Thursday, January 3, 2013

How To Install A Hot Tub


Knowing how to install a hot tub according to best practices will ensure that you connect your spa properly, getting the most out of everything that it has to offer as a result. You may consider having a professional on hand in case you have questions or need assistance with this labor intensive project.

Materials:
  • Basic Plumbing Tools
  • Concrete Foundation or Pad
  • Electrical Hookup
  • Gas Hookup
  • Heater
  • Hot Tub
  • Pumps
  • Water Hookup
Step #1: Choose Location
The first thing to do is to find the perfect spot for the installation of your spa. Since your filled spa is going to weigh approximately 5000lbs, you are going to want to install it on a sturdy concrete surface. You are also going to want to install your spa as close to your home as possible for the sake of convenience.

Step #2: Gather Materials
Gather all of the necessary materials and equipment before you go about installing your spa. This should include all of the water pipes that will be responsible for connecting the heater and the pumps to your spa. If you are installing your hot tub 50 feet or more away from your main source of water, you may not get enough water pressure for your jets.

Step #3: Prepare Gas and Electrical
The next step in the process is to extend both the electrical service and the gas service to reach the location you have chosen for your spa. You are probably going to need to have a dedicated electrical outlet capable of 240V in order to run the hot tub pump. Make sure to contact your gas company so that a line can be extended for heating.

Step #4: Hot Tub Assembly
Now you are going to want to assemble your spa based on the instructions given by the manufacturer. With traditional spa assemblies, this is going to mean locking in each of the wooden staves together using what is essentially a tongue in groove method of construction. Metal bands will then be fastened horizontally, which will make the tub waterproof.

Step #5: Connect Plumbing Features
Now you should connect all of the plumbing features based on the schematic that has been provided by the manufacturer of the spa. Make sure that all of the pipes, fittings and gasket are properly matched to the inventory list before you begin, and make sure as you go along that all of the connections have been made tightly.

Step #6: Test Connections
Before you add water to your finished spa you are going to want to test all of the lines, including both the plumbing lines and the gas lines to make sure that there are no leaks. Certain localities may also require that you undergo an electrical inspection before you can fill your hot tub with water in order to prevent the possibility of being electrocuted in the process.


Source: www.DoItYourself.com