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Site Selection and Installation
Proper planning is an important consideration when installing your new swim
spa. Site selection is a critical step and requires serious thought. Planning ahead
makes the installation process easier. The following information is provided to
assist you in site preparations.
1) Always comply with local building codes and obtain any necessary permits.
You may also need to consult with an engineer to address your specific
design needs.
2) Contact an electrician to assess your electrical needs, install wiring, and
assure a safe operation.
3) Position your swim spa with proper access to water, drainage, and
electricity.
4) For external installations, place your swim spa on a uniform solid, flat
surface designed to properly support its weight. For external installations, a
level concrete pad or properly constructed deck capable of supporting 200
lbs/ft2(925 kg/m2) should be installed. For best results, we suggest the
installation of a level concrete pad. Dig out and level the ground 8-12 inches
(20-30 cm) below your desired base level. Install 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) of
crushed stone. Next, install 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) of poured concrete and
level it with a broom-type finish. Decks constructed flush to the swim spa
should slope away for proper run off. In regions where freeze/thaw occurs,
or where there will be custom decking abutting the swim spa, we
recommend the installation of poured concrete footings extending below the
frost line beneath the pad to prevent the possibility of future shifting.
5) For internal installations, check the load carrying capabilities of the floor on
which the swim spa will reside. The ceiling should be more than 10 feet high
(for safe entry and use), the floor should have a drain for splash over and the
room should have a window or exhaust fan with humidistat for ventilation. If
this is not possible, indoor/outdoor carpeting and the use of a dehumidifier
while the cover is off should be adequate.
6) For partial in-ground installations (not recommended), follow these tips: In
non-freezing climates it is sufficient to ensure that the base of the hole or
cavity created for the swim spa simply has a stable, compacted base. Where
the climate permits, should you choose to backfill directly against the swim
spa, a clear sand backfill is suggested. Never fill using raw earth and never
cover electrical components or plumbing connections. • In climates where
freeze/thaw occurs, it is necessary that a proper poured concrete base,
complete with concrete footings. • In areas with a high ground water table,
the concrete base, as well as a concrete or wood retaining wall to hold back
the earth, is suggested. This forms a box or “crib/vault” where the swim spa
is placed. After excavating the installation site for your Premium Leisure
swim spa, ensure that the soil underlying the foundation is capable of
supporting a minimum of 1,000 lbs/ ft2or 12,206 kg/m2• ALWAYS ensure
that there is good drainage, via a properly designed (gravel) drain system
and/or a sump pump, to prevent ground water flooding damage to the