A hot tub is a great way to enhance your home and make it more comfortable. The tub or spa can be the perfect romantic, solitary, or even hangout spot. You can make the best memories with your family, spouse, and even friends here. Apart from the entertainment and relaxing benefits this home feature offers, it also offers several health benefits because of its hydrotherapy functions.
Therefore, if you are considering getting this home feature, then you are taking the right step. If you live in Illinois, there are several places you can get a hot tub from. For instance, Watson’s of O’Fallon is an example of one of the many stores in O’Fallon Illinois that sells hot tubs to people in O’Fallon and surrounding areas. But this article isn’t about buying a hot tub, rather it is about installing one; therefore, we will discuss some things you have to know about installing a hot tub in Illinois.
When Should You Install a Hot Tub
A common question people have about installing this home feature is if there’s an ideal time to do this. Well, the answer to this question depends on the type of spa you want to install. If you’re installing an indoor spa, you can do this any time. It does not matter when you install an indoor spa because it’ll be indoors and shielded from environmental factors.
But when it comes to an outdoor tub, you may find it more ideal to install it when the weather is fair. This is especially true if you’ll be building peripherals like patio cover and concrete slab too. But if you already have these supporting items in place, there won’t be any reason to wait for a particular season.
Safety Measures to Take
When installing this home feature, you’ll need to consider the electrical aspect of it. Everyone knows electricity and water don’t mix. Therefore, you’ll need to be as careful as possible during this process.
Ensure you wear protective clothing like gloves to prevent shocks. Also, make sure to install your electrical outlet according to code. If you aren’t that great at handling electrical projects, then it will be better to employ a licensed electrician for the job.
Permits and Codes
Typically, depending on your location, you may have to get a permit to install certain types of tubs. In O’Fallon for instance, you need a building permit to install spas that are over twenty-four inches deep. You can visit here to find out more about the permit needed to get a spa in O’Fallon. You also need to make sure the electrical connections are according to the National Electrical Code.
Your spa may also be inspected to ensure that it follows the laid down regulations. Therefore, before you proceed, make sure you know all the requirements you need to meet depending on your area. Once you have ample knowledge of this, take your time to ensure you meet all the requirements, then you can proceed.
Tools You’ll Need
Of course, you need the spa itself to install it. You will also need other accessories like the filter and skimmer. You need a sturdy base like a deck or concrete slab. When it comes to the equipment, you’ll have to get moving equipment (sometimes, a crane may be needed), tape measure, laser/bubble level, and garden hose.
Placement
Where you place the tub is very important to ensure convenience and efficiency. If you are installing the tub outdoors, then you need to be more deliberate with its location. It must be placed such that it doesn’t obstruct entrance to your home and it’s also close enough to the home; in this case, consider hardscaping the pathway from the hot tub to the house. Also, place it within at least 15 feet of the power outlet.
When You Need a Professional
Depending on the type and size of the spa, you may conveniently install it all by yourself. However, there are certain situations where you have to get a professional to ensure safety and proper installation. For example, if you do not have ample knowledge about electricity, you have to hire a licensed electrician to fix the power outlets for the tub.
If you want to install the spa on your deck (whether you have built the deck already or not), you will have to get a structural engineer or contractor. You can check https://www.thespruce.com/ to learn more about building a deck. If you already have a deck, the contract or engineer will check it to be sure it can carry the weight of the spa. If you do not have a deck or the deck you have has to be reinforced to carry the tub’s weight, then you’ll need an experienced contractor for this.
You may also hire a contractor to pour the concrete slab (if necessary). Finally, a professional hauler may be needed if accessing the location proves difficult. The hauler will help you move the spa to the location either manually or with a crane.
Conclusion
To properly install a hot tub, several things must be done right. This is why we have discussed some of the most important things you need to know about this process. We believe you’ll have an easier time installing your spa with all we have discussed in this article.