Air valves: Controls the flow of air into your hot tub.
 Control panel: Manages all electronic functions.
 Filter cover: Provides access to clean and change the filter.
 Filter intake: Skims the water surface for floating debris.
 Comfort features:
o Seats: Allows you to lay back and put up your feet
o Light: Illuminates the hot tub during the night
o Pillow: Allows you to comfortably rest your head
o Power massage jet: Adds to the hydrotherapy experience.
 Water intake valve: Sucks water in and shoots it out the massage jets.

Once you know some of the basics of what is found on the actual tub, let's look at what you need to do to get the site where you will have the hot tub ready!

Preparing the Site

Most hot tubs are meant to be installed outside. Should you wish to put a hot tub inside, there are a couple of things you need to keep in mind:

 Water is very heavy; a filled tub can weigh up to 3,000 pounds! Thus, indoor tubs need solid support underneath.

 You will need proper ventilation; steam can damage paint, wood and more.

However, most hot tubs will be installed outside, so when installing a hot tub outside, it needs to sit on a firm foundation. If you are not using a cement pad, etc. then try to get the surface as level as possible by removing any sod, soft dirt or weeds. It is wise to construct a foundation using pea gravel, concrete stepping stones, or pressure-treated wood.

Also, because you may need to repair or maintain your tub at some point, make sure you leave enough room around the perimeter of the tub. You'll be glad you did this when you need to access the side panels.

Remember that hot tubs are large and awkward, some weigh as much as 690 pounds unfilled. So, make sure you know the measurements of the tub you ordered, and that you have enough room to get it from your curbside or driveway to your backyard or patio.

You should have your hot tub installed by a state-certified electrician to ensure the best-possible connection. Check your local phone book for qualified electricians and contractors. Most hot tubs require a 240-volt electrical connection, so you can't just plug it in anywhere. Also, because of the electricity issues etc. you can't just get right in once your hot tub is filled. Once you have your hot tub properly installed, you need to fill it up. Your hot tub will take up to 7 hours to fully heat, depending on the size. Remember to consult the owner's manual, and also do the following:

 Turn off the electrical power to the hot tub before filling up.
 Clean the interior and then rinse it before filing.
 Open the air valves.
 Make sure the drain is closed.
 Fill the hot tub with a garden hose to the level specified in your owner's manual.