Hot Tub Trouble? Here’s How to Remove It the Right Way!

Hot tubs can be a wonderful addition to your home or business. They provide relaxation, therapeutic benefits, and a great space to unwind. But what happens when that once-loved hot tub has outlived its usefulness? Whether it’s an old model that’s seen better days, or you’re just ready to reclaim the space, getting rid of a hot tub can seem like a daunting task.

As the owner of Northside Hauling USA, based right here in Browns Summit, North Carolina, I’ve seen plenty of hot tubs overstaying their welcome. Trust me when I say removing one isn’t as easy as it looks. Today, I’ll walk you through the process and share some practical tips on how to remove a hot tub the right way.

Why Would You Need to Remove a Hot Tub?

There are plenty of reasons why you might need to say goodbye to your hot tub. Here are some common scenarios we see with our clients:

- Upgrading to a Newer Model: Maybe your hot tub is still functional, but you’re ready for a new one with updated features like better jets or energy efficiency. Removing the old one is the first step to making room for your upgrade.

- No Longer Working: If the cost of repairs outweighs the value of your hot tub, it may be time to cut your losses. Older models, in particular, can require costly maintenance, and when they start leaking or losing heat, it might be more trouble than it’s worth.

- Moving: Some homeowners don’t want to bring a hot tub with them when they move. This is especially true for those relocating to a new home where there may already be a hot tub installed, or where there’s simply no space for one.

- Reclaiming Space: Maybe your hot tub isn’t broken, but you just don’t use it enough to justify the space it takes up. I’ve had customers who wanted to remove theirs to create more outdoor space for gardens, patios, or play areas for the grandkids.

For businesses, especially those in the hospitality industry, hot tub removal might be part of a larger renovation project or a change in the services offered. Whatever the reason, removing a hot tub requires some careful planning.

Challenges of Removing a Hot Tub

Removing a hot tub isn’t as simple as grabbing a few friends and dragging it out of the yard. There are some significant challenges to consider:

- Weight and Bulk: Hot tubs are *heavy*. Even without water, a standard hot tub can weigh anywhere from 500 to over 1,000 pounds. If you’ve got a larger model, it’s going to require multiple people, specialized tools, and careful planning to move.

- Electrical and Plumbing Connections: Most hot tubs are connected to the home’s electrical system, and many have plumbing hookups too. These need to be disconnected safely, and this can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with electrical wiring or plumbing systems.

- Limited Space: If your hot tub is in a tight spot—like a deck or patio that doesn’t have a lot of maneuvering room—getting it out can be a logistical headache. I’ve had clients with hot tubs in enclosed spaces or surrounded by fencing, making the removal even more complex.

- Disposal: Even once you’ve gotten the hot tub out of its spot, you’ll need to figure out where to take it. In Browns Summit and most of Guilford County, there are specific regulations about what can be thrown out with regular trash and where large items like hot tubs can be disposed of.

DIY Hot Tub Removal – Pros and Cons

Some homeowners consider taking on the job themselves. While that’s possible, it’s not always the best idea. Let’s look at the pros and cons of going the DIY route.

Pros:

- Saving Money: The biggest advantage of removing a hot tub yourself is saving on professional removal fees. If you’ve got the right tools and a few strong friends, you might be able to avoid the cost of hiring help.

- Control Over the Process: When you remove the hot tub yourself, you’re in charge. You can go at your own pace, and you won’t need to coordinate schedules with a removal team.

Cons:

- Risk of Injury: Hot tubs are big, bulky, and heavy. If you’re not used to lifting or moving large objects, you could easily hurt yourself. Back injuries are common with these types of jobs, especially if you don’t have the right equipment.

- Need for Tools: You’ll need some specific tools for the job. Cutting up the hot tub (which is often necessary for removal) requires a saw, and you’ll also need tools to safely disconnect any electrical and plumbing systems.

- Disposal Issues: Figuring out how to dispose of the hot tub is another headache. It’s not as simple as dragging it to the curb. In most cases, you’ll need to either rent a dumpster or find a recycling center that accepts large items like this.

I’ve had customers try the DIY route only to call me halfway through when they realized the scope of the project was much bigger than they anticipated. It’s always better to know your limits and ask for help if you need it!

Professional Hot Tub Removal Services

This is where we come in. At Northside Hauling USA, we specialize in removing large, bulky items like hot tubs. Here’s what you can expect from a professional removal service:

- Safe Disconnection: We’ll safely disconnect all electrical and plumbing systems, ensuring everything is done properly to avoid any damage to your home or the tub.

- Efficient Removal: With the right tools and equipment, we can maneuver the hot tub out of tight spaces and transport it for proper disposal. Whether it’s on a deck, in a backyard, or wedged between fences, we’ve seen it all.

- Proper Disposal and Recycling: We don’t just haul your hot tub to the dump. We make sure that any recyclable materials (like metal, plastic, or electrical components) are disposed of responsibly. Some parts of the hot tub can even be repurposed.

A few months ago, we helped a customer in Greensboro who had a hot tub that had been sitting unused for years. It was on a raised deck with a narrow pathway leading to the backyard. After safely disconnecting the electrical wiring and plumbing, we carefully maneuvered it down without damaging their deck or landscaping. The homeowner was thrilled to finally have the space for a new outdoor seating area.

Steps to Prepare for Hot Tub Removal

Whether you decide to go the DIY route or hire professionals, there are a few things you can do to prepare for the removal process.

- Disconnect Electrical and Plumbing: If you’re hiring professionals, they’ll take care of this for you. But if you’re planning on handling the disconnections yourself, make sure you turn off the power at the breaker and shut off any water supply before attempting to disconnect anything.

- Drain the Hot Tub: All water should be drained from the hot tub before removal. This is a critical step, as a full hot tub adds considerable weight, making it even harder to move.

- Clear a Path: Whether you’re rolling it out on dollies or cutting it into sections, make sure there’s a clear path from the hot tub’s location to the removal area. Remove any outdoor furniture, garden tools, or obstacles that might be in the way.

- Schedule the Removal: If you’re using professional services, be sure to schedule the removal at a time that works best for you. Consider the weather and the availability of professionals for the job.

What Happens After the Hot Tub is Removed?

Once your hot tub is gone, you’ve got an empty space to work with. Here are some ideas for repurposing that area:

- Install a New Hot Tub: If you’re removing an old hot tub to upgrade, now’s the perfect time to install a new one.

- Create an Outdoor Living Space: Many of our clients choose to turn the space into an outdoor entertainment area with seating, a fire pit, or even a garden.

- Expand Your Deck: If your hot tub was taking up a large portion of your deck, now you can reclaim that space and use it for other outdoor activities.

For business owners, the removal of an old hot tub can free up space for new services or amenities, like a new seating area for a restaurant or a patio for an outdoor spa area.

Local Guidelines and Disposal Regulations in Browns Summit

In Browns Summit and across Guilford County, there are specific rules about how and where large items like hot tubs can be disposed of. Most curbside services won’t pick up hot tubs, so you’ll need to consider your disposal options:

- Recycling: Some components of a hot tub, like the metal frame or plastic shell, can be recycled at local recycling centers. Be sure to check with the facility to confirm they accept these materials.

- Landfills: If recycling isn’t an option, you may need to take your hot tub to a local landfill. However, there may be fees for dropping off large items, so it’s worth doing your research before heading out.

How Northside Hauling USA Can Help

At Northside Hauling USA, we make hot tub removal easy. Our team will handle everything from start to finish, ensuring the removal is done safely, efficiently, and with as little disruption to your property as possible. We take pride in our work and always aim to exceed our customers’ expectations.

We offer free estimates, so you’ll know exactly what to expect before we get started. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner looking to remove an old hot tub, we’re here to help.

Conclusion

Removing a hot tub may seem like a big job, but with the

right approach—and a little help from Northside Hauling USA—it doesn’t have to be stressful. If you’re dealing with an old hot tub that’s more trouble than it’s worth, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re ready to help you reclaim your space and remove that hot tub the right way!

Call us today for a free consultation and let’s get that hot tub out of your way!

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