Whether you’ve just bought a hot tub and are beginning to prepare for its arrival, or you’ve been debating taking the leap, your hot tub installation has undoubtedly been on your mind.
Your hot tub install is equally as important as choosing your dream model, and the perfect installation all starts with the steps you take before delivery day!
Curious about what’s involved and what you’ll need to do to get ready before your spa’s arrival?
We’ve got you covered! Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about how to prepare your space for your new hot tub!
How To Prepare For Your Hot Tub Installation
Preparing for your hot tub is a big part of your spa ownership journey.
While there is plenty to be excited about, getting your backyard ready for your new spa is serious business, but with the right steps, you’ll be ready before you know it!
Choose Your Location
You likely already know where you want to install your hot tub, having envisioned how it’ll complement your space.
However, if you haven’t, or if you need to reconsider where you want your spa installed, there are some important factors to consider that will help you choose the best location.
- Electrical hookup
- Easily accessible
- Near a water source
- Privacy
- View
- Protection from the elements
While some of these may not be a necessity, such as natural privacy and an eye-catching view from the water, others, such as its accessibility, should be a top consideration.
Decide on an Install Style
Hot tubs can be installed in a variety of ways, and each one poses its own unique considerations as you prepare for your hot tub’s arrival.
Some of the most common hot tub installation styles are as follows:
- Recessed
- Partially recessed
- Split level
- Above Ground
Each one of these installations will require a different amount of work, which means some may be more expensive than others.
Recessed Hot Tub Installations
A recessed or “in-ground” installation is when your hot tub is lowered into the ground to create a seamless look to your backyard.
These installations boast a high-end appeal and can leave your backyard looking like a five-star resort with the proper planning.
However, this is easily one of the most costly installation styles, mainly due to the added work needed to dig the hole and lower your spa into it.
Additionally, if you’ve opted for this style, you’ll want to ensure you leave enough space around your hot tub to easily access your system, while also making sure there’s ample drainage.
Partially Recessed Hot Tub Installations
This install type is exactly as it sounds; a partial version of the one above.
Essentially, if you like the look of a recessed hot tub but want to maintain easier access and make stepping into your spa effortless, this is a perfect solution.
These spas are halfway in the ground, ensuring they are low enough to make getting in and out effortless while making it easier to access your panel.
Split Level Installations
Do you want the allusion of a recessed hot tub without the cost and work associated with it?
If you have a raised deck or are planning on building one, you may be able to achieve the same look by placing your spa directly beside your deck.
This provides a seamless transition from the top of your deck to the edge of your hot tub while maintaining the affordability and easy access to the panel that an above-ground installation would.
This is also a great way to add some dimension to your backyard, creating natural layers to give your space a pop of style!
Above-Ground Hot Tub Installation
This is easily one of the most popular, and affordable hot tub installations.
For this install, your hot tub will simply be placed on your foundation, with the cabinetry exposed, allowing your spa to become a stunning statement piece in your space.
Because of the unobstructed placement of this install, you’ll have complete access to every side of your spa, ensuring you can easily spot any issues, clean the cabinet, and access the system behind your panel.
One thing you’ll want to ensure if you’ve opted for this style is to invest in some steps to make getting in and out of the water easier.
Prepare Your Foundation
Your foundation is a crucial element of your hot tub installation.
Not only does it keep your hot tub from slowly sinking into the ground over the years, but it ensures its level, maintaining its structural stability.
If you have a pre-existing deck or patio, you may be able to use that as your hot tub foundation.
Before settling on this option, however, there are two things you need to verify.
1. It needs to be perfectly level to evenly distribute the weight of your spa
2. It has to be strong enough to hold the total weight of your spa after it’s been filled with water and has people in it.
If your existing deck or patio doesn’t meet those requirements, or you don’t have an existing space for your hot tub, you’ll need to install a foundation in your chosen location.
One of the most popular hot tub foundation options is a concrete slab. This option is one of the most affordable solutions and is easy to add to your space.
Some other options you might want to consider include:
- Crushed gravel
- Paver stones
- A spa pad
Whatever foundation material you choose, you’ll want to ensure it has good drainage, is level, and can withstand the weight of your spa once it’s filled.
Hire an Electrician
While many of your preparation steps can be done DIY style, when it comes to your electrical connection, you should always involve a professional.
Depending on your hot tub, you may need a special electrical setup to ensure it has the power it needs while remaining safe. This is especially important for outdoor installations, even if you’ve bought a 120V spa.
For many hot tubs, this means having an outlet that has a GFCI – a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. This works to protect your hot tub from any sudden change to your power supply, protecting both you and your spa.
Your dealership may be able to connect you with a certified, reliable local electrician who can perform the work.
Your electrician will also need to be present on delivery day, ensuring your spa is correctly hooked up.
Top Ways to Boost Your Installation
After you’ve gotten your space ready, it’s time to start thinking about all the exciting ways you can transform it into a picturesque escape perfectly tailored to your needs.
With the right additions, you can elevate your spa, enhancing the entertainment value of your space or improving your privacy.
Here are three of our favorite ways to personalize your backyard oasis.
Amp Up Privacy With a Gazebo
If your backyard doesn’t have any natural privacy elements, a gazebo or pergola can be the perfect solution.
Not only do they offer protection from above, but there are also various accessories that can help enhance the privacy they offer.
From privacy screens to flowing curtains, there are plenty of ways to seamlessly integrate your gazebo into your outdoor space and keep prying eyes at bay.
Create a Comfy Haven With Patio Furniture
If entertaining is high on your priority list, adding some cozy patio furniture may be just what you’re looking for.
The right set of patio furniture can breathe new life into your space, tying together the aesthetic you’re aiming to achieve.
With various styles to choose from, finding the perfect set to complement your space won’t be hard.
Turn Up The Heat With a Fire Table
Fire tables are the perfect way to add some stunning ambiance to your evening soaks, while also serving as an entertaining distraction for your kids.
From roasting marshmallows to casting the perfect orange glow after sunset, these tables have a lot to offer.
Hot Tubs For Sale in Dulles, Virginia
At Outdoor Living Way, we’re passionate about transforming your backyard into a personal oasis you’ll crave coming home to.
We’ve been providing top-quality backyard leisure essentials to homeowners throughout Dulles, Virginia, and the surrounding areas for many years, and we’re proud to play an integral part in improving the quality of life of everyone who walks through our doors.
Contact our team, or stop by and explore your many options in person today!
