Crucial Hot Tub Basics
Crucial Hot Tub Basics
Have you got an old hot tub you don’t use anymore? Hot tubs are heavy and large, so if you’re in that situation, here’s how to remove a hot tub from your backyard.
- Cut the power at the disconnect.
- Remove the panels and power cord from the control box.
- Use a crowbar to remove the wood braces except for the 4 corners.
- Remove all equipment & cut PVC pipes as needed.
- Use an electric saw to cut the acrylic shell in half.
- Then remove all pieces and discard.
And make sure to use safety goggles when using power tools to break apart the frame and spa shell!
But of course, before destroying the hot tub, decide first if you want to try and sell it. Selling it is a great way to put a few hundred dollars in your pocket, and you can leave the hassle of spa removal to the buyer.
Or you can simply throw money at the problem and find a junk removal team or other hot tub disposal services. That might be the best way to get rid of an old spa.
There are lots of things to consider, such as the cost of junk removal services, electrical disconnection, and physically getting the hot tub off your property.
If you’re replacing your hot tub, you may be able to get the hot tub company to take the old unit away (or even give you partial credit for it), but if not, you have a few options to consider.
Read on to find out what’s best for you and your unwanted hot tub.
How much does it cost to remove an old hot tub?
Generally speaking, the average cost of hot tub removal jobs is $350 for the whole process. But depending on the exit path and how much space there is to work around the old tub, it could range between $150 and $650.
Always ask for a free estimate before confirming!
But you can get your hot tub removed for free if the professional junk removal service thinks they can sell it. Usually, it will depend on the value of your hot tub to the removal company and the cost to them in stripping it down.
If you opt to do it yourself, you should be aware of any hidden fees such as landfill charges or the dump charge at a recycling facility.
If you’re paying for hot tub removal services, make sure the cost includes everything.
Most companies base their charges on weight or volume so get them to work this out for themselves before giving you a price and don’t add to it later.
Don’t just accept a cost over the phone.
Get them to come out and give you a proper estimate based on the physical conditions they can see for themselves, including any steps to encounter, fences or gates to negotiate, etc.
Also, you should be aware of what is expected of you before the junk haulers turn up.
Do they want you to:
- Disconnect electrical?
- Drain all the water?
- Form a clear path for them from the hot tub to the curbside?
- Provide a firm surface to run a hand truck over?
Make sure you get all this in writing to avoid any arguments later.
Moving a hot tub…. What could possibly go wrong? pic.twitter.com/FfCgfW31GY
— NorthernTails (@NorthernTails1) October 25, 2021
Is it worth it to move a hot tub?
It is worth it to move a hot tub as long as the hot tub shell and frame are in good condition. Even if a new control box and/or pump need to be purchased, it is much cheaper to move a hot tub to a new location than it is to purchase a new hot tub.
And installing the new equipment can be done by most homeowners. But there are a lot of things to consider, so let’s explore those things. The factors to be considered are:
- The condition of your hot tub
- How old your hot tub is
- Distance to the new location
- Availability of a hot tub removal team in your area
How old is “old”? A hot tub is made up of 4 components, each having a different lifespan:
- The shell
- The equipment
- The PVC plumbing
- The hot tub cover
So how long do hot tubs usually last?
In a recent article, I explained in more detail how each of these components can deteriorate and what to do to preserve them for as long as possible. Find out how by clicking on the link and reading it here on my website.
On average, you should get 15-20 years out of your hot tub, although, during this time, you may have to replace or repair 1 or 2 of the items listed above.
You may have no option but to move your hot tub when you’re moving. The new owners won’t be pleased if you leave them with the problem to deal with, especially if the old hot tub is unusable.
I once sold a house in Dallas that had an almost brand-new hot tub.
But the new owners didn’t want it and put into the contract that I had to remove it. So, I took a huge loss in getting it removed. But some home buyers might actually want you to leave it.
Once you’ve decided that the hot tub must go, you can then look at the various options. If it’s in reasonable condition and not too old and provided there’s room for it in your new home, you may decide to take your hot tub with you.
Look up hot tub removal teams in your area.
You can find these listed under “Removal Services” or just Google “how to get rid of a hot tub”.
It’s worth getting a few quotes, as these services vary depending on the team’s capability. One company worth a try is 1-800 Got Junk? – they have franchises all over America. But there’s also Junk King and College Hunks too.
The hot tub removal process is pretty much the same whether you want to relocate it or scrap it, it’s just the cost that will change.
Moving the Hot Tub day!! pic.twitter.com/Pot7GHo2XU
— Hedd Dafydd 🏴🇵🇸🇮🇪 (@H_Dafydd) June 13, 2021
How do you get rid of a hot tub without destroying it?
To remove a hot tub without destroying it:
- Disconnect the power first at the disconnect box and the main breaker panel
- Empty the hot tub of all water with a garden hose or submersible pump
- Use a wet-dry vacuum to remove all remaining water
- Remove the electrical cord from the disconnect box
- Sell it online on Craigslist or a local Facebook group page
I once bought a used hot tub off my local neighborhood Facebook page.
I found a professional team of hot tub movers who moved it (within 40 miles) for $350. The previous owners had lied a little about the age and condition of the hot tub, so when I got there and saw it, I talked them down from $500 to $150.
Want to know more about my story and the step-by-step moving process?
In a recent article, I got into everything, including the 1 crucial mistake I made, which almost cost me $3,000 extra in electrical work I hadn’t planned on. But I found a solution!
Just click that link to read it on my site.
Once drained, you may decide to have a go at moving the hot tub yourself. This is perfectly doable with 2-4 people. But you must fully understand the implications of this. You will find some typical hot tub weights in the next section.
You must consider where you want it to go and how you are going to get it there.
JOYSPA Outdoor Super Luxury Spa Pool Water Hot Tub Balboa Spa 6 Person. pic.twitter.com/kyskiYGbYe
— Bill (@Bill00711030) January 13, 2021
How heavy is an empty 6-person hot tub?
On average, a 6-person hot tub will weigh 700 pounds when empty. But depending on the brand and shape, the empty weight can range between 500 and 1,000 pounds.
The owner’s manual that came with your hot tub should tell you the weight of it.
But if you no longer have this, you can get some great advice on weight from a recent article here on my website. I even show you how to calculate the weight with just a few simple measurements.
Just click on the link to read it.
Here are some examples of dry weight from different brands:
| Model | Size of your hot tub (inches) | Weight (pounds) |
| Beachcomber 550 | 80 x 88 x 38” | 650 lbs. |
| Clearwater Spas ES84 | 84 x 84 x 34 | 500 lbs. |
| Hudson Bay HB19 | 76 x 76 x 34 | 600 lbs. |
| Hydropool 670 | 84 x 84 x 39 | 794 lbs. |
| Signature Spas SS-5 | 80 x 80 x 34 | 750 lbs. |
| Sundance Optima 880 | 89 x 89 x 37.5 | 924 lbs. |
These variations result from the specification of each model, taking into account:
- Materials, e.g., acrylic or fiberglass shell, wood or metal frame
- Number of jets
- Weight of the pump and heater
- Built-in sanitizer – e.g., Ozonator
- Other accessories such as lighting, water features, music system, etc.
- Cabinetry – e.g., acrylic or wood
If you intend to scrap your hot tub or sell it off for parts, you can reduce the weight considerably by removing some of these parts.
You can even cut the shell up into smaller pieces. But don’t use a chainsaw for this; a reciprocating saw works best – and don’t forget your PPE!
I haven’t included the weight of the hot tub cover in this because it can easily be removed, but it is worth considering that this can add around 50 to 70 pounds to the overall weight to be removed or relocated.
Great pic of our Klaas crane lifting a hot tub over into someones back garden in Derby #Klaas #hottub #craneoperator pic.twitter.com/uygKjogNzp
— Crane hire solutions (@SolutionsCrane) May 28, 2019
How do you lift a hot tub over a fence? (or is it easier to temporarily remove a section of the fence?)
As a general rule, it will be easier and far less expensive to remove a section of a wooden fence to remove a hot tub than it will be to hire a crane. But on its side, most hot tubs can easily fit through a typical backyard gate.
As long as they are trustworthy, take the advice of your hot tub removal team, as this largely depends on the equipment they have and their manpower.
When moving a hot tub, you should tip it on its side, pump side up.
That’s because the pump access panel is a weak point and could give way under pressure. One way to tip a hot tub on its side is to use an inflatable lifting cushion.
These are wedge-shaped cushions that you slide under the edge of your hot tub and inflate using the pump supplied.
Use a spa dolly or hand truck to maneuver the tub toward the fence. If you or the removal team have a small crane – these usually come fitted to the truck – it’s a simple matter to lift the tub over the fence.
Without a crane, you could man-handle the tub over maybe a 3-foot fence but certainly no higher. For 6 people to lift a 900-pound tub, that’s still 150 pounds each; a daunting task for most of us!
Think about that before you invite your friends around.
Using a crane is a specialist job. Although the weight of a hot tub is nothing to a small crane, there are many factors to consider – not a job for the Weekend Warrior!
To transport a hot tub, you’ll need a flatbed truck or trailer on which the tub can be laid flat.
You can hire one of these for around $200 per day. Ensure the tub is securely strapped down and pack around any equipment that could work loose under vibration. Better still, remove it and transport it separately.
Gonna try disconnecting the hot tub myself. Hope I don’t die and junk. pic.twitter.com/9qfvVPftsp
— Kim (@KimOfAllTrades) November 19, 2015
Is it easy to disconnect a hot tub electrical cord?
It is easy to disconnect a hot tub electrical cord as it is typically just connected inside the hot tub control box with 3 screws holding 3 wires in place.
But don’t go digging in yet.
We want to be safe, and you may determine (unless you have a small 110v plug-in hot tub) that you need to call in a licensed electrician for this.
But if you are competent enough and know how to turn off the supply, there is no reason why you can’t do this yourself.
In a recent article, I described how a hard-wired hot tub is connected through a circuit breaker to your main electric supply, and you can read it here on my site by clicking on the link.
When your old hot tub was first installed, it was most likely wired up to a disconnect box, which is a type of circuit breaker located near the hot tub (usually within 5 feet).
Here are the steps to follow:
- Cut the power off at the disconnect box
- Flip the breaker to the disconnect box on the main breaker panel
- Open the front panel on the hot tub
- Open the control box (often requiring a Phillips screwdriver)
- Using a screwdriver (often flathead), disconnect the wires from the control box that are coming in from the power cord)
- Using a wrench, where the power cord enters the control box, loosen the nut holding the cord in place
- Pull the power cord out from the control box
- Pull the power cord out of the hot tub shell and set it aside
- Mark both the breaker and disconnect box to indicate not to turn them back on. A lock on the disconnect box in the off position may be required by your local code.
Hot tub removal? Yeah, we do that. See more at: http://t.co/cUAzcuQpJB #junk #hoarding #PDX pic.twitter.com/02GDRpOh80
— Junk It Store It (@JunkItStoreIt) July 25, 2015
Do local junkyards take hot tubs?
In many areas, local junkyards or the local landfill will not take hot tubs, at least in 1 piece. However, some will take a hot tub if broken up into several smaller pieces that can fit in their containers more easily. So it’s a good idea to call around first to find out where you can take it.
Hot tubs are made up of a lot of materials, most of which are not biodegradable. Take a look at these components:
- Pipework – PVC
- Shell – acrylic
- Insulation – polyurethane
- Cover – PVC, and Styrofoam
- Jets – heavy-duty plastic
- Cabinets – wood pulp and plastics
It is your responsibility as the owner to make sure your hot tub is disposed of correctly and legally. Getting someone in to dump it on your behalf does not relieve you of that duty.
Responsible contractors will break down your old hot tub into bits that can be reused, recycled, and repurposed. The remaining parts will be cut up and disposed of at local specialist landfills, where they cannot cause harm to the environment.
If you decide to try this yourself, don’t think you can just drop the chopped-up bits into your trash can either. If those parts can be traced back to you, you could be in big trouble.
Can you trade in an old hot tub when buying a new one?
Yes, you can trade in an old hot tub when buying a new one.
Hot tubs are a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors, but they can be expensive. Fortunately, many hot tub retailers offer trade-in programs that allow you to get a discount on your new hot tub when you trade in your old one.
When trading in an old hot tub, it is important to make sure that it is in good condition.
Most retailers will inspect the hot tub before accepting it as a trade-in. If there are any major issues with the hot tub, such as cracks or leaks, then the retailer may not accept it as a trade-in. It is also important to make sure that all of the parts are included with the hot tub so that it can be properly installed and used by the new owner.
Once you have determined that your old hot tub is in good condition and all of the parts are included, you can contact your local hot tub retailer to inquire about their trade-in program.
Many retailers will offer discounts on new hot tubs when you trade in an old one. The amount of discount varies from retailer to retailer, so it is important to shop around and compare prices before making a decision.
When trading in an old hot tub, make sure to keep all of your paperwork and receipts for both the purchase of your old hot tub and for any repairs or maintenance that was done on it over its lifetime.
This will help ensure that you get as much credit for your trade-in as possible when purchasing a new one.
How much can I sell a used hot tub for?
In general, used hot tubs typically sell for anywhere from $500-$3,000 depending on their size, age, features, and condition.
If your hot tub is in good condition and has all the bells and whistles, you may be able to get closer to $3,000 for it; however, if your hot tub is older or in poor condition, you may only be able to get around $500-$1000 for it.
The size of the hot tub is also important; larger models tend to be more expensive than smaller ones. If you have a large hot tub that‘s in good condition, you can expect to get more money for it than if you have a smaller one that‘s in poor condition.
Finally, where you’re selling your used hot tub is important as well.
If you’re selling online or through classified ads, you can get more money than if you were selling through a local store or dealer. After all, dealers have to make money on top of you compared to a direct sale through someplace like Facebook Marketplace, NextDoor, or Craigslist.
Final thoughts
Whether you have ordered a new hot tub or are looking to move your old hot tub to a new location, search the Internet for a reliable hot tub removal team and get everything agreed upon in writing before making a commitment.
If you’re looking to scrap your old hot tub, check out restrictions at local landfills, look up junk removal services in your area, and compare costs. There may be things you can do yourself to get the cost to a minimum, so don’t be afraid to ask.
I hope this covers everything you wanted to know about removing a hot tub from your backyard, but if I missed anything, feel free to reach out. I’m always here to help.
And don’t forget to check out those links to related articles here on my site.
Photo which requires attribution:
Tub19 by Dave Stone is licensed under CC2.0 and was cropped, edited, and had a text overlay added.
FAQs
How to Remove a Hot Tub from Your Backyard (with Video) | Hot Tub Owner HQ? ›
Locate the breaker switch inside the circuit box and turn it to the off position. For 110v spa models, simply pull the plug from the wall. Note that hot tubs directly wired to the power supply will require an electrician and/or a spa service representative to safely disconnect.
How do I get rid of a hot tub in my backyard? ›- Trading it in to a dealer.
- Selling it online or at a yard sale.
- Hiring a junk removal company to help remove it.
Locate the breaker switch inside the circuit box and turn it to the off position. For 110v spa models, simply pull the plug from the wall. Note that hot tubs directly wired to the power supply will require an electrician and/or a spa service representative to safely disconnect.
Can a hot tub be removed? ›Most hot tubs are freestanding and can be removed without damaging the foundation. However, if the hot tub is secured by concrete, you can carefully remove it using tools like a pickaxe and sledgehammer. You'll still need to pay for junk removal.
Can I drain my hot tub water into my yard? ›Generally speaking, there is no issue with draining your Hot Tub onto your lawn or even using the water to hydrate your flower beds. If you're using the right chemicals and monitoring the ph level of your Hot Tub water it won't contain anything which will damage your plants.
Can I drain my hot tub in the yard? ›Provided that the chlorine level was zero when you drained your hot tub water, you can use the water to safely water your trees and shrubs. If you would like to also use it to water your lawn, just make sure to check the pH level first as grass can be more sensitive.
Do I need an electrician to disconnect my hot tub? ›If the hot tub circuit will no longer be used for any purpose then the wiring to the circuit breaker should be disconnected or completely removed by a qualified electrician.
Is it easy to dismantle a hot tub? ›In most cases, the skirt of the hot tub is made from wood, so you can take it apart using a screwdriver. Removing the bed of the tub is a little more difficult than the skirt. The hot tub bed comes in one piece and is most commonly made from any sturdy material, like fiberglass.
Where does a hot tub disconnect need to be located? ›*The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies installation of an approved manual disconnect device. It must be adjacent to the hot tub, at least 5 feet away, and within line of sight. The NEC also requires a 120V receptacle within a 10-20 foot distance from the spa.
How heavy is an empty hot tub? ›In general, a small two-to-three-person hot tub will typically weigh 500 pounds when empty, and somewhere near 3000 pounds when filled with water. If your spa is of a much larger variety, such as a nine or ten-person spa, the dry weight will be somewhere in the ballpark of 900-1250 pounds, and up to 8000 pounds filled.
How heavy is a 6 person hot tub? ›
The average hot tub weight varies by make, model, and size. However, in general, a small hot tub (sized for two to three people) will weigh about 500 pounds when empty, while a large hot tub (sized for up to six people) will weigh about 1,000 pounds when empty.
Can people lift a hot tub? ›Moving a hot tub can be challenging on your own.
Two people can collectively work to lift one side of the tub at a time, while the third person places 4×4 boards or a furniture dolly underneath the tub.
If we cannot boom crane out the Hot tub we will put a crew of 2-3 men on the project and using sawzalls will cut the Hot tub up in to more manageable pieces and load them on the truck. This process can take 2-2.5 hours on a smaller hot tub and 3-4 hours on a larger hot tub.
How much does it cost to drain a hot tub? ›Hot tubs should be drained and cleaned every three to four months. You can drain, clean, and refill a hot tub for just the price of the water if you do the job yourself. However, you can also hire a hot tub professional to do it for about $100 to $150.
What kind of disconnect for hot tub? ›There must be a GFCI disconnect breaker panel at least 5′ from spa and within line of site of spa. Most spas will run effectively on a 50amp 2 pole main circuit breaker. Some spa manufacturers require a 60amp breaker.
Can you sink a hot tub in the ground? ›Absolutely! With proper planning and preparation, you can create a custom spa look with the therapy of a portable spa. Master Spas hot tubs can be fully recessed or partially recessed into the ground or lowered into a deck. Choose a model that meets your needs and create the backyard oasis you have been dreaming of.
What happens if you don't drain your hot tub? ›Draining and refilling your hot tub periodically is important for keeping the water clean and also preventing damage. When you don't change the water, it becomes improperly balanced and can begin corroding the hot tub. Not to mention, nobody wants to soak in old, dirty water.
Is it OK to leave hot tub drained? ›The quick answer to this question is yes, you can leave your hot tub empty.
What is the fastest way to drain a hot tub? ›The fastest way to drain your hot tub is to use a submersible pump to forcibly move the water out. Attach an outflow hose to the pump and place it on the floor at the center of the tub. See if the other end of the hose is long enough to reach the nearest drain or sewer.
Can I drain my hot tub into the sewer cleanout? ›Drain Pool Water Into Your Sewer Cleanout
Many people don't realize that storm drains flow directly into local creeks and the San Francisco Bay without any type of wastewater treatment. That's why pools, spas, and fountains should never be drained into the gutter or storm drain.
How close to the ground can a hot tub disconnect be? ›
A maintenance disconnect must be installed for all ungrounded wires, save those for lighting. This disconnect must be at least five feet, but no more than 50 feet from the water's edge. It must also be visible from the hot tub.
Does a hot tub require a GFCI disconnect? ›If you are preparing to install your newly bought hot tub you may be wondering, does a hot tub need a GFCI breaker? According to the National Electrical Code, any outlet that supplies a hot tub or spa must be GFCI protected.
Does a hot tub need its own breaker? ›Most full-size hot tubs are designed for 240 Volt electrical service. These hot tub wiring systems require a 40 to 60 Amp breaker and must be specially hardwired by a licensed electrician.
What is the minimum distance for a spa disconnect? ›Maintenance Disconnect - A disconnect is required for all ungrounded electrical wires (except for lighting). It must be at least 5' but not more that 50' from the water's edge, readily accessible, and within sight of the Hot Tub / Spa. b.
Are hot tubs heavy to move? ›According to Fiberon, a 56 square foot hot tub without water typically weighs around 900 pounds, while a hot tub with water can weigh up to 6,000 pounds. Yikes! It goes without saying that you should plan for some seriously heavy lifting when moving this large outdoor feature.
What is electrical code for hot tub? ›The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires: Hard-wiring the spa into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)-protected 220 to 240V, 50 or 60 amp dedicated circuit.
Where does electrical come into a hot tub? ›This 240-volt/50-amp connection to your hot tub is permanently connected to your home's electrical system. There will be a connection to your breaker box, with wiring being run from your panel to the GFCI box to the hot tub. The wiring to your hot tub will go through a conduit pipe.
How far does electrical need to be from hot tub? ›Outlet receptacles can be no closer than 6 feet from a hot tub or spa, and they must be GFCI-protected if they are less than 10 feet away. Lights or ceiling fans must be at least 12 feet above the spa or hot tub if there is no GFCI protection, or at least 7.5 feet away if there is GFCI protection.
How much does a 7 foot hot tub weigh? ›Dimensions of the Hot Tub
Typically, hot tubs vary from 5 feet to 9 feet in width and 29 inches to 39 inches in height. A small hot tub with a length of 5′ and a width of 6′ will weigh around 300-500 pounds. In contrast, a larger-sized hot tub with a length of 7′ and a width of 9′ will weigh 800-1000 pounds.
In fact, the average weight of an empty hot tub is around 500 to 1,000 pounds! It's best to leave the job to the professionals, but if you have a strong back and an equally strong group of friends, it's possible to move the hot tub yourself.
Is it OK to transport a hot tub on its side? ›
You can move your spa on its side or on its base as long as it comfortably fits in the truck. If you decide to move it on its side, make sure it is not on the side where the side panel is located. You will want to get a truck with a moving ramp or hydraulic lift to make the relocation process easier.
What is considered heavy hot tub use? ›Heavy usage is considered to be 2 or more people in the tub for longer than 20 minutes per use. To ensure that your hot tub water stays sanitized, add the required amount of Amaze Plus after heavy use.
How thick does concrete need to be for a hot tub? ›The minimum thickness safety requirement for a basic hot tub pad is 4″ thick reinforced concrete with a diameter of 6″ less than the diameter of the bottom of the tub. Therefore, a 5′ round straight sided wood hot tub would require a 4′ 6″ square pad. The type of ground underneath the pad should be stable as well.
How many people can fit in a 6x6 hot tub? ›| Hot Tub Size Ranges | Length | Width |
|---|---|---|
| Small (2-4 people) | 5'4” - 7” | 5'4” - 6'8” |
| Medium (5-6 people) | 6'6” - 7'9” | 6'4” - 7'9” |
| Large (7+people) | 7' - 9” | 7' - 9'2” |
Moving help: You will need at least four friends or helpers to move the hot tub. Consider that each side will need a lifter and one person will need to slide the hot tub onto the dollies.
Is it worth it to move a hot tub? ›Moving a hot tub may be worth your time, effort and money. If you're moving to a new home and want to keep your hot tub, you should consider transporting it to your new home. As long as it's in great condition, you'll likely enjoy having it in your new home.
Can you sit on top of a hot tub? ›There are some covers out there that claim “walk-on” durability. But the truth is, you should never walk or sit on your hot tub cover — no matter how much weight the manufacturer claims it will support. The sole purpose of a cover is to protect your unit, while perhaps adding some aesthetic value.
What happens if you stay in a hot tub longer than 15 minutes? ›Since the water in a hot tub is higher than your normal internal temperature, staying in a hot tub too long can cause you to overheat and experience symptoms like light-headedness, dizziness, or nausea.
How often do you really need to drain hot tub? ›Draining and refilling your spa will be an important aspect of spa ownership. Many spas need to be drained and refilled every three to four months due to chemical build-up.
How do I get rid of a hot tub? ›- Trading it in to a dealer.
- Selling it online or at a yard sale.
- Hiring a junk removal company to help remove it.
Should you drain your hot tub once a year? ›
On average, you should aim to completely drain it about three to four times a year. Lucky for you, the time it takes to drain your hot tub is usually around an hour or so. One hour of time spent cleaning roughly four times a year is only four hours of your time to ensure that you are resting in a sanitary hot tub.
Is it OK to drain a hot tub for the summer? ›It's safe to drain your hot tub for the summer. If you do choose to drain your hot tub, make sure to blow the water out of all the plumbing and equipment.
Is it hard to disconnect a hot tub? ›Locate the breaker switch inside the circuit box and turn it to the off position. For 110v spa models, simply pull the plug from the wall. Note that hot tubs directly wired to the power supply will require an electrician and/or a spa service representative to safely disconnect.
Do all hot tubs have a drain plug? ›As it's a slower process, it also allows you time to move the hose pipe, should you wish to do so. All hot tubs have a drain valve, making it convenient to drain the water in your hot tub using the following steps: Flush your pipes prior to drainage. Turn off the power to your hot tub at the circuit breaker.
Is there a drain plug on a hot tub? ›Your hot tub comes equipped with a drain spigot, which is located on the outside of the tub, near the bottom rim. (Some models have two spigots, a primary and an auxiliary.
Are old hot tubs worth anything? ›Trade it in to a Spa Dealer
The average trade-in value for a 10-year-old spa is often only around $500 to $1,000. Sometimes it's only a free removal/delivery service with no trade-in value. Just be sure to check with your spa dealer for all the details.
Proximity to the house. To reduce the risk of electrocution, place your tub at least 16 feet away from overhead power lines. To protect your home and outbuildings from potential flooding, keep it at least 5 feet from any structure.
What is the average lifespan of a hot tub? ›A hot tub can last anywhere from 5-20 years or more. Cheaper hot tubs made with lower quality materials won't last long. If those hot tubs are not well maintained, they may not last more than 5 years. Quality hot tubs that receive excellent care can be enjoyed for as long as 20 or more years.
Does a hot tub lower property value? ›Above-ground hot tubs are considered personal property. This means they are not considered add-ons to the value of the home. An in-ground hot tub or spa may add value to a home. However, the biggest value-add in a property is for a home that has both a pool and a hot tub.
Do hot tubs hurt resale value? ›As with the majority of home improvement projects, it's unlikely that you will fully recoup the amount that you spend on a hot tub while reselling your home. On their own, hot tubs typically only resell for a fraction of the initial purchase price.
Do you take a hot tub with you when you move? ›
Relax! It is. Unless your hot tub is built-in to your home or deck (meaning there'd be big hole left behind if you removed it), your hot tub is portable, and you can take it with you when you move. Even though a hot tub is heavy, moving it is pretty straightforward.
Does a hot tub need a local disconnect? ›*The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies installation of an approved manual disconnect device. It must be adjacent to the hot tub, at least 5 feet away, and within line of sight. The NEC also requires a 120V receptacle within a 10-20 foot distance from the spa.
Can I sink my hot tub? ›Perhaps the most stunning option of all is to sink a hot tub straight into the ground. This can be a great option if you're already landscaping your garden and can add a sunken hot tub to your plans. If you go this route, just be sure to make accommodations for repair access.
Why should you not go under water in a hot tub? ›The inside passages of the ear canal are very sensitive, and if you put your head underwater in a hot tub, you expose these areas to the bacteria in the water, which can lead to infections. And this is true for your nose and eyes as well.
What can you put in a hot tub to ruin it? ›Adding soaps and suds of any kind could cause costly damage to your hot tub. Also, it's a good idea to shower before hot tubbing. Certainly don't get in if you're covered in dirt, thinking the hot tub will clean you off.
Is too long in hot tub bad? ›If you spend too long in your Hot Tub you may risk overheating. Your core temperature will become too high and you could even risk fainting (although this is very rare). There's also a chance you could feel dizzy and lightheaded.
How far should a hot tub be away from the house? ›Although it's important to ensure your hot tub is accessible for all those who will use it, it's essential to remember that your hot tub or spa is some distance from your home. Although it may change from location to location, typically speaking, you will want to keep about 5 feet of distance between your spa and home.
How much electricity does a hot tub use? ›According to the National Spa and Pool Institute, a hot tub uses, on average, 2514 kilowatts per hour in energy each year. The bulk of this energy goes into heating and circulating the water, and a small amount of power is used for lighting.
Should hot tub be against house? ›Having your hot tub right next to the wall of your home is probably too close. The steam that comes from the water may seep into windows and water splashed from the tub may cause a slippery walkway. A few feet away from your home and a few feet away from your walkway is typically the ideal combination.