Home & Portable Spas - Simple To Install, Easy to Enjoy
Home & portable spas can bring fun and comfort to your home for you and
your guests as well. Before purchasing a spa, you must make some
decisions as to where to locate your spa and what type of foundation will
be necessary. Basically, the design of most spas is self-contained and
able to move when it is time. You can purchase an in-ground permanent
spa, however many people like the portable spa's versatility. Let's take
a look at portables and see how they function.
A portable home spa consists of the shell with jets, surrounded by a
redwood skirt. The inner workings, the support equipment such as the
filters, are housed inside the skirt along with insulation to help keep
the water temperature as hot as you like. Accessories such as spa covers
also help keep the water hot and protect it from leaves and bugs. The
bottom of the shell should have access to at least two drains so that
water can be constantly refreshed. Your home's usual 120-volt current
usually can operate them. Check with an electrician for specific needs
you may have regarding the amount of electricity your tub will use and
your home's ability to support the tubs needs. Installation of your tub
can be both indoor and outdoor and requires a minimal amount of effort.
Portables vary in size and weight depending on the number of adults the
tub is designed for. The average tub weighs between 300 and 500 pounds
without water. They range in size from a small two-seater that is
usually 4 x 5 feet to an eight-seater which can be 8 x 8 feet or larger.
Despite their size, portable spas can be moved to different locations
around your home. Just make sure that the spa can fit through the door
space if you wish to move it indoors during the winter. Also, check and
make sure that the location you pick out can support the weight of a
full hot tub, water, and people. As long it remains a portable unit, you
shouldn't have to purchase a building permit to install a tub.
After you have picked out a spot to place your new hot tub, remember to
check on the area's ability to support you new tub. First, check the
weight-bearing ability of the area if it is indoors or on a deck.
Outdoor installations many times are on concrete slabs, which provide an
excellent base. Use at least a four-inch stab reinforced with bars or
mesh for added stability. Constantly through the process, check leveling
from a variety of different directions to insure equal balance. Once the
water is put in, an un-level spa will tip toward one side or the other
and could eventually fail.
If you place your spa indoors, remember these tips:
- Make sure you have proper drainage around the tub to prevent
slipping.
- Using a hot tub indoors will increase the humidity around the
unit. Take extra steps to protect woodwork or other parts of your
house susceptible to water damage.
Considering the electrical factor, many homes might need additional
electrical work before the unit is placed. Make sure that water will not
pool or build up near the electrical components or they might short out.
Use a protective cover to keep water, whether from rain or the tub
itself, away from the electrical connections.
Shopping for a portable spa online is the best way to find what suits
your tastes. You can also purchase products like chemicals, accessories,
and other supplies for your swimming needs. Even a luxurious swim spa
pool is just a click away!
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