Whether you are moving your hot tub or spa to a new house across town or to the brand new deck you just built, either way it will not be easy.
Hot tubs and spas come in all different shapes and sizes. Some of the smaller portable spas weigh around 200 – 400kg whilst some of the larger spas can weigh up to 1300kg. That’s the same weight as a car!
So you may be asking, is it difficult to move a hot tub by yourself?
With such a precision item, it is best to hire professional removalists to help you move your hot tub or spa, but if you decide to take on this task yourself here is what you will need and how to do it.
How To Move A Hot Tub / Spa By Yourself
Step 1: Measure the hot tub and the pathways and driveways it will pass through.
Step 2: Hire a truck that can accommodate the hot tub size with a hydraulic lift or ramp.
Step 3: Disconnect the spa, coil the power cable, wrap it in a waterproof bag and place it inside the storage compartment.
Step 4: Turn off the water supply, drain the spa and dry the spa completely.
Step 5: Remove the spa cover.
Step 6: Gently lift the hot tub and place one piece of wood underneath each corner of the spa.
Step 7: Slide the dolly under the spa and tie it in place using straps.
Step 8: Wrap the spa with furniture blankets to protect it.
Step 9: Carefully wheel the spa onto the truck and tie it in place.
What You Will Need:
- Measuring tape
- 4 pieces of wood
- 1 or 2 moving dollies
- Furniture straps
- Furniture blankets
- Moving truck
1. Measure
It is important to measure everything before you start the moving process.
You want to measure the dimensions of the spa and the walkways and driveways of the route the spa will go through at the existing and new destination to make sure it fits. Ensure a clear path from the spa to the truck and vise versa at pick up and drop off locations.
You also need to measure the new location where the spa is intended to be placed.
Once you know the dimensions of your spa, hire a moving truck that is large enough to accommodate your spa. 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.
2. Disconnect
You don’t want any cords dangling or getting caught on things during the move. This can cause a tripping hazard and result in an unwanted injury.
Disconnect the spa from the electrical connection, coil the power cable, wrap it in a waterproof bag and place it inside the storage compartment on the side panel.
Next you will need to turn off the water supply and drain the spa. Once drained, close the drain cap and dry off the spa with towels. You can also do this process a few days before and allow your spa to air dry completely.
If you’re not how to disconnect or drain your spa, it is best to check your manufacturer manual. If you have misplaced your manual, you should be able to find an online version.
Lastly, remove the spa cover if it has one. This should be moved separately from the spa to prevent any damages.
3. Relocation
To begin the moving process, make sure you have enough helping hands. We recommend you have 3 – 6 helpers depending on the weight and size of your spa.
Gently lift one corner of the spa and place one piece of wood underneath the corner of the spa. Repeat this process on each corner. This elevates the spa from the ground allowing you to slide the moving dolly under it. You will need pieces of wood that are tall enough to create a height clearance for your dolly to easily slide through.
Slide the dolly under the spa and tie it in place using straps. You want to make sure the dolly and spa are secured together before you move it. Make sure the dolly you hire or purchase can hold the weight of your spa. You may need to purchase two dollies depending on the weight and size of your spa. If a second dolly is used, repeat the same process whilst having the dollies evenly spaced at both ends of the spa to distribute the weight.
4. Protection
Wrap the spa with furniture blankets to prevent any scratches or dings during the relocation process. Depending on the size of your spa, you will need 4 to 6 furniture blankets.
Once the spa is wrapped and ready to go, carefully wheel the spa onto the truck via the ramp or using the hydraulic lift. Leave the dolly under the spa whilst it is on the truck so you can easily wheel it back out of the truck at the new location. Tie the spa to the sides of the truck so it does not move during transit.
Repeat the same process in reverse when delivering the spa to the new location.
