Hot Tub Installation Series - Site Selection and Preparation

Although most spas can be used indoors, an outdoor setting is the usual preference for many people. Selecting the perfect location and attention to proper site preparation can add immeasurably to the satisfaction you'll experience while enjoying your new spa.

A great trick for gaining a visual perspective when choosing an outdoor location is to outline the hot tub's dimensions with a rope or garden hose. As you imagine how it will look, consider the proximity to electrical service, accessibility of the users, bather privacy and the view.

Outdoor Surface Options

Whether hot tubs are installed on the ground, on a floor, deck, patio or slab, proper preparation is key! A firm, level base is a must. Uneven and/or unsound surfaces can cause damage to the spa.

Poured concrete provides a long-term base, is low maintenance and can add value to your home. Concrete should be reinforced, a minimum 4 inches thick and fully cured before placing the spa. Prefabricated spa pads are a great alternative to poured concrete. These interlocking pads make a very attractive rigid base, are maintenance-free and easy to set up.

Once the ground underneath is properly compacted, gravel or crushed rock can also make a fine spa base. Regardless of the material, ensure effective rainwater drainage is considered. A perimeter boardwalk, flagstone, or other walkway is both a nice finishing touch and will help keep the spa clean of debris inadvertently brought into the hot tub on user's feet.

When filled with water, an average-sized spa can weigh more than 2000 pounds, not counting the weight of the occupants, so be mindful of structural soundness and rated capacity if a deck site is planned. Provide easy access to the spa cabinet for cleaning and maintenance, and if building a deck to surround your hot tub, don't forget you'll need access to the equipment compartment panel. Think about how the hot tub cover will be moved out of the way, and allow clearance for a cover lift device if desired.

Indoor Installations

Indoor installations require some extra special attention. Using a hot tub for 15 minutes releases as much water vapor as a shower of the same duration, so proper ventilation is necessary to prevent excess condensation in the room. Unless the spa will be standing on a suitable concrete slab, verify that the supporting floor structure will accommodate the filled weight of the spa with occupants. If building a new room for the spa, a floor drain is a good idea, since water may be splashed from the tub. Select flooring material that will provide a good grip for wet feet.

Good luck with your selection, and continue on with our next installment:

All About Hot Tub and Spa Ozonators

David Williams, owner of Spadepot.com, has over 20 years experience in the hot tub and spa business. An expert in his field, David has been working with hot tubs since 1990 and started in the spa business in 1997. He is the expert author of the SpaCyclopedia and has invented many products for the hot tub industry which are sold worldwide. Also known under the persona of "Dr. Tubbs" for 5 years, David has trained and supervised a staff of 20 employees in this industry.