Number 5’s Outdoor bath
5 Steps to Enjoying a Bath Outside:
Step 1: Familiarise yourself
Water, Bath Tub and Lid, Wood (kindling and logs), Fire coil
Familiarise yourself with the valve to operate the drain hole (into the drain away hose), the garden hose & pipe, floating chlorine dispenser (if using your fresh water for >3 days) and the tub spray cleaner.
Step 2: Prepare the bath water (Approx 1 hour)
Spray and wipe clean the tub with a non-toxic spray such as the Method cleaner. I usually have lots left in the black storage boxes outside. This should be a easy spray and clean just like at home.
Ensure the valve to operate the drain hole is closed, and fill the bath with fresh water above both of the pipe levels (near to the top). This should take approx. 1 hour.
Step 3: Start a fire in the fire coil (Approx 1-1.5 hours depending on the weather)
The bath tub must be pre-filled with water before starting the fire.
Take a small handful of dry paper and a handful of kindling. Light the fire, then add a logs. Similar to starting a camp fire or a chimney fire, start with kindling and once it is going, add a couple logs.
Thermosiphon is the dynamic principle that allows a wood fired tub heater to circulate water into a tub without a pump. It pulls the water into the coil gently warming the water as it passes through. Sir the water occasionally. Here's a video that may help - it is for a similar product.
Step 4: Once the water has reached your desired temperature go dipping.
The water should be at bath temperature, but if its too hot, you can adjust with adding hose pipe water. If the water is too cold, this adds to the fun, pop the lid on and wait a little longer.
Step 5: Ensure the fire is out before saying good night as you would with all fires.
Pop the lid on, keeping the water free from debris. You can also pop in the floating chlorine dispenser (blue) – it should have 1 tablet in the chamber, to keep the water clean (this step is not required if you are using for 1-3 nights). Note- 1 tablet for the size tub is plenty, it will last a full 7 days. I would also recommend to let out and refill if using for more than 3 days.
Alternatively, drain out the water by opening the valve (it drains into the garden). Spray and wipe to finish.