So, the big day is almost here — your new swim spa is on its way! As the excitement builds, you might be wondering what exactly happens on delivery day and what steps you need to take to ensure a smooth setup.
In this Facebook Live video, swim spa specialists Ben Gilliam and Mari Cuticelli share their pro tips for a smooth installation process.
When the delivery crew arrives with your swim spa, their first task is to carefully position it in the spot you've chosen. Whether it's on a patio, deck, or a custom-built space, they'll make sure it's placed just right. Once it's in position, they'll unpackage it and remove any protective coverings, leaving you with a pristine swim spa ready for the next steps.
It's tempting to fill your swim spa right away, but hold off! It's crucial to wait until your swim spa has been properly wired by a licensed electrician. Filling it before it's wired can lead to stagnant water, which is something you definitely want to avoid. Once the wiring is complete, you have a couple of options for filling the spa:
After your swim spa is filled, it's time to power it up. Turn on the spa at the breaker and let the jets prime. This step is essential to get the water circulating properly, which helps with the distribution of chemicals and heat. If you're new to this, don't worry — your swim spa's manual will guide you through the process, and your retailer is always there to help with any questions.
One of the first things you'll want to do after powering up is add a sequestering agent to the water. This product helps remove minerals that can accumulate and potentially harm your spa's components. After adding the agent, let the water filter for about 24 hours. Don't forget to rinse the filters afterward to remove any trapped minerals before replacing them.
Swim spa chemicals help keep your water clean, clear, and safe. Start by balancing the alkalinity and pH levels. This ensures the water is neither too acidic nor too basic, both of which can cause problems. Once balanced, add the recommended amount of chlorine to sanitize the water and keep it safe for use.
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, things don't go perfectly on start-up day. One common issue is the breaker tripping when you first power up your swim spa. If this happens, don't panic. It's often a sign that the electrical setup isn't quite right. Make sure you're working with an electrician who is experienced with hot tubs and swim spas. For those with a Challenger swim spa, it's important that the electrician uses the Siemens breaker provided with your spa.
Now that you know what to expect on delivery day and during your first week of ownership, you're well on your way to enjoying all the benefits your swim spa has to offer. From setting up and balancing the water to personalizing the settings for your perfect swim or soak, your journey with your new swim spa is just beginning.