You Picked Your Perfect Model Thoughtfully Designed Your Backyard And Picked Your Accessories Now Comes The Most Exciting Part: How To Install A Hot Tub Or Swim Spa Watch The Video Above To See What You Can Expect And Read Our Tips To See How Easy Jacuzzi Installation Really Is
CHOOSE YOUR HOT TUB FOUNDATION
Creating the right foundation is an important item to check off your to-do list before your hot tub arrives. Here are some options to consider.
Concrete: This is a common choice because it’s often already part of a patio or garden design, and it’s also strong and durable. If you have an existing concrete surface, just make sure it’s level and in good condition. You can also pour a single concrete slab on a custom base.
This can be a good place to put your hot tub, since a deck is usually already level. Just have it inspected before you install your model and make sure you have the proper mounts. Most decks can hold a hot tub, but be sure.
Spa pad: Pre-made spa pads are one of the simplest solutions out there and they look great. All you need to do is clear a level area of grass and topsoil, then lay out the swim spa and hot tub base deck . top quality).
Hot Tub Delivery Basics
To prepare for the delivery of your hot tub, make sure the delivery path is clear and no obstructions are present. Obstacles such as overhanging tree limbs, awnings, protruding gas meters, water meters, and A/C units can prevent easy access. It may be necessary to remove a gate, part of a fence, or other items in order to move the spa to the desired location. If there are more than six consecutive stairs without a landing, you may be required to find another delivery path. Check the measurements on 90 turns to make sure the spa will fit through.
Most spas are moved using a dolly or slip sheet, but occasionally a crane is required to install the spa by lifting it to its final destination. This occurs when the spa has to be taken off of the dolly cart to go over a wall, either because the entry area is too narrow, the eaves are too low, the corner is too tight, or the stairway is too steep. The use of a crane is a common practice and is usually the easiest and safest method for moving a spa when access is difficult. The crane has a truck-mounted boom and can fit easily in your driveway. The Crane Operator will lift your spa over walls, buildings, or any other obstruction and place it as close to the installation site as possible.
The chart below can help you visualize possible obstacles to identify before your spa is delivered. Let your dealer know of any potential issues and they may want to come inspect your site before delivery.
B WARNING: Watch for power lines.
How To Install A Hot Tub
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A hot tub can be a relaxing addition to your backyard. Because they are large, electrically complex systems, installing hot tubs can be tricky. Modern hot tubs tend to be self-contained, which means there is no plumbing involved in the setup. Even so, installing a hot tub requires planning and compliance with city codes. Start with Step 1 to begin setting up your hot tub.
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Electrical Requirements & Considerations
*Please see owners manual for full electrical requirements, definitions, conversions, and diagrams.
You will need to ensure that you have the appropriate space equipped with electrical source. You will usually need to hire an electrician to wire your hot tub before it can be used. Depending on codes where you live, an electrician can either hook up the tub once its delivered, or set up the wires ahead of time. Some hot tub companies can help finalize the wiring when your tub is delivered.
The installation of all spas must be in accordance with national and local wiring rules. Always have a licensed electrician perform the electrical installation. Each Bullfrog Spa is manufactured and tested to a standard that provides maximum protection against electrical shock. Improper wiring may prevent the spa from operating safely which could result in electrical shock, injury, or death. Improper wiring could also lead to a malfunction of the spas equipment and risk of fire.
Types Of Foundations For Hot Tubs
According to the home services marketplace HomeAdvisor, a 4-person tub filled with water could weigh as much as 4,000 pounds. So, before adding one to your back deck, consult with a general contractor or structural engineer to make sure the deck can handle the load. Other foundation ideas include:
- ConcretePouring a concrete pad is quick and easy. Jacuzzi recommends a reinforced concrete pad at least 4 inches deep.
- Spa padInstall these interlocking pads on grass or soil and level with sand for a sturdy but moveable foundation. Theyre ideal for temporary situations, such as rental houses.
- Concrete paversBecause they tend to shift, stone patio pavers arent the best choice for your hot tub foundation. Instead, use interlocking concrete pavers and have the pad they form inspected by a structural engineer or contractor to make sure the tub is properly balanced and level.
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Know The Electrical Requirements
Various models will have different requirements for electricity. Most hot tubs require either 110V or 220V.
A 110V is sometimes called a “plug-and-play” model. This is because in most cases you will be able to plug the hot tub into a normal electrical outlet in your backyard.
With a 220V model, you will probably need to hire a certified electrician. They can help make sure you have enough electricity available to power the hot tub.
In addition, the electrician will need to run wires between the hot tub and an electrical panel.
Pros And Cons Of Portable Spas
Portable spas, otherwise known as hot tubs, can be inflatable or hard-sided. They’re considered portable because they can be installed anywhere and have the versatility to be drained and moved elsewhere. Hot tubs are designed to fit in many settings, whether you use your portable spa on your patio, yard, or indoors.
Here are some pros and cons to buying and installing a hot tub:
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How Do You Get The Spa To The Patio
Many hot tubs can be placed on a patio using a forklift.
Before it arrives, we recommend walking the path that your new hot tub will travel during delivery and take measurements along the way. Be sure to measure side yard dimensions, gates or doors. Any other space limiting obstacles such as trees or shrubs must be evaluated as well.
Access to your chosen installation site must be solid, level ground that has been cleared of any obstructions prior to arrival. Keep in mind that you will need to remove any doors, windows, walls, handrails or other obstructions.
Cost Of Hot Tub Installation
The cost of your hot tub foundation can range from 0-$1,000+ depending on if you already have a solid foundation, or if you decide to build a custom deck for your hot tub. For reference, spa pads range in price from $100 to $500, and concrete slabs range from $900 $2,000.
The cost of having a professional electrician wire a hot tub usually ranges from $200 $500.
Delivery can also be costly if you require a crane to lift the hot tub into your backyard, which can cost between $500 $1,000. Usually, a portion of a fence Is taken down, and a hot tub will be carried into place by multiple people.
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Questions To Ask Installers
Get free estimates on HomeGuide from trusted hot tub installers:
Can I Install A Hot Tub In The Winter
Nothing is more relaxing than a soak in the hot tub on a cool winters night. If you are in the market for a hot tub, you may be wondering if an installation is out of the question during the cold winter months. It most definitely is not. If you wish to have a hot tub installed on your deck or patio, that can be done no matter what time of year it is, so long as you are prepared.
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Can You Put A Hot Tub Inside
Most definitely! But there are few things to consider before choosing an indoor hot tub installation.
You will want to talk to your Master Spas Dealer to determine the exact size of the opening needed to move the hot tub into the room, as this will vary based on the model youve selected.
Also, you will want to plan for ventilation and humidity control. When the hot tub is in use, considerable amounts of moisture are produced. This moisture can damage walls and ceiling surfaces over time. Check to make sure that your paint, wallpaper, and woodwork can withstand increased humidity levels. In most cases, an exhaust fan is needed.
Because water may accumulate around the hot tub, it is recommended that a floor drain be installed. For safety reasons, proper floor materials should be installed that are slip resistant when wet.
Indoor Hot Tub Installation Cost
Indoor hot tub installations require additional alterations, reinforcement, and remodeling to handle the extra weight, moisture, and heat.
- A home ventilation system costs $300 to $1,200 to handle excess heat and steam, remove the chlorine smell, and protect the home from moisture damage.
- Home remodeling costs$15 to $60 per square foot to use slip and water-resistant building materials to prevent rot and mildew.
- Plumbing installation costs$450 to $1,800 to run new plumbing pipes for filling and draining water.
- May require flooring reinforcement to support the extra weight of the hot tub.
- Requires demolition and construction to install in-ground.
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Portable Hot Tub Cost
Portable hot tubs cost $500 to $10,000. You can set up a spa on your deck. During the winter, you can store the piece in your basement or shed.
Any above-ground model can be portable, but the weight affects your ability to move it. Most non-inflatable options weigh 400 to 1,000 pounds, compared to 200 to 300 pounds for an average refrigerator.
Enjoy Your New Hot Tub
It will take around four to eight hours, or longer, for your new hot tub to reach appropriate temperatures . You may also want to wait a day to ensure that the chemicals in your water are balanced correctly and that any chlorine level is safe. Note that chlorine is not the only choice when it comes to a sanitizing chemical. Generally, you can expect to begin using your hot tub within 12 to 24 hours after filling.
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Hot Tub Delivery And Installation
The delivery and installation process varies from brand to brand, but most manufacturers of hard-shell and wood-fired hot tubs will offer kerbside delivery.
Some, such as Jacuzzi, will also provide free installation and a consultation with the engineer to run through how to use your new tub. Others charge extra for an upgraded delivery service that includes installation.
Those that offer delivery and installation will ask you about your garden access to ensure the tub will fit when they arrive if its too big, they can also arrange for a crane or a hiab to lift it in.
But if you’re getting kerbside delivery, youll need to check the dimensions of your hot tub yourself and ensure you have enough space and an access point to get it into your garden, as well as the tools to move it into place not always an easy task.
Removing fence panels can help with space and always ask the manufacturer if they have a trolley to manoeuvre the tub on delivery.
For inflatable hot tubs, youll only be offered delivery through a normal courier service, and youll typically need to set it up yourself.
Regardless of the type of tub, any electrical and base work will need to be completed before delivery.
Delivery times depend on the brand, whats in stock, the type of tub youre getting and where you live. If youre customising your own hot-tub design this will take longer, too.
Inflatable hot tubs only take around 15 minutes to inflate, but heating can take up to 24 hours.
Choose Your Swim Spa Foundation
A swim spa is the perfect centerpiece, offering the best of a pool and hydromassage, exercise and recoveryall year round. Here are your foundation options to consider:
Concrete: The quickest and easiest way to install a swim spa is above-ground with a level, structurally-sound and level. The concrete pad should be slightly larger than the swim spa, and large enough to accommodate steps if needed. The slab can be expanded even further for space to walk around.
In-Ground or Below Grade: Having your swim spa partially or fully submerged in the ground is an attractive option. The swim spa is placed on a concrete pad, partially or fully recessed in the ground. This needs a level concrete base and concrete retaining wall to form a bunker for your swim spa.
Frame Shim for All Installations: It is mandatory to have full support of all gussets on your swim spa to keep it level and prevent bowing, so you may need to add a frame shim. You may not need a shim if your slab is perfectly flat and the frame makes perfect contact with the ground. Every swim spa will be delivered with a packet of shims in case they are needed.
LEARN ABOUT ELECTRICITY AND PLUMBING
Jacuzzi® tubs require 120 or 240 volts, depending on the size of the spa, while Jacuzzi® Swim Spas require 240 volts of electricity. The knowledgeable professionals at your local dealer can help you determine what you need.
PLAN FOR DELIVERY
- Make sure the spa will fit any 90° turns.
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What Is Needed To Install A Hot Tub
Requirements to install a hot tub are:
- An accessible location for delivery and placement.
- A concrete slab base, reinforced deck, or compacted soil with crushed gravel or pavers.
- Spa panel and emergency shutoff switch within 5 feet of the hot tub
- Dedicated electrical connection. Most spa panels require a 50 or 60-amp, 220V with a GFCI power supply or a 15-amp, 120-volt plug-and-play with GFCI.
- Nearby water access from a garden hose. A 300-gallon hot tub takes 1 to 2 hours to fill.
- Chemicals such as a pH balancer, sanitizer, alkalinity, calcium harness balance, and a chlorine or MPS spa shock.
Can A Hot Tub Go In A Shed Or Summer House
Yes, a hot tub can be installed in a shed or summer house. In fact, a hot-tub enclosure makes it more likely you’ll get year-round use even on rainy days, as well as offering more privacy. They can help to retain heat in the tub, too.
Youll need to make sure the space is big enough, with plenty of ventilation so the steam doesnt damage the enclosure. You’ll also need access to a power supply.
A permanent gazebo is a good option if youre happy to commit to a bigger home-improvement project, while pop-up tent gazebos are handy if youre on a budget and want to stow it away when its not in use.
See our shed buying guide.
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Planning Your Hot Tub Installation
Of course, an in-ground hot tub installation requires the work of a professional. The installation can take as little as 2 to 4 weeks or as long as 10 to 12 weeks, depending on the scope of the project. A professional contractor will also be able to guide you as you customize your hot tub with ideal features, materials, sizing and specs, and help you remain within your budget.
Modernize is here to help you find a reliable and local professional to get the job done. Tell us about the in-ground hot tub you are looking to install. Then, well connect you with our network of professionals so you can find the best contractor for your project needs.
Find Local Pros
What Is Your Budget
Determining your budget is the first step to any hot tub installation. Hot tubs come in a variety of sizes and levels of quality. If your budget falls on the lower end, its a good idea to find places to cut costs, such as choosing an affordable material. If your budget is on the higher end, you will be able to choose a larger hot tub, add luxury features, and so on.
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Choosing Your Hot Tub’s Foundation
When purchasing a hot tub, where you will put it will be the first question that needs answering. Hot tubs are quite heavy when filled, and will need a solid and level foundation to sit on. When considering your hot tubs foundation, there are four main options to choose between: a spa pad, pouring a concrete slab, a wooden deck, or pavers. Each method will vary in styling, functionality, and price.
For those working on a budget, spa pads can create a simple and easy foundation for your hot tub with minimal cost and effort, they usually come in the form of interlocking thick rubber pads that form a solid base for your hot tub.
The simplest and most common foundation is a concrete slab. Pouring a concrete slab will also be relatively inexpensive and quick. Concrete slabs are very durable and will easily last the life of your spa.
Another common place hot tub owners like to house their spas are wooden decks. While most wooden decks are stable enough to uphold the full weight of a filled hot tub, you will need to call in an expert to assess that your deck is structurally sound enough. Another option is to blend a concrete slab with a wooden deck. Some homeowners choose to place their hot tubs on a concrete slab under their deck, with the top of the hot tub seamlessly rising through for easy access.
The last method that is commonly used, is placing your hot tub on pavers, many homes already have areas covered in pavers, and can be used as a solid foundation for your spa.
