A hot tub or hot tub can be an additional relaxation facility in your backyard. Because hot tubs are large and the electrical system is complex, installing a hot tub can be quite tricky. Modern hot tubs are self-contained which means they don't require a plumbing system to install. However, installing a hot tub requires planning and following city regulations. Start with Step 1 to install your hot tub.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Preparation
Step 1. Check if you need build permission
Many cities require a permit to install an outdoor hot tub. Check if you need to apply for a permit from your city government.
Step 2. Choose your hot tub location
Make sure the room is big enough in addition to the hot tub as well as for additional circulation for in and out of maintenance activities. The safe area is approximately 3m by 3m, but this also depends on the size of your hot tub.
- Check city building regulations to determine how far from your home you can install your hot tub. Many regulations suggest at least 1.5 m of distance between your home and your property line.
- Two other rules to keep in mind when looking for a place for a hot tub. Hot tubs must be at least 3 m away from power lines, and 1.5 m from the spa panels. Water and electricity do not mix.
Step 3. Prepare the location if needed
The hot tub when full can weigh 1,361 kg. for this reason you need a solid foundation for the hot tub to be placed on. If the foundation is not strong, there is a risk that the tub will be damaged and the warranty will not apply.
- Pouring concrete into concrete slabs 7.62 to 10.16 cm thick is a common method of creating a solid foundation. Concrete is a strong foundation. At the same time the concrete may not be aesthetically pleasing and will stay in the same place even if you move the hot tub.
- Another option is prefabricated spa pads. These pads are interlocking grids that are easy to install and can be moved if you need to move your hot tub one day. However, spa pads are also not as strong as the backing concrete. Make sure you have a solid base to work with and choose the strongest spa pads.
Step 4. Contact the contractor whether you decide to place the tub on the deck or will build a deck to place the tub
If you want to place the tub on the deck, discuss it with the contractor first. They should be able to tell you whether the deck can hold a tonne or more of weight that continues to slide down like a hammer. Of course we don't want the deck and tub to be damaged when installed.
Step 5. Create an electrical route to reach the hot tub
Most modern hot tubs are self contained, meaning you don't need to install piping to operate the hot tub. But the power cord is another matter. Usually there are separate regulations for electrical wiring like this, don't forget to discuss it with the development bureau in your city. After that decide whether the power cable will be installed below or above the ground.
Most pumps require a tough wiring circuit, which is used specifically for tub electricity. A 240V, 50-amp GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) should suffice for a hot tub. Using multiple pumps may require a 60-amp circuit. If you are not familiar with this, it is better to hire an electrician to do it
Part 2 of 3: Install Hot Tub
Step 1. Plan the hot tub delivery route from the outside to the foundation
An empty hot tub weighs about 363 kg and up, so it's important to know how to get it from the delivery car to your backyard. Make sure the width of the tub can pass through the gate, plant or structure.
- The delivery driver will help you with this step.
- If you find a tub that's wider than the planned path, you'll have to improvise. Cutting a tree trunk or part of a fence, even though it looks very exciting, is sometimes all that can be done.
Step 2. Install the hot tub and connect the power
The hot tub voltage is higher (usually around 240 volts) than the home mains voltage, so you'll need to cook a fuse in your control box. If you do not understand the electrical system. It is better to hire an electrician to help you with the electrical installation, see below for information and assistance on electrical wiring.
Step 3. Prepare the hot tub for use
You're almost ready to enjoy your new hot tub, without spending money in the bank paying someone else to install it. To complete the installation:
- Turn off the power.
- Clean the inside of the hot tub and make sure all the sprays and buttons are in place.
- Open the water source.
- Fill the hot tub with water with a hose from the garden or use a water bucket to draw water from inside. No special water is needed for this.
- Turn the power back on and start heating the tub.
- Put in the necessary chemicals to ensure sanitation.
Part 3 of 3: Handling Electrical Installation
Step 1. Be aware that some warranties do not apply if the electrical circuit is not installed by an electrical contractor
In some cases, if the circuit is not installed by a licensed contractor and approved by the electrical/building inspector, the warranty will not apply.
Step 2. If you decide to install the electrical wiring yourself, use only one source for one circuit for the hot tub
The electrician running the hot tub must have its own circuit due to its electrical requirements. Do not share electricity with other electrical equipment.
Step 3. If you are handling the electrical installation yourself, make sure the specifications are correct
Again, if you are unsure of the circuit wiring for the hot tub, hire a licensed electrician. But if not, here's important information about power cables that you need to know:
- Cable sizes must be approved by the National Electrical Code (NEC) and/or local codes.
- The size of the cable and the use must be based on the distance from the fuse box to the hot tub. Maximum amperage also plays a role in determining the size of the cable.
- Copper cables are recommended with THHN (thermoplastic nylon) insulation. Preferably all wires should be copper; aluminum wires should be avoided.
- When using a cable larger than (10mm2), make sure the junction box is close to the hot tub. Then, reduce the cable length between the junction box and the hot tub (10mm2).
Step 4. If in doubt, use the services of a professional
Finally saving a few extra million is not worth the disaster that could occur that could be dangerous or even deadly. Consult a professional electrician if you have no previous experience in working with electrical wiring circuits.
Tips
- Installing a hot tub underground, above deck or indoors is a more complicated process and you will need the help of a contractor.
- Some hot tubs can be installed on a foundation other than cement. Inserting gravel in shallow holes for hot tub placement is a less expensive alternative.
Warning
- The electrical system must follow regulations and pass inspections. Do not install hot tub wiring without studying the regulations and taking legal steps.
- Some cities require you to apply for a building permit to install a hot tub. Always check the regulations before installing your own hot tub.
- Do not fill the hot tub too much until it spills. Spilled water can damage the foundation.
