The Most Important Hot Tub Installation Considerations |
Posted: November 11, 2018 |
If you have decided to buy a hot tub, your work is not finished yet! In fact, there are four essential factors that need to be considered to ensure that your hot tub is properly installed and enjoyed by your entire family for years to come. While most people will think about where they would like to install their hot tub, many do not consider these 3 other important considerations. Keep reading to make sure that you are properly prepared to become a hot tub owner. Deciding on a LocationA hot tub should always be set on a level surface such as a concrete slab or for an extended space, a concrete slab surrounded by decking or a patio. In order to place a hot tub on any structure, you will want to make sure it can support an adequate amount of weight. You can calculate this by adding the tub’s dry weight, plus the amount of water it can hold, and the average weight per occupant. Take this number divide it by the size of the tub in square metres. The result will be the number in kilograms per square metre and how much weight your surface will need to support. In order to confirm your concrete slab or deck will be safe for a hot tub, you should seek out a structural engineer to inspect your location. Some other factors you should consider is confirming there is adequate space to uncover your hot tub, make sure your hot tub is easily accessible from your home, and making sure there is enough space around your hot tub for accessories while in use. Privacy, weather conditions, nearby vegetation, and the best views from your hot tub should also be considered. The Delivery ProcessDelivering a hot tub is no simple task. One of the first things to consider is the route the installer will need to take from the curb of your street to the area you would like your hot tub installed. When a hot tub arrives, the last thing you will want to do is rush to dismantle your home so it can fit through the delivery path. Prior to arrival, ensure that you have measured all the walkways, turns and curves from the driveway to your chosen location to make sure that the hot tub and delivery personnel will fit. Remove any fence doors, lamp posts or furniture which may be in the way. Having a solid plan will eliminate any last minute frustration or delivery hold ups. Electrical Safety ConsiderationsBegin by making sure there is a safe outlet near your hot tub that you are able to reach. If there is not one nearby you will need to contact an electrician to install an appropriate outlet. Additionally, a device called a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) needs to be installed. In case of any electrical problems, it will shut down your hot tub. You will also need an easily accessible emergency shut off switch, which should be installed at least 5 feet away from your hot tub. If the hot tub is installed over a concrete pad, you should have your electrical wiring installed prior to laying the concrete. Hot Tub ServicingLastly, once your hot tub is installed regular servicing and maintenance will be required. For this reason, you will want to make sure there is adequate space to access your cabinet and components. If you are building a deck around your tub, this should be kept in mind during the planning phases. This can be solved with a simple access door or hatch to allow for enough maintenance space. Keeping cleaning supplies close by also simplifies the maintenance process as well as having nearby access to a water hose for refilling.
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