How To Install A Pedicure Chair

Installing a pedicure chair correctly is essential for safety, hygiene, and long-term reliability. The process involves positioning, plumbing, electrical connection, testing, and sanitation. Steps vary slightly by chair type, but the workflow below applies to most professional pedicure chairs.

Before Installation: Preparation Checklist

• Confirm the chair type

• Plumbed (direct water and drain connection)

• Self-contained (internal pump and drain hose)

• Verify local plumbing and electrical codes

• Ensure the floor is level, solid, and load-rated

• Turn off water and power before connecting

• Use licensed professionals if required by regulation

Step 1: Position and Level the Chair

1. Move the chair to its final location

2. Allow clearance for service access and drainage

3. Use adjustable feet or shims to level the base

Why this matters
An unlevel chair causes poor drainage, vibration, and stress on fittings.

Step 2: Install Water Supply Connections

For Plumbed Pedicure Chairs

Required

• Hot and cold water lines

• Individual shutoff valves

• Flexible braided hoses

Steps

1. Install shutoff valves on both supply lines

2. Connect hoses from valves to chair inlets

3. Hand-tighten, then lightly wrench-tighten

4. Do not overtighten fittings

Ensure hot and cold lines are connected correctly.

Step 3: Install Drainage

Plumbed Chairs

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

2. Maintain proper downward slope for gravity drainage

3. Secure all joints and fittings

4. Install a trap if required by local code

Self-Contained Chairs

1. Locate the drain hose at the base or rear

2. Route it to a floor drain or approved container

3. Keep the hose straight without kinks

Drainage must be unrestricted to prevent standing water.

Step 4: Electrical Connection

• Confirm voltage and amperage match the chair rating

• Use a grounded outlet or approved hardwired connection

• Keep cords away from water and foot traffic

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

Step 5: Secure the Chair Base (If Required)

Some models require anchoring:

• Mark anchor points

• Drill according to specifications

• Secure with appropriate fasteners

Anchoring improves stability in high-traffic salons.

Step 6: Initial Leak and Function Test

1. Slowly turn on water supply

2. Inspect all connections for leaks

3. Power on the chair

4. Fill the basin and test jets or pumps

5. Drain completely and observe flow

Fix any leaks before proceeding.

Step 7: Sanitation Flush Before First Use

1. Fill the basin with clean water

2. Run the system for several minutes

3. Drain fully

4. Repeat if necessary

This removes debris from manufacturing and installation.

Step 8: Final Safety and Performance Check

Confirm:

• Stable base with no rocking

• Proper water temperature control

• Smooth drainage

• Correct operation of massage, recline, and controls

• No electrical or water exposure risks

Only after this check should the chair be placed into service.

Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping shutoff valves

• Incorrect drain slope

• Using ungrounded power sources

• Allowing hoses or cords to sit in water

• Not flushing the system before use

These issues cause leaks, odors, and early component failure.

Summary

To install a pedicure chair correctly:

1. Position and level the chair

2. Connect water supply with shutoff valves

3. Install proper drainage

4. Connect power safely

5. Test for leaks and function

6. Perform sanitation flush

Proper installation protects clients, staff, and equipment, and ensures long-term, trouble-free operation.