How to Install and Care for Exterior Connections for a Pool or Hot Tub

Are you getting ready to introduce the comfort and relaxation of a hot tub into your life? Installing a hot tub at home can be a big undertaking. While some hot tubs are “plug and play” models that don’t require much in the way of plumbing, others are a bit more complicated. Whether you’ve built a hot tub yourself or you want to enjoy the ease and convenience that comes with linking your hot tub up to your home’s plumbing, here are the steps you should take.

Collect the right parts

A functioning hot tub requires jets, a heater, a blower and a pump. Once these are all in place, you’ll need to connect them. Flexible PVC pipe is the best option for connecting the jets, while rigid plastic pipe is best for connecting the heater, blower and pump. To make sure you have enough materials, measure around your tub, then measure the distances from the blower and pump to the jets. Purchase glue that’s designed to bond PVC, but make sure you have settled on a layout for the plumbing before you apply the glue, since it’s permanent.

Assemble pipe, connectors and glue

After you’ve chosen a flexible PVC pipe that matches the connectors on your jets, assemble the components together. Run the pipe close to the tub, connecting each jet on top and bottom. You should also connect an air regulator to the top of the tub, allowing air to enter. Close the system by sealing off the ends of the water and air lines.

Connect the main components

Next, connect flexible pipe from the air passages under the tub to the blower. Then, connect the skimmer, pump, heater and filter, and use rigid PVC pipe to connect the drain to the skimmer. It’s important to choose a quality rigid PVC because of the pressure required for the pump to work correctly—flexible pipe only leads to pressure loss.

Install cut-off valves

You need to install four cut-off valves—one before the pump, one after it and one on either side of the filter. This allows you to isolate the pump and filter whenever you’re cleaning the tub. Also, be sure to install a drain faucet before you install the filter, so you can easily drain your hot tub when it’s time to clean it.

Glue everything in place

When you’ve fit all of these components into place, glue them together. After the glue is dry, you can fill the tub with water and test your connections. Turn on the tub and look for leaks, then reglue any faulty connections. You may need to consult an electrician prior to this step if your hot tub requires more power than your home’s current electrical system can provide.

A functioning hot tub requires a steady flow of water and air, and getting the plumbing right makes all the difference. Rather than risking it by doing it yourself, rely on the expertise of a professional plumber from PipeMasters to make sure the job gets done right. Professional plumbing installation ensures your new hot tub is ready for years of relaxation and enjoyment. Get in touch with us at info@pipemasters.ca or call (289) 404-9063 to schedule your appointment!

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