There’s nothing like relaxing in a hot tub after a long day at work. Not only can it help reduce stress and put your mind at ease, but a good soak can do wonders for an aching body too. Sounds great, right? Well, you can reap these benefits too! Fortunately, installing a hot tub at your home isn’t all that difficult. Here are the 4 essential steps you need to follow.
Select The Right Location To Install It
While location will depend on your home’s set up, there are a few universal tips to consider. For example, ideally, your hot tub should be placed on a firm, level / flat surface. Next, make sure there is easy access to your house. Think about it: if you’re using the hot tub in the winter, then you won’t want to walk a mile to grab your towel. Finally, for safety reasons, make sure it is at least 10 feet away from any overhead power lines.
Create a Foundation for it to Sit On
You should not install your hot tub directly on the ground. If installed directly on dirt or sand, the tub could lean and be uneven. Instead, choose either a concrete slab, gravel, paver stones, or prefabricated hot tub pads. Decks can be great too, but if you choose this option, then make sure that you check load limits and/or code requirements. If you go with concrete slab, make sure that it extends a few feet beyond all sides of the hot tub. Ideally, the concrete should be reinforced and a minimum of 4 inches thick.
Upgrade Electrical Outlets Accordingly
Hot tubs draw a lot of electricity; therefore, it is best to make sure that your electrical system can safely meet the power demands of the unit. Hot tub circuits should only be installed by a licensed electrician. One such necessity that must be implemented is an emergency shut off switch. Luckily, we at L-Train Electric are familiar with all of these regulations and requirements. We are the trusted hot tub electrician that you need.
Fill It Up With Cold Water
After the electrical has been wired correctly, follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions carefully. To fill the tub, turn off its electricity at the circuit breaker. Close the drain valve, and clean the interior with a mild, non-foaming cleaner for good measure. Using a garden hose, fill the tub with cold, clean water. Once the tub is filled, and you don’t see any leaks, restore power and add water treating chemicals. It may take up to 8 hours for the water to get warm, but it will happen; and when it does–enjoy!
