Where should you place your hot tub?
It’s finally time to upgrade your backyard to include a hot tub – congratulations! Hot tubs are not only luxurious, relaxation getaways from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but they can also offer a range of health and wellness benefits. After all, few things are quite as soothing as soaking in hot water with jets.
Choosing the right spot for your hot tub will be an important part of the installation process, as you want your backyard oasis to be as comfortable and convenient as possible. The following will help you get started by providing tips for hot tub placement, electrical hookup, and more.
Getting Started: Hot Tub Placement
It’s essential that the area you select is level and firm, as an uneven surface will lead to an unbalanced hot tub. You will also want to make sure the space is open for the lid to be tucked behind it when in use and there is room on all sides for any future maintenance. For this reason we never recommend you sink your hot tub into a deck. Finding an area with access to a water source can be incredibly convenient when filling the hot tub, but not necessary, you will just need a longer hose to fill it.
Most hot tubs require a 220/240V outlet, and your electrical system should feature a weatherproof GFCI that is easily accessible. It’s also recommended that you have a dedicated breaker for your hot tub, so the circuits handling the other outlets of your home are not affected. For more complex situations, you may need the help of a pro.
Safety Precautions:
The next step is to consider the safety of the hot tub installation. Hot tubs are incredibly safe when they are installed properly, but there can be some hazards you want to avoid. For instance, you want to make sure your hot tub is at least several feet away from any electrical sockets. Even if they are GFCI sockets, many inspectors will not pass an inspection if your hot tub is within 8ft of an outlet. Alternatively, you can have the electrical socket blocked off, or build some kind of barrier between the hot tub and the socket.
You should also make sure your new hot tub is away from any overhanging trees with dripping sap. Tree sap can stain the lid of the hot tub and if it gets in the water, can spoil it. Also, needles and leaves in the hot tub water can be a hassle, you didn't see coming.
Lighting and Aesthetic Considerations:
As you finalize the hot tub placement, you should also be aware of how the placement will affect the visual aesthetics of your space. You may want the hot tub to be close to the house or positioned almost as an outdoor hub, where it is the most prominent structure of your backyard. You might also consider installing lights around the hot tub to make it stand out, or to create a bit of a mood come nighttime. Hot tub umbrellas are a beautiful way of getting coverage when you need it and folding it up when you want to see the stars. Link to them here: https://www.thehottubman.ca/accessories/hot-tub-umbrellas
Having a Hot Tub Installed:
Now that you have decided where the hot tub will be placed, the rest of the installation will likely be a breeze. This is where we at The Hot Tub Man take over and make your dream come true. We will deliver and fill your hot tub for you, turn it on, and we don’t leave until you are 100% comfortable with the operations of your new spa.
The Rest is Up to You Now that we’ve installed your hot tub, it’s time to relax and enjoy your own backyard paradise. Perhaps you’ll invite friends and family for a warm soak, enjoy a late-night dip under the stars, or just relax and enjoy the calming sounds of the jets. The possibilities are endless. Enjoy the journey and the bliss.
