Key Takeaway

• It is possible to turn your Intex, Bestaway or any other brand above ground pool into a Hot Tub
• The pool can be a used pool so there is no need to purchase a new one
• A smaller above ground pool would be better since it keeps it heat for longer
• In theory, all you need is a pool in good condition, some elementary accessories and a water heating system
• The average cost in 2024 for this conversion is approximately $567 if you need to purchase a new pool as well

In full transparency, I have not personally transformed my above ground pool into a hot tub yet, but I have prepared for this article by scouring the web as well as chat to my local pool shop about the possibility thereof.

And the results are in.

(as a side note this will be a winter project from me some time so we should update this article later)

So in the winter months, many of us are looking for ways to warm up. In this article, we’ll show you how to turn your old above-ground pool into an amazing hot tub. This is one of the most cost-effective ways to get a spa or hot tub in your backyard and by following our instructions, it can be done yourself!

But is that even possible? Can you actually turn a temporary above ground pool into a fun hot tub?

In general, you can turn any above ground pool into a hot tub or spa setup. The process is quite simple and can be done as a DIY project. All you would need is an above ground pool with a liner in great condition and a water heating system.

Now that we know it is possible, in theory at least, let’s start investigating further. However, before we get to all the steps…

(That said, if the below steps feel like to much work, then juts go and buy yourself an inflatable hot tub. Look at our Coleman SaluSpa Inlftalable Hot Tub here. )

But what is an above ground pool?

I get it, most of you on this site know this answer, but this search term is not 100% pool-related like the rest of the content on this website.

So for those who are literally only interested in having fun in a hot tub, then read on. The rest can skip to the next heading…

An above ground pool is a type of pool that is constructed on top of the ground and usually has a protective cage or wall around it. Above-ground pools cannot be constructed semi-permanently or permanently in many areas because they might pose a safety risk for children and animals.

But that does not mean you can’t have one for a few seasons — in fact, it can actually be a cost-saving alternative to building an expensive permanent installation. And the best part is that when your pool season ends, tearing down your above ground pool really isn’t much more difficult than setting it up!

Or, if your pool gets old, or if you want some warmer water, or if the kids left the house…

then

yes, you can turn it into a hot tub.

Before we start the process, let’s just look at one more crucial element.

What would be the best size above ground pool to turn into a hot tub?

In all fairness, above ground pools would struggle to keep their warmth for a longer duration. So, in general, the smaller the size of the pool the better your hot tub experience would be. Aim for 12 feet by 30 inches size and you should be good to go.

Good, so how do you turn that above ground pool into a hot tub?

The process of converting an above ground pool into a hot tub is not difficult, but you’ll need to follow some steps.

Step 1 – Empty your pool

First and foremost, the pool must be empty before you can begin your project!

Duh…

To drain your exiting above ground pool, simply open the release valve at the bottom of your pool liner. Note it is somewhat elevated above the lowes water line, so once it has drained below the valve, you will need to pump the rest out, or take the structure down to get rid of the rest of the water.

Step 2 – Add seats

What is a hot tub without seats?

A bath.

So add yourself some seats.

Go for plastic benches if you can get some and make sure they are of course heavier than water so they don’t end up floating at the top

Step 3 – Add new liner…if needed

This step is only applicable if your current above ground pool is old and worn.

If so, measure the inside diameter of your pool so that you know how much liner material you will need.

Locate a source for used liner material if you prefer to avoid new materials. There are many resources online where people sell off their old liners after they move away or upgrade their existing pools. This way, you can find solid deals on high-quality liners!

Step 4 – Add the heating system

Since your above ground pool is already fitted by outflow and inflow nozzles for your pool pump, connecting a water heating system to these is pretty straightforward.

Ensure that you use the correct pipe diameter and you should be good to go.

Check out some of these awesome specials on Amazon and get your system today.

Step 5 – Add the water baby…

What do you call a hot tub without water?

A disappointment.

So add water, turn on the system and start relaxing in your brand new cost-effective hot tub!

Bonus Step

Consider raising the floor of your pool a few inches with dirt to allow for easier movement around the pool perimeter.

You can also line the bottom of your hot tub with a layer of concrete before you install your liner so that it is sturdier than if you had just poured cement into an empty space.

Why would you convert your above ground pool into a hot tub?

The benefits of turning your old pool into a spa or hot tub are that it is relatively affordable and less time-consuming than building a custom installation.

You also do not have to worry about installing pipes to bring water in and out, since your pool already has in and outflow nozzles.

There are few things better than floating in a warm bubble bath on a chilly night!

What will it cost to convert your above ground pool into a hot tub?

In general, it will depend on you buying new – your above ground pool at least – and if you are going to use an older pool

So for full transparency and easy reference, let’s assume that you will be buying everything, here would be the cost.

Item Needed to covert above ground pool into a hot tub	Cost of Item
Above ground pool 12 feet by 30 inches	$170.00
Plastic Benches x 4	$120.00
Water heating system	$277.00
Total	$567.00

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a way to get a spa or hot tub in your backyard without spending all of the money, then converting an old above-ground pool into one is one of the most cost-effective and less time-consuming ways.

As we mentioned in the article, the process isn’t difficult, but it does require some necessary steps:

• Empty your pool
• Add some seats
• Fix the liner if needed
• Add the water warming system
• Fill your pool up again

That is it. Now go and test it out and let us know how it goes.