This job can be dangerous. Consult or hire a pro to be safe.
Time to complete
5 hours
Professional junk haulers can take apart your hot tub in no time.
Cost
$150 to $650
On average, hiring a pro to remove a hot tub costs $350.
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
Heavy-duty work gloves
Safety goggles
Work boots
Dust mask
Garden hose
Drain pump (optional)
Wrench
Dolly or cart (if available)
Screwdrivers
Pliers
Wrench
Crowbar or pry bar
Jigsaw
Reciprocating saw
Metal-cutting blade
SUPPLIES
Cleaning supplies
Large bucket
Ahhhh, there's nothing like a hot tub for unwinding and relaxing at home. But there comes a time when you need to say goodbye to your water-filled oasis.
Properly disposing of your hot tub is vital, whether it’s at the end of its life or when you are upgrading. Not doing so can harm the environment and may be illegal in some areas. But worry not; we have the details if you are wondering how to dispose of a hot tub. This guide explores responsible extraction, disposal, donation, and selling methods.
Assess the Condition of Your Hot Tub
Photo: Anastasiia Krivenok / Moment / Getty Images
Before you begin the disposal process, take some time to assess the condition of your hot tub. Determine whether the unit is salvageable, sellable, or beyond both.
If your hot tub is in working condition and only needs minor repairs, consider donating or selling it. Many charitable organizations, schools, and community centers might welcome a functional hot tub as a generous donation.
If you want to make some pocket money, you can sell your hot tub on an online marketplace.
For units that aren’t in great condition, recycling is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to dispose of a hot tub. Many components, such as the shell and various parts, can be saved and repurposed. You can try selling those parts to a local salvage shop or drop them off at your local Habitat ReStore for a tax deduction.
However, if your tub is damaged and has significant mechanical issues, it is time to dump it properly.
How to Dispose of Your Hot Tub
Research the local regulations regarding hot tub disposal in your area. Many places have specific guidelines and restrictions for large items, and not following these rules may result in fines or penalties.
Additionally, some regions may require you to drain and clean the hot tub thoroughly, while others might demand that you hire professional services for its removal. The average cost to remove a hot tub is $350 when you hire a local professional junk hauler. This price may not include fees for draining and disconnecting, however.
How to Prepare Your Hot Tub for Removal
Hot tubs are heavy and difficult to handle, so it's best to have at least one person assisting with the removal process. This will improve safety while making the task more manageable.
Turn Off the Power
You will need to disconnect your hot tub from the power source before starting the removal process. The task may require turning off the circuit breaker. This step is crucial to prevent electrical hazards.
Drain Your Hot Tub
Locate the drain valve. It is usually placed at the bottom of the hot tub and is covered with a cap or plug.
Now grab a garden hose and attach it to the drain valve. The hose will serve as a channel for the water to flow out of the tub. You will want to ensure the other end of the garden hose directs to a suitable drainage area, such as a nearby storm drain or a spot where excess water won't damage your home’s foundation.
Next, open the drain valve and allow the water to flow completely. Depending on the hot tub's size, this process may take 10 minutes to a few hours.
Alternatively, you can skip the hose and use a drain pump to speed up the process. To do this, submerge the drain pump into the water at the bottom of the hot tub. Position the pump near the center to maximize water removal efficiency. Plug in the drain pump and turn it on to begin pumping the water out of the hot tub.
Typically, a hot tub will have an equipment access panel or a control box. You may need a screwdriver to open it up to find the hot tub's internal components, including the plumbing connections.
In some instances, a hot tub's plumbing connections may be underneath the hot tub. You must crawl or lift the hot tub slightly to access these connections.
Using the appropriate wrench, carefully loosen the fittings on both the supply and return lines. Turn the fittings counterclockwise to loosen them. Be prepared for some water to come out as you loosen the connections.
Drain Remaining Water
Allow any remaining water in the plumbing lines to drain into a bucket or container. This step will prevent water from spilling onto the floor or ground.
Remove Plumbing Connections
Once the water has drained, fully remove the plumbing connections by unscrewing them completely using a wrench or pliers. Be cautious not to apply excessive force; you don't want to damage the plumbing or hot tub components if you plan to donate or sell.
Cap or Plug the Plumbing Lines
After removing the plumbing connections, you can use caps or plugs to seal the open ends of the plumbing lines. It will help prevent any residual water from leaking during the removal process.
It's important to note that your hot tub can vary in plumbing configurations and may have additional connections or features requiring specific disconnection procedures. Always consult your hot tub's manual for manufacturer-specific instructions on disconnecting.
Remove Debris
Wear your work gloves to clear out any leaves, dirt, or debris that may have stayed in the hot tub after draining.
Thoroughly scrub the interior surface of the hot tub using a non-abrasive cleaner or a mixture of mild detergent and water. Pay close attention to any stains, algae, or mineral deposits. Consider using a soft brush or sponge rather than an abrasive pad to protect the surface if you plan to donate or sell.
Remove the Siding and Braces
Some hot tubs have decorative siding, like wood paneling supported by wood braces underneath. Using a crowbar or pry bar, start at the edges and gently pry open the siding, working along the perimeter until you are done. Afterward, cut the braces holding the siding in place with a jigsaw or reciprocating saw.
On the flip side, your hot tub may instead have removable panels all around that can be easily removed with a screwdriver. Check your manufacturer's instructions.
Cut and Dispose of the Tub
If you are not donating or selling your hot tub, you may need to cut up the tub for proper disposal per local guidelines.
First, grab your reciprocating saw or jigsaw. Install your metal cutting blade. Next, carefully cut the hot tub shell into manageable pieces, starting from the top and working to cut it in half. Have your buddy help hold the tub in place while you are working.
Be cautious of any internal plumbing or wiring as you proceed. Once the hot tub is in two pieces, cut those pieces in half so you have four smaller sections.
Now you are ready to dispose of the tub. The easiest method is to hire a professional hauler. The cost of junk removal ranges from $60 to $600, depending on your area. The weight and size of the stuff you plan to remove can impact the price. If removing your hot tub is part of a bigger renovation, a dumpster rental may be more cost-effective.
Got a big truck? You can also transport all the pieces to your local recycling center with a friend or two. A dolly or cart will make the job a bit easier.
DIY or Hire a Pro
Please note that removing a hot tub can be challenging and labor-intensive. If you are unsure about the process or lack experience in heavy lifting and dismantling, consider hiring professionals specializing in hot tub removal. They will have the expertise and equipment to safely and efficiently remove the hot tub while you kick back and relax.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sawing your hot tub into more manageable chunks so it can be lifted easily into a truck takes several hours. Generally, 2.5 hours for smaller hot tubs and around 4 hours for larger ones with the help of one to two people. If money isn't a concern and you want to skip the physical labor, you can hire a pro to get the job done.
A compact unit designed for two to three people typically weighs approximately 500 pounds in its empty state. On the other hand, a larger hot tub meant for up to six people can weigh around 1,000 pounds when empty. Materials used also impact weight. Less expensive hot tubs are typically lighter because they are made of molded plastic or fiberglass.
Deirdre is a seasoned DIYer and home improvement writer. She believes in the transformative powers of deep cleaning and painting to revitalize any space. Her articles have appeared in HomeLight, The Spruce, Realtor, and more.
Deirdre is a seasoned DIYer and home improvement writer. She believes in the transformative powers of deep cleaning and painting to revitalize any space. Her articles have appeared in HomeLight, The Spruce, Realtor, and more.
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