What You Need to Install a Hot Tub
A hot tub is one of those luxury items that we all dream of having, especially given our long, cold Alberta winters. Wouldn't it be great to step into a steaming hot tub and warm up after a hard day at work?
If setting up a hot tub in your backyard is something you'd like to do, there are several things you must consider before picking out your tub.
Essential Preparation Needed Before Installation
How Big Is Your Hot Tub?
You may aspire to buy a large ten-person hot tub, but do you have enough space to accommodate it? We recommend you allow at least one to two feet of space around the unit to comfortably enter and exit the hot tub.
Are You Close to a Hose?
Having access to fresh water is essential to fill the hot tub. You'll want to choose a location with a water faucet nearby and a hose long enough to fill it. Also, remember that you will periodically have to drain your tub. You can drain your hot tub by siphoning off the water with a hose, but make sure you have somewhere appropriate to drain it.
What Type of Foundation Will the Hot Tub Sit On?
Hot tubs also require a level surface to sit on. A deck or a concrete pad are excellent choices to place a hot tub. If these choices aren't an option for you, you can also buy spa pads, an interlocking grid system that provides a stable foundation on either grass or soil. These are removable and can easily be dismantled if you want to move the hot tub.
Electrical Needs For Your Hot Tub or Spa
Most hot tubs are plug-and-play spas. This means that all of the hot tub wiring and plumbing are built into the underside of the hot tub. You simply fill it with water and plug it in to be powered. But is it really that easy? Plugging in a hot tub is not quite the same as plugging a vacuum cleaner into the wall. A hot tub is a powerful appliance that uses a heater to heat up the water and powerful mechanical jets to provide a massage. For this reason, you need to check your electrical system to make sure it is sufficient.
Provide a Dedicated Electrical Circuit For Your Hot Tub
Does the electrical outlet you wish to use, provide enough power to run the hot tub? Much like clothes dryers, stoves, and dishwashing machines, your hot tub is considered a major appliance and should have a dedicated circuit to connect to. This helps to protect the hot tub from damage and prevent overload-related fires. A separate circuit also serves to limit the risk of electrocution.
Upgrade Your Electrical Breaker Panel
While homes with 50 or 60-amp panels will require an updated electrical panel, most of the older Alberta homes will have 100-amp electrical panels. Depending on the current circuit breaker usage and the power requirements of your hot tub, a 100 amp panel may work for your hot tub needs. Keep in mind that the larger the hot tub, the more jets it may have. This means more power is needed to run them.
If you plan to run your hot tub seven days a week, 365 days a year, you'll want to consider the power usage. Overloaded circuits pose a serious safety hazard, so upgrading may be a good option. A 200 amp panel can provide peace of mind and ensure that all of your household needs are met.
Install a GFCI Breaker
Any device or appliance that is used around water must be plugged into a GFCI or ground fault circuit interrupter. This helps to reduce the risk of electrocution by shutting off the power when electrical imbalances are detected. A GFCI-protected breaker is essential for a hot tub.
Follow the Canadian Electrical Code For Hot Tubs
Hot tub owners must ensure that any electrical installation for a hot tub complies with the National Electric Code or NEC. This outlines several electrical requirements for installing a hot tub.
Your Local Edmonton Electricians
Hire a licensed electrician for your hot tub installation. We will ensure that you have a sufficient supply of electrical for a hot tub or spa. From GFCI breakers to an updated electrical panel, we will install the proper equipment so that you can feel safe while you soak in your tub. Call us today!