We have gotten so many calls in the recent winter months from customers about hot tub installations! Hot tubs are such a great addition to your home, providing relaxation and also health benefits such as pain relief from sore muscles and improved flexibility and mobility after a good soak!
If you are thinking about purchasing a hot tub in the future, we are here to offer you 5 tips for installing a hot tub!
1. Selecting your location
When deciding on a location for your hot tub at home, it is imperative that you take a long look at your space and think about all logistics prior to installing your hot tub. Things to consider include placement of your neighbors, traffic flow in your yard, where the sun hits at certain times of day, if you will later install a privacy fence around the tub, and the entry point of your yard. Think about how the hot tub will be brought into your yard when being delivered. You also want to consider the surface level of the ground where the hot tub will be placed as well as a location that is clear of power lines in your backyard. There may be regulations in place from your city regarding how far the hot tub should be from fencing or your home. Do you want to install a pathway to your hot tub over time and if so, are you placing the hot tub in an area where this can be easily installed? You will also need to think about the electrical component of accessing a GFCI electrical circuit as well as a water source.
2. Lay the Foundation
It is important to think about the foundation upon which your hot tub will be placed as it is not recommended to set a hot tub directly onto dirt or soft ground. Many individuals choose to set the hot tub on a concrete slab , which is a long-lasting foundation that can hold the weight of the water-filled tub. It is a good idea to have the slab extend a few feet past where the hot tub will sit and that the slab is at least 4 inches thick. If you are placing a hot tub on a deck, make sure the foundation can hold the weight of the tub, including when it is occupied by people. You might also consider a foundation of paver stones, gravel, or a hot tub pad. It is vital to make sure the ground is hard underneath any foundation so that you can level your hot tub.
3. Electrical Outlets
It is pertinent to call a licensed electrician when wiring your hot tub so that all safety requirements are met for safe operation of the unit. Your electrician will need to install a GFCI outlet as well as make sure your circuit breaker is the correct amperage to operate the tub. There will also need to be an emergency shut-off switch installed, at minimum, 5 feet away from the hot tub.
4. Tub Position
When placing your hot tub in position, make sure you consider the entry point of the tub or any entry ladders or steps. Your hot tub should be in a safe location free of obstacles with the clearance to place the cover on and off. If you do have small children, you could consider adding an alarm or a lock to the cover so that there are no unwanted or dangerous accidents.
5. Splish splash, it’s time for a bath!
Once you have worked out all the logistics and safely wired your hot tub, it’s time to fill it up! Before you start, make sure to turn off the electricity to the tub at the circuit breaker. Clean the interior if you wish at this time and make sure that the drain valve is closed and filters are in place. Fill the tub with clean, cold water to the fill line. You can use a garden hose for this. Make sure there are no leaks once the hot tub is filled and you can then restore power at the breaker, set all controls, and treat the water with the necessary chemicals. It can take up to 8 hours for the water to fully warm up. Enjoy your new hot tub!
Make sure to contact us with any questions regarding hot tub installation. We would love to be of assistance to install a dedicated circuit for your hot tub. Call us at Anchor Electric today for a free estimate! 386-313-6211