Getting Started With Your New Hot Tub
Before you purchase your OC Hot Tub, take these factors into consideration.
Summary
1. Preparing a Good Foundation
2. Transporting Your Spa from the Store
3. Getting Your New Spa Into Your Yard
3. 240 Volt Electrical Installation
5. Questions and Answers
1. Preparing a Good Foundation
2. Transporting Your Spa from the Store
3. Getting Your New Spa Into Your Yard
3. 240 Volt Electrical Installation
5. Questions and Answers
Preparing a Good Foundation
Your spa needs a solid and level foundation. The area that it sits on must be able to support the weight of the spa, with water and the occupants who use it. If the foundation is inadequate, it may shift or settle after the spa is in place, causing stress that could DAMAGE YOUR SPA SHELL AND FINISH.Note: Damage caused by inadequate or improper foundation support is not covered by the warranty. It is the responsibility of the spa owner to provide a proper foundation for the spa.
Place the spa on an elevated foundation (preferably a 3" - 4" reinforced concrete slab). Pavers, gravel, brick, sand, timbers or dirt foundations are not adequate to support the spa and will void your warranty. If you are installing the spa indoors, pay close attention to the flooring beneath it. Choose flooring that will not be damaged or stained.
If you are installing your spa on an elevated wood deck or other structure, it is highly recommended that you consult a structural engineer or contractor to ensure the structure will support the weight of 150 pounds per square foot.
To properly identify the weight of your new spa when full, remember water weighs 8.33 lbs. per gallon. For example, an average 8’ spa holds approximately 500 gallons of water. Using this formula, you will find that the weight of the water alone is 4,165 Lbs. Combined with the dry weight of the spa you will note that this spa will weigh approximately 5,000 Lbs. when full of water.
Note: It is strongly recommended that a qualified, licensed contractor prepare the foundation for your spa.
Transporting Your Spa from the Store to Your Home
Note: OC Hot Tubs recommends you hire professional spa movers to transport your hot tub. They have the knowledge and experience to anticipate any obstacles and how to handle them. Spas weigh several hundred pounds without water. If you attempt to move your spa yourself, it is at your own risk.
When picking up your spa from your retailer, it is recommended you arrive with a flatbed truck that is equipped with a lift-gate. It is also important to transport your spa in the same orientation as it is packaged to minimize damage. Since this will increase the profile of your vehicle, ensure your hot tub is securely fastened to the bed before traveling.
Getting Your New Spa Into Your Yard
OC Hot Tubs recommends hiring a professional crane company to place your spa in its proper location. Cranes can easily lift the weight of your spa and circumvent anything that might impede its delivery over land. Check your local listings for a crane service that can accommodate your needs.
Note: Attempting to place your OC Hot Tub yourself may result in damage to your spa that is not covered by the warranty. Your spa weighs several hundred pounds and moving it yourself may result in physical harm or property damage. We recommend hiring professional spa movers and/or a crane service.
240 Volt Electrical Installation
Note: OC Hot Tubs recommends that you hire a professional electrician to connect your spa.
All 240V spas must be permanently connected (hard wired) to the power supply. These instructions describe the only acceptable electrical wiring procedure. Spas wired in any other way will void your warranty and may result in serious injury. See the wiring diagram on page 8.
When installed in the United States, the electrical wiring of this spa must meet the requirements of National Electric Code, ANSI/NFPA 70-2008 and any applicable local, state, and federal codes. The electrical circuit must be installed by an electrical contractor and approved by a local building / electrical inspector.
GFCI and Wiring Requirements
The power supplied to the spa must be on a dedicated GFCI protected circuit as required by ANSI/NFPA 70 with no other appliances or lights sharing the power.
Use one 50 amp GFCI with four #8 copper wires with THHN insulation. Do not use aluminum wire.
Wire runs over 85 feet must increase wire gauge to the next lower number. For example: A normal 50 amp GFCI with four #8 AWG Copper wires run over 85 feet would require you to go to four #6 AWG copper wires.
When NEC requires the use of wires larger than #6 AWG, install a junction box near the spa and use #6 AWG wire between the junction box and the spa.
Note: Always fill your spa before testing the electrical features or you risk burning out your heater and voiding your warranty. We recommend hiring a professional electrician to connect your spa.
Testing the GFCI Breaker
Test the GFCI breaker prior to first use and periodically when the spa is powered. To test the GFCI breaker follow these instructions (spa should be operating):
- Press the TEST button on the GFCI. The GFCI will trip and the spa will shut off.
- Reset the GFCI breaker by switching the breaker to the full OFF position, wait a moment, then turn the breaker back on. The spa should have power again.

