Locating a Hot Tub

Locating a Hot Tub:

 So you are going to buy a hot tub.  As tubbers we strongly believe you are entering into a great new relaxing world.  There are many things you can do to keep your hot tub warm inviting and relaxing over the years of ownership, but it is also important to do your research.  What makes a good hot tub?  Well we’ll get to that in another article, however what makes for an easy, safe, and secure delivery and site selection that what we want you to think about before you select your spa.

Location:

Consider how you will access your hot tub.  Which room is going to be your “ready” room? Are the floors tiled, carpet?  Where will you hang your towels, your wet suits (if you are using them)?  Considering these small details now will prove so important to your future enjoyment of your tub.  How far will the hot tub be from the access doors?  The further the tub is into the yard the less you will likely use it.  Over our 35 years in the spa business we have seen some wonderful hot tub installations.  Many of these are focal points in gardens: beautiful gazebos, enchanting stone paths surrounded by ornamental trees, however on a wet cold day (ideal for soaking in your hot tub) an extra 10 feet to the tub can feel insurmountable.  When possible consider locating the hot tubs within 10 feet of the door!

 If your plans involve placing the hot tub on a deck, have you checked the support required?  Hot tubs, with water and people, usually exert a load of 100-150 lbs/sqft.  Check with a builder before you get started.  Often a very easy support (additional bracing) plan can be completed before your spa arrives. 

If the spa will be going onto a patio, remember that most patios have a slope of about ½ to 1 inch over 10 feet to allow water to move away from your house.  This slope can have a real visual effect on the tub once it is filled.  Your tub may need to be leveled or shimmed.  Be sure to check with your hot tub dealer or the manufacturer before you level or shim.  Some hot tubs can not be shimmed due to the base construction, know this before the tub arrives.

One final note on location: Can the hot tub be delivered to the site?  Here in Victoria (BC) we are living on a rock: lots of hills, cliffs, bluffs, trees, and “beautiful” properties.  All the features that make our area and yards so dreamy can be a delivery crew’s nightmare.  It is always best to have your hot tub dealer come have a look first.

Two final location considerations: Where and how easy is the access to electrical?  (Also have you checked the amperage requirements?)  Finally, where are you going to drain your hot tub?  There are different codes in different cities check with your dealer or the city before you place your hot tub somewhere where there is no access to approved drains.

A few extra steps in planning for your hot tub will save you grief and have you laying back and soaking away your cares sooner.

For more information check out:

http://www.hotspring.com/planning-tools/pre-delivery-instructions