For many, it’s the ultimate sign of success - your own personal hot tub. Annoy your friends by constantly reminding them to bring their bathing suits when they come over for fondue night. Or maybe you pulled a lat muscle earlier at the gym. No worries, you’ll soak in your own personal hot tub later. Of the many hot tub scenarios imaginable (Great Gatsby-style parties or playing several quick rounds of Marco Polo because you can), your fantasy can become a reality with some careful planning.
What is it?
A good portion of spa and hot tub installation can be undertaken by the owner, so long as they’ve done a little planning and research before delivery day. Keep in mind, there are a variety of hot tubs available for purchase, each one with their own specific set of directions that should be followed closely. Still, some basics apply to most hot tub installation techniques.
While many of the hot tubs from decades past are made with wooden staves or tile, the most common type of hot tub sold today are plastic tubs that come delivered in one piece (most commonly referred to as a spa). While spas are still considerably large (somewhere around 500 pounds), they are generally built more shallow than wooden tubs, so as to maximize the amount of places they can be installed. That being said, the owner needs to take into account the pros and cons involved with installing a hot tub either outside or inside.
If you plan on installing your hot tub outside, you will need to consider a single solid surface to place it. It is recommended that instead of gravel, which may not settle evenly, one should see to it that a concrete pad be constructed to support the hot tub as concrete will remain flat after it settles, which will prevent any unnecessary leaking. While this may require the assistance of a contractor, it is a good long-term foundation base and your best bet if you don’t already have a deck installed. If you do plan on installing your spa on an outdoor deck or patio, be aware of the deck’s maximum load capacity. Remember, hot tubs are extremely heavy when filled and even heavier when people are inside it.
If you plan on installing your hot tub indoors, the biggest aspect you need to take into consideration is ventilation. Excess moisture, as well as off-gassing from common sanitizers such as chlorine or bromine, can become problems if there are not proper windows, vents, or fans in the room where the hot tub is located. Again, you should also be cognizant of the supporting floor structure and whether it can support the weight of a full hot tub. Furthermore, if your spa is installed indoors, you’ll want to make sure that the floor is either constructed with a waterproof membrane or that a floor drain is built into the structure to limit any water damage that could occur from leaking or wet feet.
Who needs it?
Come on, no one needs a hot tub installed unless they’re vying for the title of “coolest family on the block.” It’s something you want, not something you need.
Benefits
The benefits of a fully installed and operating hot tub are obvious — Zen-like relaxation, light massage from the spa’s jet propellers, and even hydrotherapy.
However, the installation of a hot tub will be most beneficial with the aid of several contractors. You can install a spa by yourself for the most part if you are handy. But because so many factorsare involved with hot tub installation, the only way to ensure its long-lasting quality is to hire professional help.
Not to mention the foundation material (concrete services or otherwise) and, if indoors, possible ventilation and drainage installation, you’ll almost certainly need professional aid if your hot tub runs on a gas heater, as you will need to run a gas line from the heater to the tub. Furthermore, you’ll need to hire an electrician, as both an electric heater and gas heater (whichever you prefer), will require at least a 240 volt, 20 amp circuit for the pump that runs the hot tub.
Risks
Be aware that when you order a hot tub, it will more than likely be delivered by truck. Also be aware that the package you receive will be extremely heavy. It may be advantageous to request a delivery truck with a lift gate to help you ease it out of the truck.
The bottom line
Installing a spa or any type of hot tub without the help of professionals will be at your own risk. So it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
