Hot Tub Site Preparation

Planning Your Hot Tub Site

When planning the location  for your hot tub, you want to keep a few things in mind.  If your hot tub will be one of the 80 percent located outdoors, you'll want to consider privacy from your neighbors, distance from your home and other asthetic details of your backyard design.

There is nothing more fantastic than luxuriating in your hot tub and stargazing at the same time.  You might even want to place some chairs in the area you are planning to use for your hot tub so that you can analyze your privacy factors, the view, prevailing wind direction, and more. There are lots of design books to give you ideas about your placement and perhaps accessory items you may want to purchase.   Once you've decided on the location for your hot tub, it's important that you provide a good solid level base for it.

Level Level Level!

All Hot tubs require a level concrete (or wood deck) base for placement. Pavers can also be used if installed with an adequate base material.  The entire tub needs to be supported by this base. Existing patios and lanais are often pitched for water run off.  Be sure you check the area where you are planning to place the tub for a pitch.  If you do find a pitch there you will need to float the area with concrete to compensate.

Water is always level and the biggest problem with trying to place your tub in an area that is not level is that the water will know!  You'll notice the problem immediately upon your first fill.  If the hot tub is not level, it can cause problems with pump operation, splash out, uneven skimmer operation.

Shimming does not equally support the weight of the tub and can cause damaging pressure on the internal support structure.  The tub, with water in it, is very heavy.  Water weighs a little over 8 lbs per gallon and you should consider 115 pounds per square foot when planning wood deck.  Be sure to  consult with a structural engineer when planning an elevated deck for your hot tub

Provide Access to Service Panels

You'll need to provide a minimum of 2 foot of access to any hot tub service panel.  Some hot tubs may have more than one access panel.  Orient your hot tub with service access panels in mind.  Be aware of the service panels when planting and landscaping as well.

Drainage

Your hot tub equipment must be protected from flooding.  Install your hot tub with drainage plans, as required to keep the hot tub equipment area from flooding.   Installations below grade may require sump pump installation.

Electrical Considerations

120 V

Hot tubs that can operate on 120 Volts usually require a 20 amp "dedicated" receptacle.  This means that there is only one circuit and one receptacle on the 20 amp breaker feeding it.

240V

Most (but not all) hot tubs require a minimum 50 amp 4 wire GFCI protected service to the hot tub.  Large hot tubs with several pumps may require a 60 amp.  Swim Spas may require more than one circuit.  READ your owners manual to be certain of wiring requirements before running your electric.  Do not depend on your electrician to know exactly what you need.  Some hot tubs are unique and have differing wiring requirements. The best way to know for sure is your owners manual or to speak with the factory directly.

When planning your hot tub installation, it is important you consult with the right experts who are familiar with the building codes in your area.  All hot tubs require qualified electricians for hookup of hot tub equipment. Make certain your hot tub has passed any required inspections before use.