We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›
- Typical Range: $150 to $650
- National Average: $350
There are several reasons to remove a hot tub from its current location. Perhaps it’s no longer in working order or needs to be relocated to another part of the yard. Or perhaps a homeowner wants to take it with them when it’s time to move, or it’s simply not being used enough to warrant the maintenance costs. How much does it cost to remove a hot tub? According to Angi, hot tub removal cost runs from $150 to $650, with the national average at $350. The cost to hire a junk removal service to haul away an old hot tub is between $300 and $600 on average. Relocating a hot tub on the same property costs from $150 to $200, if the move is along flat surfaces and doesn’t involve stairs. Hot tub removal pricing depends on the size of the hot tub, the moving distance, the presence of stairs, the location’s accessibility, the local labor costs, and whether the hot tub needs to be reconnected after it’s been moved to a new location. Disposal fees will increase the overall cost of the removal. The average cost of hot tub removal does not include balancing and leveling of the hot tub in a new location. Labor costs can range between $100 and $200 per hour to remove a hot tub. Homeowners will want to keep in mind that labor rates can be higher in densely populated urban areas with a higher cost of living than in a more rural location.
Due to its weight and size, a hot tub can be difficult to move. The proper moving equipment and tools are needed to move the tub without damaging it. Obstacles, such as stairs, narrow passageways, and sharp turns can increase the difficulty of removing a hot tub. Professional hot tub movers can help homeowners avoid the risk of personal injury or damage to the hot tub from attempting a DIY removal project. A hot tub moving company has the proper equipment, experience, moving trucks, and number of employees to remove and dispose of a hot tub, or to remove and transport a hot tub to a new location. From small hot tubs to large units that can hold 10 or more people, professional hot tub movers can save homeowners the hassle of removing and disposing of the hot tub on their own.
Homeowners can find out how much hot tub movers cost by searching online for “hot tub removal cost near me” to find reputable professionals in their area. It’s also helpful for homeowners to read reviews of hot tub moving companies before deciding to hire professionals for the removal project. This guide will examine the factors that affect hot tub removal cost, additional costs and considerations, the types of hot tubs and how difficult each one is to remove, and some frequently asked questions regarding the hot tub removal process.
Factors in Calculating Hot Tub Removal Cost
Hot tub removal pricing can differ from the national average because of a few important factors. These can include the hot tub size, installation type, labor costs, and disposal fees.
Hot Tub Size
The cost to remove an old hot tub depends on the size of the tub. Some hot tub movers will charge by the hour and others may charge by weight. The larger and heavier the hot tub, the more time it will take to remove, which will result in higher removal costs.
Installation Type
If the hot tub is freestanding and not installed inground, the spa removal cost will be lower. Inground hot tub removal cost will be higher because of the extra time it takes to extract the hot tub from the ground. If it was installed in concrete, jackhammers and saws will be required for its removal, which will increase the time and labor costs to remove the hot tub.
Labor
While some hot tub movers will charge a flat fee to remove and dispose of an old hot tub, others charge by the hour or by weight. It’s common for homeowners to pay between $100 and $200 per hour for hot tub removal services. Movers that charge by the weight of the hot tub may charge extra if the tub weighs more than a specified amount. How much a hot tub weighs depends on how many people can fit inside and the overall size of the tub. A hot tub typically weighs between 400 and 900 pounds when it’s not filled with water.
Hot tub movers may add an extra fee if the hot tub needs to be moved up or down stairs. The extra time it takes to maneuver the tub typically results in an extra charge of $100 to $125. Labor costs can be more expensive in densely populated urban areas that have a higher cost of living than in more rural locations of the country.
Moving a hot tub from one location to another will cost more than moving it to a different spot on the same property. The higher cost results from transportation fees, added time, and increased labor costs associated with moving the hot tub.
Disposal
Many moving companies will include the cost of disposal in their estimate, but others will charge separately. It’s always recommended that homeowners double check with the movers to determine whether or not the price of disposing of the hot tub is included.
Additional Costs and Considerations
When budgeting for hot tub removal costs, it’s helpful for homeowners to have information about any additional costs and considerations before making any decisions. Some factors that can influence Jacuzzi tub removal cost are the presence of stairs, whether the hot tub is being removed or relocated, and if the homeowner has plans for new landscaping.
Stairs
If removing the hot tub involves moving it up or down stairs, it will cost extra. Lifting and moving a hot tub and transporting it up or down stairs requires additional equipment, effort, and extra personnel. Some moving companies may use a ramp and additional employees to protect the hot tub and the safety of their workers. It’s common for an extra charge between $100 and $125 to be added to a moving job if it involves stairs.
Removal vs. Relocation
Removing a hot tub from its current location can cost between $150 to $650, with many homeowners spending about $350. Relocating a hot tub on the same property can cost between $150 and $200, as long as it involves flat surfaces and there are no stairs. Moving a hot tub from one part of the yard to another typically takes less than an hour.
Landscaping
Some homeowners may be interested in renovating their outdoor space with new landscaping or a patio. Moving a hot tub to a new spot means that the space will need to be leveled and balanced to accommodate the hot tub. Landscapers can prepare the area and will usually charge between $50 and $250 per cubic yard for excavation and leveling services.
Removal Costs by Type of Hot Tub
Outdoor hot tub removal cost is influenced by the type of hot tub, the hot tub’s size, the type of installation, the distance it needs to be moved, and whether there are stairs involved. Below are the most common types of hot tubs and how difficult they are to move.
Inflatable
Inflatable hot tubs are easy to store away when they’re not in use. Even the best inflatable hot tubs should not be used below a specific temperature, so they will need to be deflated and stored during the cold winter months. Homeowners can generally do this themselves.
Portable
Portable hot tubs, also known as prefabricated hot tubs, come in a variety of sizes and construction materials. Although they’re considered portable, they are still heavy and cumbersome to move. Hiring professional hot tub movers who have experience and the proper equipment can make the removal process easier.
Inground
Most commonly installed next to an inground pool, inground hot tubs are situated in concrete and require the most time and effort to remove. Movers will need to use jackhammers and saws to remove the hot tub from its location. This will increase the overall price of the removal project since it requires additional equipment, tools, and time.
Rotationally Molded
Rotationally molded hot tubs weigh in around 300 pounds when empty. This makes them more portable and relatively easier to move than some other hot tub options, which in turn can decrease the hot tub removal cost.
Wooden
As the traditional material for hot tubs, wooden options are less common than other materials. Wooden hot tubs can be removed by dismantling the wooden slats and taking apart the components. This is best done by a professional and can be costly, but it’s generally not as expensive as inground hot tub removal.
Do I Need Hot Tub Removal?
There are several reasons to remove a hot tub: it doesn’t get used very much, there are safety concerns with children and pets, it requires frequent repairs, or the homeowner wants to use the space for something different. Below are some common reasons to remove a hot tub from its current location.
Lack of Use
Homeowners may not use the hot tub as often as they expected and no longer want to pay for the maintenance and upkeep. If the hot tub is sitting unused and unloved, the best choice may be to remove it and use the space for something else.
Safety Concerns
Despite safety precautions, there is always the risk that young children or pets can get into an unsupervised hot tub. Some homeowners may prefer to remove the hot tub for peace of mind.
Frequent Repair Requirements
If the hot tub is old and requires frequent repairs, it might be worth it to remove the hot tub. Hot tub repairs can add up and push a household budget beyond its limits.
Homeowner Preference
It’s common for a new homeowner to remove an existing hot tub from their home. Perhaps they want to use the space for another function or they just don’t want to be bothered with the upkeep.
Hot Tub Removal: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
With the correct knowledge, equipment (dolly, ramp, lifting straps, etc.), and the right kind of vehicle, removing a hot tub can be a DIY job. Homeowners who know how to move a hot tub safely may be able to move it to a different location in the yard or even across town. Since many hot tubs are freestanding, they’re easier to move than those that are installed inground. If a homeowner removes a hot tub on their own, they will still need to pay for removal and disposal. It’s recommended to hire a professional if an inground hot tub needs to be moved or if a homeowner wants to reuse the hot tub in a different location. Hiring professional movers can ensure the tub itself will not be damaged, and hiring a local plumber can ensure the water lines and connections remain intact. Attempting to remove an inground hot tub from concrete without the right knowledge and experience can damage the tub beyond repair.
Many homeowners prefer to hire professional hot tub movers to avoid the risk of personal injury to themselves and to their friends that can result from moving a hot tub as a DIY project. Although hot tub removal cost may be an incentive to try to move it on their own, homeowners can risk damaging a heating element or jet, or puncturing the watertight seal. Since some hot tubs have specific disassembly or packing instructions, a professional mover will be familiar with those requirements. Hiring a professional hot tub moving company can give homeowners the peace of mind from knowing the hot tub removal job is done safely and correctly.
How to Save Money on Hot Tub Removal Cost
Hot tub removal cost is a potential expense for homeowners with a hot tub, but preparing for the expense can help homeowners stay on budget. Below are some tips to save money when the time comes to remove a hot tub.
- Get multiple quotes. Get at least three quotes from reputable hot tub movers in your area to find a price that works with your budget.
- Consider repair. Repairs on an existing hot tub will generally cost less than replacing an old tub with a completely new one, especially if it’s large and heavy or needs to be moved up and down stairs or through tight doorways to be installed. Some homeowners may choose to repair the hot tub to save money.
- Do some of the work yourself. Knowing how to drain a hot tub and clean it can save some money on labor costs.
- Pack up hot tub items on your own. Removing and packing the hot tub parts and accessories, such as heaters, pumps, electrical units, and plumbing, can also save time and money.
- Check with donation services. If the hot tub is in working order, a donation service may offer free pickup services.
- Bundle services. If you have other large items in your home that need to be removed, ask about discounts for removing multiple items at the same time.
- Stick to your budget. Knowing how much money you have available to spend on a hot tub removal project can help you pick the best hot tub movers for you.
Questions to Ask About Hot Tub Removal
Asking a hot tub removal professional the right questions about hot tub removal cost can help avoid miscommunication and save money. Below are some questions to ask about the hot tub removal process.
- Are you insured?
- What does the insurance policy cover?
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you provide free removal estimates?
- How much does it cost to remove and dispose of a hot tub?
- How will you protect the surrounding area and landscaping from damage?
- What happens if you damage the hot tub during the removal process?
- Can you provide references?
- Do you have examples of hot tub removal projects that you’ve completed?
- How long has your company been removing hot tubs?
- How long will the hot tub removal project take?
- Who will remove the hot tub?
- Do you hire subcontractors for the hot tub removal?
- What is the removal process?
- How do you dispose of the hot tub?
- Can hot tubs and hot tub covers be recycled?
- What can I do to prepare for the hot tub removal process?
- Is an electrician included in the hot tub removal cost?
- Do I need to be home during the hot tub removal?
- What are your payment options?
- Do you offer any warranties or guarantees on labor?
- When can you remove the hot tub?
- How can I leave a review of your services?
FAQs
Before deciding on hot tub removal, it’s important for homeowners to have all the available information regarding the removal process and the associated costs. Below are some frequently asked questions about hot tub removal.
Q. Where can you throw away a hot tub?
Hot tubs are usually not accepted at local landfills, dumps, or recycling centers. Some options to get rid of a hot tub are to hire one of the best junk removal services, sell it at a yard sale or online, or trade it to a hot tub dealer. A junk removal company can handle the heavy lifting, transportation, and disposal of the hot tub and its accessories.
Q. Does hot tub removal include the cost of disposal?
Most companies that remove hot tubs will incorporate the price of disposal in with their estimate, but some do not. It’s always good to double check with the moving company about the price of hot tub disposal.
Q. Are there any regulations to be aware of or permits that need to be obtained before removing a hot tub?
Homeowners will want to check with their local municipality regarding the local regulations surrounding hot tub removal. Some areas may have specific statutes about removing a hot tub and others will not.
Q. Is moving a hot tub worth it?
If you’re moving to a new location and want to take the hot tub with you, it’s worth the money, time, and effort to relocate it. If the hot tub is old and in disrepair, it may be worthwhile to pay the hot tub cost to install it at the new home. If it’s no longer enjoyable to enjoy a soak in the hot tub’s current location, it’s worth moving it to a different location on the deck or in the yard.
Q. How do I prepare my hot tub for removal?
To get a hot tub ready for removal, there are a few steps to follow. The first step is to drain the hot tub of all the water. If the hot tub doesn’t have a drain, a sump pump and a hose will be needed to manually pump out all of the water. The power needs to be disconnected from the hot tub, followed by unhooking all of the electrical wires and disconnecting the main water line and all of the plumbing lines.
Q. How long does it usually take to remove a hot tub?
It can take between 2 and 2½ hours to remove a small hot tub and between 3 and 4 hours to remove a larger unit. The time it takes for removal will depend on the size, material, and installation of the hot tub.
Sources: Angi, Thumbtack, Forbes
