Hot tub makers and designers are always on the look out for bright ideas, with new features and trends to make them even more relaxing. These days wellness is high on the menu, for example, along with delights like semi in-ground hot tubs, intelligent energy efficiency measures, connectivity and innovative materials. So let’s dive right in. What’s hot? Check this out. 

In-ground, above ground, semi in-ground

An in-ground tub involves digging down a lot further than many UK gardens will allow. An above ground pool might not be the look you’re after. Combining the best of both worlds and an increasingly popular choice, a semi in-ground model can be just as affordable, stylish and durable even if your garden slopes.

Basically, they’re installed partly in the ground and partly above, blending the seamless look of an in-ground hot tub with the affordability and flexibility above-ground designs.

We mentioned sloping ground, so let’s look at that first. Semi in-ground models can be customised to fit into sloping, hilly or uneven gardens without the difficulty, noise and mess of deep excavation. You can instal one at any depth, including above ground and beneath it, making them very versatile. 

Compared to fully in-ground tubs they’re a lot cheaper to buy and instal. They also come with a smart, luxury look without the high price, plus customisation including cool stuff like decking, paving, walling, landscaping, planting and a variety of tub shapes. All this means it can blend seamlessly into the garden for a high-end look.

Like all hot tubs, some semi-underground tub are more energy efficient than others. The best have well-insulated wall panels to cut heat loss, keep the water warmer for longer and reduce heating costs. The best models are also made from great quality materials, for example aerospace-grade aluminium and steel for a long life, a strong build, and excellent resistance to rust and corrosion. They’re tough enough for the mental-crazy British weather a well as the extremes they get in the USA, so there’s no problem there! And they’re always super-easy to instal, which makes a big difference.

Can you DIY? Some people give it a go but a hot tub pro will  ensure proper setup, especially on uneven ground.

Seriously good tip: If you want an in-ground or semi in-ground hot tub it’s sensible to make a trial hole to see what lies under the ground. You might find there’s solid bedrock just below the surface, something you’ll need to know before you choose your tub. Or a load of builder’s rubble you’ll need to move first. 

Another seriously good tip: Check out what’s going on under your garden cable and pipe-wise too, so you know exactly where the water pipes, sewerage pipes and any underground comms or electricity cable systems run. It’s a lot better to know in advance instead of planning where the tub should go then discovering a network of essential infrastructure under your lawn, which means it just isn’t possible.

Seriously good tip 3: If you can’t dig down, build up! Surround your above-ground hot tub with rocks, planting, screening and garden ornaments to create a luxurious, exotic look that blends you hot tub into the surroundings perfectly. 

Hot tubs with smart technology included

Look out for models with an advanced control system so you can manage your tub on your phone. You can change the temperature, set filtration cycles and schedule maintenance reminders from anywhere in the world, and get real-time diagnostics. Some systems even react to simple voice commands, just like your Alexa. Integrating smart technology into a hot tub makes spa life more convenient, efficient and controllable, ultimately saving you time, faff and money.

Seriously good tip: Try not to be blinded by science or overwhelmed by tech. Talk things through, do the research, calm down 😉  then choose a tub with the type and level of tech that suits you, not the sales person! 

Energy efficient hot tubs

Eco-friendly construction is a must for many hot tub buyers. So is energy efficiency. You can choose to buy the most environmentally friendly model with the best insulation, and explore hot tubs designed with advanced energy-saving features like full foam insulation and energy efficient pumps. Some come with a special heat recovery system to capture and reuse the heat generated by the equipment. These features use very little energy to run in the first place so it’s a win-win.

A focus on wellness

Wellness is a significant trend, with some brands introducing salt water systems for a gentler, more natural experience. They use less chemicals and need less maintenance, loved for the way they make users feel. The reduced harshness of the water and its improved quality make spa life a whole lot easier and more enjoyable. Some even say these salt water systems come with therapeutic benefits to boost the overall wellness experience.

The brilliant aromatherapy and chromotherapy systems in some new models let tub owners blend essential oils and colour therapy to soothe the senses, promote healing and help them relax. Some new hot tubs come with customisable personal massage settings, illuminated waterfalls, multi-coloured LED lights and clever modular jet systems to let you focus on specific muscle groups and pressure points.

Cool new designs and materials

Choose a traditional-look tub if you like, or go for something contemporary, smooth and sleek made using strong, environmentally responsible materials that withstand the elements while giving you a really stylish look. Some feature ergonomic seating, others have advanced hydrotherapy jets for maximum comfort and fun.

Seamlessly integrate your tub into the surroundings

These days it’s about so much more than a plain hot tub sitting in the middle of a lawn. People are taking the design side of things seriously, with hot tubs created to integrate with outdoor environments beautifully. Think built-in seating, innovative lighting, and clever sound systems to create a perfect garden oasis. Some designs look so much like wood you’d think it was real wood – but in fact they’re made from gorgeous materials that mimic natural wood, maintenance free and weather resistant. Some come with integrated landscaping options so you can customise the tub with built-in planters, decking, water features and more.

Seriously good tip: Not all of us are talented garden designers! You might want to find someone who knows how to make  a garden look its best, whether that’s a family member, friend or a genuine qualified garden designer. If you’re going to spend all that money on a gorgeous new hot tub, you’ll want to make the best of the surroundings as well.

Research first, buy second!

All this innovation means research is more important than ever. It is well worth either finding a hot tub expert to talk through the choices with you or getting down and dirt with the interwebs to track down all the newest, most fun and innovative ideas.