Box after box is stacking up as you prepare for the big move. You are starting to wonder if you can move your hot tub, too. In short, sure! You can definitely move a hot tub. Whether it is across the backyard or several states away, moving a hot tub can be tricky. There are several things you need to consider before moving your own hot tub. Let’s walk through the steps to move one. And it is always best to consult a hot tub expert before you begin.
Step 1: Do your research.
If your hot tub is still under warranty, you will want to read through the specifics. Moving it on your own may void your warranty. In this case, you will want to hire a professional mover as many warranties will allow for professionals to move it. This is the route we recommend. Hiring a professional allows for moving insurance coverage, so if anything goes awry during the move, you are not out on your investment. From here you can make the choice of whether it is better to hire professional movers or do things with some good friends. If you are going to hire professional movers, you can skip step two.
Step 2: Collect the necessary moving supplies.
Should you decide to move the hot tub yourself, you will need some supplies. You can visit your local hardware store to purchase a few two by fours, straps or ropes to secure the hot tub during transport, plywood (depending on the ground condition when you are moving) and at least two furniture dollies. (If your hot tub is a larger one, you may need more than two dollies to move it). If you do not already have a shop vac or a submersible pump, you may want to pick these up as well. They will be helpful in preparing your hot tub to be moved.
Step 3: Drain and clean your hot tub.
Before you can move your hot tub, you will need to drain and clean it to ensure it is safe for transport. This is where you could use the shop vac or submersible pump mentioned in step two. You can use a regular water hose to drain the hot tub, but this could take several hours to complete. The submersible pump will allow you to pump the water out much more quickly. You can then use the shop vac to finish removing water from the seats or other lower lying areas. You also want to “blow the lines” by putting a shop vac to each jet to push out any excess water in the pipes. Once you remove all the water from the hot tub, use an all-purpose cleaner to clean the surfaces. Put your cover on the hot tub as it can be damaged sitting out for too long.
Step 4: Load and unload your hot tub.
Gather a couple of strong friends the day of the move and have them help you lift one side at a time to slide the two by fours underneath the hot tub. Once it is completely off the ground, you can slide the furniture dollies under the elevated hot tub. Use the plywood to make a path to roll the dollies over if the ground is wet or covered with snow. Have someone on each side of the hot tub to be sure it is stable throughout the process. Take your time. Wheel it onto the moving van and use straps or ropes to secure it for the move. You will need to repeat the process when unloading as well, so do not dispose of the wood you use. Make the same path off the van to the new location and place the two by fours underneath the hot tub. Remove the dollies and then slowly remove each two by four.
Step 5: Reconnect your hot tub and fill it with water.
Once you move a hot tub, you’ll want to find the perfect location for it. When in place, rinse your hot tub with a water hose and drain, then connect your hot tub to a power source and refill with water. Once everything is refilled and warmed, you will be ready to continue using your hot tub to rest those muscles from the move.
Step 6: What to do if you need to leave your wonderful spa behind.
With IHT, you’ll find all of the information that you need to make hot tub ownership easy. Can’t move a hot tub because of distance or other reasons? If you decide to leave your hot tub where it is, the perfect place to pick out your new spa is at your closest IHT Hot Tubs & Fireplaces location. With five sensational hot tub brands to choose from, plus a selection of quality used spas, you’ll find the ideal new hot tub for incredible relaxation. You can even take a virtual tour of our models before you move! Or, add an outdoor fireplace or fire pit to maximize your backyard enjoyment. Pick out your new spa and fire feature today so that you can enjoy the beautiful relaxation of your new home soon.
