Preparing for Your Hot Tub, Spa or Ice Bath: Everything You Need to Know

Good preparation is essential for the safe and straightforward installation of your hot tub, spa or ice bath. Whether you choose a wood-fired hot tub, an electric hot tub, an MSpa or an ice bath, each product has its own requirements. By considering the ground conditions, available space, accessibility and necessary connections in advance, you can help avoid unexpected problems during delivery and installation.

Below, we explain what to consider before your product arrives.


A Solid & Level Surface

Your hot tub, spa or ice bath must be placed on a firm, stable and completely level surface. The base must be capable of safely supporting the total weight of the product, including water and users.

Larger hot tubs and spas can become extremely heavy when filled. A properly constructed concrete base, suitable paving or another stable, load-bearing surface may be appropriate, provided it can support the required weight.

A level surface is equally important for smaller ice baths and inflatable MSpas. Make sure the area is free from sharp objects, protruding stones or anything else that could damage the base.

Consider the following requirements for each product type:

  • Wood-fired and electric hot tubs: provide a solid, load-bearing base suitable for the total filled weight.
  • MSpas: choose a clean, level surface without sharp objects. Use the recommended ground mat where required for your model.
  • Ice baths: ensure the surface is stable and level. For inflatable models, take extra care to remove anything that could cause punctures.

Please note: exact base requirements vary between models. Always check the product specifications and manufacturer's instructions.

Choose the Location

When choosing a location, consider more than just appearance. Ease of use, safe access and maintenance are equally important. Allow sufficient space around your hot tub, spa or ice bath so that you can enter and exit comfortably, clean the product and access any technical components.

The ideal location also depends on the type of product you have chosen.

Wood-Fired Hot Tubs

A wood-fired hot tub requires additional planning for the stove and chimney. A hot tub with an external wood-burning stove needs more surrounding space than one with an internal stove. Choose a suitable location for the flue and consider nearby buildings, garden structures, roofs and combustible materials. Follow the manufacturer's required safety clearances and any applicable local requirements.

Electric Hot Tubs and MSpas

Choose a location with access to a suitable electrical supply. Ensure that the heater, controls and any filtration equipment remain accessible for operation and maintenance.

Ice Baths

Ice baths fitted with an electric chiller or filtration system may require additional space for technical components and ventilation, as specified in the manufacturer's instructions.

Always check whether your chosen model is suitable for its intended indoor or outdoor location.

Ensure Easy Access

Before delivery, check whether your hot tub, spa or ice bath can be transported from the delivery point to its intended location.

Measure garden gates, doorways, corridors and any other narrow access points. Take into account the product's dimensions, packaging and the way it will be delivered.

Remove garden furniture, plant pots and other obstacles in advance. Also consider steps, changes in ground level, tight corners and narrow pathways.

Access requirements vary depending on the product:

  • Hot tubs: their size and weight may require additional planning or specialist handling equipment.
  • MSpas: inflatable models can generally be transported in their packaging and assembled at the chosen location.
  • Ice baths: access requirements depend on the model. Compact inflatable ice baths are generally easier to move than larger rigid models.

Important Information for Larger LUXTUB Models

Certain larger LUXTUB models may have additional access and handling requirements, particularly where an installation and filling service is offered.

Please confirm the delivery arrangements, minimum access width and any assistance required before your order arrives. Service availability and conditions may differ in the United Kingdom.


Water Supply, Drainage and Electrical Connections

Suitable water supply and drainage arrangements are important when preparing for your hot tub, spa or ice bath. Electrically heated or cooled products also require an appropriate electrical supply.

Water Supply and Drainage

Make sure you can easily fill your product with clean water. Plan in advance how the water can be drained safely when it needs replacing. Some models feature an integrated drain or drainage connection. The exact arrangement depends on the product.

Electrical Connections

Electric hot tubs, MSpas and ice baths equipped with electric chillers or filtration systems require a suitable electrical supply. The UK uses a nominal 230V mains supply, but the electrical requirements, plug type and installation method vary between products. Not every model is suitable for connection to a standard domestic socket. Always follow the specifications and instructions supplied with your model. Where a dedicated supply or electrical installation is required, use a suitably qualified electrician. Outdoor electrical installations must meet the applicable UK electrical safety requirements. Do not use extension leads unless expressly permitted by the manufacturer.

Filtration Systems and Water Equipment

If your product includes a filtration system, skimmer, water chiller or other water-treatment equipment, allow enough space for installation, operation and maintenance. Also consider the positioning of hoses, pipes and other connections.



Additional Preparation for Wood-Fired Hot Tubs

Before installing a wood-fired hot tub, check whether your model has an internal or external wood-burning stove.

  • Hot Tub with an Internal Wood-Burning Stove An internal stove is positioned inside the hot tub, so no separate stove is required alongside it. However, you must still allow sufficient space for the chimney, safe access and the manufacturer's specified safety clearances.

  • Hot Tub with an External Wood-Burning Stove  An external stove is positioned outside the hot tub and connected to it by pipework. Allow sufficient space beside the hot tub for the stove, its connections and safe access when adding firewood.

  • Chimney and Safety 

    Both configurations require a safely positioned chimney and unobstructed flue. Consider nearby buildings, garden structures and combustible materials. Depending on the location, local smoke-control restrictions and other requirements may apply. Never light the stove unless the hot tub has been filled to the water level specified by the manufacturer. Always follow the instructions for filling, heating and operating your particular model.


Additional Preparation for an MSpa

An MSpa requires different preparation from a traditional hot tub. Before installation, make sure there is enough space to fully inflate, position and use the spa.

Choose a clean, level surface and ensure that a suitable electrical supply is available in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Allow sufficient access to the controls, filtration system and drainage points so that the water can be maintained and replaced when necessary.

Before setting up your MSpa, check that all components are included and follow the assembly and inflation instructions for your specific model.


Additional Preparation for an Ice Bath

Proper preparation is also important when installing an ice bath. The requirements depend on the type and design of your chosen model.

A basic ice bath without an electric chiller primarily requires a suitable base, access to clean water and a practical drainage solution.

If your ice bath includes an electric chiller or filtration system, you will also need to consider the electrical supply, positioning of technical equipment and any ventilation requirements.

Always check whether your chosen ice bath is suitable for the intended location and follow the manufacturer's instructions.


Ready for Delivery?

Before your hot tub, spa or ice bath arrives, make sure that:

  • The base is level, stable and capable of supporting the required weight.
  • The access route to the intended location is clear and accessible.
  • Gates, doors and other access points are sufficiently wide.
  • There is enough space for the product and any associated equipment.
  • Suitable water and electrical supplies are available where required.
  • Water drainage has been properly planned.
  • Wood-fired hot tubs have sufficient space for the stove and chimney.
  • Any additional delivery, installation or service requirements have been confirmed.

With the right preparation, you can help ensure a smooth delivery and installation, allowing you to enjoy your new hot tub, spa or ice bath as soon as it is ready for use.


Still Have Questions?

Do you still have questions after reading these preparation tips? Visit our Knowledge Base for a complete overview of all frequently asked questions.


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