How to Prepare for Your New Hot Spring Spa Hot Tub

Want a hot tub for fall? Now is the time to order the color and style you want, decide on a location, add a concrete pad if needed, and hire an electrician (we have guys we work with). The best part? We’re here to help!

Let’s look at how to prepare for your new Hot Spring Spa hot tub.

Adding a hot tub to your backyard is an exciting investment in your comfort and wellness.

However, before we deliver your new Hot Spring Spa, there are a few important steps to ensure everything goes smoothly on delivery day.

Don’t worry! Our team at Townley Pool & Spa will walk you through the entire process with personalized pre-delivery guidance.

To get started, here are several things to consider.

Choose the Perfect Spot

Convenience is key when you pick the perfect spot for your hot tub, especially if you want to use it frequently.

Placing your spa close to the house makes it easier to enjoy, even during chilly weather. While a more remote location might offer better views or privacy, keep in mind that running electrical lines and accessing the hot tub for maintenance may be more complicated and expensive.

Also, remember you’ll occasionally need to drain and refill your spa, so it’s smart to position it near a garden hose and a safe area for water runoff.

Measure the Space

Once you’ve selected the area, take time to measure and mark off the footprint of your spa.

• Is there enough clearance around it for you to move freely?
• Is there adequate space for steps or handrails?
• Most importantly, make sure the access panel is not blocked. Your service technician will need to reach this area for future maintenance or repairs.
• Consider privacy screens or fencing as well, especially if your hot tub will be located in an open space.

Delivery Access: Is There a Clear Path?

We need to wheel your hot tub into place using a dolly, so it’s essential to ensure there’s enough clearance from the street to your installation site.

Watch for low-hanging branches, narrow gates, or tight corners that could get in the way. In some cases, we may need to use a crane to lift the spa into the backyard. If this applies to your situation, we’ll coordinate with the right professionals to get it done safely.

Can a Hot Tub Sit on Grass or Dirt?

Unfortunately, no. A hot tub should never be installed directly on the ground.

The combined weight of water and people can exceed several thousand pounds, and grass or soil will not provide the necessary support. Over time, moisture and bugs can damage the bottom of the spa, so a solid, level base is a must.

Install on a Hard Surface

A level concrete pad or a reinforced deck is the most common surface for hot tubs.

However, depending on the spa model you use, you may not need to pour concrete. A level pad built of stone pavers, a composite slab made of wood and gravel, or a modular spa pad made of heavy-duty plastic may also be good options.

We’ll discuss the specific foundation requirements for your spa model.

Prepare the Foundation

A filled hot tub can weigh anywhere from 2,000 to 8,000 pounds or more. To support that kind of load, you need a durable foundation. Common options include:

• Concrete slabs
• Crushed stone or pea gravel
• Pavers
• A reinforced deck

We recommend working with a contractor to ensure your chosen base is level and sturdy enough to hold your spa long-term. Our team can also connect you with trusted local professionals for site preparation.

Plan for Electrical Requirements

Hot tubs either require 110V or 220V of electricity. If you choose a 110V model— often referred to as “plug-and-play”—then you may be able to simply plug the spa into an electrical outlet in the backyard.

If you choose a 220V model, then you need to work with a certified electrician to ensure you have enough electricity to power the spa. The electrician needs to run the appropriate wires from your electrical panel to the hot tub. Y

We can help you understand the pros and cons of the two electrical configurations and can explain the specific electrical requirements for the model you choose.

Our team can also connect you with trusted and experienced electricians.

Install on an Existing Deck

Thinking about putting your spa on your current deck?

You’ll need to confirm that it’s strong enough to support the weight of the hot tub, water, and bathers.

A structural inspection by a qualified contractor is a must. If upgrades or reinforcements are needed, they can be added before installation. Also, consider refinishing or sealing the deck beforehand because moving a spa to do this later is no small task.

Design a New Deck for Your Spa

If you’re building a new deck, make sure the plans include the load capacity needed for your specific spa model.

At Townley Pool & Spa, we can provide full weight specs you can share with your builder or architect. That way, you can create a space that’s safe, stylish, and ready for long-term enjoyment.

Let Townley Pool & Spa Help You Get Started

From choosing the right spa to preparing your space and coordinating professional services, we’re here to make your hot tub ownership experience stress-free.

Stop by our Little Rock showroom or give us a call to start planning your backyard retreat with Hot Spring Spas today!