How to Install a Hot Tub

If you are thinking of adding a hot tub to your backyard or deck, you’ll be happy to know that installing one is fairly easy. However, there is very important prep work that goes into installing a hot tub. Below are guidelines to help get you through the planning and installation process.

Step 1 – Location

The location is key to proper hot tub installation. It should not be located within 10 feet of over head power lines, and you need to check that your hot tub plans don’t interfere with your city or county building and safety codes.

Beyond that, the most important thing is having a solid, level surface to place your hot tub on. A concrete slab works best.

Step 2 – Hot Tub Base On The Ground

If you don’t have a concrete slab already, purchasing concrete to mix and pour is a fairly easy process. If you are going to go this route though, be sure your concrete is thick enough; remember that the average hot tub when filled is about 5,500 pounds! Simply use lumber to build a short retaining wall (2x6’s partially laid into the ground should do), mix your concrete, and pour.

If you don’t want to go through the trouble of concrete, at least ensure that the area you are placing your hot tub is completely level and devoid of anything that may damage it. If you have it, sand with a weed membrane over top make a great place for your hot tub.

Step 3 – Raised Hot Tub Base

A raised platform for your hot tub will prevent mildew and decay from water buildup around the base. Also, a raised platform may be necessary if you are building your hot tub into your deck. You can either pour concrete platforms, which takes a level of experience, skill, and patience, or you can build a wooden platform.

A wooden platform consists of a 4x4 frame, with a series of 2x6’s laid on edge across the top. Be sure to use treated wood, and don’t space your 2x6’s more than a foot apart.

Step 4 – The Electrical Wiring

It is highly recommended that you call a licensed electrician to handle all the wiring for your hot tub. If you insist on doing the wiring yourself, you should at least call a professional to come in and inspect your work.

Step 5 – For Further Installation

Preparing the site for your hot tub is perhaps the most difficult part of the process. There are more specific steps for the rest of your hot tub installation, especially for fitting and connecting the various hot tub parts, but these should be outlined in detail within the owner’s manual.

Be sure to follow the rest of the instructions in the owner’s manual carefully for the rest of the installation and for proper care of your hot tub.