How to Dismantle a Hot Tub

Whether preparing to move your household or if you need a hot tub repair, it’s important to know how to safely dismantle it. Each hot tub is different, so you will need to consult your manual to know exactly how your model works and the proper way to handle it.

Step 1 – Consult Manufacturer or Manual

Not every hot tub will be dismantled in the same way. Check your user’s manual or call your manufacturer to get specific information about your model. Note in particular how the cables and lines connect electrically so you can undo them before moving your hot tub.

Step 2 – Disconnect and Unplug

After studying the way your hot tub is connected to the gas line, the heater and electrical outlets, go around and start unplugging and disconnecting these items. Once you’ve dismantled the electrical aspects of your hot tub safely, you may continue.

Step 3 – Service Equipment Pack

If you are moving your hot tub to a new home or location, it is highly recommended that you have your equipment pack serviced. The equipment pack is the heater, filter, pump, blower, and electrical and plumbing units. Typically weighing around 40 pounds, it is bolted down by screws.

Step 4 – Remove Equipment Pack

After you’ve had the equipment pack serviced, you can determine whether it should be removed. If you do not remove it, there is a good chance it will be damaged in the moving process. Some models, however, do not require removal and should, in fact, be left on. It is important to check the manual or call the manufacturer of your specific hot tub to find out the answer.

Step 5 – Drain and Package Equipment Pack

If you’ve determined that you need to remove the equipment pack, carefully dismantle it and make sure all items are drained well. You will need to package it separately and use protective cushioning so it will not be damaged.

Step 6 – Drain Remaining Water

Most hot tubs have a hose bib drain that connects directly to a garden hose. If you have never drained it yourself, consult the manual for instructions. Once a hot tub has been drained, it usually still has around five gallons of water inside. A wet-dry vacuum is the most convenient way of getting the rest of the water. If you do not completely empty the hot tub, it will leak during the moving process.

Step 7 – Move the Hot Tub

That’s it! Your hot tub should be ready for the move so move it.

Final Considerations

If you will be moving your hot tub to a colder climate, or if temperatures will be around freezing during the time of your move, you should drain the entire plumbing system. This is done using a high-pressure vacuum, which will deter pipe damage. This process is risky and complicated and should not be done without experience. If you do not feel comfortable trying it, call your hot tub dealer or move to arrange for this to be done.