Hot tubs and saunas in Ireland

Oct 20

3 min read

Warmth at home, all year round

Hot tubs and saunas in Ireland have become popular ways to relax at home, whatever the weather. Choices include acrylic hot tubs, wooden and wood-fired tubs, barrel saunas and cabin saunas, as well as cold plunge tubs. Each option has different needs for space, power and upkeep.

On Archizone you can browse listed hot tub and sauna suppliers, see what they offer and contact them directly. It is free for buyers. You can also see our list of hot tub and sauna suppliers in Ireland.

Wood-fired or electric

Electric hot tubs. Heat and filter the water automatically and are ready when you are. They need a dedicated electrical supply.
Wood-fired hot tubs. No electrics needed for heating, which suits remote sites, but take time to heat and need dry firewood and regular water changes.
Electric saunas. Quick to heat and easy to control, with a heater sized to the cabin.
Wood-fired saunas. A traditional experience with no large electrical load, but need a flue, safe clearances and good-quality, dry wood.

Base and position

A filled hot tub is very heavy, so it needs a level, solid base such as a concrete slab or a properly built and supported deck. Saunas also need a firm, level base that lets water drain away. Think about access for delivery, privacy from neighbours, distance from the house, and shelter from wind.

Electrics

Hot tubs and electric saunas must be connected by a Registered Electrical Contractor, with the correct cable size, isolation switch and protection for wet areas. Ask the supplier what supply is needed and confirm whether the electrical work is included in the quote.

Running costs

There is no single running cost figure, as it depends on several factors:

Insulation and cover. A well-insulated tub with a good, tight cover loses much less heat.
Use and temperature. How often you use it and the temperature you keep it at.
Weather and shelter. Wind and low outdoor temperatures increase heat loss.
Electricity tariff. Heating at night-rate times can help if your tariff allows.
Sauna size and heater. Larger cabins with bigger heaters use more energy per session.

Maintenance

Hot tubs need regular water testing, chemical balancing, filter cleaning and periodic draining. Wooden tubs and saunas need the timber cleaned and checked. Ask suppliers what servicing they offer and how easy parts are to get.

Planning

Garden saunas and similar structures are usually assessed under the Class 3 exemption, which since July 2026 allows up to 30 sq m of garden structures in total, for private household use only. Check with your local council or supplier for your situation.

Ask the forum

Not sure whether a wood-fired or electric tub suits your garden, or what base you need? Ask in the Outdoor living forum, where homeowners and suppliers share practical experience.

List your business

Do you supply or install hot tubs, saunas or cold plunges in Ireland? List your business on Archizone so people planning garden projects can find you and contact you directly. Plans start at €14 a month + VAT, with Growth and Premium options for more visibility.

FAQ

Can I put a hot tub on decking?

Only if the deck is designed for the weight of a filled tub with people in it. Many suppliers recommend a concrete slab. Ask an engineer or your supplier to check.

Do I need an electrician for a hot tub?

Yes, for electric models. The connection should be made by a Registered Electrical Contractor, who will certify the work.

Do I need planning permission for a garden sauna?

Often not, if it is for private use and meets the Class 3 conditions on size, height, position and open space. Check with your local council if in doubt.