Some people may be tempted to repurpose a domestic hot tub for commercial use, thinking they can start charging for it. Unfortunately, I have some bad news for you. Not all hot tubs are built for commercial purposes, and you won’t be able to use just any hot tub in a commercial setting.

Spoiler Alert – you can also get into serious trouble with the authorities!

Commercial and domestic hot tubs differ in key ways, making each suitable for its intended use. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between the two.

You can also find me on my socials;

The Real Differences Between Commercial and Home Hot Tubs: What You Need to Know

Ever wondered why you can’t just install a regular hot tub at your hotel or spa center? Well, grab a coffee and let me walk you through the fascinating world of hot tubs – from the cozy ones we enjoy at home to their hardworking commercial cousins.

It’s All About the Numbers

Think about how you use your hot tub at home – maybe a relaxing soak after work, or a fun weekend splash with friends. Now, compare that to a hotel hot tub that might see dozens of people hopping in and out every single day. We’re talking about a dramatic difference in usage patterns here. While your home spa might entertain 2-4 people a few times a week, commercial spas often host 20-30 different users daily, with busy venues seeing even more traffic.

Built Different: The Engineering Story

Here’s where things get interesting. Commercial hot tubs aren’t just bigger versions of home models – they’re completely different beasts. Imagine comparing a family car to a commercial truck – sure, they both have wheels and an engine, but that’s where the similarities end.

Commercial spas pack some serious muscle under the hood. They’re equipped with industrial-strength pumps that would be complete overkill in your backyard. These powerhouses keep water circulating constantly, filtering the entire tub every 30 minutes. It’s like having a miniature water treatment plant working around the clock!

Rules, Rules, and More Rules

Now, here’s something that might surprise you – the regulations governing commercial hot tubs are incredibly detailed. It’s not just a matter of filling them up and checking the chlorine occasionally (like we might do at home). Commercial operators need to follow strict guidelines that would make your head spin.

In the US, for instance, operators need to test their water every few hours – yes, you read that right! They’re required to maintain detailed logs, install sophisticated chemical controllers, and have emergency shut-off systems in place. Over in the UK, they take things even further, requiring regular Legionella testing and keeping records for a whopping five years.

The Price Tag

Let’s talk money – because the difference in cost between commercial and domestic hot tubs might make your eyes water! While you might spend anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000 on a lovely home hot tub, commercial units start at around $20,000 and can easily zoom past $50,000. And that’s just the beginning – running costs for commercial units can be ten times higher than their domestic counterparts.

Keeping Things Running Smooth

Maintaining a commercial hot tub is like having a part-time job. While your home hot tub might need a quick weekly check and monthly clean, commercial units require daily attention. Think of it like having a high-maintenance pet that needs constant care and attention!

The maintenance schedule includes daily water testing, weekly deep cleans, and regular system checks. It’s a far cry from the occasional maintenance we do on our home tubs. Plus, commercial operators need to keep detailed records of everything – from water quality tests to who cleaned what and when.

Safety First (and Second, and Third…)

When it comes to safety, commercial hot tubs take things to another level. They’re equipped with multiple emergency shut-offs, special vacuum release systems, and more safety features than you can shake a stick at. It’s like having a lifeguard, safety inspector, and engineer all rolled into one system.

The Professional Touch

If you’re thinking about installing a commercial hot tub, here’s my top tip: don’t go it alone. You’ll need a team of professionals, including engineers, safety consultants, and specialists who understand the complex world of commercial spa installations. It’s not just about installing a tub – it’s about creating a safe, efficient, and compliant facility that can handle heavy use day after day.

What Does This Mean for You?

Whether you’re a business owner considering adding a hot tub to your facility, or just curious about why the hot tub at your gym looks so different from the one in your neighbor’s backyard, now you know – these differences aren’t just for show. They’re carefully engineered solutions to meet very different needs.

Remember, when it comes to commercial hot tubs, cutting corners isn’t an option. The extra cost and complexity are there for good reasons – ensuring safety, reliability, and compliance with health regulations. After all, nobody wants to be the person who installed an inadequate system and faced the consequences!

Want to learn more? The CDC’s Model Aquatic Health Code and the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance are great places to start. Just remember that regulations and standards are frequently updated, so it’s always worth checking the latest requirements for your specific location and situation.

Can I Help You?

If I can help you in any way I would love to hear from you. You can get in touch using the form below.

Thanks - Andi

 

Hi, Andi here. I own Buildahottub.com and also write all of the articles and info pages on the site. Some years back now, I built my own hot tub but struggled to find the information I needed. So, once my tub was complete, I started this website to help others in their own pursuit of hot tub and plunge pools DIY building information.

Today, I've helped over 1000 DIY customers just like you all over the world build hot tubs and pools. Have a good look around the site, there are lots of resources here. Please do get in touch if I can help you. - Cheers, Andi