Below, we share the Ultimate Guide on how to assemble and install an inflatable hot tub with step-by-step instructions. In addition, we provide advice on how to maintain the hot tub and troubleshoot any issues that you may encounter during set-up.
Keep in mind that these instructions apply to virtually any inflatable spa, including the Coleman Saluspa, Bestway, Intex, mSPA and more…
Step 1: Choose the Right Location for Your Spa
First of all, find a spot that can accommodate the size and weight of your hot tub. Not only do you want the tub to fit the space, but you want guests to be able to easily get in and out of it.
In addition, make sure the surface is flat and level, like a concrete pad, deck or patio. In other words, don’t set it up on a slope or where you have sharp bumpy objects underneath.
Step 2: Inflate Your Hot Tub
Second, fill the tub walls with air. Most inflatable hot tubs conveniently come with an electric air pump that can quickly inflate the tub in about 20-30 minutes.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on this step, as you don’t want to go over the recommended PSI. Over-inflatation can cause damage, but under-inflation won’t give you the firmness that you want.
Step 3: Fill Your Spa with Water
Third, after the spa is fully inflated, add water up the fill line on the inner wall. Just turn on a garden hose and let it run. This step typically takes between one to three hours, depending on the size of your hot tub and the water pressure from the hose.
If you plan to do other tasks while filling your spa, I suggest setting a timer so that you don’t forget.
Step 4: Heat Your Spa
Now, you can heat the water by turning on the heat on the control panel attached to the spa. This process can take between 12 to 24 hours to reach 104°F, depending on the starting temperature of the water. Also, the outside air temp can affect heating time as well.
Step 5: Add Spa Chemicals
Add any spa chemicals needed as per your spa manufacturer’s instruction manual.
Tips to Speed Up the Spa Set-up Process:
- Use a high flow rate garden hose or multiple hoses to fill the tub faster.
- Fill your spa on a warm day later in the afternoon to reduce the heating time.
- Place the hot tub in direct sunlight to help heat the water faster.
Setting up an inflatable hot tub is actually quite simple and almost effortless compared to many other household chores. Plus, with these tips, you can speed up the process and start enjoying your hot tub in no time.
Hot Tub Maintenance Tips:
Also, you want to keep the hot tub water clean so that it’s safe to use. Not to mention, clean water will help your spa parts last longer and minimize maintenance.
- Test the water regularly to make sure it has the right pH and chlorine levels.
- Add chlorine or other water sanitizers as recommended by the manufacturer to prevent bacteria growth. (see more on spa cleaning products, chemicals, etc..)
- Change the water every 2-3 months or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Regularly rinse or change the water filters that remove debris and contaminants from the water.
Troubleshooting Potential Problems When Setting Up a Spa
In general, set-up is a fool-proof process on these products. However, sometimes people get an error message on the pump monitor. Often, this is a simple fix. I’ve included a sample error message chart from mSPA so you can see what to do in each case.
