The Great Escape - Spas and hot tubs  
 
Planning for your spa
Choosing a location

Choosing a site for your spa is a personal decision based on your intended use and the existing features of your home and property. When choosing an outdoor location consider that the closer to the home the spa is located, the easier it will be to go back and forth when it is used. Also think about how you plan to use your spa. Is it strictly an adults only relaxation environment, or will you also use it for family gatherings and social entertainment?

You will want to consider things like:

  • Accessibility – is it convenient to get to?
  • Privacy – will you have to screen your neighbours?
  • General aesthetics – will the spa look good in the location you are considering?
  • Also, where will users change?
  • How is the spa in relation to the entertainment in your home? If your home has a scenic view or a grove of trees you may want to create a special area so that your spa makes the most of this environment.

Although highly recommended you do not have to place your spa on a concrete slab to keep it level. If a concrete slab isn’t available or not appropriate for your needs, verify that the floor structure beneath the spa is strong enough to support the full weight of the spa when it is filled both with water and guests. The gallons of water can be multiplied by 8.3 pound to = one gallon of water plus 175 pounds per adult.

You will need to have a level surface firm enough to support your spa when full. It is recommended that a four inch concrete slab be used for both support and to keep the spa from excess moisture on the ground. You will also find if you place your spa on grass, gravel etc you may track in excess debris into your spa causing more frequent cleaning. Make sure if you do place your spa in these types of areas that you provide pavers, decking etc to reduce this problem.

If you choose to place the spa inside your home some special considerations need to be taken into account. The tub will be heated to 38 degrees this in turn will cause more water will emanate from the tub requiring ventilation especially in smaller rooms. The room should contain a ventilation fan to allow both excess heat and moisture to escape.

  Male and female relaxing in spa