Removing a hot tub – at least, one that isn’t inflatable – from your backyard is not a simple task. The best way to go about removing a hot tub is by using professional help, however, if that isn’t an option, there are a few steps to follow in order to successfully remove it yourself.
Let’s get started!
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Things to Consider Before You Remove a Hot Tub
There are several things you need to consider before you move a hot tub:
Hot tubs aren’t cheap: When you bought your hot tub, you likely spent a hefty amount of money. When you plan on moving it, you need to ensure you’re moving it as carefully as possible. After all, it was an investment that you don’t want to damage and may be able to resell or use elsewhere.
Weight: The weight of a hot tub makes it a challenge to move it from one place to another. Generally, a small tub will weigh about 800 pounds when it is empty. When it has water, the weight can go up to 6,000 pounds. With this in mind, make sure that you drain all of the water before moving. Once the water is completely drained, ensure that you have the necessary equipment to efficiently remove a hot tub. This includes machines such as dollies, ropes, and straps.
Size: Hot tubs are quite large. Generally speaking, all manufacturers have a minimum and maximum size or their tubs. For example, a small tub may be 5 to 8 feet. Take note this is a tub that can hold 2-4 people. Their width is usually anything from 5 to 10 feet. These are measurements you need to consider before you move your tub.
With all of these considerations in mind, you will need to find the safest way to move your tub. If you are sure you can do it on your own, the following are steps that will guide you:
12 Steps to Remove a Hot Tub
Before we get into our removal guide, if you’re more of a visual learner, you can refer to the following video for help:
With that said, let’s hop right in!
Step 1: Secure a Moving Vehicle
Professional movers often transport a hot tub using a specialized trailer. You can decide to hire one or get a moving truck to remove a hot tub from your backyard. Check the exact size of your hot tub from your owner’s manual. You need to ensure the vehicle you hire will be large enough to accommodate the tub. In most cases, a truck or trailer measuring 15 feet by 8 feet by 7 feet should be sufficient.
Make sure the vehicle you rent has a loading ramp to make your work easier. The good news is that there are a plethora of rental companies that will have a truck to suit your needs.
Step 2: Get the Right Moving Equipment
For starters, you’ll need to get 2 heavy-duty furniture dollies. Some rental companies can lease this kind of equipment. The dollies should be capable of holding up to 800 pounds. Secondly, you’ll need 4 pieces of wood that measure four inches by four inches. These pieces of wood will be used to slightly lift your tub to allow room or the dollies to be rolled underneath it. Lastly, you’ll need to get a good length of rope or strong straps. They will be used to immobilize the tub as you load it onto the dollies.
Step 3: Find Trustworthy Helpers
Of course, you will not be able to remove a hot tub by yourself. Since you will not be using professional movers, you’ll need to find some help. You can either ask for assistance from your friends or hire several people. The minimum number of people required is four. This means you should look for at least three additional people to help you with the task. To minimize the risk of any accidents, get around six people to help you.
Step 4: Assess the Exit Path
Some exit paths may be a challenge when you move. Take a walk on the planned exit path. Look for any hazardous areas or obstacles. Assess the area carefully to plan your exit. Consider things like if you’ll have to move the tub over the grass as you exit your backyard or if you’ll be moving up or down a hill. If you have to move your tub up or down some stairs, you should consider getting professional help. Stairs are a challenge and things can get dangerous without warning.
Step 5: Disconnect the Tub
Now that you have everything set to go, it’s time to disconnect the tub from your electrical network. Make sure you coil the power cord and put it away. Some tubs have some kind of storage space on the side for storing the power cord. It’s important to make sure no cables are dangling from the tub when you move it. Dangling cables may trip one of the movers and damage the tub.
Step 6: Drain the Tub
You cannot move a hot tub from your backyard if it has water in it, but draining a hot tub is not as simple as draining a bathtub. So how do you go about it? The best method is by reading your owner’s manual. All tubs come with instructions on how to drain it efficiently and safely. Usually, you need to access a side panel to shut off the water supply.
You can use a long hose to drain the water. Drain the water in a suitable area in your backyard. If you are close to a street gutter, you can drain the water there. You may need additional equipment like a water pump for this option.
Step 7: Clean and Dry the Tub
Cleaning a hot tub is an easy task. The first option involves using a cleaner recommended by the manufacturer. Alternatively, you can use an all-purpose cleaner. Clean using a soft cloth to avoid damaging the surface. Once you’ve cleaning it, rinse it and then dry off any water. The drying process can be done using ordinary bath towels.
Step 8: Pack the Cover
The majority of hot tubs come with a detachable cover. Make sure you move it and pack it before you remove a hot tub from your backyard. Once you’ve moved the tub, you can re-attach the cover. Some tubs do not have a detachable cover. In this case, you’ll need to unscrew the cover using the appropriate screwdriver. Remember to store the screws in a safe place.
Step 9: Position the Wood Pieces
Earlier we talked about gathering four wood pieces for removing your hot tub. This is the step where you need to use them.
Moving the tub is the most dangerous and toughest step. All of your helpers should lift the tub slightly at each corner. The height should be just enough for you to insert a piece of wood at each corner. The idea is to ensure the tub is elevated from the ground to allow you to slide the dollies underneath it.
Generally, you need to make sure the tub is about 4 inches from the round when it rests on the pieces of wood. Make sure the tub is lying stably on the pieces of wood.
Step 10: Position the Dollies to Remove a Hot Tub
Slide the dolly under the front area of the tub. Make sure you use the rope or straps to secure it. Slide the second dolly at the back section of the tub. Secure it the same way you secured the first dolly. The rope or straps should ensure the tub will not slip off the dollies when you move it. This is a very critical step as it will determine whether you damage your tub or not. Do this step slowly and don’t move the tub until you have ensured the dollies are properly secured.
Step 11: Roll the Tub to the Truck
In the best-case scenario, the terrain from your starting point to the finish point will be predominantly flat. Since you will have removed any obstacles, the rolling should be easy. Take note that the rope or straps will help you keep the tub stable. However, you will need to be cautious as you move it.
Your helpers should hold the tub to keep it steady. Start rolling the tub towards the vehicle or its new location. Make sure you move slowly to ensure you do not damage it.
Avoid any abrupt movements when you face any challenge. For instance, if you have to pass through a small gate, do not make any abrupt decisions. Just stop and figure out the safest way to get it through to avoid any property damage.
Step 12: Remove a Hot Tub and Load It Onto the Truck
Loading the tub onto a moving truck is one of the most dangerous steps. In this case, you should be extra careful as a slight mistake may destroy the tub or injure your helpers.
Push the tub up the loading ramp. The best way to do this is by having one person in the front for guidance. The rest of your helpers should be at the back pushing it.
Once the tub is inside the truck or on the trailer, make sure you have secured it. Use the sides of the truck or the trailer to secure the tub. If you feel you are incapable of removing a hot tub and inserting it safely on the trailer or in the truck, ask for additional help. Keep in mind that the safety of you and your crew is the highest priority.
Conclusion
Moving a hot tub from your backyard can go smoothly if you have the right tools and enough assistance. Make sure you read the owner’s manual before you remove a hot tub.
If it’s a large tub, you may need to get additional equipment or assistance. These steps should be able to guide you to successfully move any hot tub from your backyard. If you have any doubts about your ability to move your hot tub, look for some professional help from movers with experience.
