How To Hook Up A Spa Bathtub

Knowing how to hook up a spa bathtub can save you costly renovation fees. Many people may think that hooking up a spa bathtub would be to difficult to attempt. This is not the case at all. With a few easy steps and basic knowledge of the tools involved, you can hook up a spa bathtub in a matter of hours and reap the benefits of the massaging jets of the spa.

To hook up a spa bathtub, you will need:

• A screwdriver set containing a flat head and Phillips head screwdriver
• Towels or shop rags
• A small household torch
• A prying bar or crowbar
• A tube cutter
• A jigsaw
• A utility knife
• Pipes
• A drain assembly kit
• A spa bathtub kit

1. Prepare the work area. You will need to shut off all the water to the area. You can do this either in the room itself at a water shutoff valve or at a location near the room where you are installing the spa bathtub. Change any joints that need it. Drain the pipes and any water trap areas.
2. Prepare the drywall. You will need to cut an area in the drywall in order to remove not only the drywall but also any tiles that may be in the way. Using the prying or crowbar, remove the drywall and tile. Dispose of the old drywall and tiles properly according to your state or local county's regulations.
3. Prepare the sub-floor. Measure out the area of sub-floor you will need to cut. Once measured, use your jigsaw to cut out the sub-floor area. Measure more than once before cutting, then cut small portions instead of one large portion. This prevents too much of the sub-flooring being removed in error.
4. Install the faucet pipes. You need to make sure that your faucet pipes are in place before placing the tub. This is a crucial step in the process of hooking up a spa bathtub. If necessary, use a two-by-four backer on the studs to secure the faucet piping. After the pipe is secure, install the drain assembly according to the instructions on the packaging.
5. Prepare the spa bathtub encasement. Using a mortar mixture, prepare the area that the spa bathtub will be hooked up in. You need to make sure there is enough mortar to hold the tub in place but not enough to overflow around the tub itself.
6. Install the spa bathtub. Now that the area is prepared, you will need to install the bathtub itself. Simply slide the tub into place, hook up any pipes and follow any specific directions from the spa tub manufacturer, as styles and tubs do vary.
7. Tighten up and check the spa bathtub. Fill the tub with just enough water to cover the jets by one inch. Plug in the motor for the jets and stand back. Check for any jets that are not working, leaks or other issues. Tighten up any loose bolts, screws or pipes. Fix any leaks you may find. Seal up the tub and apply the tile and finish.

With these steps, you will be able to hook up and enjoy your spa bathtub in no time at all. The benefits of hooking up your own spa bathtub include saving you money and provide you with a spa-like massage. Remember that each spa bathtub is different, so check the paperwork that comes with your spa bathtub for any specifics or extras that the manufacturer feels are necessary.