Always put your spa on a structurally sound, level surface. A filled spa can weigh a great deal. Make certain that the location you choose can support the weight of your filled spa. No matter where you install your new spa, it’s important that you have a solid foundation to support it. Damage caused by inadequate or improper foundation support is not covered by the warranty. It is the responsibility of the spa owner to provide a proper foundation for the spa.
There are several considerations when installing your spa outdoors.
1. Avoid selecting a site where excessive water may contact the spa, such as sprinklers or a roof edge without rain gutters.
2. Avoid areas of direct, prolonged sunlight (if possible). The ultraviolet rays may fade or damage the spa cover and cabinet.
3. Check all applicable national and local codes regarding possible restrictions that require fencing or childproof gates around the spa.
4. Prevent dirt, sand, and foliage from being tracked into your spa by utilizing concrete, concrete pavers, or stone for paths and access areas (or, avoid positioning your spa in an area where debris will be tracked into the spa). Check the location of trees and spill paths from gutters to determine if wind or rain will sweep debris into your spa.
5. Consider your view and your privacy during all seasons of the year so your experience in your outdoor spa will be enhanced rather than limited. NOTE: Typical outdoors surfaces include, but are not limited to concrete, brick, non-slip tile, wood decking, pea gravel, or sand.
Indoor installation.
Be aware of some special requirements if you place your spa indoors. Water will accumulate around the spa, so flooring materials must provide a good grip when wet. Proper drainage is essential to prevent a build-up of water around the spa. When building a new room for the spa, it is recommended that a floor drain be installed. The humidity will naturally increase with the spa installed. Water may get into woodwork and produce dryrot, mildew, or other problems. Check for airborne moisture’s effects on exposed wood, paper, etc. in the room. To minimize these effects, it is best to provide plenty of ventilation to the spa area. An architect can help to determine if more ventilation must be installed
Clearance for Service Access
While you are planning where to locate your spa, you need to determine how much access you will need for service. American Spas require access to the front of the spa for periodic service. For this reason, the spa should never be placed in a manner where the front is permanently blocked. Examples include placing the front of the spa against a building, structural posts or columns, or a fence. If you are planning to enclose or surround your spa with a deck, make sure there is access for service or repair.
Electrical Service Stub-up
The location of the electrical service cable is a decision each spa owner needs to decide. Running the electrical cable lay on top of the slab is visually unappealing and can present a trip hazard. Most spa owners prefer to bury electrical conduit before the slab is laid and run the cable up through the slab. The location of the conduit in the concrete slab is called the stub-up. You will need to have a contractor lay down a concrete slab before the spa is delivered (as described on page 2). The stub-up needs to be located directly next to the cabinet as shown in the figures below. The spa installer or electrician will need to drill a hole in the spa cabinet approximately 5” to 10” up from the concrete slab. This will be where the conduit will enter the spa equipment area. Use rigid pipe and a metal elbow outside the spa. You can use flex pipe inside the equipment area to run the electrical wire from the elbow to the control box.
Special Circumstances
The use of a crane for delivery and installation may become necessary if you are unable to provide an adequate delivery route. It is used primarily to avoid injury to your spa, your property or to delivery personnel. Your spa dealer may be able to assist you with the arrangements. If your spa delivery requires the use of a crane, the cost of a crane is generally not included in the standard delivery service.