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ABOVE-GROUND INSTALLATIONS
Where the hot tub is a “stand-alone” above-ground installation to be installed in
regions where freeze/thaw conditions may occur, a level patio stone or pre-formed
paver type base may be sufficient if there is no abutting deck(s) that could be
damaged during potential seasonal movement of the ground. The potential
drawback to this type of base is that splash water could eventually de-stabilize the
ground under the base, with the resultant shift of the support base causing damage
to the hot tub structure.
For best results, we recommend the installation of a level concrete pad:
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Dig out and level the ground 20-30 cm (8-12 in.) below your desired base level
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Install 10-15 cm (4-6 in.) of crushed stone
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Next, install 10-15 cm (4-6 in.) of poured concrete
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Level the concrete and apply a broom-type finish
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We recommend that the pad be made 15 cm (6 in.) larger than the hot tub on
three sides, and 1 m (3 ft.) larger on the side where the access steps and/or
planters will be installed.
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Hot tub/swimspa must be installed on a level pad
In regions where freeze/thaw occurs, or where there will be custom decking
abutting the hot tub we recommend the installation of sono-tubes beneath the pad
to prevent shifting.
IN-GROUND & PARTIAL IN-GROUND INSTALLATIONS
For units being installed fully or partially in the ground, the type of support will
again vary based on whether or not the tub is being installed in an area with
freeze/thaw conditions. We don’t recommend back-filling full in-ground or partial in-
ground installations.
Non-freezing climates – it is sufficient to ensure that the base of the hole or cavity
created for the tub has a dry, stable, compacted level base and proper drainage.
Climates where freeze/thaw occurs – it is necessary that a poured level reinforced
concrete base, complete with concrete footings, be installed as outlined in the
section
ABOVEGROUND INSTALLATIONS.
Areas with a high ground water table – a level concrete base, as well as a concrete
or wood retaining wall to hold back the earth, is recommended. This forms a box or
‘bunker’, in which the hot tub is placed.
ALWAYS ensure that there is good drainage, via a properly designed French drain
(gravel) system and/or a sump pump, to prevent ground water flooding damage to
the support equipment or hot tub structure.
Install protective waterproof conduit to house any cables that will be buried.
Access for future service must be considered at the time of design and installation.
You must be able to access all sides and areas of your hot tub. Difficult access will
result in supplemental service labor charges not covered by the factory warranty.
Consider easily removable deck materials.
Make sure the hot tub or swim spa is tested for 48 hours before you prepare the
installation of the surrounding/finish deck around your hot tub. Even though all units
are tested in our plant, some transport/site handling damage can occur and we
suggest you make sure the tub is perfectly waterproof before finalizing your
installation
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