who don’t know what a lap pool is, it’s a regular pool with longer, narrower dimensions so you can swim laps in your pool without needing a swim jet.
Here’s a few things to watch out for when constructing your Lap Pool
An air source heat pump is a magical invention. It’s a far more efficient way to get your hot tub to the right temperature. In my own case, it saved me as much as 60% in energy costs. Given the right circumstances, it can be a rewarding investment.
Installing an air source heat pump could be confusing, but I am here to help you out with a step-by-step guide.
Here’s a recent example of one of my clients, Chris, who connected with me via email, and we went through the process of installing an air source heat pump together with a few interesting discoveries along the way.
We’ve been following the progress of Paul in the UK and his DIY hot tub for some time on this blog and my YouTube Channel.
In this video, Paul walks us around his hot tub and explains some of the features and intricacies of the design.
Check out the video!
Today, I’m excited to share an incredible DIY hot tub project with you. John, from Kentucky, is building an 8×8, 14-jet hot tub in his backyard using one of my pre-designed plans. Let’s dive into the details!
While many of my case studies focus on custom-designed hot tubs, today we’re taking a look at a more straight forward project. John from Kentucky has chosen to build an 8×8 hot tub using one of my pre-designed plans.
This approach offers a great starting point for DIY enthusiasts looking to create a relaxing oasis without the complexity of a custom design. Let’s follow John’s journey as he brings this off-the-shelf plan to life.
It’s that time of year again where the second wave of DIY Hot Tubs and plunge pools begin – with the goal of being completed before the weather turns in the Fall / Autumn. I’ve had the pleasure of helping over 1,200 customers now achieve their hot tub dreams by guiding them through the DIY hot tub journey.
The allure of DIY hot tubs is undeniable. You save money compared to a pro spa builder doing it for you, and get the satisfaction of creating your own backyard oasis. What separates a successful build from a DIY Disaster is a good plan!
Paul decided to take the plunge (pun intended!) and build his own hot tub, and I’m excited to share his progress in this blog post.
We opted for one of our standard designs from the buildahottub.com store – these are a great way to save money and still get a fantastic hot tub, especially if you’re handy and want to customize it a bit. You can find links to all the standard designs here
Darren got in touch with me April 2024 because like most of my customers, he had been quoted an astronomical amount of money to build a hot tub come swim spa.
The conversation always goes the same way “I spoke to several pool builders and the quotes that I got were outrageous” he began. “I think I can do this myself with your help” – well Darren you have come to the right place I replied.
From there, we had a good chat about the specification and features he was looking for and then it was time for me to get started on the initial design renders.
In my latest video, which you can find below, I take a look at how noisy an Air Source Heat Pump really is. There’s a lot of conflicting information out there about this, so I wanted to set the record straight.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, air source heat pumps are generally considered to be quieter than traditional heating systems. In fact, they typically produce around 40-45 decibels of sound, which is about the same level as a refrigerator. However, it’s important to note that the noise level can vary depending on the specific model of heat pump, as well as how it’s installed. So, is this the case with my own ASHP?
In the video, I measure the noise level of a popular air source heat pump model (Comfortline which I have on my own tub) at different outputs and temperatures. I also discuss some of the factors that can affect the noise level of an air source heat pump, such as the location of the outdoor unit and the type of property.
Installing the main drains that you are going to need on your hot tub or plunge pool is probably for most going to be the first bit of plumbing you do.
They need to be installed when you pour your slab or your base so in this article and in the video blow, I explain everything you need to know about the installation of the main drains.
Imagine soaking in a steaming hot tub or cooling off in a refreshing pool on a hot summer day. What you might not realize is that beneath the sparkling water lies a crucial element contributing to its strength and longevity: rebar.
Rebar, short for reinforcing steel bar, is a hidden hero in the world of concrete construction, including DIY hot tub and swimming pool builds. It adds vital tensile strength, which concrete lacks, allowing it to withstand the pressure of water and resist cracking.