Hot Tub Installation Planning Guide

Now that you have made the decision to purchase a hot tub, you need to think long and hard about where you will place your new hot tub. Basically, you have three choices for a location; indoors, outdoors or inside a screened in porch. The choice is completely up to you as to where you put it, but there are many considerations that you should take into account before you make your decision.


PLAN AHEAD FOR STRENGTH AND SAFETY

No matter where you decide to place your hot tub you need to make sure that the location has a solid foundation. What this means to you is that the foundation must be a uniformly firm, continuous, and it must provide a level setting. The recommended foundation is a concrete pad with a minimum thickness of 4 inches with steel reinforced cross bars throughout.

When installing your spa on a wood deck or balcony, the same load requirements must be met. Total load may be as much as 90 pounds per square foot. Remember that your hot tub weights about 700 pounds on its own, then when you add water and people, it could have a total weight of up to 4,000 pounds.

Regardless of the location that you decide upon, you need to be sure that the hot tub is not within 10 feet of overhead power lines and that you leave access to the internal equipment.

In order to complete maintenance or to make a needed repair, you will need adequate space to be able to reach the internal components. If your hot tub has external equipment you need to know that most city codes require that the equipment be at least 5' from the tub, unless they are separated by a permanent solid barrier.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR INDOOR PLACEMENT OF YOUR HOT TUB

If you decide to place your hot tub indoors you need to understand that moisture will accumulate. Think about it, when the hot tub is being used, it puts off a great deal of steam. The steam that is created must go somewhere, and it will leave moisture on your walls, ceiling, floor, etc.

In any indoor location, you absolutely need to make sure that you have really good ventilation. The amount of moisture created will vary according to how frequently you use your hot tub. The ventilation not only helps dissipate the moisture and steam, but it also allows the hot tub chemicals to be circulated out.

The odor of the cleaning components can accumulate indoors and even create electrical problems, unless the area is well ventilated. The good news is that if you place your hot tub indoors it will probably stay cleaner and require less frequent chemical treatments.

Here comes the big news about installing a hot tub indoors; you should have some kind of drainage system in place! Experts recommend that you change the water in your hot tub every four months or so. And, the bucket brigade is not my idea of a Saturday afternoon well spent.

You always have the option of running sewage drains to your hot tub, and if you are placing your hot tub on an existing slab, you will need to dig up the concrete to build your drain system.

Another option that is a little less painful would be to get a small submersible pump. You can use the pump to push most of the water out of your hot tub, but pumps usually fail to move the last inch or so of water at the bottom of the tub.

Some manufacturers, build their hot tubs with a water hose connection inside of the cabinet at the bottom of the hot tub. This will enable you to hook a water hose to your hot tub, so that you can easily drain the water and move it to another drain or outside on the ground.


ADDITIONAL TIPS

No matter how well made your hot tub is, it is always possible that after years of usage, leaks can occur due to worn gaskets or seals. That water must have a place to go. Be prepared to deal with this if the situation arises.

Another obvious thought that may sometimes get overlooked is that you have to get the hot tub into your house. Measure to make sure that you have enough room to navigate it into your house and then measure again, after you do that, measure once more!

Many companies suggest that you spend the money to have a licensed contractor make sure that the local building codes are met, and the installation can occur safely, and that load requirements can be met.


YOUR HOT TUB OUTDOORS AND UNDER THE STARS

For many people, outdoors is the best location for a hot tub. A hot tub can be enjoyed on a warm sunny day or on a chilly night while you stay nice and toasty in your hot tub.

Being outdoors, there are fewer concerns for the hot tub. You do not have to worry about the steam and humidity or the chemicals affecting your home. Locating your hot tub outdoors though does mean that you may have to get a concrete pad laid down so that the hot tub has a proper foundation.

Other considerations with placing a hot tub outdoors include that it will get dirtier easier. Walking to and from the hot tub, your feet will get dirty and that will get in the hot tub. You also have to consider that leaves and such may end up in your new hot tub.

A hot tub cover is very important when placing a hot tub anywhere, but it is especially important when placing it outdoors. Always have a cover on the hot tub when you are not in it. This is a safety measure to prevent small children from falling into it and it also helps it to stay cleaner and keep insects out. The cleaner the water in the hot tub stays, the less frequently you have to treat the water with chemicals.

There are a wide variety of pictures of hot tubs on the Internet, being placed outdoors in very creative ways. If you want to invest the money, a stand-alone deck can be built that encompasses the hot tub. The only limit here is your imagination and your budget.


PLACING YOUR HOT TUB IN A SCREENED IN ROOM

Putting a hot tub in a screened in porch mostly resembles an outdoor installation. You have to consider some of the factors that go with both indoor and outdoor installations though.

A screened in porch will obviously allow for ventilation and the steam and humidity will not harm your walls.

You will still need a drain put into the floor of the porch though, if one does not already exist. If the manufacturer uses the water hose connection, this will not be an issue for you.

Again, you can find many creative pictures of hot tubs installed in screened porches on the Internet.


IN CONCLUSION...

In the end, the placement of your new hot tub is completely up to you and your preferences. No matter where you decide to put it, be sure to plan ahead. The more that you plan ahead the easier it will be to install and to enjoy.

If you are not sure whether or not your chosen hot tub location is suitable, then you should seriously consider contacting a licensed contractor to review your location and make sure that it is suitable.

Finally, always take into account safety factors when deciding where to put your hot tub. As stated before, a cover should always be in place when it is not in use. Also consider the surface that you will be walking on when going to and from the hot tub. If the path is smooth concrete you may want to put some mats down to prevent slipping.

Now go out and enjoy your new hot tub and take satisfaction in knowing that your preplanning has prevented headaches and will help to prevent any future problems.

Spa N Stuff sells factory direct discount hot tubs and spas at wholesale prices.

A Hot Tub Spa Fit For You

Indoor and outdoor hot tubs are becoming increasingly popular, as more and more people place higher value on the physical and mental health benefits of relaxation. Not only is the hot tub a wonderful means of relieving stress, it helps with blood circulation, it can be enjoyed alone, intimately, or even in a social setting. 

Hot Tub Benefits

For centuries, hydrotherapies involving warm water have provided therapeutic value. The ancient Romans even used thermal water as part of their medical treatments. Hot water helps to relieve pain, loosen cramped, achy muscles, the steam acts as an excellent decongestant and, studies have shown that taking a soothing soak for 15-30 minutes a day not only helps you sleep better (the National Sleep Foundation has shown that a short soak prior to going to bed can ease the transition into a deeper, more restful sleep), but significantly brings down blood sugar levels of people suffering type 2 diabetes. Moreover, because the hot water raises your body temperature, you perspire and thus rid your body of plenty of unwanted toxins. Finally, having a hot tub can significantly raise the value of your home if you ever decide to sell.

What to Look for when Buying

Whether you’re looking to buy an indoor or outdoor hot tub, you will want to choose something durable and easy to maintain. Cutting corners can end up costing you in the long run, so to save yourself future troubles, your best bet is to have reasonable knowledge on the various types of hot tubs out there by doing some simple online research, have some basic understanding of hot tub care and maintenance, as well as an idea of what different warranties will provide by talking to various retailers in the Toronto hot tubs area and their manufacturers.

Hot Tubs 101

There are two types of hot tub spas: self-contained and non self-contained. Typically, self-contained hot tubs are installed above ground and are usually portable, whereas non self-contained hot tubs are installed in-ground and permanent.  Hot tubs are usually heated using an electric or natural gas heater, though there are also submersible wood-fired heaters, as well as solar hot water systems. “Spa” and the trade name “Jacuzzi” are often used when referring to an indoor fixture whereas a HotTub is almost always outdoors.

Some things to consider:

1. How many people do you want to fit in your hot tub?


2. How many water jets will the hot tub contain? For relaxation purposes, maximize your hot tubs potential with as many jets as you can get!


3. Location (Inside? Outside? Patio? Bathroom?)


4. Does the area you’ve chosen have enough clearance to handle the size of the hot tub?


5. Will the floor be able to handle the weight of the tub once it is filled and occupied?


6. Will your power supply require modification?
   
   

Depending on the space you are working with there will be different advantages to above floor/ground level hot tub spas or in-ground sunken installations worth considering. For first-time buyers, a portable hot tub is often recommended as it is a far less risky investment. Without the worry of installation costs, above-ground hot tubs can be filled with any available water source and they do not require any special plumbing, are easy to install and even easier to relocate in the future.

If you choose to go with the outdoor hot tub you may require some professional remodelling as well as proper electrical installation and pumping utilities. Chemicals, filters, and water delivery systems vary widely so be sure to discuss details with a trusted manufacture or professional consultant. Making educated choices in the beginning will save you time, money and unneeded stress in the future and help you get the most fun and relaxation out of your hot tub experience.

Health Benefits of Hot Tubs and Spas

Hot tubs and spas are used for multiple purposes. Many people enjoy them for relaxation and socializing with friends and family. They are a great retreat after playing with the kids in the pool or a stressful day at the office. Hot tubs and spas are a valuable year round addition to any pool or patio area. And, besides the social aspects of hot tubs and spas, there is also a number of health benefits associated.

Hot tubs and spas create a hydrotherapy technique using three main relieving agents: Heat, Water, and Air. These agents are natural benefits used to promote health for many years. Heat is a great resource for circulation. It raises your blood pressure causing a positive movement of blood throughout your body. Heat also opens your pores to release toxins and clean out your skin. Water releases pressure on your joints and muscles. It works by reducing the weight of your body and allowing you to feel like you are floating. And, Air being pushed through the jets creates resistance or pressure which releases endorphins in our body. Endorphins are a great source of a natural pain killer.

The heat, water, and air used in a hot tub or spa quickly relax your body allowing it to recover from the days stress. Whether you have joint pain from arthritis, you suffer from multiple sclerosis, or you endured a sports related injury, the hydrotherapy technique a hot tub or spa provides can aid you tremendously.

Besides the hydrotherapy and health promotion that hot tubs and spas create, there is other good news. Hot tubs and spas are made today in many shapes and sizes to fit anyone’s budget and space. They can be placed on decks, patios, lawns, in gazebos, or even inside a home. Plus, the upkeep is minimal allowing for even the busiest of us to have a hot tub and spa of our own. This is a great answer to the stress of today’s society. We can use the natural aspects of heat, water, and air to promote a healthy self, inside and out.

If you are interested in the health benefits offered from a hot tub or spa, check out Spas N Stuff. We have a variety of products from outdoor hot tubs to portable spas and hot tubs, even an infrared sauna line. We guaranteed discount hot tub prices at the highest quality around!

It's the Little Things that Can Make a Big Difference Regarding Your Hot Tub

It is not a mystery as to why many consumers choose to buy a hot tub spa. There are many health benefits to gain, hours of relaxation can be endless, and your living space gains another area of luxury and entertainment for friends and family members.

The 'basics' of owning a hot tub can't be denied, yet those who decide upon some of the 'extras' during their spa purchase, really thank themselves later. Consider some of your additional options:

- A high-definition LCD television. Some of our models come with retractable televisions. Most people have televisions present in just about every room of their homes. You're going to spend a lot of time in your hot tub, so having a television affixed would be a practical and splendid option.

- Neck and shoulder massage seats. Many people think of soothing, massaging sensations when they ponder a hot tub purchase. Make sure you're getting the most soothing experience possible.

- The number of a hot tub's jets makes all of the difference. A higher number can deliver more health benefits and create more of a relaxing atmosphere. A spa's jets are one of their prime characteristics. Make sure you're making the most of your purchase.

- What about a stereo system? You spend time in your vehicle - think about how you would feel if you didn't have a stereo system in your car. Do you think you could live without it? A hot tub experience is seriously improved with the presence of an AM/FM stereo system with a subwoofer.

- If you're going to be spending a good amount of time in your hot tub, then you'll want to make sure your head is comfortable. We have head cushions to ensure you're more relaxed and comfortable while you're watching your spa television.

- So far, you have the sights, sounds, and feel of a hot tub experience, but what about the smells. Aromatherapy beads can really enhance your spa experience and add to the ambiance.

Outdoor Kitchens Add to Your Hot Tub Experience

Hot tubs can address a variety of settings. Resting in your spa after work may be one of your favorite things to do. While others may enjoy the company of their loved one in the hot tub after the day is through and the night has come. Sharing your tub with family and friends is yet another alternative.

Outdoor kitchens make a wonderful addition to a hot tub setting. Rather than running in and out of the home grabbing food for famished friends and family members, with an outdoor kitchen, you won't have to move far.

SpasNStuff offers a variety of kitchen components so you can replicate a kitchen experience right there next to your hot tub spa. We offer grill cabinets, sink cabinets, tables, multi-door cabinets, and more! Many people enjoy their hot tub purchase so much, they wish they did not have to take occasional breaks due to hunger - now they don't!

The great thing about our piece-by-piece item selection is that you don't have to worry about spacing - you can purchase a few pieces you see fit or purchase an entire kitchen set for your outdoor setting!

Along with tables, chairs, and bar stools, which are all supplied by SpasNStuff, you can practically build an entire new room outside of your house to complement your hot tub purchase. With all of the options presented by SpasNStuff, you won't have to spend so much time away from the relaxation of your spa!