How to Build a Hot Tub With a Kit

Hot tubs help the troubles of life slip away with warm water and bubbles. Many homeowners want them, but buying a hot tub can be expensive and building one from scratch may seem like a daunting task. But there is a middle way: You can buy a hot tub kit and make it yourself. Doing the work of putting the tub together yourself can cut the cost of a hot tub in half or more, because the labor of construction is the largest expense of new hot tubs. Making a hot tub from a kit is not difficult, and even the most modest of carpenters can do it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hot tub kit
• Drill
• Sand
• Decking materials

1. Purchase the kit and place it on a bed of sand in your chosen location. Level the tank and determine where the deck should extend. Frame the deck by placing four posts around the tub and boxing in the rest of the hot tub.

2. Install the jets and intakes in the tub using the supplied hardware and gaskets. Plumb the jets and intakes to the pump (mounted under the deck) with the supplied piping.

3. Install the skimmer and filter using the hardware provided in the kit. Mount the gaskets in place securely to prevent leaks.

4. Plumb the heater into the jets and hook up the electrical wiring for the heater and pump according to the manufacturer's instructions.

5. Screw decking boards onto your deck frame and fill the tank with water. Prime the pump, flip the switch, and start enjoying your hot tub.

Tips & Warnings

• Many home improvement stores have hot tub kits available, but eBay is also a great resource for cheap hot tub parts and accessories.

References

• Informative resource on hot tub kits and pricing

Resources

• Peruse and purchase hot tub kits here