BZB Cabins and Outdoors Wood-Burning Hot Tub Kit I170

If your idea of self-care involves starlight, steam, and the smell of a real wood fire
(and not another app notification), the BZB Cabins and Outdoors Wood-Burning Hot Tub Kit
I170 is basically your new favorite backyard toy. It’s a compact, four-season soaking tub
that doesn’t need a power outlet, a Bluetooth connection, or a monthly “premium” subscription
to turn your patio into a tiny spa resort.

In this guide, we’ll walk through what makes the I170 special, key specs and features,
how a wood-fired hot tub actually works, installation basics, and real-world tips so you
know exactly what you’re getting into before you light that first match.

Meet the BZB Cabins and Outdoors Wood-Burning Hot Tub Kit I170

The Wood-Burning Hot Tub Kit I170 is a compact, round, off-grid soaking tub designed and
sold by BZB Cabins and Outdoors, a U.S.-based company known for its sauna and cabin kits.
The I170 is sized for small patios and decks but still manages to feel like a proper spa
instead of a glorified barrel.

Core Specs at a Glance

• Seats: Comfortably fits about 4–5 adults.
• Inside diameter: About 61 inches (5’1″) across.
• Depth: Roughly 38 inches of soaking depth.
• Wall thickness: Around 1 5/8" (about 42 mm) for sturdy insulation.
• Outside dimensions: Approximately 5’9" wide and 41" high.
• Overall height with chimney: About 9’5" from the ground to the top of the flue.
• Weight (empty): Around 400 pounds, before adding water or people.
• Price range: Listed around the mid-$3,000s, typically about $3,875 before any promotions.

The I170 is designed as a kit, delivered to your home so you can assemble it where it will
live: on a deck, a concrete pad, a gravel base, or a patio. Many U.S. customers appreciate
that BZB typically offers free or flat-rate shipping to most destinations, making the total
cost far more predictable.

Design Details That Make the I170 Stand Out

Comfortable, Molded Seating

Unlike super-rustic tubs that feel like you’re sitting on a wooden fruit crate, the I170
includes molded interior seating shaped for real human backs. The built-in seats let you
lean back, relax, and keep your shoulders submerged without constantly doing a mini-squat.

The circular layout encourages conversation: everyone faces the center, so you’re not stuck
yelling down the length of a huge rectangular spa. It’s cozy enough for date night, but not
so tight that four friends can’t stretch out and gossip about whose fire-building skills
are the worst.

Durable Tub with PVC Liner

One key difference between the I170 and a traditional all-wood tub is the interior liner.
The kit includes a PVC liner that:

• Helps prevent leaks and seeping water.
• Makes cleanup quickjust drain, rinse, and wipe.
• Reduces the risk of bacterial buildup in tiny cracks or porous surfaces.

This hybrid approachsolid wooden structure with a synthetic linergives you the warm,
natural look of timber on the outside with a smooth, low-maintenance interior on the
inside. It’s a good option if you like the idea of a wood-fired tub but not the idea of
constantly chasing down drips.

External Wood-Burning Heater and Tall Chimney

The I170 is heated by an external wood-burning stove connected to the tub via ports and
piping. As the stove heats the water, warm water flows back into the tub while cooler
water is pulled into the heatera simple thermosiphon circulation that needs no pump,
electricity, or complex plumbing.

The tall chimney vents smoke safely above head level, keeping the seating area comfortable.
You still get the satisfying campfire vibe, but without sitting in a cloud of smoke while
you’re trying to relax.

Built by a Specialist in Outdoor Wellness Kits

BZB Cabins and Outdoors has become known for ready-to-assemble sauna and cabin kits,
which means the I170 benefits from that same focus on pre-cut, pre-designed components.
The parts are engineered to fit together in a straightforward way, with clear instructions
and support if you hit a snag.

In other words, you don’t need to be a carpenter or a plumber. If you can follow directions,
use a drill, and have at least one friend willing to trade a Saturday for future hot tub
privileges, the I170 is meant to be doable.

Why Choose a Wood-Burning Hot Tub Like the I170?

Off-Grid, Low-Tech Relaxation

The I170 doesn’t require an electrical hookup, control panel, or spa pack. That means:

• No wiring permits or trenching cables across your yard.
• No worry about surge protectors or power outages.
• No buzz from pumps, jets, or fansjust crackling wood and quiet conversation.

If you have a cabin, a rural property, or simply a corner of your yard where running power
is complicated or expensive, a wood-fired tub like this is a very compelling alternative.

Wellness Benefits: Heat, Hydrotherapy, and Stress Relief

Wood-fired tubs can offer many of the same wellness perks as traditional hot tubs:

• Warm water helps relax tight muscles and sore joints.
• Heat encourages circulation, which can ease stiffness after long days of work or exercise.
• The ritual of lighting the fire, tending it, and then soaking quietly is inherently calming.

Because you generally use fresh water for a wood-burning tub and drain it after a few uses,
many owners also appreciate having fewer chemicals involved. You still need to keep things
clean and hygienic, but you’re not tied to managing chlorine levels every single day.

Eco-Conscious Appeal

For some homeowners, heating a tub with locally sourced firewood feels more sustainable
than relying solely on electric heaters, especially in areas where electricity is expensive
or generated from fossil fuels. You’re also not running pumps and jets 24/7 just to
maintain temperature.

Of course, the greenest option depends on your local climate, energy mix, and habits. But
if you already heat with wood or have access to seasoned firewood, a tub like the I170 can
fit nicely into a lower-energy lifestyle.

Planning the Perfect Spot for Your I170

Before you hit “Add to Cart,” it helps to visualize where this thing will live. A full
hot tub, plus people, plus the stove, is heavy. You’ll want a stable, level base and
easy access to water.

Foundation and Drainage

Good placement can make or break your ownership experience. Many homeowners set the I170 on:

• A concrete pad or paver patio.
• A well-compacted gravel bed with edging.
• A reinforced deck that’s rated for the load.

The surface should be:

• Level: So water depth is even and the heater connections line up properly.
• Well-drained: You’ll drain and refill periodically, so you don’t want a swamp forming under the tub.
• Accessible: Close to a hose or water source, and with enough clearance for the chimney above.

Privacy, Views, and Wind

Think about where you actually want to sit in hot water for long stretches:

• Can neighbors see straight into your tub from their kitchen window?
• Do you want to face a particular viewwoods, mountains, city lights?
• Is there a prevailing wind that would blow smoke or cold air your way?

Even a small privacy fence, lattice panel, or row of tall planters can make the space feel
more like a retreat and less like a very warm, very public birdbath.

Installation Basics: From Crate to First Soak

Exact steps depend on the specific kit revision and instructions, but the general process
follows a predictable flow.

What Typically Comes in the Kit

A typical I170 kit includes:

• The main hot tub body and structural components.
• PVC liner sized for the interior.
• Molded seating or bench pieces.
• External wood-burning stove body.
• Chimney sections, cap, and mounting hardware.
• Connection fittings, hoses, and clamps for water circulation.
• Basic hardware and fasteners needed for assembly.

Optional extraslike covers, steps, or accessoriesmay be available separately,
depending on the retailer.

Assembly Time and Skill Level

Most wood-fired hot tub manufacturers estimate several hours for assembly with two
reasonably handy people. Expect to:

• Position the tub base and structure on your prepared surface.
• Fit and secure the liner, making sure there are no sharp edges or folds.
• Install the benches and interior components.
• Mount the external heater near the tub, following clearance guidelines.
• Connect the heater to the tub using the specified ports and high-temperature hose.
• Stack the chimney sections and secure according to the instructions.

Reading the manual before you start is not optional here. This is fire plus water.
It’s not difficult, but it does demand attention to detail.

Safety Essentials

A few non-negotiables when using a wood-burning hot tub:

• Never light the stove until the water level is above the heater’s upper connection ports.
• Don’t drain the tub while the fire is still burning or coals are hot.
• Use only the recommended fueldry, seasoned firewood, not treated lumber or trash.
• Keep children and pets away from the hot stove and chimney.
• Consider a carbon monoxide detector if the tub is close to a structure or under a roof.

Following the basic rules not only protects your family and property, it also protects your
investment. Overheating a dry stove or running it without enough water can damage heaters
beyond repair.

Everyday Ownership: Heating, Maintenance, and Seasonal Use

How Long Does It Take to Heat?

Heating times for wood-fired tubs depend on climate, starting water temperature, stove size,
and how aggressively you feed the fire. For a medium-sized tub like the I170, a common range
is roughly 2–4 hours to reach a comfortable soaking temperature on a typical day.

In warm weather with warmer hose water, you might be ready to soak in closer to two hours.
In winter, especially if you’re starting with cold tap water and freezing air, plan on the
longer end of the range and keep the cover on while heating to hold in the heat.

Water Changes and Cleaning

Many wood-fired tub owners take a “batch” approach to water:

• Fill the tub with fresh water.
• Use it for a day or a couple of evenings.
• Drain, rinse, and repeat.

This minimizes chemical use and keeps the water feeling fresh. A soft brush and mild,
tub-safe cleaner are usually enough to keep the liner and surfaces clean. If you plan
to keep water in the tub for longer stretches, you may want to add basic filtration or
sanitizing, and follow appropriate local guidelines.

Firewood and Fuel Tips

For efficient heating:

• Use dry, seasoned hardwood if available; it burns hotter and cleaner.
• Start with smaller splits to get the fire going quickly, then add larger pieces.
• Keep the air vents clear so the fire can breathe.
• Stir the water occasionally so hot and cool layers mix evenly.

After a few sessions, you’ll get a feel for how much wood you need for your typical
soak and whether you prefer “toasty” or “barely steaming.”

Four-Season Enjoyment

One of the biggest perks of a wood-burning hot tub is year-round use. Summer nights
are lovely, but winter soaks are where the I170 really shines. Picture this:
snow on the deck railing, stars overhead, steam rising, and your shoulders deep in warm
water. It’s hard to beat.

Just remember to winterize properly if you live in a freezing climate and aren’t using
the tub regularly. Standing water in lines, fittings, or the heater can freeze and cause
damage if it’s not drained or protected.

Real-World Experiences and Practical Tips with Wood-Burning Tubs

Beyond specs and marketing, what is it actually like to live with a wood-burning hot tub
like the BZB I170? Here are experience-based insights and scenarios that capture daily life
with a tub in your backyard.

The Ritual Is Part of the Reward

With an electric spa, you walk outside, lift the cover, and climb in. Convenient? Absolutely.
But also a little… ordinary. With a wood-burning tub, there’s a ritual:

• You stack kindling and logs, strike a match, and listen for that first crackle.
• You check the chimney, adjust airflow, and watch the smoke thin out as the fire finds its rhythm.
• You stir the water occasionally, feeling it go from chilly to lukewarm to “just right.”

The process forces you to slow down long before you ever step into the water. Many owners
describe it as a reset button for stressed-out, screen-saturated brainsalmost like a mini
camping trip without leaving home.

Hosting Friends: The “Hot Tub Night” Experience

Picture a weekend evening with a small group of friends. You’ve let everyone know that
soaking starts around 8 p.m., so you begin heating the tub around 5:30 or 6:00, depending
on the weather. While the water warms up, people gather around the fire, help carry wood,
and sip drinks under string lights.

By the time the tub is ready, stepping into hot water feels like the natural next step in
the eveningnot a separate activity. You rotate between the tub, a nearby bench or fire pit,
and back again. The I170’s four-to-five-person capacity is ideal for this kind of intimate
gathering where conversation actually happens and nobody disappears into their phone.

Family Time Without Screens

For families, a wood-burning tub can become a no-tech zone. Because fire and water demand
attention, people are less tempted to scroll. Kids love the idea of helping gather wood,
checking the “temperature,” and watching steam rise once the lid comes off.

Parents often use tub time as a chance to reconnectno TV, no tablets, just hot water and
the kind of silly conversations that pop up when everyone’s relaxed. The I170’s dimensions
make it big enough for a small family, but not so massive that it dominates the yard.

Learning Curve: From “Uh-Oh” to Expert Fire-Tender

Let’s be honest: your first few sessions probably won’t be perfectly timed. Maybe you start
heating too late and end up soaking at 11 p.m. when you wanted to be in bed. Maybe you
underfeed the fire and wonder why the water is stubbornly lukewarm.

That’s normal. Within a handful of uses, most people figure out:

• Exactly how much wood they need for their preferred temperature.
• How early to start the fire in different seasons.
• Which logs burn longest and which are best just for starting.

The I170 doesn’t remove the learning curve, but its moderate size and well-matched heater
make it forgiving. You don’t need a forestry degree to get things rightyou just need
a couple of tries and a sense of humor.

Maintenance Reality Check

Ownership isn’t “set it and forget it,” but it also isn’t overwhelming. Expect to:

• Empty, rinse, and refill the tub regularly based on how often you use it.
• Clean out ash from the wood stove after use or once it cools.
• Check hoses and fittings occasionally to be sure everything stays tight and leak-free.
• Keep the exterior wood finished or treated as recommended to protect it from the elements.

Compared with a full-featured electric spa, many owners find the maintenance rhythm simpler:
less chemistry, fewer electronics, more hands-on but straightforward tasks.

Is the I170 Right for You?

The BZB Cabins and Outdoors Wood-Burning Hot Tub Kit I170 is best suited for people who:

• Want a four-season hot tub but don’t want to wire an electric spa.
• Enjoy the idea of tending a fire and turning soaking into a meaningful ritual.
• Have a smaller yard, deck, or cabin site but still want seating for a few people.
• Are comfortable with basic assembly and ongoing hands-on care.

If you’re looking for a push-button experience with programmable timers, built-in jets,
and smartphone control, a traditional electric hot tub may suit you better. But if you
want something quieter, more elemental, and visually warm, the I170 offers a compelling
blend of function, comfort, and old-school charm.

Final Thoughts

The BZB Cabins and Outdoors Wood-Burning Hot Tub Kit I170 is not just a piece of backyard
hardwareit’s an experience. Its compact footprint, molded seating, PVC-lined interior,
and external wood-burning heater make it approachable for first-time hot tub owners who
still want the romance of a real fire.

With thoughtful placement, careful installation, and a little practice with the stove,
the I170 can turn an ordinary corner of your yard into a year-round retreat. If you’ve
been dreaming about a hot tub that feels more like a woodland soak and less like a
buzzing appliance, this wood-burning kit deserves a serious look.