The Do’s and Don’ts of Swim Spa Installation

MasterSpas pros have fielded hundreds, maybe thousands, of questions on our social media and during the MasterSpas’ Facebook Live events.

From water care to swim spa maintenance, swimming tips to using the control panel, customers have inquired about how MasterSpas swim spas are easy to own and enjoy.

But what are some of the most frequently asked questions about swim spas? One topic that comes up often is swim spa installation requirements.

Swim spa installation is exciting. But as you prepare for your delivery, you want to make sure that you are doing the right things

Here are our best tips for the perfect swim spa installation.

Top 4 Swim Spa Installation Requirements

All About the Base

A swim spa by MasterSpas needs a solid, level surface that can handle the weight of the swim spa. MasterSpas recommends that the foundation is a reinforced concrete pad that is at least 4 inches thick. 

Do you need a concrete pad? Not necessarily, as some homeowners choose to go with a product like EZ Pads. However, the surface under the pads needs to be properly leveled and compacted to prevent the swim spa from shifting as the ground settles.

But it’s important that you do not install a swim spa on grass or an uneven surface. Do not try to “shim” your swim spa by placing objects underneath to make it level. Contact a professional to have the site leveled or have a top cap poured.

Other swim spa installation options include a reinforced deck, professionally installed pavers, and a vault that allows you to recess the swim spa.

Allow for Clearance

Many customers are curious about how much space is required to install a swim spa. Most swim spas are about 8 feet wide, while length can range from 11 feet to 21 feet. But when you consider how much space you need, it’s important to think beyond the size of the swim spa. You also want to make sure there’s space for getting in and out of the swim spa, room for the cover, and access to the service panels. Homeowners should allow for three feet of clearance on each side of the swim spa. However, the space is most necessary on the side where the components are located. 

Even if you are choosing to install a vault for an in-ground swim spa, you will need to account for access to the control panel. Many customers choose to a deck surround as panels can be removed during service.

Consider Delivery 

As you prepare for your swim spa installation, be sure to measure access/entry points. Swim spas are eight feet wide, and the delivery crew will need at least that much space to get the unit in. If the delivery can’t access the site via driveway or easement, a crane might be used. Your local MasterSpas retailer will be able to guide you through the process so that you don’t have any surprises on delivery day.

Dedicated Power Source

Most swim spas require a 240V/50-amp hook-up. A licensed electrician will need to evaluate your set-up, install a breaker (if necessary), and connect your swim spa. In most cases, it is best for the licensed electrician to perform his work after the spa has been delivered. We recommend the GFCI breaker box be located near the swim spa, preferably in line of sight so it can be easily accessible for safety reasons. 

A little bit of planning will facilitate a stress-free swim spa delivery and installation. Once your space is ready, a swim spa by MasterSpas can be installed in less than a day.

To begin planning for your swim spa installation, download our Backyard Planning Guide.