Going Off-Grid A Wood-Fired Hot Tub

By Laura AndersenApril 28, 2021

Going Off-Grid with an AlumiTubs Wood-Fired Hot Tub

Zero itinerary, max vibes

Off-grid properties are so rare, so rich in experience, and so deeply rooted in self-reliance, simplicity, and connection with the natural world, that having the opportunity to spend time at one is like finding a unicorn. The reason for being there is simple: get closer to nature, and further from the noise. It's a place to unplug and unwind, a place to appreciate the simple tasks and pleasures of life, a place to slow down and be present. When all around you is so quiet, so disconnected from the hustle and bustle, presence finds its way in. Which is why wood fired hot tubs are a match made in backcountry heaven. Far from utility lines and where nature trumps convenience, every element introduced to the land must justify itself with intentional function and without unnecessary complexity. That’s exactly where wood-fired hot tubs shine: no power cords, no plumbing, no reliance on modern amenities — just water, wood, and wilderness to settle into and embrace. Giving reason to be there, offering delight and deepening the connection to the offgrid world, a wood fired hot tub brings meaning to the offgrid experience.

Whether set deep in the woods, perched on a dock at the lake, towed behind an ATV to a backcountry escape, island-bound via tugboat, helicoptered to a remote campsite, or simply tucked away in a dreamy backyard, AlumiTubs are a portable hot tub made for off-grid adventure. The allure of a cedar-clad wood-fired hot tub is almost as appealing as a soak in one, with its timeless aesthetic fitting a wide variety of landscapes and design styles, blending harmoniously into the offgrid environment. Whether you own a mountaintop Scandinavian-style modern cabin or a rustic, boho-inspired glamping tent perched right at the water's edge, it's sure to become the most coveted thing on the property.

⸻

Wood Fired Hot Tubs For Off‑Grid Living

1. Pure Portability

Weighing around 220 lb empty, the AlumiTubs design was rigourously thought out to reach remote cabins, campsites, or islands with ease. Whether it’s strapped to a truck, floated via boat, or even towed by ATV, you’ll get there—and so will the tub. Soaking in the same day it arrives, the AlumiTub arrives pre-assembled with no contractors required.

AlumiTubs are built to be portable and lightweight. The marine grade aluminum foundation for these rustic hot tubs means you can fill it from any available water source, and ensures no water is lost through leakage known to traditional wooden tubs. Buoyant in water, the AlumiTub can even be towed behind a boat to your off-grid retreat. It also makes maintenance a breeze. Unlike cedar hot tubs without the marine grade foundation, the AlumiTub is easy to move, quick to set up, can be moved with just two people, can be easily winterized and cleaned, and is guaranteed to never leak.

2. Flexible Water Sourcing

No municipal water hookup? No problem. Fill your tub with fresh lake water, river water, well water, or even saltwater from the ocean—any local resource available to you. The marine-grade aluminum construction of an AlumiTub was deliberately chosen for its durability and unmatched function. It's a material that's not too precious to fill from the natural environment, staying clean longer, and ensuring that water if fully contained without leaks.

3. Wood-Only Heating—No Power Needed

There’s no electricity required to heat a wood burning hot tub —it runs entirely on wood. That’s perfect for off-grid cabins using solar, propane, or generator power for essential needs. Just stack wood in the firebox, light it up, stir occasionally, and you’re ready to soak under the stars—total simplicity and serenity.

⸻

Heating and Temperature Control Off‑Grid

Heating times will vary based on season, water, and outside temps. Typical functions include:

• Initial heat-up: Generally 2–4 hours for standard tubs, and around 5–6 hours for larger models, depending on ambient conditions.

• Ongoing maintenance: Once hot, the tub holds temperature brilliantly. With proper insulation and a lid, you only need a small armful of wood daily—and if you place a log before bed, it often maintains temps overnight.

• Efficiency: Aluminum liners with triple-layer insulation plus a submerged internal stove efficiently radiate heat directly into the water. No external heaters or pumps to complicate setup or site requirements.

We know that most off-grid cabins rely on solar power or generators, which means a wood-fired hot tub is typically the most economical and practical heating option - relying on nothing more than wood, water, and good company. AlumiTubs stand up to the rigour of remote living (even our first customers in 2001 still have their AlumiTubs today) with each one durably handbuilt to last a lifetime.

⸻

Resilience in Remote Locations

AlumiTubs are built to thrive in unpredictable conditions:

• Temperature extremes: Whether you’re in sub-zero Yukon winters or sun-drenched trending campsites, the tub can handle it. Hot, no matter how cold outside, the AlumiTub has been tested to perform even in -44 degree weather.

• Leak-free durability: Crafted with marine-grade aluminum and hand-sealed under pressure, these tubs are guaranteed to never leak.

• Minimal maintenance: Smooth aluminum walls make cleaning simple—just rinse with water and wipe with mild soap. No chemicals or filters needed (unless you want them).

⸻

Off‑Grid Setup: What to Plan For

1. Location Prep

• Choose a level, flat spot capable of supporting 5,000–6,500 lb when filled

• Ensure there’s room for chimney clearance (at least 10 ft from flammable structures)

2. Water Management

• Set up a simple draining solution using the Drain Kit: direct the used water to gardens, into lakes/rivers (if untreated), or away from sensitive areas

3. Wood Storage

• Keep dry wood close by—cut, seasoned, and ready for quick heating sessions. A small woodpile near the tub is ideal

4. Insulation Extras

• Add ground insulation beneath the tub (like rigid insulation) to reduce heat loss from below and increase efficiency

5. Transportation Strategy

• Plan ahead for how you’ll get the tub there—truck, ATV, snowmobile, boat, or helicopter. With just two people, off-loading is easily done with boards and cleats

⸻

Off‑Grid Soaking Rituals

Soaking in an off-grid hot tub isn’t just about warmth—it’s about returning to a slower rhythm and embracing presence and connection to the natural world. Wood fired hot tubs are:

• Self-sufficient: No need for power hookups.

• Eco-minded: Water reuse, no leaks, recyclable materials.

• Rugged & ready: Made to travel, withstand extremes, and last generations.

• Ritual-powered: Warmth through wood, presence over convenience, memory-making over smartphone scrolls.

• Fire-stoking ritual: Kindling, logs, firebox management—heating the hot tub becomes a beloved pass time

• Offer natural immersion: It's a whole other experience heating a tub by wood. The sounds of nature take hold with trees rustling and birds calling, the sound of fire crackling with the smell of cedar in the air

• Presence in simplicity: No timers, no jets, just the natural elements syncing with the crackling fire

If you’re embracing off-grid living where simplicity meets deep experience — a wood fired hot tubs isn’t just a dose of luxury: it’s a foundational experience that enhances remote living. AlumiTubs have been embraced across remote areas from coast to coast worldwide — from the Canadian North to forested retreats, deserts, rainforests and offgrid islands everywhere. Renowned for their durability, performance and unmatched flexibility, our wood fired hot tubs are second to none.

⸻