So you’ve ordered your beautiful new spa and have some time to prepare. Where do you start? While cool accessories, new towels and bathing suits, and waterproof games are certainly important, your spa will need a prepared, proper foundation first. When planning a flat space for your new spa, there are a few important things to consider: usage, location, and foundation.

Usage & Location

Will your spa be used for large gatherings year-round? If so, you may want to place the hot tub in a central location to allow conversation to flow for everybody.

Whether your guests are inside or outside of the spa, a central location ensures nobody is left out of the conversation.

If your spa will mostly be used for “me-time” and peaceful soaks, a more secluded spot may be better. Maybe a quiet, corner spot in your yard that’s slightly covered by foliage will elevate your relaxation experience.

You may also want to consider the different seasons where you live. Winter is one of the best times to go for a soak, but the trek to and from your spa will be chilly! Or, if you’re enjoying a cool soak during the hot Summer months, bare feet on hot concrete can put a damper on things. Placing your spa close to your home, or even in a prepared indoor space, will alleviate any weather complications with your travel time to and from your spa.

Additionally, consider the sun path in your yard and any nice views you would like to face. A relaxing soak can turn awkward if your neighbors look directly into your spa. (Check out our privacy tips here!)

Foundations

Your spa will need a solid, level foundation to operate properly.

Any tubs that sit on unlevel ground can bow out at the sides, crack, and take damage to internal components as well (voiding your warranty!). A simple concrete pad is the best type of foundation. If your spa is being placed on a deck or balcony, be sure to check that it can withstand the weight of a filled spa and any people in it. While leveled gravel, dirt, and grass or turf may seem okay, these types of foundations often settle and shift over time, causing distress on your spa’s body and equipment.

Your spa should also sit somewhere that is easy to keep clear of debris.

– Quick Tips –

• Always put your spa on a structurally sound, level (within ½” per 10’) surface. A filled spa can weigh a great deal. Make certain that the location you choose can support the weight of a filled spa before adding water.
• Locate your equipment compartment and choose a place where water will drain away from it. The equipment compartment is the space below your control panel. Allowing water into the equipment compartment can damage the electronics or trip a circuit breaker.
• Leave yourself easy access to the circuit breakers in the subpanel (230v converted models) or to the GFCI on the end of the power cord (110v models).
• Never let water get into the subpanel (230v converted models), GFCI (110v models), or electrical outlet that your spa is plugged into. (
• Leave access to the equipment compartment for periodic spa care and maintenance.

With proper placement and a solid, level foundation, your spa will last your for many happy years to come!

–>Did you know that we have an entire YouTube channel filled with “How-To” videos? Check it out here!<–

To get relaxing in your own Fantasy spa today, locate your local dealer now.