How to Prepare for Hot Tub Installation

Getting your brand-new hot tub onto your property and installed safely is no small task. Not only is the physical act of maneuvering a 1,000-plus pound tub into a backyard something that requires plenty of forethought and preparation, but there are a few other important things you’ll need to take care of beforehand. 

Don’t stress, though — getting your property ready for your hot tub install doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Just follow these simple tips and you’ll be taking your first luxurious soak in no time.

Electrical Considerations When Installing a Hot Tub

One of the most important things to consider when prepping for a hot tub install is the electrical requirements.

Hot tubs generally require a dedicated circuit with a 40-60-amp breaker. Most tubs use a 240-volt electrical service, but there are also smaller 120-volt plug-and-play hot tubs that can be plugged directly into a regular wall outlet. 

The need for a dedicated circuit will likely inform where you’ll be installing your hot tub, so speak with an electrician prior to making any installation plans. Once your dedicated circuit is ready to go, you’ll be well on your way to getting that tub safely onto your property.

Foundation Considerations

Where do you plan on placing your hot tub? Concrete patios, decks, and hot tub pads are popular options. 

Each of these options has its pros and cons. Ultimately, the best one for you will depend on the layout of your property, your budget, and your personal preferences.

Using a Hot Tub Pad

Opting for a hot tub pad can make your life a lot simpler, but it will cost you at least a few hundred more dollars. However, that price may be a small one to pay if you’re not interested in dealing with the time, labor, and expenses involved in pouring cement.

Putting Your Hot Tub on a Deck

If you’ve already got a deck that can accommodate a hot tub, that may be your cheapest and easiest option. But bear in mind that your deck may not be built to handle the thousands of pounds of stress that a full hot tub can place on it. As such, it’s a good idea to have it assessed by a contractor before installation.

Using Concrete

Laying down a concrete foundation may be an additional cost if you don’t have a concrete slab already, but it’s incredibly durable and long-lasting, meaning you won’t have to worry about doing much maintenance.

Consider Privacy and Safety

Your hot tub experience will likely be far less luxurious and relaxing if it’s not adequately private, and it will definitely be less enjoyable if it’s unsafe. With that in mind, make sure you consider both privacy and safety well before installation day.

You may not have a perfect little alcove in your yard to place your hot tub, but you can create one fairly easily.

Planting some bushes or trees is one simple solution. Others include building a fence or adding an attractive corner screen. You can also build a pergola or gazebo for your tub to hide beneath. Solutions like these also present the additional perk of making your hot tub space look more attractive.

Furthermore, you don’t want to install your hot tub around a surface that could be slick when wet, nor do you want to place it anywhere that might be tricky to navigate barefoot. It’s also crucial to work with a professional electrician when wiring your hot tub, as faulty electrical work can be seriously dangerous.

Remember: it’s always better to be a little too cautious than not cautious enough.