Woodfired hot tubs are so hot right now.
Jaccuzi – Not so cosy!
I don’t know about you, but there is something icky about an old-fashioned indoor Jacuzzi. Something about sitting in a tub of steaming water indoors, with a couple of other people, and then getting out onto a carpet and waddling down the hallway to go and get dressed again…
Luckily (and mostly because South Africa has some of the best weather in the world) the hot tub game has changed.
The newest trends in water therapy.
Hot tubs have, thankfully, moved outdoors now and there is just something about the fresh air, the gleam of moonlight or the beauty of a sunset that completely takes away the ick factor for me.
These outdoor hot tubs are also really pretty now. With wood or stone cladding, natural finishes, soothing lines and great views, they are much more like therapy pools or healing spaces, than the human slow-cookers with a strong chlorine smell we had before
Hot tubs have also gotten more energy efficient and eco-friendly. Our favourite, at the moment is the woodfired hot tub trend.
Off-grid comfort
These tubs are built or installed outdoors and relay on a roaring coal fire to heat the water which then flows through a number of pipes to circulate through the tub itself. They use no pumps, electricity, or other artificial heating elements.
How does it work?
These tubs use natural convection to move water around as different temperatures of water rise and flow at different rates. Heated water has what is called thermal buoyancy, which causes it to rise, while colder water sinks. Because the piping in your hot tub is a closed system this creates a flow of water that circulates and keeps the heat constant.
Is it safe? (won’t I be cooked like potjiekos?)
As long as you get a reputable installer or builder to install or build your tub from scratch, you’ll be safe. While there are always risks involved with any fire or open body of water, there is no reason why controlled responsible use should lead to any harm!
Where can I see one in action?
If you are still unsure about the whole wood or coal hot tub thing, you can first take one for a test-soak. Many local lodges and hide-aways have taken to installing these as part of their off-grid, load shedding-proof comforts.
We particularly love
So, you feel confident that this is the tub for you? (We agree with you!)
There are a number of local manufacturers and installers that offer different styles, shapes and sizes. We love the modern scandi-look of Kolkol
Buitengewoon specializes in wooden finishings and have both coil and snorkel-heater tubs. Their website is also a fountain of information about the science of woodfired hot tubs and they give you real peace of mind about the inner workings and safety mechanisms of these thermal wonders.
Whether you choose to have your own outdoor therapy space, or simply hop from lodge to cottage and enjoy other people’s hot tubs, one thing is sure – gone are the days of yucky Jacuzzis in the living room, and for that we are eternally grateful!
