A Step by Step DIY Guide for Installing a New Hot Tub

Installing a hot tub can seem overwhelming but it is possible to do it yourself without engaging the services of installers.

Installation cost can sometimes be high. So, at PWS we want to share how one can install it on their own. Following the installation steps carefully will save you on installation costs and get you enjoying your spa in no time. However, it can be tricky and the most important thing is to exercise caution. A certified installer or electrician is recommended.

If you feel nervous about installing a hot tub on your own, engage the services of a certified spa installer or electrician. It makes the process stress free and perfectly safe.

Building Permit

Before the actual installation takes place, it is important you have a safe hot tub location set up. An outdoor spa requires a solid, uniform surface in the backyard. The surface could be wooden, concrete, brick, or deck so long as the integrity and strength of the surface meets the standards of the spa.

Ensure that you check whether a building permit is a requirement in your city before moving forward.

Enquiring from the relevant authorities will save you a lot of time and a potential headache.

If a permit is required, residential development and building application forms are filed online. You will be required to give a site plan, a letter from your dealer, and the model of your spa (we will provide you with the letter and model).

Select a Location

Choose the best place to set up your spa by ensuring there is adequate space to accommodate the hot tub and the solid, uniform surface.

A hot tub location should be safe and open. Ensure your hot tub is not too far away from power and water.

Ensure that your hot tub location is easily accessible. The accessibility will be crucial during the transportation and installation of the hot tub.

Your hot tub should be located in an open space.

Prepare the Location

Outdoor installation

There are many options when it comes to building the spot for your hot tub. A concrete patio, a deck, a brick surface, or a gravel surface will last long. The idea is to have a flat surface to prevent the hot tub from moving.

A firm foundation will save you money in the long-term. Make sure the site is properly prepared because any damages as a result of poor preparation will not be honored by the hot tub warranty. It is important to leave enough space around the spa for walking around. 

Ensure your concrete will be completely dry by the time the hot tub arrives. Ensure that the solid, flat surface can hold the weight of the hot tub plus the people.

If you are not into building, the prefabricated spa pads are great alternatives. These pads are intertwined to create a firm foundation for your hot tub. The best thing about these pads is that they can be dismantled and reassembled in the case of relocation.

If you are working on a tight budget, consider using a gravel foundation. You will be required to dig around 6 inches into the surface. Ensure you have cleared all the grass and stones. The bottom should be pressed flat.

Fill the hole with gravel and compact it to avoid shifting. The gravel will take the shape of the hot tub with time.

Indoor installation

Before purchasing an indoor hot tub, consider the size of the doors and the hallways. Often, a large spa will not get through the doors. Also, the spa room should be properly ventilated and spacious.

The supporting floor should be able to handle the weight of the tub, the water ( 1 gallon of water= 8.5 pounds), and the weight of the users. Ensure the floor is waterproof. Also take into consideration the drainage.

The distance from the source of power and water are equally important. Make sure the spa has enough space around it for servicing and maintenance.

Transporting the Spa to the Site

It is impossible to carry a hot tub that weighs approximately 500 pounds alone. Have three to four people around to help you carry the spa to the site before the delivery truck arrives.

Exercise caution while placing the spa on the site to avoid cracks that can create future leaks.  

Choose a company that offers free shipping for your hot tub, or a subsidized shipping rate. This will save you money.

If your location is indoors, ensure that there are no obstructions in the way. Remove any furniture and obstructions. The hallways should be clear. You do not want to gain a hot tub and lose your valuables.

Wiring

Different hot tubs have different voltages. We have smaller units of 110 volts and larger units of 240 volts. Your hot tub will come with:

• a 2P50 (Two-pole Fifty Amp breaker)
• electrical tapes
• color coded tapes
• GFCI protected spa pack
• wire caps,80 PVC conduit
• copper wire (6 THHN)

Steps:

1. Place the spa pack five feet away from the hot tub.
2. Measure the distance from the power to the spa pack. Add an extra two feet to your measurements to give room for errors.
3. Cut the 6THHN copper wire into eight pieces.
4. Wrap the edges of the first four wires with the color-coded tapes ( Black, red, white, and green). Place each wire in one PVC conduit.
5. Attach the wires to the hot tub. Ensure that the color codes are properly matched.
6. Fasten the wires with the electrical tape and the wire caps. The other end of the wires should be attached to the spa pack. Remember to match the color codes.

The spa pack controls the functions of the jet pump, ozonator, blower, and the light. This pack contains the electrical and the mechanical systems of the hot tub.

Electricity

Most of our hot tubs require 220v or 110v of electricity to run.  A 110v spa can simply be plugged into a regular outlet and used. However, a 220v hot tub will require some wiring.

• Install the 2P50 in the main electric service panel.
• Attach the remaining set of the 6THHN copper wires to the circuit breaker. This will be crucial in the control of the electric voltage.
• Link the red and black wires straight to the breaker. The remaining white and green wires should be connected to the ground bar.
• Test the knobs to ensure they are not faulty.

• Clean the tub thoroughly and drain the water.
• Ensure the jets, and the knobs are intact.
• Fill your tub with water.
• Once the tub is full, turn on your main breaker at the top of the circuit breakers and wait. The water will take some time to heat. Read the manual as you wait.
• After the water has heated up and you are satisfied, switch of the tub and drain the water.
• Refill the tub and test again to be completely sure. The GCFI protected spa pack comes with the hot tub. It will protect you from electrocution in the case of a leakage near the electricity.
• Balance the pH levels and chemicals using locally available spa start-up kits.

The Installation Don’ts

Don’t install a hot tub under any power lines. This is dangerous and against the law. Ensure your hot tub is at least 16 feet away from the closest power line.

Don’t use underground wiring for outdoor spas. If your space is limiting and the only option is to go underground, use a rigid metal conduit or an intermediate metal conduit. Ensure these wires are buried at least six inches deep.

Don’t attempt to install a hot tub while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Safety is key.

Conclusion

You can now relax away. If you installed your hot tub yourself, it is not a bad idea to call a certified electrician to verify your connections.

This is just a safety measure to prevent accidents. Before you call your friends for a soak, inspect your hot tub thoroughly. Tighten any loose jets and knobs. Fit the filters and inspect the pump. Don’t forget to treat the water with spa chemicals if the tub is to be used by many people.

The law requires that a hot tub must have a cover. If not, the hot tub must be fenced with a six-foot high wall. This is a safety measure to prevent drowning.

There are electricity guidelines for each city. Be informed about the requirements in your city before installing your hot tub. To learn more about the NEC codes, visit http://www.nfpa.org/nec .

Do not rush to install the hot tub. Read the manufacturer’s manual carefully to know your way around. Contact us for more information about hot tubs and pricing.