How Heavy Are Hot Tubs

Before installing a hot tub on your patio, decking, or garden, it’s essential to understand the weight involved. Hot tubs vary widely in weight, depending on their size, materials, and the number of people they’re designed to accommodate.

This AquaSolus guide breaks down the average empty and filled weights by seating capacity, so you can plan your installation with confidence.

2–3 Seater Hot Tubs

Ideal for: Couples or small households
Average Empty Weight: 200–300 kg
Average Filled Weight (with water & people): 1,000–1,200 kg

• Compact and lightweight enough for many decking installations.
• Use ~600–800 litres of water.
• Best suited for intimate spaces and low-traffic use.
• Some plug-and-play models make them even easier to move and install (see plug and play vs 32 amp hot tubs).

4–5 Seater Hot Tubs

Ideal for: Small families or friends
Average Empty Weight: 300–400 kg
Average Filled Weight: 1,300–1,600 kg

• Typically hold around 900–1,200 litres of water.
• Start requiring reinforced ground or patio slabs for support.
• Often include 1 lounger and 3–4 upright seats.
• Common dimensions: ~200 cm × 200 cm.
• See our 5 person hot tubs for models in this range.

Make sure to check out our hot tub comparison guide!

6–7 Seater Hot Tubs

Ideal for: Larger families or regular social use
Average Empty Weight: 350–450 kg
Average Filled Weight: 1,600–1,900 kg

• Usually holds 1,200–1,400 litres of water.
• Requires a solid concrete pad or professionally built base.
• Very popular size for premium models with more jets and features.
• May need dedicated power supply (e.g., 32A or 40A).
• See our 7 person hot tubs for the largest models.

Our guide to hot tub sizes and dimensions may help with your buying decision.

8+ Seater Hot Tubs

Ideal for: Entertaining, rentals, or wellness retreats
Average Empty Weight: 400–600 kg
Average Filled Weight: 2,000–2,500 kg or more

• Large footprint (often over 2.2 metres in diameter or square).
• Can hold 1,500–2,000 litres of water.
• Requires professional site preparation and reinforced supports.
• Some models may require crane delivery due to size/weight.

Other Weight Factors to Consider

• Water volume: 1 litre of water weighs roughly 1 kg. That adds up quickly!
• Users: An average adult adds about 75–100 kg of live weight.
• Materials: Acrylic shells with foam insulation weigh more than roto-moulded tubs but offer better energy efficiency.
• Add-ons: Waterfalls, steps, and covers also contribute to the total load.

Planning Your Hot Tub Base

Always ensure your surface can handle both dead weight (the tub and water) and live load (people moving inside it). As a rule of thumb:

• Decking: Needs proper joist support or reinforcement. Read can you put a hot tub on decking or grass?
• Concrete pad: Should be at least 10 cm thick and level.
• Pavers or slabs: Must be stable and evenly laid.

Final Tip

If you’re unsure, always check the manufacturer’s spec sheet for “filled weight” or consult a qualified installer. Underestimating the weight could cause serious structural issues.