How to set up an inflatable hot tub

Stage 1: choose and prepare the spot

Pick a flat, level spot that can take the filled weight, within reach of a weatherproof outdoor socket protected by an RCD, without an extension lead. Leave room to walk round the tub, reach the pump and lift the cover. Avoid overhanging trees and keep the tub clear of fences you need to maintain.

Patio slabs and a level concrete base are ideal. Decking must be strong enough for the load; ask someone qualified to check it. Grass is not a good long term base, as it becomes uneven and damp. See base ideas for the options and the load sums.

Note:Use a weatherproof outdoor socket with RCD protection. If you need a new one, have it fitted by a qualified electrician. Most makers say not to use extension leads.

Stage 2: lay the ground sheet and inflate

Inflation typically takes from a few minutes to around 20 minutes depending on the tub and pump. Built-in inflation, such as Intex's FastFill on the Chevron Deluxe, makes this quicker.

1. 1

   Sweep the base clear of stones, grit and anything sharp.

2. 2

   Lay an insulating floor mat if you have one, then the ground sheet supplied.

3. 3

   Unfold the tub on top with the valves and pump connections facing the socket.

4. 4

   Inflate as the manual describes, using the pump's inflation mode or the supplied hose.

5. 5

   Check the pressure as the manual shows; do not over-inflate.

6. 6

   Inflate the cover if it is an inflatable type.

Stage 3: connect the pump and fill

Fill time depends on your tap. A garden tap commonly gives around 10 to 15 litres a minute, so 800 litres takes roughly an hour or more. Time a 10 litre bucket and use the water volume calculator for your figure.

1. 1

   Fit the filter cartridge into its housing.

2. 2

   Connect the pump to the inlet and outlet as the manual shows, and tighten the connectors by hand.

3. 3

   Check the drain valve is closed and capped.

4. 4

   Fill with a garden hose to the fill line marked inside the tub.

5. 5

   Check the connectors for drips as the level rises.

Stage 4: first chemicals

Switch on the filter pump so the water circulates. Add anti-scale first if your water is hard and the label suggests it at filling. Then test, adjust total alkalinity, retest and adjust pH, and finally add sanitiser to the target level. Add each product separately and wait the time on the label in between.

This is general guidance. Follow your tub manual and the chemical maker's instructions for every product. See what chemicals a hot tub needs.

Stage 5: the first heat

Set the target temperature, switch the heater on, fit the cover and strap it down. The first heat is the slowest, because you start from cold tap water. Heating 800 litres from 10 to 38 °C needs at least 26 kWh, about 12 hours on a 2.2 kW heater, and longer in cold or windy weather. Use the heat-up calculator for your tub.

Keep the bubbles off while heating. Check the water and retest before the first soak.

Before the first soak

Always supervise children in and around the tub. Our best inflatable hot tubs guide covers models that are easy to set up.

• Test sanitiser, pH and alkalinity and correct if needed.
• Check the temperature on the display and with a floating thermometer.
• Make sure the plug's protective device is tested as the manual describes.
• Agree simple rules for children and keep the cover locked when not in use.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to set up an inflatable hot tub? Inflation and filling take a few hours; the first heat usually takes many more. Start a day ahead.

Can I put an inflatable hot tub on grass? It is not recommended long term. A level, firm base is better for the liner and the pump.

When do I add chemicals to a new hot tub? After filling, with the pump running: alkalinity, then pH, then sanitiser, as general guidance.

Can I use the tub while it is still heating? Yes once it is warm enough and the water is balanced, but heating is faster with the cover on.