How To Hook Up A Pedicure Chair

Hooking up a pedicure chair correctly is critical for safety, hygiene, and long-term reliability. Most issues after installation come from rushed plumbing, improper electrical connections, or skipped testing. Follow the steps below based on whether your chair is plumbed or self-contained.

Before You Begin: Key Checks

• Confirm the chair type: plumbed vs self-contained

• Verify local plumbing and electrical codes

• Ensure the floor is level and load-rated

• Have access to water supply, drain, and power

• Turn off water and power before connecting

If you are unsure about codes, use a licensed plumber/electrician.

1. Position the Chair

1. Place the chair in its final location

2. Ensure adequate clearance around the base and basin

3. Level the chair using adjustable feet if provided

Why this matters:
An unlevel chair causes poor drainage and stress on plumbing joints.

2. Connect the Water Supply

For Plumbed Pedicure Chairs

What you need

• Hot and cold water lines

• Shutoff valves (required)

• Flexible braided hoses

Steps

1. Install shutoff valves on both hot and cold lines

2. Connect braided hoses from valves to chair inlets

3. Hand-tighten, then snug with a wrench

4. Do not overtighten

Tip:
Label hot and cold lines to avoid reversed temperature control.

3. Connect the Drain Line

Plumbed Chairs

1. Connect the chair drain outlet to the floor or wall drain

2. Ensure proper slope for gravity drainage

3. Secure connections with clamps or fittings

4. Install a trap if required by code

Self-Contained Chairs

1. Locate the drain hose at the rear or base

2. Route it to a floor drain or approved container

3. Ensure the hose outlet is lower than the basin

Important:
Never kink or sharply bend drain hoses.

4. Electrical Connection

Common Requirements

• Dedicated outlet

• Proper voltage and amperage

• Grounded connection

Steps

1. Confirm voltage matches chair rating

2. Plug into a grounded outlet

3. Keep cords clear of water and foot traffic

For hardwired chairs, electrical work should be done by a licensed electrician.

5. Connect Massage or Jet Systems (If Equipped)

• Ensure all internal hoses are secured

• Check that jet fittings are tight

• Confirm control panel cables are connected

Do not power on until water connections are complete.

6. Initial Power and Water Test

1. Turn on water slowly

2. Check all joints for leaks

3. Power on the chair

4. Run water into the basin

5. Test jets, pumps, and drains

Watch closely during the first full drain cycle.

7. Sanitation Flush (Required Before Use)

Before the first client:

1. Fill the basin with clean water

2. Run the system for several minutes

3. Drain completely

4. Repeat if required

This removes debris from manufacturing and installation.

8. Final Safety and Function Check

Confirm:

• No leaks under pressure

• Smooth drainage

• Stable chair base

• Proper temperature control

• Correct operation of massage and recline functions

Only after these checks should the chair be put into service.

Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping shutoff valves

• Improper drain slope

• Using ungrounded outlets

• Allowing cords or hoses to rest in water

• Not flushing the system before use

These mistakes lead to leaks, odors, and early component failure.

Summary

To hook up a pedicure chair correctly:

1. Position and level the chair

2. Connect hot and cold water with shutoff valves

3. Secure proper drainage

4. Connect power safely

5. Test all systems

6. Perform a sanitation flush

Proper installation ensures compliance, hygiene, and long service life.