Thinking of installing a hot tub or sauna at home? You’re not alone. With more people investing in their gardens and wellness, we’ve seen a real rise in hot tub installations around Exeter and Devon in recent years — especially as summer approaches.
But here’s a question we hear a lot:
“Do I really need an electrician for this?“
The short answer? Yes — and here’s why.
Hot Tubs and Saunas Need Dedicated Electrical Work
Hot tubs and saunas might feel like plug-and-play luxuries, but electrically speaking, they’re anything but.
Most hot tubs (especially the hard-shell models, not the inflatable ones) require:
A dedicated 32-amp supply
RCD protection (for safety)
An isolator switch installed near the unit
A cable route that meets regulations for outdoor use
Saunas — particularly infrared or electric types — often have similar requirements, depending on their power rating.
This is not a job for an extension lead.
Why You Can’t DIY This (Even If You're Handy)
This type of installation falls under Part P of the Building Regulations, which means:
It must be carried out by a Part P registered electrician
The work must be notified to building control
You need a certificate to prove it’s been done properly
Failing to do this doesn’t just void warranties — it could also invalidate your home insurance and leave you legally liable if something goes wrong.
At EPM, we’ve attended garden setups that looked great on the surface but had serious wiring issues beneath — including undersized cables, poor earthing, or no RCD protection. In some cases, the homeowner didn’t even realise they needed certification.
Local Tip: Exeter Installations
In Exeter and the surrounding areas, we’ve seen an increase in hot tubs being installed in new builds or smaller gardens — which means planning the cable route and load calculations becomes even more important.
Sometimes, the consumer unit (fuse box) needs upgrading to handle the extra load, especially if you’re also charging an EV or running electric heating.
We’ll always assess this as part of the estimate.
What We Do at EPM
When we handle your hot tub or sauna install, we make sure:
Your consumer unit can handle the demand
We use suitable armoured cabling and outdoor-rated fittings
The install is compliant with BS 7671 (18th Edition)
You get full testing and certification
Everything is signed off and notified properly
And we always work with your supplier or landscaper to get the positioning just right.
Final Thought: It’s Not Just About Power — It’s About Peace of Mind
A hot tub or sauna is meant to help you relax. So the last thing you want is to worry about the electrics.
If you’re planning an install this summer, now’s a great time to get a qualified electrician involved early — and avoid costly changes later.
Want to speak with a local, qualified electrician in Exeter who’s done plenty of these?
Get in touch with EPM — we’ll walk you through everything, with no pressure, no jargon, and no guesswork.
