Planning for your Swim Spa Installation – What You Need to Know

You purchased a swim spa! You’re excited! You can’t wait to swim, exercise and relax in warm and soothing water! How do you prepare for a swim spa delivery? What steps do you need to take before your swim spa can be put in place? The following are some tips to help you get ready for the arrival of your spa.

Choose a location:

Take time and carefully consider the best place to locate your new swim spa.

• The site of your swim spa should be smooth, level and solid enough to support the weight of the spa, water and occupants.
• Leave 1-metre access around all sides of the spa so that the inner workings are easily accessible for repair and/or maintenance.
• Assure you are not near utility lines or underground gas, water and sewage lines. 
• Before choosing a site, consider the view. Will you be looking at trees and shrubs or the back alley full of garbage cans?
• Think about the level of privacy you desire.
• Make sure you’re a distance from trees and plants to help reduce debris that can land in the spa.
• Is there a water source close by for filling/refilling?
• Locate your spa close enough to your home to give you easy access in all weather.
• Is there a wide enough delivery path from the road to the space you’ve chosen?
• Will you be sheltered from prevailing winds?
• Consider drainage from splash-over and rain.
• Your spa should be at least 12 feet away from overhead power, telephone or cable lines.

Prepare the site and base:

After choosing your site, it’s time to prepare the area for your swim spa.

• The surface needs to be firm and solid to prevent uneven settling that can damage the swim spa. Cement with rebar support is required for swim spa installation. 
• If you choose to locate your spa on your deck, have a professional inspect the deck to ensure it can handle the weight.
• A swim spa must rest completely flush with its foundation and the foundation must easily hold the spa, the water, and bathers (2,000 to  15,000 pounds when filled).
• Elevate the foundation so that water drains away from it.
• Swim spas should never be placed on bare ground or grass.
• Do not place the swim spa in an area where there are large tree roots above or near the surface.
• Uneven surfaces and slopes can cause problems with installation and use.
• Clear the path to the location you’ve chosen so you’re ready for the delivery team. Make sure it’s clear of obstacles (patio furniture, toys, or yard equipment). Trim any tree limbs or bushes that may prevent easy access.
• Think about creating a concrete and/or stone path to your spa to help keep it free from dirt and debris!

Set up the electrical supply: 

Most swim spas run off 240V/60-amp hookups and will require electrical work. For safety, all spas must connect to a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). Hire a qualified electrician to handle your wiring and connection issues before the spa arrives. The further the spa is from the main breaker box, the more it will cost to wire it. 

Let your neighbors know that you have scheduled the delivery of a swim spa as the delivery truck may interfere with their parking. 

Take care of pets and/or children:

Swim spa delivery is exciting! Pets and children may be especially enthusiastic but also add stress to delivery day. Gates are open and strangers are in the yard. Consider leaving pets and/or children with a friend or neighbour for the day.

Choosing and purchasing a swim spa is only the first step in the process of establishing your spa in your backyard. You must also carefully choose a location, adequately prepare your site for the swim spa delivery and take care of all electrical needs. Then, relax while you bask in the beauty of nature from your new swim spa.Thinking of purchasing a swim spa? Need a dealer that can provide information and advice on choosing and preparing a site for your spa? The experts at RnR Hot Tubs and Spas are here to help. We are a leader in spa technology and education and carry a variety of swim spa models from major brands, including Vita Spas, American Whirlpool, and MAAX Spas. We’re the spa shop for you. Owned by service professionals with over 30 years of experience, we help make your purchase exceptional. Please call 403-203-0860 to set up an appointment.