6
Prepare for Your New Spa
Prepare for Your New Spa
Most cities and counties require permits for exte-
rior construction and electrical circuits. In addition,
some communities have codes requiring residential
barriers such as fencing and/or self-closing gates on
property to prevent unsupervised access to the
property by children. See codes, page 7. Your local
code enforcement officer can provide information
on which permits may be required and how to ob-
tain them prior to the delivery of your spa.
Prepare a Good Foundation
Damage caused by an inadequate or improper
foundation is not covered by the warranty. The
spa owner is responsible for providing a proper
foundation.
Place the spa on a solid, level founda-
tion. If you are installing the spa indoors (not rec-
ommended), pay close attention to the flooring
beneath it. Choose flooring that will not be dam-
aged or stained. If you are installing your spa on an
elevated wood deck or other structure, consult a
structural engineer or a contractor to ensure the
structure will support the weight of 150 pounds per
square foot. An adequate drainage system has to be
provided to deal with overflow water.
Plan the Best Location
SAFETY FIRST
Do not place your spa within 10 feet (3 m)
of overhead power lines.
Consider Spa Use
How you intend to use your spa will help you
determine where you should position it. For exam-
ple, will you use your spa for recreational or thera-
peutic purposes? If your spa is mainly used for family
recreation, be sure to leave plenty of room around
it for activity. If you will use it for relaxation and
therapy, you will probably want to create a specific
mood around it.
Climate, Privacy and View
Place the spa near a house entry if you live in a
snowy or rainy environment so you have a place to
comfortably change clothes. Consider seasonal
changes, too. Bare trees don’t provide much privacy.
And don’t forget to think of your neighbors’ view of
you, and your view of your neighbors.
Keep Your Spa Clean
In planning your spa’s location, consider a location
where there is a clean path to and from the house.
Use a mat at the spa’s entrance to encourage
bathers to clean their feet before entering your spa.
Allow for Service Access
If you are installing your spa near a wall or with any
type of structure on the outside, such as a gazebo,
remember to allow a minimum of 18” access for
service.
!
