Five things to know when you plan your hot tub space

February 24th, 2021 – If you have decided you want to get a hot tub, congratulations! Now more than ever, investing in a hot tub to create that haven at home and have an easy way to enhance your health is critical.

When you start planning the space for your new tub, there are some things to think about that will set you up for success. Here are five things to think about as you plan your new slice of hot tub heaven.

• Do not stray too far from the house. Hot tubs get used the most the closer they are to the exit from your home. Be sure to scope out a spot that is easy to get to in any weather.
• Do not over plan in advance. Way too often customers tell us they have already done wiring, already put in a pad…and sometimes that’s “cart before the hot tub”. Hot tubs can use as little as a standard household outlet to plug into; others may require a dedicated plug. Tubs that are cord connected need to be within a certain number of feet to plug directly into the outlet—they cannot be run on an extension cord! And plenty of tubs may need either 30, 40, or 50-amps of power dedicated to them and require a sub panel installation by a licensed electrician. Remodelers and home builders default to installing a standard disconnect that does not always work for every tub. Do not pay extra money to have any of that done ahead of time! Be sure to find the right tub for you first. With Hot Spring Spas, the sub panel you need for the wiring is included with the tub if it needs it. This saves you money on your wiring since your electrician does not need to provide that major component. Pick your tub before you do your wiring.
• What will your tub sit on? If you already have a concrete patio or pavers, terrific! BUT—is the concrete or paver space where the tub will sit level? A tub needs a level foundation for structural integrity and even water flow to the tub’s filtration system. Again, picking out your tub first will provide valuable insight on what you should do for a hot tub foundation. If you have nothing there and must start from scratch, concrete, pavers or something a bit less expensive like a SmartDeck could be the answer. A SmartDeck replaces the need to pour concrete and will be a great pad for your tub. A little space prep to get the area level and the SmartDeck gets put in place. Then you are set! Lastly, consider any accessories you may want to have for your tub. It pains me to see the number of hot tubs beautifully installed—but the steps or umbrella are hanging off the edge of a pad or pavers uneven (and unsafe!). Make sure to consider the entire space that should be level for the tub as well as any accessories.
• Consider your view…and the neighbor’s. I have done a lot of backyard consults over the years. Plenty have had an idea for where to put their tub—but often what they would look at once IN the tub soaking has not been on the radar. Think about how the tub should be oriented. Your main seats should be looking out at the view that will help you escape and relax (not the kitchen window!). AND—take a look around at the windows or view of any neighbors. What will they see when you are trying to relax? Close the peep show! Some cover lifters sit upright and will make it easy for cover removal and can also provide an instant privacy screen. Potted bamboo can create a natural fence that can block view from neighboring eyes too.
• How will the tub get to its final destination? Hot tubs are big boxes—and they are not light, nor do they bend! You need to make sure and think about how the tub will get from the front of the house to where you want your hot tub placed. Is there an alley that may provide better access? Is a gate wide enough for the tub to pass through safely? If a delivery must travel over yard or down the side of your home, you need to make sure there is a clear path free of pet waste and no obstructions that could bar delivery. Good tubs also tend to weigh quite a bit due to insulation. Lifting them up and over a fence or an air conditioner in a pathway is a no-no. If there is really not a clear safe path that won’t cause damage to tub or property, take a deep breath and be willing to invest the money for extra delivery team members or a boom truck to lift it into place if needed. Many crane companies have small trucks that will easily do the job and it is far cheaper than you might think. A hot tub is an investment, and you want to get it to its final resting place in great shape and free of damage. Be smart about doing what is needed to get it to its new home.

Taking some time to make some plans and fully flesh out your hot tub space will help guide you to the right hot tub and ensure you are set up for success. Always a great idea to take some photos of your hot tub’s potential new home. That way, you can share them with your hot tub dealer, and they can help make some recommendations. Or, if you live in our service area, we are known for our backyard consults. We will make an appointment and visit your home to help scope out the ideal space and help any way we can to make your hot tub dreams a reality.

Ready to soak? (I say yes!)