Although a hot tub is a practical device that lets you relax in warm, massaging water, it can also play an aesthetic role in the curb appeal of your property. While many hot tubs are installed without much thought put into how they look, utilizing some landscape design skills can transform an ordinary appliance into a piece of landscaping art. A hot tub can be a very imposing structure, so reducing some of its visual bulk can make your backyard look much better. You may be wondering, can you sink a hot tub into the ground? It is possible, but it’ll require more thought than simply digging a hole in which to put the hot tub. To help you with the logistics of sinking a hot tub, we’ve put together this guide.
Dimensional Requirements for Excavation
Measuring your hot tub or knowing its dimensions is only the beginning when it comes to excavation. You’ll obviously want the hole to be big enough to fit the hot tub, but you’ll need to make sure there’s enough extra space for the electrical cord to run, for unhindered drainage to occur and for service and maintenance of the components inside the hot tub cabinet. Add a couple of feet to each side of the hot tub when planning your excavation.
Electricity
Hardwired hot tubs require the installation of a GFCI 220 volt circuit by a certified and licensed electrician. No matter the type of hot tub you have, you’ll need leeway to ensure the safe running of cables from the hot tub to the source of electricity.
Drainage
To keep your hot tub in top condition it’s recommended that you drain, clean and refill your hot tub with fresh water three to four times a year. For this reason, proper drainage is a must. Sinking the hot tub below ground can make drainage a little more difficult. Not only do you have to worry about water from the tank, but you’ll also need to prevent the pooling of rainwater or melting snow. Speak to your hot tub dealer for advice when it comes to drainage.
Service and Maintenance Access
Ideally, you won’t have any trouble with the components inside the hot tub shell. However, keeping those components accessible is an important thing to keep in mind when you’re sinking a hot tub into the ground. It can be easy to forget that the sides of the cabinet may need to be removed or that a person may need to get down in there and do below groundwork. Plan to leave yourself enough space to allow these possibilities to happen.
Hot Tub Cover Lifters
Some hot tub covers can be quite cumbersome and require an automated cover lifter. This is often the case with hot tubs that are used in cold climates and require extra insulation. If that’s the case in your situation, it’s important to allow room for the cover lifter to operate properly. You also want to make sure that the latches on the sides of the hot tub are accessible so the cover can be locked into place.
Lifting Slings
Hot tubs are lowered into the ground using crane lifting slings. These large straps wrap under the bottom of the hot tub and allow a crane to lift and lower the hot tub as necessary.
To learn more about hot tub installation, download a free buyer’s guide today.