Guide to Spa Installation in Australia: From Prep to Completion
Getting a spa is a big decision, and installing it needs a bit of coordination. There are quite a lot of things to consider, like local regulations, installation, electrical, plumbing and delivery. As an Australian owned and operated spa manufacturer with a network of local stores throughout Australia and New Zealand, we’re here to take you through every step with our step-by-step spa installation guide
We will use the example of an installation of our 4.5m myWorkout swim spa.
Step 1: Selecting a spa
Getting a spa installed in your home is a fantastic idea, whether for relaxation, therapeutic reasons, or simply to add value to your property. However, it's important to remember that choosing the right spa isn't as simple as picking one out of a catalogue. Here at Sapphire Spas, it's our goal to help you find the perfect spa that suits your needs. To do this, we'll guide you through considering several important factors.
Spa or Swim Spa Size: This is typically the first thing you'll have to decide on. Sapphire Spas offers a wide range of spas, from 2-seater models to expansive 8-10-seater spas for entertaining and also larger swim spas which are the perfect alternative to a backyard swimming pool. Your choice will largely depend on available space.
Here's a few variations of spa & swim spa sizes:
Spa Type: We offer traditional spas or hot tubs as well as swim spas, plunge pools and our exclusive Dualzone spa, which combines a swim spa and a spa pool in one convenient unit. Standard spas are great for soaking, relaxation, and therapeutic benefits, while swim spas afford you the ability to swim against a current and enjoy a full-body workout.
For instance, a customer contacted their local Sapphire Spas distributor, seeking a solution for health, fitness, and relaxation. With expert guidance, they opted for the premium version of our myWorkout 4.5m swim spa because it allowed them to stay active and swim train and exercise in the privacy of their own backyard..
Quality and Design: Lastly, never underestimate the importance of quality and design. At Sapphire Spas, we are very proud of our top-tier Australian-made spas; every single spa is built entirely by us, meeting the highest Australian Standards. They come with a trusted warranty backed by quality-controlled manufacturing.
When it comes to making your decision, we're always here to help. We'll walk with you, guiding you through all the pros and cons until you find the perfect match. After all, we believe a spa is an investment in your health and happiness, and it's one you deserve to get right.
Step 2: Council approvals
After you've picked your favourite spa from Sapphire Spas, the next move is getting council approval. All pools and spas should follow the Australian Standard AS1926-2012. These rules cover how fences, pool gates, and doors or windows near pools need to be designed to keep kids safe. More details about this can be found on the SPASA website.
Rules and regulations can also vary by state and council, so we recommend consulting with your local swim spa installer to draw up plans according to the specific requirements of your area. They'll help navigate the process smoothly, ensuring your spa installation is hassle-free and compliant.
Step 3: Electrical preparation
Electrical works should always be planned out before getting started on concrete slab preparation. Spas have specific power supply requirements. The premium model that this Gold Coast customer chose was the myWorkout swim spa; one of our very best swim spas; it’s powered by 3 hydro jet boost pumps and can provide a swim-stream fit for a competitive swimmer.
To power this model requires wiring rated to a minimum 32 amp load. Sapphire can provide the customer with all technical documents and specifications so that the circuit and power supply could be designed appropriately by their electrician.
Step 4: Building the spa’s foundation
Once you've got the green light from your local council and your electricals sorted, the next step is to prepare a solid, level concrete slab foundation for the spa.
Slab preparation is important; poor preparation could lead to an unstable slab that may crack over time. What's more, a poor foundation will also put undue stress on the spa frame and its components. So, make sure you have a certified concreting contractor on board.
A concrete slab is the best way to provide a solid foundation for a spa pool or swim spa as it provides an even, level surface, free from cracks or hollows. To be more specific, a reinforced concrete slab that’s at least 100mm thick is the most suitable foundation for your spa. The best base for a swim spa is a concrete slab that’s increased to a minimum of 150mm thickness.
In both cases, you must ensure this base is an even, level surface that’s free from cracks, doming or hollows. No fall/gradient is to be present within the spa footprint; the concrete surface should be finished with a perfectly flat screed. That’s why it’s important to have a certified concreter on board because they would be familiar with all these requirements.
How thick does a slab need to be for a spa?
For spa pools (up to 3500mm in length) - a minimum 100mm thick concrete slab base/ 1 layer of steel reinforcing mesh
For swim spas (4000mm+ in length) - a minimum 150mm thick concrete slab / 2 layers of steel reinforcing mesh
How big should the base be for a hot tub?
Make sure your hot tub base extends at least 200mm beyond the spa size for good stability. It helps keep everything steady and secure for your hot tub setup. Leave about 600mm of clearance all around the spa for easy access and maintenance.
Equipment and access steps
It’s a good idea to allow additional concrete for any external equipment and also for access steps so speak with your sales person about this.
Step 5: Spa Delivery
It’s time to bring your swim spa home! Before it arrives, make sure there’s a clear path for the delivery vehicle, like a crane, trailer or truck, from the driveway to where you want your spa. Your Sapphire Spas dealer can guide you on the space needed at the site inspection; they will check your spa’s dimensions and consider whether it needs tilting to fit through small spaces.
Crane Hire & Operation For Hard-To-Access Sites
If access to the site is a bit tricky, your local Sapphire Spas store will explore any extra steps needed, like using a crane. Crane trucks are engaged for all swim spa deliveries due to the weight for safety and accurate placement.
The Sapphire Spas team has experience delivering spas to the most difficult sites, like apartment balconies and rooftop terraces. We’ll work with you to find the best solution for a smooth and stress-free delivery, ensuring your spa reaches its destination, no matter how unique the setting.
Step 7: Installing the Spa Fence
Putting safety first is key when setting up your spa or pool. A proper fence is ‘a must’ in certain states of Australia, not just for rules but for keeping your loved ones and guests safe. Check with your local council or building surveyor for the right fence details. In almost all states and territories in Australia, pool fences are a legal requirement for council planning permits and final certification/approval. Contact your local council or building surveyor to make sure you have the correct fence.
Step 8: Final council approval
With the spa installed and connected, all safety measures in place and certificates of compliance obtained from the tradespeople involved, you can apply for final approval from the council, as necessary depending on your state.
Most councils in Australia require swimming pools and spas to be registered before use, which is why it’s important to use qualified and registered tradespeople in your spa installation.