Hot tubs are an excellent way to relax and can be a great investment for the family. However, once they stop working, they can be a nuisance.
So whether your beloved hot tub is ready to be replaced, or you bought a house with an eyesore of an old hot tub, sometimes they have to be removed. If you are wondering how to remove an old hot tub on your own, we have some tips and pointers to get started. Take a look!
When Is It Time to Remove an Old Tub?
A quality hot tub can last 15 years or longer, but even an expertly maintained one cannot last forever. There are some signs that a hot tub should be removed or replaced, so if yours is showing this much wear and tear, you know it’s time to remove it. The following is what to look out for.
Age
A hot tub that’s only five or ten years old can withstand repairs and give you many more years of enjoyment, but once you hit the 15-year mark, it may only be worth repairing if it is very cheap.
Leaks
Getting an accurate quote on a leak can be challenging because it is not always clear where it starts. Furthermore, spray foam insulation often used inside hot tubs can hide a leak for a while, which can cause an array of other serious problems. If the insulation needs replacing or you cannot procure an exact quote, your repair bill will likely be significant, and you may want to consider removing the hot tub.
Constant Repairs
It is past its prime if you notice you are repairing your hot tub frequently. It may also be more difficult to procure parts for an older hot tub or one from a lesser-known manufacturer. Parts get expensive, and it is hard to enjoy a hot tub when it always needs work.
Utility Costs
Older models of hot tubs are often less energy efficient than newer models. Although a quality hot tub cover may keep heat, it just doesn’t make up for the age of an older unit. As utility costs rise, replacing your hot tub may be more cost-efficient overall if it’s an older model and frequently needs repairs.
Can Parts Be Saved for Resale or Scrap?
When removing your old hot tub, even if it’s not in great working order, consider if it’s worth stripping it down carefully to sell or recycle parts.
Hot tubs are built to last, so many pieces will still be in working order. Others will find value in them, and those parts won’t see a landfill. Plus, you can’t go wrong with a few extra bucks in your pocket.
For instance, you should remove functional pieces like the spa pack or spa-side controls. If the cabinet is wood or plastic, separate it from the shell to recycle it. You can recycle other parts, including pool valves, pipes, and PVC fittings.
Then you can cut the spa shell into smaller pieces for proper disposal. Other hot tub owners will also be interested if you have quality accessories like a durable hot tub skimmer that retains its value.
Tools You’ll Need on Hand
Depending on your situation and what you decide to do when you remove the hot tub, you may need to have a few tools and protective gear on hand if your choice for removal is to cut it up:
- Reciprocating saw
- Hammer and screwdriver if the hot tub has nails and screws
- Dust mask
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
- Garden hose
- Wet vacuum or towels
These tools ensure safe removal and minimize the risk of injury.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Dismantling and removing a hot tub does not have to be a complicated process. With the right tools and effort, you can eliminate an old tub and make room for a new one. However, before starting, make sure you have your protective equipment on and that your tools are easily accessible and ready to go.
Once you’re set, the following guides you through what to do next.
Step 1: Disconnect the Utilities
The first thing to do is make sure you have a safe start. It is imperative that you shut off and disconnect all utilities. This includes the power supply, water supply, and gas connection. You could cause flooding or water damage, electrocution, or a gas leak without properly disconnecting these.
Then, read your owner’s manual to locate gas lines or electric wiring that needs to be disconnected or removed before you begin disassembly. Doing this first ensures everything runs smoothly. If you need clarification on this step, ask an expert.
Step 2: Drain the Hot Tub
If your hot tub is already empty, you can skip this step. If not, you’ll need to locate the drainage spout on the hot tub floor.
Attach your garden hose and find an appropriate place to drain the water. Move the hose as necessary so you do not oversaturate your yard. You can use a wet vac or towels to dry up any remaining moisture.
Step 3: Begin Dismantling
Most of the time, the hot tub skirt is wooden. If it is a tongue-and-groove assembly, you can use a screwdriver to remove all the screws that hold the primary structure together. This will separate the hot tub from its components.
If the hot tub has removable jets or lights, remove them before moving on. If the hot tub skirt connects to the bed, you need to cut it apart.
Step 4: Cut It Apart
The hot tub bed is usually one large piece of sturdy material like fiberglass. Once you reach this, you can use a jigsaw or reciprocating saw to cut it apart. Remember to make sure the hot tub is completely dry before using an electric saw, and remove any motors, pipes, and wires before continuing.
If you cannot remove the lights or jets, exercise caution when cutting around them. You will want to cut the hot tub bed into small pieces that are easy to transport as you dispose of them properly.
Step 5: Disposal
If you intend to sell or recycle parts, separate them. Any pieces that are trash should be disposed of safely.
You can hire a dumpster or junk removal service or transport the trash to a dumpster or appropriate center yourself. After you remove the hot tub from the property, you can install a new one or transform the free space into something new!
What to Avoid With Hot Tub Removal
It can not be overstated how important it is to shut off and disconnect all electric and gas supplies before starting. Hiring a professional may be in your best interest if you are unsure where to start. Hot tubs are heavy, so removing them can be troublesome, and you should not try to do this without experienced help and proper tools.
When breaking the hot tub apart, you need to use your safety goggles and gloves and be careful to avoid injury from dust, debris, and sharp pieces. Also, if you are replacing the hot tub, make sure you do not damage the foundation or deck area.
Can You Trade in a Hot Tub?
You should check with your dealer if you intend to purchase a new hot tub. Many dealers have a trade-in program, and if your hot tub has any value you can apply to buy a new one, this is worth considering.
Another option is to search online for promotions through hot tub manufacturers or dealer websites. Typically, they will remove the old hot tub themselves, which saves you time and effort.
You Can Save a Ton of Money With a DIY Hot Tub Removal
Removing an old hot tub from your property does not have to be difficult or stressful. You can safely remove it with some prep work and the right tools and get a few dollars by selling off the reusable parts. If you plan to install a new hot tub, you can ensure that it stays clean and comfortable with the right tools.
A durable, professional-grade skimmer is one tool every pool and hot tub owner should have. They make it easy to keep the water clean and the filter from getting clogged.
Maintaining your hot tub is always easier when you have quality accessories and tools, and ProTuff Products believes so strongly in our products that we offer a lifetime guarantee. Contact us today to learn more about our quality pool products and services.
Disclaimer: Pool ownership and maintenance is very complicated, and we know every situation is unique. While we’ve done our best to cover the best practices here, we encourage you to reach out to ProTuff directly at info@protuffproducts.com with any specific questions you may have.