Imagine that today is delivery day for your new spa. You’ve done everything you need to do to ensure your hot tub arrives and is set up in the perfect location on your property. You may even have gotten a great deal on your spa.
Everything seems perfect, but in your rush to get your new hot tub, you may not have considered what to expect on delivery day and beyond.
Here is a glimpse into what it’s like to be a first-time hot tub owner.
Delivery and Setup
Hopefully, by now, any reinforcements for the space where your hot tub will be, are complete. For instance, the new space where your hot tub will be most likely needs proper reinforcement for the weight of the tub, especially once it’s filled with water and people.
You may also need special wiring to provide a safe plug-in for your hot tub, especially if it needs a dedicated GFCI breaker panel. Now is the day you’ve been waiting for when the tub is actually delivered and set up.
Expect the entire process to take 3 to 5 hours. One of the first things the crew will do when they arrive is walk the path to where they’ll set up the tub. They will confirm they have enough clearance to move the tub from the truck to the setup location without obstacles. They will also double-check that the installation area is level and properly reinforced.
The crew of about 3 to 4 will use specialized equipment to move the 600- to 1000-pound spa from the truck to its location. Once the tub is secured in place, they will plug it in if it has a 110-volt plug-and-play feature. However, if you have a 240-volt hardwired hot tub, you will need an electrician on-site to install a dedicated outdoor 50–60A GFCI disconnect panel.
After the crew completes the electrical connection, they will fill the tub. They will start by tightening and securing all plumbing, then drop the garden hose into the filter compartment to fill it with water.
Once the water fills the tub, they will power it on and ensure it works properly and that there are no error codes or plumbing leaks. The crew will also consult on filter maintenance, how to operate the control panel, and how to add chemicals once the water is warm enough.
Warming the water may take up to 14 hours, warming at a rate of 3 to 7 degrees Fahrenheit per hour. So don’t expect to jump into the spa right after the crew leaves. Once the water reaches between 100 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, it is ready for use.
Regular Routines
After the initial installation, you’re ready to begin ongoing hot tub maintenance. The most important maintenance routines are weekly and monthly. Two to three times a week, you’ll need to ensure the water has proper chemical levels. You’ll do this by using test strips to check the water’s pH level.
Every week, add chlorine shock oxidizer to break down organic waste, such as body oil, cosmetics, and perspiration. You should also clean the filter monthly with a garden hose, making sure to clean inside the pleats.
Quarterly Expectations
Every three months, your tub water will start to look hazy. This means it is time to drain the existing water and refill the spa with fresh water and chemicals. After cutting off the power to the hot tub, drain the water using a submersible pump. Before refilling the tub, wipe down the hot tub shell with a non-abrasive cleaner.
Year-round Use or Winterizing
As the temperature drops, you’ll need to decide whether to keep your spa open or close it for the winter. Many hot tub owners love keeping their spa open in winter because it is often the best time of year to use it. The cold, crisp outdoor air, mixed with the warmth of 102-degree water, provides soothing relief for many users.
If you don’t plan to use your spa during the colder months, you’ll need to winterize it. This process involves removing the water completely from the tub and water lines, then covering it to protect it from the elements.
Useful Tips
The first year of owning a hot tub can be cumbersome until you settle into a care routine. Here are a few other tips to keep in mind when using your spa in the first year.
● Sometimes a “FLO” error may appear on your hot tub. This typically means that your filter is clogged.
● If you notice excessive foaming in the hot tub, you may need to drain the water. This foam usually comes from detergents in the water, such as those from guests’ swimsuits, hair products, or body lotions. A quick shower before soaking can usually minimize this.
● Keep a couple of filters handy to rotate so you don’t have downtime while waiting for a clean filter.
● Inspect your spa for cracks, damage, and other issues before and after each use.
Start Hot Tub Ownership the Right Way
The Hot Tub Store helps Michigan homeowners find a spa that fits their space, lifestyle, and plans for year-round use. Visit our Rochester Hills or Macomb location to explore our selection of Master Spas hot tubs and swim spas, compare models and features, and talk with a knowledgeable team that can help you understand what ownership will actually involve after delivery day.
Contact us today to learn about available models, current pricing, and options for your backyard!